The Story of Bendicks Mints

Words by
Sphere Editors

3rd February 2026

From a tiny basement in Kensington to royal recognition, Bendicks are a story of bold flavour and uncompromising quality. Created in 1930, it has captivated chocolate lovers with its distinctive dark chocolate and refreshing mint for generations. 

Presented by Bendicks

The Bendicks story began in 1930, when Mr Oscar Benson and Colonel Dickson started a small confectionery business on unassuming Church Street in Kensington, producing chocolates in a tiny basement beneath the shop. A few years later, Bendicks was developing an enviable reputation for quality and a Bendicks store opened in the heart of London’s exclusive Mayfair.

The rich and fashionable frequently visited the shop to enjoy the intense taste of a strong mint fondant, accompanied by 95 per cent dark chocolate made from the finest cocoa beans. Known as the Bittermint, it was a phenomenon from the start and was to make Bendicks famous around the world. The unrivalled reputation of Bendicks continued to grow and over 60 years ago in 1962, Bendicks was awarded a Royal Warrant, By Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen,  a prestigious stamp of quality that has adorned every one  of the beautifully distinctive chocolate boxes ever since.

Bendicks Mints

Bendicks continues to build on its reputation and rich heritage, still paying the same attention to every detail at its factory  as it did when the chocolates were made in the basement beneath the shop in Kensington. Today, Bendicks is the premium after-dinner mint, delivering the perfect finishing touch to any meal or entertainment occasion. Crafted with only the finest ingredients, the iconic Bittermint is still made using the same original recipe today,  a testament to their commitment to the company’s traditional methods and artistry, passed down through the years.

Bendicks has earned the loyalty of chocolate lovers and royalty alike and was awarded a Royal Warrant By Appointment to His Majesty King Charles III in 2024. Quality and tradition are fundamental to the longevity of the company’s success and Bendicks looks forward to many more years of producing its famous chocolate mints and continuing to delight the most discerning customers.

bendicks.co.uk