Penrite Oil Company Pty Ltd

In 1926, Penrite Oil Company was formed by Leslie Mecoles, who began producing specialist lubricants by importing a high grade base oil from the Pennsylvanian (US) oil district and blending these with additives to suit different engine types. Starting in St Kilda, Victoria, the business relocated to Richmond, Abbotsford and then Brunswick. By 1978, ill health had forced him to scale down his operations.

In 1979, John Dymond, an engineer associated with oils and lubrication, bought the company. New products were gradually introduced and distributors set up throughout Australia. The Queensland distributorship later changed to a branch office complete with its own blending facility which was relocated and upgraded in 2006-7.

Today Penrite Oil Company has branches in every State with distributors covering many of the more isolated areas. Penrite also has its own representative in New Zealand, based in Auckland. In 1990 Penrite was established in the United Kingdom and Europe and in 1994 a move was made into the USA and Canada, using the same expertise and experience to formulate oils for North American climates.

As Penrite outgrew the Brunswick premises, relocation to Wantirna South, Victoria, was carried out in 1997. Today Penrite has some 70 staff including sales representatives covering all areas of Australia. Penrite quality oils, greases, and ancillary products are available in most automotive retailers and through workshops. In 2005 Penrite Oil became the Australia and New Zealand distributor for respected German car care brand SONAX. The SONAX products are also widely available and complement Penrite’s core business.

Penrite remains proudly Australian – AND family owned. Despite the passing of Penrite’s Chairman, John Dymond, in 2006, the Dymond family is still heavily involved with every aspect of the company. Mrs Margaret Dymond and several of the Dymond family hold positions on the Board and on staff.

The range of Penrite products currently manufactured covers virtually every application, whether it be for veteran and vintage cars, modern or high performance vehicles, lubricants for industry, gear oils and greases, specifically formulated to meet the climatic conditions in Australia, and worldwide.