The Dilmah story

1994

Dilmah’s founder Merrill J. Fernando became a familiar face in New Zealand thanks to the brand’s catchphrase “Do try it”, which invited Kiwis to give the tea a go. Created in this country, the campaign became a global success and was used in more than 100 countries around the world.

2019

Merrill J. Fernado is awarded an honorary doctorate in Science from Massey University. The capping celebrates his commitment to ethical business, and the NZ food and tea industry. Dilmah acknowledges the positive outcomes of making business a matter of human service, as well as Merrill’s love for New Zealand.

1997

Standing true to its promise to be a brand that makes a difference, Dilmah started the MJF Foundation partnership with Hospice New Zealand. Today, more than 11 million tea bags have been donated.

2014

NZ’s Cricket Live Foundation partners with the MJF Foundation to set up “Life Through Cricket”. The aim is to guide and encourage poverty-stricken children in Sri Lanka through a holistic development framework that integrates valuable life skills into training regimes through a sport they love.

2020

Merrill J. Fernado turns 90 and is still involved with the running of the global business. What started as a dream has seen Merrill become the world’s most-experienced tea maker with his products available in 100 countries. He is still inviting people to “Do try it”.

2006

It’s official, Kiwis love Dilmah! Through a commitment to quality and authenticity, the tea becomes New Zealand’s top-selling brand and cuppa of choice. The top spot is one they still hold today.

2022

It has been 30 years since Kiwis fell in love with a cup of Dilmah and more than 9 billion cuppas have been enjoyed in New Zealand, but it’s just the beginning for the brand who dared to do things differently.