Raymond Ackerman is a prominent South African businessman and philanthropist who is best known for founding the Pick n Pay supermarket chain.
Born on March 10, 1931, in Cape Town, South Africa, he started his career as a trainee manager at a retail store in the UK before returning to South Africa to work for his father’s clothing business.
In 1967, Ackerman purchased four small stores in Cape Town and transformed them into the Pick n Pay supermarket chain, which quickly grew to become one of the largest retailers in South Africa.
Under his leadership, Pick n Pay became known for its innovative marketing strategies, customer service, and commitment to social responsibility.
Ackerman is also known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and entrepreneurship.
In 1995, he founded the Ackerman Family Educational Trust, which provides scholarships and bursaries to disadvantaged students in South Africa.
He also established the Raymond Ackerman Academy of Entrepreneurial Development, which offers training and support to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Throughout his career, Ackerman has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to business and society, including the Order of the British Empire and the South African Presidential Award for his role in promoting economic growth and social development in South Africa.
Until his death, he was widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most successful and influential business leaders, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and philanthropists.
We're saddened to hear of the passing of Raymond Ackerman, a giant of SA Retail.
Raymond was an astute businessman and fierce competitor, known for his wisdom and his humanity. He will be missed.
Our condolences to his family, his Pick n Pay family, and all who loved him.
— Woolworths SA (@WOOLWORTHS_SA) September 7, 2023
Who is Gareth Ackerman?
Gareth Ackerman is the older son of Raymond Ackerman, the founder of Pick n Pay, a South African supermarket chain.
He took over as chairman of Pick n Pay in 2010 when his father retired.
Gareth has been involved in the family business for many years, along with his siblings Suzanne, Kathryn and Jonathan.
He has been instrumental in the growth and success of Pick n Pay, which has expanded to include 20 hypermarkets and 402 supermarkets by the time his father retired.
Gareth has also been involved in philanthropic work, including the Ackerman Family Educational Trust, which provides scholarships to disadvantaged students in South Africa.