For 50 years, Williamson’s Foodworks Gisborne has been much more than a supermarket. It has been a community meeting place, a supporter of local causes, an employer of generations of locals and, above all, a family business built on strong values and deep local connections. 

This July, the Williamson family will celebrate a remarkable milestone as their Gisborne store marks 50 years of continuous service to the Macedon Ranges community. 

What began in 1976 when John Williamson moved his family to Gisborne and opened his first supermarket has grown into one of regional Victoria’s most respected independent retail businesses. While the family has acquired additional supermarkets across regional Victoria over the years, the original Hamilton Street store remains at the heart of the business. 

Today, the supermarket is led by John’s son, David Williamson, who represents the second generation of family ownership. The third generation is already actively involved, with family members contributing across store operations, trade services and marketing. 

“It’s always been about community, quality fresh food and customer service,” David says. 

“The core values and traditions held originally by the business – passed down from my dad to myself, my siblings and children – remain unchanged. 

“Our sense of community spirit, value for money and customer service are always at the forefront of our operations.” 

The family’s hands-on involvement has helped create a strong culture within the business and foster lasting relationships with customers. 

“Much of the positive feedback we hear from customers comes from their interactions with staff on the floor,” David says. 

Giving Back Since Day One 

Over five decades, Williamson’s Foodworks has become synonymous with community support. 

The numbers tell an extraordinary story: $1 million donated to local sporting clubs, $500,000 contributed to community groups, $300,000 provided to local schools and $4 million shared through the store’s fresh food voucher program since 2006. 

The store has also played a significant role during times of crisis. Following the Ash Wednesday bushfires, the business helped raise $180,000 for relief efforts, with funds donated to the Red Cross, Salvation Army and local fire services. 

Each year, the supermarket contributes approximately $25,000 to the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal and returns additional value to customers through its rewards program and annual Christmas shopping giveaways. 

For David, supporting the community is simply part of being an independent retailer. 

“Supermarkets play an important role in bringing people together, particularly in regional areas, so it’s important for us to give back,” he says. 

“My five children and I have all attended the local primary school, played sports locally and been involved in local community groups. We all still live locally and continue to be part of community sporting groups and organisations.” 

From Tuckerbag to National Recognition 

Like many long-standing independent supermarkets, the business has evolved significantly over the decades. 

Originally trading as a Tuckerbag store, the supermarket rebranded to FoodWorks in 1997 and is now a member of Australian United Retailers. 

The store’s commitment to excellence has earned national recognition, including being named National Supermarket of the Year in 2023. In the same year, manager Braydan Rodgers was awarded National Store Manager of the Year. 

Australian United Retailers CEO Rick Wight says the achievement reflects decades of dedication from the Williamson family and their team. 

“David, John, their family and the extended team are hardworking, community-minded and committed to serving the people of Gisborne and the Macedon Ranges,” he says. 

“It is inspiring to see their generous spirit, and the Williamson legacy, positively impact on the people who live in and around the town over 50 years.” 

Celebrating 50 Years 

To mark the occasion, Williamson’s Foodworks has launched its “50 Deals for 50 Years” promotion, featuring 50 consecutive days of special offers for customers. 

The celebrations will culminate on 9 July with a community market day and a range of popular supermarket products offered at 1976 prices – a fitting tribute to five decades of service. 

For the Williamson family, the anniversary is an opportunity to thank the customers, staff and community members who have supported the business through generations of change, challenge and growth. 

As Williamson’s Foodworks Gisborne reaches its 50-year milestone, it stands as a powerful example of the role independent retailers play in regional Australia – supporting local communities, creating jobs and building connections that extend far beyond the checkout.