The UK-born retail entrepreneur and philanthropist W Galen Weston, whose empire spanned food, retail and real estate, has died at the age of 80.
W Galen Weston, retail titan and father of one of Canada’s wealthiest families, died “peacefully at home after a long illness faced with courage and dignity” on April 12, according to a statement from his family.
The retail tycoon was the third generation of his family to lead George Weston Limited, a retail empire founded by his grandfather which he expanded significantly.
The business empire, now run by W Galen Weston’s son Galen Weston, spans businesses across two continents - including Loblaws and Choice Properties in Canada and Selfridges Group and Primark in the UK. The empire also includes the luxury store Fortnum & Mason, along with food brands including Twinings teas, Kingsmill Bakery and Dorset Cereals.
W Galen Weston retired as chairman of the George Weston retail group in 2016 to focus on supporting philanthropic causes through the Weston Family Foundation in Canada and the Selfridges Group Foundation in the UK.
W Galen Weston leaves behind his wife of 55 years Hilary, son Galen and daughter Alannah, who is chair of the Selfridges Group.
“My father’s greatest gift was inspiring those around him to achieve more than they thought possible.” said Galen, chairman and CEO of George Weston Limited.
“In our business and in his life he leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary accomplishment, and joy.”
Alannah, chair of Selfridges group added: “The luxury retail industry has lost a great visionary. His energy electrified those of us who were lucky enough to work alongside him to reimagine what customer experience could be.”
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