Nisa founder Dudley Ramsden has died at the age of 81. Described as a “true sector pioneer and visionary”, Ramsden started his wholesale and convenience journey 64 years ago when he established D.B. Ramsden & Co in Grimsby.
In 1977, he became the joint founder of the Nisa buying consortium, alongside Peter Garvin, allowing independent retailers to leverage a combined purchasing power.
In 1987, he then created wholesale buying group Today’s, which saw Nisa evolve to become Nisa-Today’s. Today’s, however, split from Nisa to become a separate company in 2012, before merging with Landmark Wholesale to form Unitas Wholesale.
Ramsden retired as executive chairman of Nisa-Today’s in 2006, but kept a seat on the board of Today’s Group, from which he also eventually retired in 2014.
Retailers and wholesalers across the sector have paid tributes in honour of his contribution to it.
“On behalf of all of our colleagues and customers, we are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dudley Ramsden, founder of Nisa-Today’s,” said a Nisa spokesman. “Dudley was a true pioneer whose vision, passion, and dedication transformed the independent retail sector.
“From co-founding Nisa in 1977 to leading it to become one of Europe’s leading buying groups, his impact on the industry was immeasurable. Under his leadership, Nisa-Today’s grew into a billion-pound organisation, supporting independent retailers across the UK.
“Dudley was a true pioneer whose impact on Nisa and independent retailing cannot be overstated. His drive and commitment created opportunities for so many, and his influence will be felt for generations to come. Our thoughts are with the Ramsden family and all at Ramsden International at this sad time.”
Former Nisa CEO Neil Turton said: “I can honestly say, I owe an enormous amount in my career to Dudley. He took a chance on me and gave me my first role at Nisa in 1991, as a trainee own-brand buyer, fresh-faced and with little buying experience.
“In the years that followed, Dudley was always there as a friend and mentor and to deliver the occasional – sometimes frequent but always deserved – roasting and ’words of advice’ in his unique way. That’s how I learned. And I’m so grateful for it.
“His business philosophy was simple: that independent retailers should work together and act like a multiple in order to survive. It’s true to this day. Dudley was a true entrepreneur and one of our industry’s truly charismatic personalities.
“I had the privilege of working alongside him for two decades as Nisa grew and grew, opening four large distribution centres and being true ‘guardians of Independence’ alongside the Today’s Group, bringing together the UK’s independent wholesalers, which continues to this day as Unitas.
“There will never be another Dudley. I learned so much from him and owe him so much in my career. I could fill a book, as I’m sure could many others, with stories to look back on with laughter and pride.”
Nisa retailer Kishor Patel said: “He was a legend and a mentor. It would be impossible to replace his vision, drive and character.”
A spokeswoman for Unitas Wholesale said: “Dudley’s contributions to the wholesale and retail sectors cannot be overstated. He built businesses with a deep sense of purpose, always striving to serve the community and uplift those around him. His vision laid the foundation for countless successful enterprises, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
“His impact extends far beyond the businesses he built. His dedication, integrity and visionary leadership transformed the landscape of independent retailing. His sons Nick (Ramsden Group of Companies MD, including Dee Bee Wholesale) and Sean (Ramsden International CEO) carry forward his legacy with the same passion and commitment and our deepest sympathies go to Nick, Sean, Louisa, Chantal and Elliot.
“We know many will want to celebrate the life of such a respected and admired figure and details of the funeral service will be shared in the coming days.”
Steve Parfett, former chairman at Landmark Wholesale and Parfetts, said: ”There are lots of others who new him better but I will remember Dudley as a huge character, a fierce and dedicated competitor, but ultimately a massively influential and visionary figure fighting for independent retailers.”
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