Stafford Bros. & Draeger values the need to nurture relationships with suppliers, customers and local communities.
We donate a percentage of turnover to charity on a monthly basis and also donate food to charitable organisations. As part of our environmental responsibilities, we contribute financially towards the recycling of all packaging put into the market by our company.

Arthur Stafford had a dream: to establish a company of excellence that would lead the way in making the world’s finest foods available in South Africa. After starting his own business in 1921, he was joined by his brother Harry and subsequently by Max Draeger. In 1951, Stafford Bros & Draeger (Pty) Ltd was formed.

From humble beginnings, when Stafford Bros & Draeger started as importers of American rice and paper from Sweden, we have grown into proud distributors of internationally acclaimed brands such as Twinings Specialty Teas, delicious and healthy Ovaltine, fibre-rich Ryvita®, scrumptious Walkers Scottish Shortbread, and Banditos Mexican sauces.

In 1977, the Lewis-Enright family acquired Stafford Bros & Draeger. Patrick Lewis-Enright, the chairman at the time, decided to develop an exciting range of specialty foods. This gave rise to the Staffords brand. Always with the consumer’s needs in mind, Staffords has stayed ahead of food trends, introducing exotic products like vanilla extract with seeds, a wide range of condiments, and a selection of cooking chocolates and desserts.

Stafford Bros & Draeger is today a national company operating throughout Southern Africa. In November 2023, the company was acquired by a group specialising in importing and distributing food products. Products are warehoused in Johannesburg and are distributed nationwide by our warehousing and logistics partner. Sales and merchandising teams service all major supermarket chains, cash-and-carry outlets, wholesalers, and food service providers in these areas. We also have a footprint in neighbouring countries.

Staffords is passionate about food and dedicated to upholding our traditional values of commitment to excellence, and corporate responsibility. These are demonstrated through ethical service to our suppliers and customers, and the welfare and advancement of our employees.

Stafford Bros. is a privately owned, full-service distribution company dedicated to serving the Southern African food industry. Stafford Bros is among the leaders in the distribution of imported and local specialty foods, supplying all major supermarket chains, independents, and the food service industry. We provide a comprehensive, “one-stop-shop” solution for brand owners worldwide.

A dedicated and passionate workforce work towards upholding the ethical values, commitment to excellence, and corporate pride that are demonstrated through our service to our suppliers and customers. Our team of Regional and Field Sales Managers are supported by a large network of people throughout Southern Africa that focus on achieving our vision.

Our brand portfolio spans various food categories in the retail and food service industry, including dry groceries, confectionery, biscuits, and hot and cold beverages. The company also has a strong focus on private label development with its in-house “Staffords” brand.

Having been established since 1921 we have built strong relationships with the Category Managers of all the major Supermarket chains, and with our experience we are able to advise the decision makers with the sourcing of “on Trend” food items from across the Globe.