Like many South Africans, Mmusi Maimane was full of praise for the late Pick n Pay founder Raymond Ackerman. The respected retail businessman was known for his commitment to ethical business practises and job creation.

Ackerman died on Wednesday, 8 September, at the age of 92 years old.In a series of tweets, Mmusi Maimane – the Build One South Africa political party leader- shared his tribute to the Pick n Pay founder.

 

 

He posted on Twitter – or X.com: “South Africa has lost a giant with the passing of Raymond Ackerman. His impact on retail and his contribution to the South African economy will never be forgotten”.

In another tweet, Mmusi revealed how Raymond had contributed to his own homeHe continued: “My mother worked as a cashier at Pick and Pay, and she was able to provide for her family because of the employment that his company created.

Mmusi went on to list Raymond’s business and charity endeavors, which were both equally successful. He also reflected on Ackerman’s anti-Apartheid stance.

Pick n Pay former chairman Raymond Ackerman has died. Images via Instagram: @picknpay
He added: “Ackerman fought constantly against the Group Areas Act, stating that it was unjust, unfair and inhumane. During the Apartheid era, he provided housing loans to staff and educational grants to his staff and their children to encourage university education when such opportunities were not open to black children.“Raymond fought tirelessly for the rights of consumers, pioneering cheaper house brands and sparking a fight with the government to supply cheaper petrol to consumers.”

WIFE AND FAMILY
Raymond Ackerman leaves behind his wife Wendy, their four children, Gareth, Kathy, Suzanne, and Johnathan, and 12 grandchildren.

In 2010, Raymond’s son Gareth succeeded him as the chairman of Pick n Pay. The retail group has close to 2,000 stores in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Gareth holds a 25.92 % stake in the company