Raymond Ackerman was a South African businessman and philanthropist who was born on March 10, 1931, in Cape Town, South Africa.
He was the son of Gus Ackerman, the founder of Ackerman’s clothing group, and was educated at Bishops Diocesan College.
Ackerman is best known for purchasing the Pick ‘n Pay supermarket group from its founder, Jack Goldin, in the 1960s.
He built his business based on the philosophy of “doing good is good business.”
Ackerman was the chairman of Pick ‘n Pay until he stepped down in 2010.
He was also involved in philanthropic work, including donating R4 million to a hospital and establishing the Raymond Ackerman Academy of Entrepreneurial Development in Cape Town to develop business skills and train future managers and leaders for South Africa.
Ackerman and his wife Wendy were awarded the 2010 David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership in Africa Award by The Synergos Institute Southern Africa office.
Raymond Ackerman cause of death
While Ackerman passed away on September 6, 2023, at the age of 92, the cause of his death has not been disclosed by his family or the company.
Raymond Ackerman career
Ackerman was the son of Gus Ackerman, the founder of the Ackerman’s clothing group, and was educated at Bishops Diocesan College.
His business career was marked by several notable achievements and contributions to the South African retail sector.
In 1967, Ackerman purchased four small stores in Cape Town and transformed them into Pick n Pay, a supermarket chain that would eventually become one of the largest retailers in South Africa.
He was known for his innovative business practices, such as introducing the concept of self-service supermarkets to South Africa and implementing a computerized inventory system.
Under Ackerman’s leadership, Pick n Pay became the first South African retailer to introduce a loyalty program, which rewarded customers with points that could be redeemed for discounts on future purchases.
He was also a strong advocate for social responsibility in business.
He believed that “doing good is good business” and implemented various initiatives to give back to the community, such as the Ackerman Pick n Pay Foundation, which supports education and entrepreneurship in South Africa.
Ackerman was recognized for his contributions to the retail industry and philanthropy with numerous awards and honors, including the Order of the Baobab, one of South Africa’s highest civilian honors.
Ackerman’s legacy as a successful businessman and philanthropist continues to inspire many in South Africa and beyond.