From humble beginnings in April 1976, Accredited Distributors has grown into the FMCG company that has delivered great brands across Victoria and New South Wales for half a century. The company marked its golden anniversary in style, combining its 2026 Trade Show with a Gala evening celebrating 50 years of success, strong partnerships, and lasting friendships.
Founded by father and son Terry and Vic Booth, the business was built on hard work, strong relationships, integrity, and service. What began as a medium-sized wholesaler has developed into one of Australia’s leading distributors in the impulse channel, today generating annual sales of approximately $180 million and employing more than 200 talented people.
The company’s journey has seen several milestones along the way. In 1995 Terry Booth sold the business to overseas investors and stayed on to run it; Craig joined the team in 1998, and in July 2005 Stuart Hobbs and Quantum Distributors merged with Accredited, forming the partnership that has led the business to where it stands today.
Long-standing investor Jurgen Fengels remains a shareholder, having been involved with the company for more than 40 years.
A Record-Breaking Trade Show
The 2026 Trade Show was a fantastic opportunity to connect with customers, partners, suppliers, and friends, with attendance and sales during the day hitting a new record for the company. Guests visited supplier stands, shared ideas, asked questions, and placed orders throughout the day, with PepsiCo taking out the honours for Best Display.
A Golden Anniversary Gala to Remember
At the evening Gala, the Terry Booth Award was announced and presented to Brad Mays, IT, Data and Systems Manager – a fitting tribute in the company’s 50th year to an award named after its founder.
No golden anniversary celebration would be complete without a few surprises. PepsiCo presented Branch Managers with framed 50th anniversary jerseys, Mondelez Cadbury presented a celebration cake to share, and Red Bull cocktails flowed during the evening.
The dance floor came alive when Craig welcomed guest artists Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell to the stage, bringing entertainment, laughter, and plenty of unexpected moments that made it a night to remember.
Reflecting on 50 Years
Addressing guests on the night, Craig paid tribute to the company’s founders and its people:
“Back in April 1976, father and son Terry and Vic Booth had a vision. They saw an opportunity to build a distribution business founded on hard work, strong relationships, integrity, and service. What Terry and Vic built all those years ago laid the foundation for everything we enjoy today.”
“Our success has never been about buildings, trucks, systems, or balance sheets. It has always been about people. Businesses don’t survive for 50 years without strong relationships, and we are incredibly grateful for the confidence our customers and supplier partners have placed in us.”
“The next chapter of our story is still being written. With a talented team, strong supplier partnerships, loyal customers, and a commitment to excellence, I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead. To the next 50 years of Accredited Distributors — may they be every bit as successful, innovative, and rewarding as the first.”
In a message to guests, shareholder Jurgen Fengels congratulated the team on the milestone:
“Under the leadership of my partners, Craig and Stuart, together with the amazingly talented team they have surrounded themselves with, it has developed into the company you all know today. I would like to congratulate Craig and Stuart and the entire Accredited team for their wonderful achievement.”
For more information, visit ww.AACS.com
