Tributes paid to founder of Nisa

The founder of Nisa Retail, Dudley Ramsden has passed away at the age of 81.

Described as a wholesale and convenience pioneer, he founded wholesaler DB Ramsden & Co in Grimsby over 60 years ago.

In 1977 he was the founder of the Nisa buying consortium with Peter Garvin, a collaboration which allowed independent retailers to leverage collective purchasing power.

Ten years later he created the wholesale buying group, Today’s which later evolved to become Nisa-Today’s. Today’s later split to become a separate company in 2012 and merged with Landmark Wholesale to form Unitas Wholesale.

In 2006, he retired as executive chairman from Nisa-Today’s, before retiring from the board of Today’s Group in 2014.

In a tribute to their founder on its website, Nisa said it was “deeply saddened” by news of Dudley Ramsden’s passing.

“Dudley was a true pioneer whose vision, passion and dedication transformed the independent retail sector,” they said.

“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 time.”

Former Nisa CEO Neil Turton described Dudley as a “true entrepreneur and visionary”.

“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,” he said.

“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.”