Dicksons Newsblog

Importance of Succession Planning - Article taken from Bdaily 27th of October 2011

2011-10-27T10:52:00.000+01:00

Better succession plans needed in family businesses
Published in Business Management on 27 Oct 2011

Despite contributing an estimated 70-90% to the UK GDP, family businesses are failing to make proper succession plans.

Two in three businesses are owned or run by families, and employ roughly 9.5 million people.

However, as many as 70% fail to make it to the second generation, and only 10% make it to the third.

The recent STEP Business Families Special Interest Group event in London, highlighted some of the key issues that affect succession plans.

Assessing the skills and willingness to become involved of the next generation, as well as allowing them to experience other work before entering the family business, were suggested as measures to ensure succession.

There was also emphasis on the establishment of a development programme, where family members can gain experience across different aspects of the business.

In the North East, a fifth of business owners are planning to build their company as an inheritance for family members, according to research from Santander Corporate Banking.

Mark Squires is chief executive of Benfield Motor Group, and also chairman of The Institute of Family Business for the North East.

He said: “At Benfield we have learnt how important proper planning is in ensuring the succession of the family business.

“We have worked on a constitution for the family, which takes into consideration all the skills and aspirations of the family.

“It’s really important to start thinking about this sooner, rather than later, to establish what is the right thing for the company, and for individuals.

“To be able to make a success in management, or any other area of the business, the family member must possess the right competencies, and without these, it is a mistake both for the business and the individual.”

Michael Dickson, managing director of North East pork butchers Dicksons, a family business, echoed these views.

He said: “To ensure that we maintain family control over the business in the longer term, we operate a family council, made up of Christine, myself, our sister Dorothy and my four children - all bloodline Dicksons.

“The council follows a written constitution and when Christine and I withdraw from day to day operations, the family council’s role will be to appoint and instruct the executive board on the strategic vision for the business.”

Running a Family Business

2011-10-10T14:43:00.003+01:00

bdaily looks at the expertise of Dicksons, the UK’s Family Business of the Year with MD Michael Dickson
Published in Food & Drink on 06 Oct 2011

According to a recent article in the Telegraph, almost 21 percent of UK workers are employed by family businesses and family ownership is increasingly providing an alternative recipe for sustained corporate success as access to cheap finance dries up.

Michael Dickson, managing director at MI Dickson Ltd, the company behind the north east’s much loved Dicksons brand, which was last year named The Coutts UK Family Business of the Year, has worked at the helm of his family’s business for the past 40 years. He shares with Bdaily the highs and lows of running a successful family business.

How did the business begin?

The business began in 1953 when my father and German born mother invested their life savings in a pork butchers shop in South Shields, selling their own made sausages, bacon, pies and pastries- many of which we still sell today although our product range has evolved with changing consumer demands.

How did you get involved in the family business?

I had no interest in joining the business and had my sights set on going to university. However, in 1966 when I was a young teenager my father died suddenly which left my mum and sister Christine, 16 at the time, to continue to run the business.

I helped out every Saturday, school holidays and out of school hours setting the ovens, checking the fridges but then never did get to university as my mum took ill and was unable to work so I joined the business full time at the age of 18.

Was it difficult to establish yourself within the business?

It was sink or swim: You could stand or fall by your own decisions which weren’t always the best, but nonetheless provided a great learning curve! Unlike many family businesses I didn’t have the previous generation on hand to share their wisdom or indeed to interfere with decisions. Some of the suppliers that my father had worked with for years took us under their wings, whereas others tried to exploit what they saw to be our naivity.

The business broke even for a number of years but Christine and I had given up everything to make the business work and had real ambitions to grow a strong family retail business. By 1981 I became managing director and we invested in our first factory in order to supply the 5 shops we then had.

By 1992 we had 12 shops and, borrowing heavily, we built a new factory at Middlefields Industrial Estate, our present production centre. We have grown organically and through acquisitions and now have a 21 strong retail chain across the region.

We also recognised the growth potential within wholesale and instead of fearing the supermarkets and the impact they would have on our retail business we began to forge relationships with them. Today have strong relationships with the major multiples where we have secured listings through their local buying initiatives.

So the business in many ways is quite unrecognisable to the business we inherited in our teens but we do continue to stay true to our brand heritage and our values- not only in the quality of the product that we produce but the way in which we value our staff members and our customers.

Family businesses are often criticized for their lack of succession planning- what plans do you have in place?

We now have a third generation Dickson involved in the day to day business- my daughter Elena, a food scientist, joined the business as product development and marketing manager a few years ago and plays an integral role in the on-going success of the business.

However, if we are to realise our ambitious plans the business needs the expertise of individuals from outside of the family which is why we made our first non-family board appointment in 2009 and appointed Kevin Lee as our chief operating officer

To ensure that we maintain family control over the business in the longer term , we operate a Family Council , made up of Christine, myself, our sister Dorothy and my 4 children …all “bloodline Dicksons” .

The Council follows a written Constitution and when Christine and I withdraw from day to day operations, the Family Council’s role will be to appoint and instruct the executive board on the strategic vision for the business.

What makes a family business different to any other business?

Whilst I recognise that lots of non-family business respect their staff and their customers and contribute to their local community I strongly believe that family values are reflected across our entire company, particularly in our approach to staff engagement which ultimately impacts on the way our employees approach their work and so the quality of our products and service.

Ours is a family brand with tangible presence in the communities we serve and this leads to loyal customers, many of whom are third generation too.

We have set up the Dickson Family Charitable Trust which sees some of the profit we make go back in to the local community. It is run by a Staff Council made up of volunteers and we work with the Community Foundation to manage the funds.

When is the best time to join a family business?

You have two choices: start in your family’s business immediately or get outside experience before joining the firm. Do you prove yourself at the family business, or do you prove yourself elsewhere and then come back to the family business, bringing specific skills and different ideas and talents back into the firm?

For me the choice was taken away, but for Elena who is third generation Dickson, she gained valuable experience at United Biscuits before joining the team.

Either way, joining a family business is by no means an easy option and requires huge drive and commitment if you are to firmly establish your position and be recognised as a valuable contributor by your other team members.

Meat the Dicksons!

2011-07-20T08:24:00.003+01:00

More room for pies!

2011-06-23T16:28:00.002+01:00

Bakery Extension to Bring in the Dough

Dicksons, the much loved traditional family pork butcher has completed a £1million factory extension as it looks to double production at its South Shield’s base.
The family owned business, which has been producing fresh meat and bakery products since the early 1950s, has added 575 sq m to its existing factory and bakery in a bid to grow its rapidly expanding wholesale division.
South Shields MP David Miliband, a vocal fan of Dicksons joined the Chief Executive of South Tyneside Council Martin Swales to officially open the facility and was given the ceremonial honour of packing the first pies to come out of the new, energy efficient ovens.
The company, which began as a standalone pork butchers shop, now sells its products across its growing retail chain of 20 shops and its range is now widely available in Tesco , Sainsbury and ASDA stores across the north east.
The factory extension will allow the company, which produces a range of premium pies, pastries, sausages, bacon and cold meats, to continue to develop its product range to meet changing consumer buying habits and the demands of the wholesale market.
The new facilities will also increase production efficiencies and ensure that the local supply chain into the business can be sustained and developed.
The company received £200,000 from One North East towards the cost of the extension which has safeguarded the jobs of the 240 strong workforce and will create new positions over the next 12 months.
Michael Dickson, son of the company founder and managing director at Dicksons, said: “The extension will allow significant reductions in double handling, alleviate congestion, improve work flow and the general working environment for our staff.
“We hope that the improved facilities will fuel the on-going expansion of our retail & wholesale businesses allowing us to significantly increase production capabilities and operate more efficiently, yet remain true to our core values and heritage of producing quality food for the local market .”
David Miliband, MP for South Shields said: “The extension to the factory puts Dicksons in an enviable position for future growth. The new facility is certainly state of the art in terms of efficiencies and output yet the very core of the business quite clearly remains committed to delivering quality produce by a skilled team of individuals. That seems to me a very strong proposition.”
Martin Swales, Chief Executive of South Tyneside Council added: “Dicksons are a hugely important business to South Tyneside, not only as a major employer but in the support that they continue to give to the local community. It is exciting to see a business continue to invest within the borough, creating new jobs and a firm foundation for on-going growth.”
In 2010 Dicksons was awarded the accolade of the UK’s Best Family Business by Coutts Bank in recognition of its success as a family owned business.

Dicksons go mobile

2011-06-06T12:40:00.002+01:00

Dicksons, the region’s much loved traditional family pork butcher is on the move with the official launch of it first mobile food van.
Hot Stop – Dicksons state of the art food trailer – will help to build the company’s growing reputation as take out experts and will bring its locally produced food products to places not currently serviced by its own shop network.
Bosses at the company have identified a growing market for quality ‘street food’ and have developed their Hot Stop to fill a void in the current market, serving up a range of hot and cold dishes made with its own sausages, bacons, hams and pastries.
Whilst Hot Stop is fully mobile and will attend some of the region’s popular outdoor events, it will have a permanent home outside of the company’s South Shields base, serving the many businesses based in area with quality food produced right on their doorstep.
Michael Dickson, managing director of Dicksons said: “The original idea for Hot Stop came from a conversation with Henry Roberts at Northumbrian Larder. He encouraged us to recognise that there was a huge market for locally produced quality street food. With the demand for such food increasing and the money in people’s wallets decreasing, the idea of our own food van seemed a logical option.
“From a business perspective, Hot Stop allows us to expand our reach in a cost effective manner and will support our on-going plans to grow our shop network across the region.”
Henry Roberts, chairman of Northumbrian Larder added: “This is an excellent example of local business with strong family values ,responding to the ever changing demands and trends of the modern day market place combined with the strength and consumer confidence of the Dicksons’ brand”
Dicksons’ Hot Stop will be located outside of the company’s factory on Middlefields Industrial Estate from Monday to Friday from 7a.m. until 2.30p.m.

Jarrow gets a make over!

2011-06-06T12:38:00.002+01:00

Shop Opening Goes off with a Bang
A local shop reopened with a bang as a link of pork sausages replaced the traditional red ribbon at the opening of Dicksons’ newly refurbished Jarrow shop at the Viking Shopping Centre.
Centre manager Richy Kimber was handed the honours of cutting the hand-linked bangers as a way of saying thank you for all his support during the refit project.
The much loved traditional family pork butcher closed its popular Jarrow shop in April this year to allow for a major store refit, but thanks to the generosity of the centre manager , who allowed the company to trade from a state of the art food trailer outside of its shop, it was more or less business as usual throughout the weeks of building work.
This was not only great news for Dicksons’ loyal regular customers, but the continued trade was hugely beneficial to the business, which employs more than 230 people across the region and makes a significant contribution to South Tyneside in particular.
Despite only offering hot take away food and not being able to offer its usual products from the deli counter, sales from the food van – branded Hot Stop - were more or less on par with usual shop takings.
So to celebrate the reopening of its new look shop, bosses at the family business asked Richy to officially open it with a ceremonial sausage cutting.
Michael Dickson, managing director of the company commented: “We reluctantly made plans to close one of our busiest and most successful shops in order to complete a major overhaul of its interior to allow us to bring new and exciting product ranges to our customers in Jarrow. Whilst there is never a good time to close a shop, we recognise the need for on-going investment in the business if we are to continue to grow.
“We discussed our plans with Richy, who had got wind of the fact we were planning to launch our first ever mobile food trailer- Hot Stop - and he urged us to bring it to Jarrow so that his centre customers could continue to get their fill of Dicksons’ products. This turned out to be a very wise move and one for which we are really grateful.”
Richy Kimber, centre manager at the Viking Centre added: “Dicksons is one of our best tenants for drawing footfall into the centre. They offer good quality, hot food, pastries and meat at very reasonable prices. When Dicksons announced that they were going to close the shop for a re-fit, we urged them to bring the trailer on site as there would been panic amongst some of our younger customers if they could not get their beloved Dicksons products,
“I’m delighted that bringing the trailer on site has proved to be advantageous to both Dicksons and the Centre as a whole as it kept footfall at its normal levels. The new shop is very clean, bright and cheerful and will no doubt be a real asset for both Dicksons and The Viking Centre.
Dicksons’ Hot Stop has been designed to bring quality, locally produced food to places not currently served by Dicksons’ 20 shops but bosses are remaining tight lipped about where it is to be located next.

Good luck to Michael tonight!

2011-02-16T10:55:00.002Z

Good luck ... South Tyneside Council chief executive Martin Swales, left, wishes Dicksons' managing director Michael Dickson luck.

By TERRY KELLY
Published on Tue Feb 15 15:00:00 GMT 2011

COUNCIL chiefs are backing a borough business boss to pick up a top award tomorrow.

Michael Dickson, managing director of family butchers Dicksons of South Shields, has been nominated by the Institute of Directors for an Investor Director award.

The honour is to highlight business leaders who have forged a reputation for significantly investing in the region, with the winner announced tomorrow night at the North East Institute of Directors’ annual business leaders’ dinner.

Dicksons employs more than 200 staff. Its head office is in South Shields, where the company was founded, and it has expanded with outlets across North East England. It supplies its products to major supermarkets.

To continue to grow its wholesale business and its retail operation, Dicksons has invested in a £1m expansion to its South Shields facility, which on completion this spring, will allow the company to nearly double its production capabilities, massively boosting its £9m turnover through wholesale and new retail outlets, and create new jobs for the region.

South Tyneside Council chief executive Martin Swales congratulated Mr Dickson on his nomination, which he said was a “fitting recognition”. He added: “Dicksons is a great example of a local company that is continuing to expand and invest in the borough.

“Michael and his family team clearly demonstrate that the region, and especially South Tyneside, has many successful, dynamic business leaders who are making a substantial contribution to the economic well-being of the region.”

“Michael’s efforts deserve to be officially recognised and promoted to act as an inspiration to others who are considering setting up businesses and providing employment opportunities.”

Mr Dickson said: “I’m flattered, as the company’s figure- head, to have been shortlisted for this award, but our success is a testament to our strength in depth.”

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-16T10:53:00.001Z

Check out the new promotions!

2011-01-05T17:20:00.003Z

Fancy a hot bacon sandwich or a hot sausage sandwich washed down with a hot drink of your choice? then get yourselves into Dicksons' this January!

Dont' forget to leave a real mince pie for Santa!

2010-12-23T11:24:00.002Z

Pork Butcher Slices Up its Award for Charity

2010-11-05T15:46:00.001Z

Dicksons, the region’s much loved traditional family pork butcher, has served up a tasty dish for Fairbridge Tyne and Wear.

The South Shields based company, which was recently awarded the Coutts Prize for the Best Family Business in the UK, has donated the £5,000 prize money it received, to Fairbridge, a charity which supports troubled young people to help turn their lives around.

As part of its Best Family Business Award, Dicksons was offered the opportunity to donate money to a charity of its choice and with the help of the Community Foundation, which manages the Dicksons’ Charitable Trust, it identified Fairbridge as a charity it would like to support.

Elena Dickson, marketing and product development at Dicksons and the third generation in the business said: “As a family business, we thought that it was fitting to support a charity such as Fairbridge that does so much work to support young people who don’t have the luxury of strong family support. Whilst we have worked hard to grow the Dicksons brand from a single shop to the business we have today, we have done so with the support and care of family and a loyal workforce. Most of those who are supported by Fairbridge have not had such support networks until now.”

On receipt of the news the manager of Fairbridge Tyne & Wear, Tony Hegarty said: “In this current financial climate, fundraising is even more difficult, so it is very inspiring that well respected local business like Dicksons sees the need to support the young people of the region and the work they achieve by attending Fairbridge.”

Vivian Taylor, Partnership Development Officer said: “The young people who attend our centre are truly in need of support and encouragement, someone has to give them the hand they need to believe in themselves. This generous donation from Dicksons enables us to continue to provide necessary opportunities for individuals to develop confidence and motivation. It makes me proud to be part of a community that cares for the development of our young. The fact that Coutts who pledged the £5000 winning prize goes to show that even the bigger national companies understand the need to help and inspire the young people we work with.”

Fairbridge has been providing a long-term personal development programme for young people aged 13-25 who are disengaged from education, work or society in general, in Tyne & Wear for over 25 years. We use a combination of practical activities and personal support to provide them with the motivation, confidence and skills they need to overcome the difficulties in their lives.

Welcome to Gateshead!

2010-10-28T16:13:00.004+01:00

Expansion plans at Dicksons, the region’s much-loved traditional family pork butchers, are on a roll with the opening of a new look shop in Gateshead.
The new shop at the Gateshead Interchange marks a departure from the traditional Dicksons pork butcher format, with a new contemporary design and layout, designed to attract the busy commuter. It brings the company’ store tally to 20 as it continues its ambitious retail and wholesale expansion plans across the region.
The Mayor of Gateshead, Councillor Michael Hood, officially opened the shop, which will add to the retail mix already located at the busy bus and Metro interchange.
Commenting on the company’s first shop in Gateshead, Kevin Lee, chief operating officer at Dicksons said: “We are confident that Dicksons will be well received at this busy site, particularly by commuters passing through the interchange and those working in the local vicinity.
“This new shop will differ from our existing shop formats and the product range will be aimed at both traditional shoppers and the lucrative passing breakfast and lunch time market .
“We recognise that buying habits are changing and the high street is not necessarily the place where people go for their groceries, but that the market for quality, take-away food is more buoyant than ever. As a result you will find an ever increasing range of our products on supermarket shelves and this is why many of our planned new retail shops will focus predominantly on the take-away market. Gateshead Interchange, with its busy through traffic of commuters and shoppers alike, is certainly well placed to pilot our new retail offering.”
“We are keen that the shop becomes a pivotal part of the on-going regeneration of Gateshead town centre which is why we were delighted that the Mayor of Gateshead officially opened the site and why we are supporting the work he does across the borough, through the dedicated mayor’s fund.”
The Mayor of Gateshead, Councillor Michael Hood, said: “I am delighted to welcome another successful local business to Gateshead.

“Gateshead Town Centre will see some major changes over the next few years, so it’s great to see an established locally-based company choosing to locate here. We wish Dicksons the best of success in the future.”

George makes it into the Tabloids (Daily Mirror 16-9-10)

2010-09-21T16:40:00.001+01:00

AS soon as George Bullock left school he started a Saturday job in a butchers in South Shields.

“I just did it to earn cash to help out at home,” says George, 20. “Mum and dad had always worked and now it was my turn. I went round delivering CVs to all the local shops and Dicksons just happened to offer me a job as a counter assistant.”

George hated it!

“There was so much to take in on the first day I found it really hard but I knew I had to keep going at it.”

The last thing he ever imagined at that point was that his part-time job would turn in to a very successful career.

“I decided to take an ICT course after school but realised pretty soon in that it wasn’t for me. I couldn’t see where I would find job opportunities at the end of the course. I stuck it out until the end of the year so it wouldn’t look bad on my CV.”

Then George upped his days at Dicksons, a family business with 20 shops in the region.

“I started to really enjoy it – I loved the banter with customers and gradually realised there was a lot more to working in a shop than I thought at first.”

George started to nag his manager to get on the coveted trainee management scheme.

“I was turned down to start off with because I was still so young but eventually, after even more nagging, I was accepted.”

In January he was promoted to trainee manager and was put on a two-year in-house programme which is in the process of becoming an accredited NVQ course.

“I spend a day each week at the company’s HQ and learned about all aspects of retail management, which I then put in to practice on the shop floor. I’m covering everything from customer service to staffing and finance.”

Although George never pictured himself working in a shop he’s delighted that’s where he’s ended up.

“Lots of my friends who stayed on at college are just finishing and struggling to find jobs. Some even have debts. I feel really lucky to have a solid career in front of me.”

Dicksons Makes A Bang on Supermarket Shelves

2010-09-15T14:40:00.001+01:00

Dicksons, has secured a major listing with supermarket giants ASDA.
In the same month as the South Shields based company announced a major £1 million extension to its production facilities, it has also landed a deal to supply 21 ASDA stores across the region with products from its new premium bacon and sausage line and its range of savoury pastries and pies.
An additional eleven Dicksons’ products, including its new premium dried cured bacon and sausage range, will be added to the supermarket’s portfolio of products throughout September and will feature new style packaging that communicates Dicksons’ history and heritage as a family run business.
This deal with ASDA marks a significant step towards realising Dicksons’ ambitious wholesale plans to have visible brand presence across the region.
Whilst continuing to grow its own retail division, the company is investing in extended factory facilities in order to increase its production capacity and boost its wholesale market share.
Michael Dickson, managing director at Dicksons said: “We are really excited about such a prominent listing with ASDA and think that these new premium products, with our new packaging, will significantly enhance our brand presence and will be well received by customers new and old.
“Securing listings within major supermarkets has been pivotal to our wholesale success and the extension to our lines into a customer as important to us as ASDA will fuel further growth for our entire business.
“The extension to the factory will allow us further flexibility to secure some hugely exciting developments over the coming months.”
In addition to growth in its wholesale division, the company has plans afoot to open two new retail outlets in the region by the end of the year.
Hannah Tyler, Local Buyer for ASDA said: "We are hugely proud to be working with Dicksons, such a loved North East company who produces some truly delicious food. We're sure our customers will love the range of bacon, sausages and pies as much as we do."

We're Building!

2010-09-13T16:43:00.003+01:00

We're about to start work to increase our production facilities as part of a £1 million investment in extending the factory .

The factory extension will allow us, to continue to develop our product range to meet changing consumer buying habits.

The new facilities will increase production efficiencies but also means that the local supply chain into the business can be sustained and developed
Michael Dickson, said: “ The new facility will allow significant reductions in double handling , alleviate congestion, improve work flow and the general working environment for our staff.
“We hope that the improved facilities will fuel the on-going expansion of our retail & wholesale businesses allowing us to significantly increase production capabilities and operate more efficiently, yet remain true to our core values and heritage of producing quality food for the local market ”

Pie Love!

2010-07-27T12:29:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to John and Andrea....we hope they enjoyed their special pie cake!

Where do you eat yours?!

2010-07-07T12:14:00.002+01:00

Matthew Dickson was spotted in the Lake District enjoying a pork pie....fuel to aid the ascent!

Praise from David Miliband!

2010-06-15T14:21:00.002+01:00

David Miliband said:

"I am delighted that Dicksons have won the UK Family Business of the Year award. Dicksons’ family values have ensured that the company continues to go from strength to strength. Michael Dickson and his family, and all the staff are committed to the North East and the hard work and values of the company will ensure that Dicksons will continue to be a family, award winning company for many years to come"

‘AND THE WINNER IS’……..MI DICKSON LIMITED WINS COUTTS PRIZE FOR FAMILY BUSINESS

2010-06-10T14:54:00.002+01:00

South Tyneside-based food manufacturer, retailer and wholesaler named ‘Best UK Family
Business, £5-25m turnover’ category

Last night, MI Dickson Limited from South Shields, South Tyneside , was named ‘Best UK Family Business in the £5-25m turnover’ category of the Coutts Prize for Family Business 2009/10. The company beat of stiff competition at the national finals held at the Coutts headquarters on the Strand in London.

MI Dickson Limited is one of the north east’s leading meat companies, manufacturing, retailing and wholesaling meat and food products from a purpose built production factory and 20 retail outlets. Having grown from a single pork shop in 1953, MI Dickson is now run by the second and third generation of the Dickson family. The company has a loyal customer base, most notably for their famous pies and legendary sausages.

Roger Pedder, National Chair of the evaluation committee commented:
As a successful second and third generation family business, the things that impressed the evaluation committee about MI Dickson included:
· The family’s commitment to remain in family ownership for future generations;
· The company’s clear strategic vision and ability to diversify in a competitive market;
· The strength of the family’s values and culture which run throughout the business in everything they do and features heavily in their branding;
· The family’s well-organised governance which has helped smooth succession and keeps the family informed and connected to the business via a family constitution, family council and board representation;
· The company’s willingness to embrace non-family management and advisers in order to
drive the business forward and support family succession; and
· The family’s strong approach to community involvement and charitable giving through the Dickson Family Charitable Trust.

Juliette Johnson, Head of UK Family Business, Coutts & Co added "We're delighted to provide recognition to this special family business and showcase their achievements for the benefit of other family businesses. What really shines through is the strength of the family's values and culture that runs right through this business and all its branding; and acts as a real competitive advantage.”

With the current economic downturn, businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to survive, which therefore increases the value of recognising these family businesses and their work. The companies that scored most highly were the ones that were able to give examples of what they had achieved.

Michael Dickson, managing director at Dicksons said: “The business has evolved over the years to meet the changing expectations of our growing customer base. Family values are fundamental to a business model which succeeds thanks to the energy, commitment and professionalism of our loyal staff.”

The Coutts Prize for Family Business 2009/10

The Coutts Prize for Family Business, endorsed by organisations such as the British Chambers of Commerce, Cranfield University and the Society for Trust and Estate Practitioners, recognises the best run family businesses in England and Wales. It is the only regional and national awards programme in England and Wales celebrating the overall best-performing medium and large family businesses. The Prize complements Coutts’ successful Family Business Forum that is held throughout the UK.

As part of the process, nominations are reviewed by an independent evaluation committee comprised of family business owners, academics and advisers.

The Coutts Prize recognises firms in two categories – medium (£5-25m) and large (£25m+) that demonstrate a combination of high standards of family and corporate governance; a competitive market position; consistent financial growth; and a track record of charitable giving or involvement in the local community.
Entrants have to be companies or firms headquartered in England or Wales that consider themselves to be a family business, wholly or mainly carrying on a trading activity, and that have been profitable in at least two of the past three years.

More specifically, the independent evaluation committee looks for examples of best practice including;

· the strength of the family’s values;
· the involvement of the family;
· communication and planning;
· the separation of ‘ownership’ and ‘management’;
· the use of external, independent advice;
· the development of a succession planning process;
· next generation development;
· conflict management; and
· philanthropy and charitable involvement.

The independent evaluation committee is overseen by Roger Pedder who was Chairman of C&JClark Limited (Clarks Shoes), one of the UK's largest private family companies, from 1993-2006. It was established in 1825 and is in its sixth generation. Clarks is the leading shoe retailer and brand in the UK and has significant positions in North American, European and Far Eastern markets. Roger remains Chairman or Non-Executive Director of several private family and private equity backed companies including, Spa and Salon International.

The evaluation committee includes: National Chairman Roger Pedder, Former Chairman C & JClark Limited (Clarks shoes) and National Committee Members: Tony Bogod, Cordian Partners;Neill Brodey, Managing Director, Norbar Torque Tools Ltd; Gerard Cooper, Joint Managing Director, Allcooper Security and Fire; Andrew Drake, Consultant, Pemberton Greenish; Sam Gilpin, Senior Consultant, YSC; Jonathan Hagger, Non-Executive Chairman, Realty Insurances; David Johnson, Director, Leaders Matter; Peter Leach, Peter Leach LLP; Ian MaRsh, Mediator and Founder, familydr; Edward Nicholson, Managing Partner, Mercator Partnership Christopher Oughtred, Former Chairman, William Jackson & Son Limited; Chris Swaffin-Smith, Principal,
Family Business Reflections, Andrew Wates, Director, Wates Family Holdings and Robert
Wilson, Chairman, Nelsons.

The National Winners are invited to choose one of the following Prizes:
· to create a video diary enabling them to communicate their family values for posterity;
· to produce a collection of portrait photographs conveying the essence of their family
business; or
· a donation to a charity of the family’s choice.

For further information about the Coutts Prize for Family Prize visit
www.coutts.com/familybusiness

We're off to London!

2010-06-02T15:13:00.001+01:00

Things are certainly heating up in the Dicksons’ kitchen this week as we are preparing ourselves for the Coutts UK Family Business of the Year awards which are taking place on 8th June 2010.

After beating off stiff competition from hundreds of other family business from across the UK, we have been named a national finalist in these prestigious awards and will find out next week if we are to be crowned national champions.

As a third generation Dickson, who has grown up with the family business, I am thrilled that the hard work and determination of the family and all the Dicksons’ team has been recognised in such a public manner.

Whilst Michael and Christine, my father and aunt, have tended toward understatement of their achievements over the years, being named a national finalist in such high profile awards is testament to where the business is at today.

Our success in these awards is without doubt in part thanks to the relationships we have with our customers and our increasing brand recognition.

I am sure you will have seen for yourself that family values run through the very veins of the business. In fact, in winning the regional finals, the judges commented on the strength of family values in the business and commended us for the influence that they ride over our business strategy. Rather than family values holding us back, as can sometimes be the case, we are building upon them and can boast genuine “local producer and family” credentials with confidence.

Whilst we have everything crossed for next week and will be sure to let you know how we fair, we know what a major achievement it is to reach the final stage in this high profile competition so whatever the outcome are absolutely delighted.

Fingers crossed

Elena (Dickson)

Dicksons' aiming to sell its products nationwide

2010-04-19T11:43:00.002+01:00

http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2010/04/19/dicksons-aiming-to-sell-its-products-nationwide-51140-26261861/

A Special Visitor to Dicksons'

2010-04-12T08:34:00.004+01:00

On 9th of April 2010, Rt Hon Mr David Miliband visited us at the Factory. He spent time talking to Michael, Christine, Daniela and Elena Dickson, as well as Sue Hendy and Graham Hunter, but also met a variety of staff members on his factory tour.

He was amazed to see how sausages were made, and enjoyed watching the pies but overall, he was impressed with the factory and the business as a whole – commending us all on how well we were doing in such difficult financial circumstances.

Here are a few action shots of his visit.

Mum's the word!

2010-03-08T16:49:00.004Z

Here at Dicksons, we've cooked up a treat for mothers across the region with a special mother’s day kit designed to create the perfect breakfast in bed.
Complete with everything you need to make mum breakfast in bed, the kits come with Dicksons’ famous sausages, bacon and black pudding, fresh orange juice and locally sourced eggs together with a bright yellow daffodil for that finishing touch.
Elena Dickson, marketing and product development manager at Dicksons said; “With our product range we really are the masters of breakfast in bed so we thought why not make it simple for our customers and design a handy kit.
“We’ve included our premium range of pork sausages, premium back bacon and our secret recipe black pudding all made here in South Shields and have enlisted the help of other local suppliers with fresh eggs and just picked daffodils!”
The kit is designed to feed four people and is priced at £7.99 and will be available from Dicksons’ shops across the region from Thursday 11th until Saturday 13th March.

Newcastle Journal Feature

2010-02-18T09:58:00.002Z

http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2010/02/18/take-a-butcher-s-at-family-firm-51140-25861465/

Best UK Family Business (North of England and Midlands region)

2010-02-18T09:52:00.002Z

MI DICKSON LIMITED WINS COUTTS PRIZE FOR FAMILY BUSINESS
South Tyneside-based food manufacturer, retailer and wholesaler named ‘Best UK Family Business, Northern England and the Midlands Region, £5-25m turnover category’

Dicksons, the region’s much loved traditional family pork butcher, has been named ‘Best UK Family Business, Northern England and the Midlands Region’, of the Coutts Prize for Family Business 2009/10.

The South Shields based company will now go on to compete in the £5-25m category at the national finals to be held in central London on 8 June 2010.

The awards, now in their fifth year, represent the only regional programme in England and Wales celebrating the overall best-performing medium-sized and large family businesses within three regions: Northern England & the Midlands; London & Greater London; and Southern England & Wales. Within the three regions, there are two turnover categories: medium (£5-25m) and large (£25m+).

Delighted with the achievement, Michael Dickson, managing director and son of the founder commented; “Family values run through the very veins of Dicksons and that affects the way our staff approach their work and the quality of the products and service we offer: this ultimately leads to loyal customers, many of whom are third generation too.

“In such a tough, competitive market place, brands are increasingly looking for a unique selling point and we are fortunate that we can boast tangible “local producer and family” credentials .

“That said, I am delighted that we have been recognised for our ability to diversify and adapt. Our values and heritage will always be an integral part of the business, but we are constantly looking at ways of improving our offering which is why we have a talented team of family and non family members in place to drive the business forward. Also we have created a Family Council which will help to realise long term family ownership which is good for the company, our employees and our customers.”

Andrew Wates, Regional Chair of the evaluation committee commented: “As a successful second and third generation family business, the evaluation committee were impressed by;

- the strength of Dicksons’ family values and culture which run throughout the business in everything they do;
- their well-organised family governance which keeps the family informed and connected to the business via their family constitution, family council and board representation;
- their willingness to embrace and incentivise non-family managers in order to drive the business forward and aid their succession; their clear strategic vision and ability to diversify in a competitive market through a vertically integrated business model and the family’s strong approach to community involvement and charitable giving through the Dickson Family Charitable Trust, driven by an employee committee.”

Juliette Johnson, Head of UK Family Business, Coutts & Co added: "We're delighted to provide recognition to this special family business and showcase their achievements for the benefit of other family businesses. What really shines through is the strength of the family's values and culture that runs right through this business which influence how and why things get done and acts as a real competitive advantage.

“With the current economic downturn, businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to survive, which therefore increases the value of recognising these family businesses and their work. The companies that scored most highly were the ones that were able to give examples of what they had achieved.

Established in South Shields in 1953, as a stand-alone pork butcher, Dicksons now employs 221 staff across its thriving chain of 20 retail shops and its South Shields based Head Office and production facility. It sells a wide range of premium meat products, including freshly cooked deli meats, sausages, bacon, pies, and a selection of hot and cold food on the go. Its products, which are all carefully produced at its South Shields base, can now also be found in a number of leading supermarkets as a result of the company’s successful wholesale division.

Elena Dickson, product development and marketing manager at Dicksons and third generation member of the Dickson family added: “We are all absolutely delighted to receive this award. Although the success of the business is down to the hard work of the entire team, I am particularly thrilled for my Dad and Aunt Chris who have worked tirelessly for the past 40 years to build the business to where it is today.

“I’m sure my grandparents, although entrepreneurial themselves, would never have imagined that their one pork butchers shop could grow to become the thriving business it is today.”

She concluded; “As the third generation family member working day to day in the business, the pressure is certainly on. Thankfully however, I have some fantastic mentors around me in both my family and other members of our talented team to continue to learn from.”

Pie Love!

2010-02-11T12:33:00.004Z

The team of expert pie makers at Dicksons’, the region’s much loved family pork butcher, are proving they are all heart this Valentine’s Day and have created a special pork pie designed to win over the carnivores amongst us.
Following weeks of fun in the development kitchen, the team have designed a pie with a heart shape cut in to the pastry making it the perfect gift for pie lovers across the region.
Elena Dickson, product development and marketing manager at the South Shields based company said: “It’s a well known fact that the way to man’s heart in particular is through his stomach, but research shows that men favour savoury over sweet, so traditional gifts of chocolates and sweets do not necessarily hit the mark.
“Our pork pie however is packed full with quality British shoulder pork and enveloped in delicious crisp, water based pastry and is hugely popular with our male customers. The heart shaped addition just gives it that romantic edge and we are confident that it will be a real hit this Valentine’s Day.”
The Valentine’s pork pie is available from Dicksons shops across the region and is priced at 85p.

Supporting Joe!

2009-12-09T15:16:00.007Z

Support for Joe McElderry is sizzling hot at family food company Dicksons.
The South Shields based company is showing its support for our X Factor star, who is now down to the final three, with a giant great banger shaped like an X and an offer of its famous saveloy dips free for life.
The 5.kg and 70cm long smoked pork sausage was made by the famous sausage making team, who between them have more than 220 years experience making sausages, but this is the first x shaped one they have ever made.
Elena Dickson, marketing manager at Dicksons said: “Joe is doing so well in the competition and his success has created a real buzz around the town with people of all ages and backgrounds backing him. As a company so strongly rooted in South Shields ourselves, we wanted to do something to show our support.
“Success and fame do not appear to have gone to his head one bit - he still seems the loveable, grounded individual who went in to the competition which is why we thought he would appreciate our giant sausage and offer of free saveloy dips.”

Happy Sausage Week!!

2009-11-03T08:34:00.003Z

To mark National Sausage Week- 2nd-8th November - South Shields based family food company Dicksons is seeking the help of its customers in a sausage tasting bonanza.
Customers across its 20-strong chain of shops will be putting new flavoured sausages to the test to determine what sausages will be on sale in store in time for Christmas.
The Firecracker, a quality pork and chilli sausage will be going head-to-head with The Traditionalist, a new improved pork, onion and herb sausage, with the most popular taking centre stage on the sausage counter next month.
Both are expertly produced by the company’s dedicated sausage room team, who have more than 200 years sausage making experience between them, so certainly know what it takes to make a good banger.
Elena Dickson, sales and marketing manager at Dicksons said: “We are always looking at ways of developing our product range for our customers and we thought this would be a fun and entertaining way to gauge customer opinion before launching a new product.
“Our product range has certainly evolved over the last 50 years to meet the changing tastes of our customers. Whilst you will no longer find pork trotters on sale, some of the old favourites such as the Saveloy Dip and pease pudding remain top sellers across all our shops, but customers are still keen to try new tasty products.”
Dicksons employs 221 staff across its thriving chain of 20 retail shops and its South Shields based Head Office and production facility. It sells a wide range of premium meat products, including freshly cooked deli meats, sausages, bacon, pies, a selection of hot and cold food on the go and of course the famous Saveloy Dip. Its products, which are all carefully produced at its South Shields base, can now also be found in a number of leading supermarkets as a result of the company’s successful wholesale division.

New Appointment Adds Additional Flavour to Dicksons Management Team

2009-10-30T14:30:00.003Z

One of the region’s most loved family food companies has appointed its first ever non family member to its senior management team.
Dicksons, the 20-strong food retail chain, famous for the original Saveloy Dip, has appointed Kevin Lee as chief operating officer at its South Shields head quarters, as it gears up for future growth
Lee, 48 from Shotley Bridge joins the firm after working as a consultant for the company over recent months. Before this, the chartered accountant, spent 18 years working at CRL, a division of the Coop, where as head of logistics, he oversaw the company’s 20 distribution warehouses across the UK.
At Dicksons, Lee will take responsibility for reviewing the performance of the company’s three divisions – manufacture, retail and wholesale – and for developing strategic growth plans for the business, which unlike many on the high street, is enjoying a bumper year.
His appointment marks a significant development for the company, which established in 1953, has remained solely in the hands of the Dickson family, with siblings Michael and Christine, children of the founders, currently at the helm.
Commenting on his appointment, Lee said; “I am really excited by this opportunity. Dicksons is an extremely successful business but there is still huge potential for further growth. It is currently of a size where my involvement in developing the strategy will really help to shape the future of the business which is a very attractive proposition.
“Having worked with the team over recent months as a consultant, I have got to know the business and the people behind it and I had absolutely no hesitations about becoming a permanent part of the team. Despite its success and its ambitious plans for the future, the company remains at its heart, a family run business where customers and staff come first.”
Michael Dickson, managing director at Dicksons said: “Kevin brings with him a wealth of practical and strategical experience from a national, multi site operation, which will be hugely beneficial to our business at such an important time of growth and change.
“Dicksons has successfully grown from one single pork butchers shop in South Shields to a well recognised and respected family food brand across the region. However, if we are to realise our ambitious plans -which have already began with our impressive rebrand and refit programme and evolved product range - the business needs the expertise of individuals like Kevin.”
He added; “Christine and I have taken the business from one retail shop to where it is today, but it is important that we have plans in place to ensure ongoing growth and success beyond our tenure.”
Dicksons employs 221 staff across its thriving chain of 20 retail shops and its South Shields based Head Office and production facility. It sells a wide range of premium meat products, including freshly cooked deli meats, sausages, bacon, pies, a selection of hot and cold food on the go and of course the famous Saveloy Dip. Its products, which are all carefully produced at its South Shields base, can now also be found in a number of leading supermarkets as a result of the company’s successful wholesale division.

South Tyneside Publication in the Newcastle Journal

2009-10-16T17:13:00.006+01:00

Copy the link below into your browser to see the article published in the Newcastle Journal.

http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-commercial-reviews/commercial-and-industry-reviews/southtynesiderevitalisation/2009/10/16/family-values-keep-butcher-s-at-top-of-class-51140-24966314/

We make the news again!

2009-10-16T17:12:00.000+01:00

NE Business Magazine

MARG HANGS UP HER APRON AT DICKSONS

2009-10-15T08:36:00.002+01:00

Marg Turner will be hanging up her apron from local family food company Dicksons.
Marg, 58, from Sunderland will retire from the company where she has worked for the past 20 years to spend time with her family.
A familiar face to many, Marg managed Dicksons on Sea Road, Sunderland for ten years, before moving to the company’s Head Office in South Shields in 1999.
Marg took a lead role on the company’s switch from imperial to metric measurement and since then has enjoyed working in various positions, most recently, processing orders for the company’s growing wholesale business.
Commenting on her retirement, Marg said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working at Dicksons, it is great to know you work for a company that genuinely cares about you, which is why I have continued to work here for such a long time. I will sorely miss all my colleagues but I have to admit I am looking forward to my retirement.
“Not that I will be putting my feet up, I have five grandchildren, the youngest of which is only six months old, so they will keep me busy and it will be great to enjoy spending quality time with them all.”
Michael Dickson, managing director at Dicksons said: “It is always a sad day when people like Marg leave the company, after so many years working with us she feels like one of the family. But we are delighted that she can now go off and enjoy her retirement with her own family and wish her all the very best.
“We have a number of long serving employees working for us - this is testament to the culture and ethos of the company which is built firmly on our family heritage and values, despite our ongoing growth and expansion.”
Established in 1953, Dicksons began life as a pork butcher shop in South Shields. Set up by Irwin and Helen Dickson, the company is still owned and managed by the Dickson family. Today it employees 221 staff and operates from 20 retail shops across the north east where it sells a wide range of premium meat products, including freshly cooked deli meats, sausages, bacon, pies and a selection of hot and cold food on the go. Its products, which are all carefully produced at its South Shields base, can now be found in a number of leading supermarkets.

Laygate Store Re-opens

2009-09-21T12:34:00.002+01:00

Customers welcome back an old favourite as Dicksons unveil new look store in Laygate

Locals in the Laygate area of South Shields will be able to enjoy their favourite saveloys, sandwiches and pork pies once again as Dicksons re-opens one of its most popular stores. Residents have had to go without their tasty treats over the last month while the store underwent major refurbishment as part of Dicksons’ multi-million pound rebrand.

The rebrand has already seen the successful completion of nine interim shop makeovers and three full refits in South Shields town centre, Washington and Newcastle, as well as newly liveried delivery trucks.

The store, which has been closed for refurbishment for a month, will offer customers a wider range of products and a completely new shopping environment managed by Kevin Wardropper and his experienced team. As well as tucking into some old favourites such as Dicksons’ famous saveloy dip, customers will also now be able to sample the company’s ‘food to go’ range including paninis, sub sandwiches and jacket potatoes.

Commenting on the rebrand, Managing Director at Dicksons, Michael Dickson, said: “This is a very exciting time for Dicksons and it’s great to be able to re-open another new-look store. We very much hope that our customers will welcome the changes we’ve made to both the store itself and the product range. However, not everything changes – as always, they can expect excellent customer service and product knowledge from all of our staff here at Laygate.”

Cath retires after 21 years.

2009-08-27T10:32:00.002+01:00

Published Date:
26 August 2009
By Terry Kelly
A CLEANER is hanging up her broom after 21 years.

Catherine Kidney, 60, has worked as a 'hygiene technician' for local family food company Dicksons since 1988.

The South Shields mum-of-two, who works at Dicksons' Boldon Lane shop, said: "I am really going to miss working at Dicksons, which has been a second home to me over the years.

"Mostly, I'll miss the girls I work with and all our regular customers, who I've got to know very well over the time I've been here.

"I am looking forward to spending more quality time with my family, including my three gorgeous grandchildren.

"To celebrate, we are planning a holiday to America, so we all have plenty to look forward to."

Michael Dickson, managing director at Dicksons, said: "We are very sorry to lose such a great member of staff.

"We pride ourselves on building strong relationships with our staff and customers, helping to make our shops the friendly hubs of community spirit they are.

"I know that Catherine will be very missed by all of us."

Keeping it in the family

2009-08-26T14:51:00.002+01:00

Published Date:
20 August 2009
By Terry Kelly
EXPERTS are helping a famous family-run food company launched in South Tyneside to serve up even more business gold.
Dicksons, launched in South Shields in 1953, is receiving help from strategic business advisers The Alchemists on how to keep the business in the family, while also maintaining growth.

With 20 outlets across Tyne and Wear, the traditional pork butcher is now the single biggest retail chain of its kind in the region, with an annual turnover of about £10m.

But despite its size, the company is still run by brother and sister Michael and Christine Dickson, who have steered it to continued success over the last 30 years.

Mr Dickson said: "Succession planning is very important to us, and is a point where so many businesses fail.

"It's always been important for us to preserve our traditional values and focus of the business, through the continuation of Dicksons in family hands.

"Dicksons is a very good business and, if we did nothing, it would carry on operating successfully. But it has the potential to do much more."

Mr Dickson's daughter, Elena, was made marketing manager in 2004, while the appointment of eldest daughter Daniela Parkinson as non-executive director and chairman of the Dicksons family council earlier this year is designed to guarantee family control of the business in the long term.

Christine Dickson said: "The business is our children's inheritance, so it is only fair that they are given a chance to contribute to its success.

"Apart from this, we've found their input invaluable in helping us to keep the business relevant to the shopper of today, while staying local to our dedicated customers."

Dicksons recently won Retailer of the Year and overall Business of the Year in South Tyneside's Step Awards.

Sponsoring the South Tyneside Pride Awards

2009-08-14T16:57:00.003+01:00

Manager boomerangs back from Down Under to cut the ribbon on new-look store

2009-08-05T16:07:00.004+01:00

A shop manager, who emigrated to Australia three and a half years ago has returned to reopen a popular South Shields’ store after an exciting refurbishment.

Colin Smith worked as a senior manager for Dicksons for 23 years, before emigrating to Adelaide, Australia with his family in 2006.

The dad of two, who is originally from Whitburn, kept up-to-date on news about his old employer via the Shields Gazette, and was thrilled to be invited back to cut the ribbon on the newly-branded store.

He said: “I have a lot of fond memories working at Dicksons and was over the moon to be invited to cut the ribbon on this special occasion.”

Dicksons Denmark Centre shop opened in 1983, as a replacement to their earlier 1960 Fowler Street store, which was then the second in the Dicksons’ chain.

The refit is part of the company’s multimillion pound rebrand, which has already seen the successful completion of nine interim shop makeovers and two full refits in Washington and Newcastle.

The store, which has been closed for the refurbishment for 3 weeks, will offer customers a wider range of products and completely new shopping environment managed by George Arthur, Superviser Elaine Cowell and their experienced team.

Commenting on the event, Managing Director at Dicksons, Michael Dickson, said: “This is a very exciting time for Dicksons and I am very pleased to have Colin here, if only briefly, to cut the ribbon on our new-look store. I know customers were pleased to see Colin back at his old shop after such a long time, and all agree that the store is looking better than ever.”

Colin now manages a busy fresh meat and delicatessen in Adelaide Central Market, Australia. He is married to wife Susan. The couple have two children, Connor,14, and Hannah 17.

Michael is featured in the South Tyneside Role Models book

2009-07-28T16:02:00.002+01:00

Crust Married

2009-07-22T17:36:00.003+01:00

A north east couple have ditched a traditional wedding cake in favour of a meatier version.

Happy couple Chris and Victoria Lane, from Sunderland, wowed guests at their wedding, by revealing a 3 tier wedding pork pie, complete with ornate decoration.

The pair, both 28, searched high and low for the perfect pie for their special day and finally commissioned north east family company Dicksons to create the pastry dish, for their wedding reception, which took place at Roker Hotel in Sunderland on June 12.

Elena Dickson, head of marketing of the company, was surprised when they asked Dicksons to create the dish.

“We thought they were joking at first, we’ve never had a request like it,” she said.

“But we soon realised they were serious and we never say no to a customer, so decided to take on the challenge.”

Dicksons made the pie using their secret recipe, which has been satisfying customers in the north east for over 53years.

Groom, Chris, said: “There was no choice about it really. It’s a well known fact that Dicksons make the best pies in the north east, and we wanted only the best for our wedding day.

“We were not disappointed either. The pie was a huge hit with all our guests, who thought the idea was very unique.”

The 3 tier wedding pork pie, which measured 12inches at its base, was hand crafted and displayed on a traditional cake stand until the time came for the newlyweds to make the first slice.

The pastry dish was then served to the couple’s guests.

Gadzooks! Shiney Row Kids go Medieval

2009-07-22T17:35:00.001+01:00

Youngsters in Sunderland were given the chance to find out what life in the thirteenth century was all about with a special medieval event.

Little ones at Shiney Row Primary School enjoyed a day of jousting, feasting and medieval dancing as part of a special creative curriculum event.

Year 1 pupils dressed as princesses, queens, knights and kings for the fun day on Friday July 10, as part of the school’s ‘King of the Castle’ themed learning project, aimed at teaching kids what life was like in the Middle Ages.

Teacher Heather Southern, said: “The day was part of our creative curriculum event aimed at getting the children engaged with learning by creating an event which would capture their imaginations, creating enthusiasm, interest and excitement about the topic. The children have been learning about Alnwick Castle and the event was aimed at bringing our learning to life and making the children feel part of their learning.

“The event was part of our Enterprise Education Initiative, aimed at encouraging parents and the local community to get involved with the school and its children.”

The event enjoyed a great turn out from parents and members of the local community, and support from local businesses, including local food retailer Dicksons, who supplied chicken drum sticks for the traditional medieval feast.

Managing director at Dicksons, Michael Dickson, said: “The event was a great success and I am pleased to see that an enjoyable day was had by all. Events like this are important for bringing people together and helping parents and the local community become more involved with their children’s learning, changing community perceptions about the value of education by emphasising the school’s role as a hub of the community.”

Dicksons Triumph at Regional Business Awards

2009-07-22T17:34:00.004+01:00

Local family business, Dicksons is celebrating after coming out on top at this year’s prestigious South Tyneside Enterprise Partnership (STEP) Awards.

The food manufacturer and retailer, which has 20 shops across the North East, was named Retailer of the Year and overall Business of the Year above all other category winners, at a glitzy awards ceremony last week.

The awards, which took place at Simonside Industrial Estate in South Shields, are now in their twelfth year and are widely recognised as identifying outstanding achievements in business within the South Tyneside area.

Thrilled by the result, head of marketing at Dicksons, who collected the awards, Elena Dickson said: “We were extremely pleased to be named Retailer of the Year and Business of the Year at this fantastic event. These awards are a great honour and I am grateful to all of our staff who have worked so hard to help make this possible.”

Having started life as one butchers shop in South Shields, Dicksons now boasts 20 stores across Tyne and Wear, making it the single biggest retail chain of its kind in the region, with an annual turnover approaching £10m.

The company is currently undergoing a multi million pound rebrand, which has already seen the successful completion of the rebranding of the company’s fleet of delivery vehicles, nine interim shop makeovers, two full refits in Washington and Newcastle, with three more expected to be completed before Christmas.

Local firm earns a crust driving business image

2009-07-22T17:31:00.001+01:00

People on the streets of Tyne and Wear will soon find themselves drooling at the sight of a truckload of tasty treats, as part of a local company’s multi-million pound rebrand.

North east butchers Dicksons, have completed the re-imaging of a fleet of delivery vehicles as part of the business’s ambitious image campaign. The trucks have been supplied by local company Bell Trucks, who have delivered Dicksons products across the region for over 30 years.

Each truck features one of the family business’s famous mouth-watering products including sumptuous pork pies, sausages and ham, which will be used for deliveries throughout the region, across the company’s 20 stores.

Each week the trucks deliver over 40 tons of food to the stores, including 100,000 baked savouries, 50,000 bread buns, 50,000 fresh sausages, 50,000 slices of ham, 6 tons of pease pudding and 35,000 saveloys.

Managing Director of Dicksons, Michael Dickson, said: “The trucks mark the next stage of the rebrand to bring our image bang up to date, while retaining our solid reputation for traditional values and quality.

“We have chosen images which really show off our delicious range of meals and snacks, to remind our customers of the quality they can expect from Dicksons, whilst whetting the appetite of those who might not yet have visited one of our shops.”

The rebrand has already seen the successful completion of nine interim shop makeovers, two full refits in Washington and Newcastle, and three more are planned before Christmas.

Michael added: “As a company we always try to support local business wherever possible, and have continued to be impressed by Bell Truck and Van, who will play a crucial role in helping us get to where we want to be.”

Commenting on the vehicles, Sales Manager at Bell Truck and Van, Steve Holmes, said: “We have been working with Dicksons for almost 30 years and have watched the company go from strength to strength. The branded trucks look fantastic and represent the next phase for the company, and we are proud to have been involved.”

The Proof is in the Pudding

2009-07-22T17:30:00.002+01:00

A local business is stepping up to the plate to defend the honour of one of the North East’s best-loved foods - pease pudding.

Local family butchers and leading producers of pease pudding, Dicksons, were dismayed after reading a story which appeared in Saturday’s edition of The Times newspaper, claiming that pease pudding is nothing more than boiled split peas and ham fat.

Managing director, Michael Dickson said: “Here at Dicksons, we feel it’s about time the rest of the country knew just how good this North East delicacy is. The proof, dare I say it, is in the pudding, and this particular pudding is nothing more than high quality split peas and subtle seasoning. This means that not only is it completely fat free, but also suitable for vegetarians.”

“Here in the North East we feel very passionately about pease pudding, which along with stotties and Newcastle Brown Ale, describes Tyne and Wear on a plate.”

The family company, which started life in South Shields, has written a letter to The Times, in an attempt to correct the mistake, with hopes that the readers won’t be misled into believing that pease pudding is unhealthy.

Pease pudding is an accompaniment to food, which similarly to hummus, is light yellow in colour and due to its mild flavour is often served with ham and bacon. Dicksons have been producing pease pudding since 1953 and sell an estimated 22 tons of pease pudding every month.

Charity Postcard Cooks Up Cash for Cancer Connections

2009-07-22T17:17:00.006+01:00

A Geordie snack is set to be immortalised in a new postcard to raise money for a worthy cause.

The saveloy dip, a culinary favourite across the region, is set to be the focus of a new regional postcard to raise money for north east charity, Cancer Connections.

The quirky card, features a detailed recipe diagram of the ‘perfect’ saveloy dip, a smoked sausage, sandwiched in a roll and swathed in pease pudding, stuffing, mustard and rich stock, which along with stotties and Newcastle Brown Ale, equals Tyne and Wear on a plate.

The postcard is being commissioned by local food chain, Dicksons and will be made available throughout the region in Tourist Information Centres and across the company’s 20 shops.

Dicksons, a family firm born and bred in the North East, sells over 35,000 saveloys per week across the region. And the delicious Geordie treat is also fast gaining an international following via the internet and Facebook, with enthusiasts from as far afield as Hong Kong declaring their love for the dish.

Word of the new postcard has already seen the company receiving a rush of enquiries from people desperate to know where and when they will be able to pick up a copy of the card.

Managing Director of Dicksons, Michael Dickson, said: “The saveloy is an important part of our food heritage here in the North East and occupies a place of special affection . Proceeds from the postcard will allow us to support a very worthy cause and give customers and visitors an opportunity to share this great local tradition with “Geordie ex pats” both in the UK and beyond.”

Money raised through sale of the postcard will go towards supporting Cancer Connections, a local volunteer charity which provides emotional and practical support to people whose lives have been affected by cancer.

Prof Reg Hall of Cancer Connections, said: “We are very grateful to Dicksons for supporting Cancer Connections. It’s amazing the nostalgia and sentiment people feel towards their business and this locally iconic product

I think the postcard looks fantastic and can’t wait to get hold of one of my own!”

Dicksons take Darlington FC into the Premier League of Pies

2009-07-22T17:17:00.004+01:00

North East company Dicksons is celebrating after its pies were rated top in the region in a national taste test to find the football ground serving the best pie. Darlington Arena, the home of Darlington Football Club, has been voted the North East’s best football ground for pies and comes second overall in the Pie Premier League. Local food manufacturer and retailer Dicksons, based in South Shields, has supplied pies to Darlington FC for the last five years where thousands are consumed by hungry footie fans at every home game. The company also supplies pies to Middlesbrough Football Club.

The research was carried out by football fan Tom Dickinson, who has spent almost an entire football season travelling up and down the country, and has so far visited 91 of the UK’s 92 league stadiums, not only to watch the beautiful game, but also to discover which ground offers the best pies.

The full table of results will become part of a new good food book entitled 92 Pies being written by Tom, which will provide comment on the state of football and pastry.

Commenting on the result, commercial director for Darlington Arena, Christine Balford, said: “This is a great result, but not surprising when you taste the quality of our pies. Here at Darlington Arena we are very aware of the importance of satisfying our fans and have found that Dicksons always does the trick!”

Managing Director at Dicksons, Michael Dickson said: “This is a great honour for Dicksons and we are pleased our pies have earned a crust not only in the region, but in the UK.”

Morecambe’s Christie Park came out top of the results.

Geordie favourite takes centre stage at food festival

2009-07-22T17:16:00.002+01:00

Food fans will get the chance to enjoy a culinary treat of the Geordie kind with the launch of EAT! Festival’s Food Heroes Tasting Market this weekend.

Local pork butchers, Dicksons will be offering peckish festival goers the chance to sample their famous saveloy dip on Friday May 15 and Saturday May 16.

A regional favourite, the saveloy dip, is a smoked sausage, soft roll dipped in stock swathed in stuffing, pease pudding and mustard , which along with stotties and Newcastle Brown Ale, equals Tyne and Wear on a plate.

Local saveloy enthusiast, Michael Gibson, is just one north eastener who can’t get enough of the Geordie treat. He said: “The Dicksons’ saveloy dip is part of the north east’s culinary heritage, and unfortunately one that sometimes gets over-looked. Everyone I’ve met who has tried a saveloy dip has loved it, so I can’t wait for the Tasting Market which will hopefully give the saveloy the exposure it deserves! I’ll certainly be encouraging my friends who have never tried a saveloy dip to come down and see what they’re missing.”

Dicksons, a family firm born and bred in the North East, sells over 35,000 saveloys a week in their shops across the region. And the delicious Geordie treat is also fast gaining an international following via the internet and Facebook, with enthusiasts from as far afield as Hong Kong declaring their love for the dish.

Managing Director of Dicksons, Michael Dickson, said: “The saveloy is an important part of our food heritage here in the North East, which makes its presence at the Food Heroes Tasting Market ideal. Dating back to the 1850s, the saveloy is a traditional favourite, which has also proven to be modern day hit.”

Michael added: “It’s amazing the nostalgia and sentiment people feel towards the saveloy dip. I am looking forward to the event and would urge those who have never tried one to take advantage of this great opportunity.”

Dicksons steps up to the plate at Eat! Festival

2009-07-22T17:14:00.001+01:00

Food fans will get the chance to enjoy a culinary treat of the Geordie kind as Dicksons steps up to the plate at this year’s Eat! Festival.

The family butcher will be offering peckish festival goers the chance to sample their famous saveloy dip as part of the event’s Food Heroes Tasting Market on Friday May 15 and Saturday May 16.

A regional favourite, the saveloy dip, is a smoked sausage, sandwiched in a roll and swathed in stuffing, pease pudding, mustard and a rich gravy, which along with stotties and Newcastle Brown Ale, equals Tyne and Wear on a plate.

Dicksons, a family firm born and bred in the North East, sells over 35,000 saveloy dips a week in their shops across the region. And the delicious Geordie treat is also fast gaining an international following via the internet and Facebook, with enthusiasts from as far afield as Hong Kong declaring their love for the dish.

Who served all the pies? Probably Maureen

2009-07-22T16:58:00.003+01:00

Maureen Nesbitt has served an estimated 33,000 pies during the 24 years she’s worked at Dicksons.

But the 60-year-old, who works full time at the popular food shop at St James Mall in Hebburn, has decided it is time to hang up her striped apron in favour of a well deserved retirement.

Maureen said: “I am really going to miss working at Dicksons, which has been a second home to me over the years. Mostly I’ll miss the girls I work with and all our regular customers who I’ve gotten to know very well over the time I’ve been here.

The mum of three, who lives in Hebburn, says she is looking forward to concentrating on her family and having some quality time to herself.

She said: “I’m not sure what I’m going to do with all my spare time, except to say that I am very much looking forward to enjoying some ‘me’ time, and already have a couple of holidays booked for later in the year.”

Dicksons is a family- run food manufacturer and retailer with 20 shops across the north east.

Managing Director at Dicksons, Michael Dickson said: “We are very sorry to lose such a great member of staff. Here at Dicksons we pride ourselves on building strong relationships with our staff and customers, helping to make our shops the friendly hubs of community spirit they are. I know that Maureen didn’t get to where she is today by being a nasty pastie, and I know she will be very missed by her staff and customers.”

Radio Saveloy

2009-07-15T14:47:00.003+01:00

Local listeners to Galaxy FM might have heard presenters discussing the delicious local delicacy (and our speciality) the Saveloy Dip on the airwaves the other day.

Get your ears round this sound bite, and if it gets your taste buds tingling then find your nearest Dicksons and get a fresh saveloy down you!

We "scoop up" at a posh awards do!

2009-07-03T10:27:00.006+01:00

At the local STEP awards held last night in Simonside, we had been shortlisted for Retailer of the Year. If you win your category, you're automatically entered into Business of the Year.

WE WON BOTH!!

Congratulations to everyone at M.I.Dicksons

Holiday in South Shields and enjoy a Saveloy Dip

2009-06-29T16:15:00.002+01:00

Breaking News - Dicksons in Shields Gazette

2009-06-29T12:16:00.005+01:00

Dicksons is making the news this week as it's Fowler Street store is closing for 3 weeks due to refurbishment work being carried out from 27th June. This story is making the headlines in the local press, as plates aren't the same without pies. Grab a copy of the Shields Gazette to get the full story.

July Offers

2009-06-29T11:22:00.005+01:00

We've got some fantastic offers in store this month! Click here to download this month's exclusive customer voucher for Sausage Rolls.

Why not grab one of our tasty, freshly baked pork pies? You can get them at the great price of 85p for a large one, or 57p if you fancy a small one.

If you're looking for something tasty at lunchtime then stop by and try this month's tasty lunch! Beef burger and chips for £2.39.

Look out for all of these offers until the end of July, and check back every month to see our latest offers.

Welcome!

2009-05-11T17:55:00.001+01:00

Hi,

Welcome to our new website, and this page, our newsblog! Here you can check back to find out all the exciting things going on in and around our stores. The latest offers on our tasty products and exclusive vouchers.

Make sure you keep checking back!

The Dicksons Team