Loblaw Companies offers condolences on the passing of Dave Nichol

BRAMPTON, ON, Sept. 26, 2013 /CNW/ - Loblaw Companies Limited today offer their sympathies on the passing of one of its most memorable colleagues, Dave Nichol. The Loblaw Companies family, past and present, extends its heartfelt condolences to his family.

"We are deeply saddened and our thoughts and prayers go out to Dave's family," said Galen G. Weston, executive chairman, Loblaw Companies Limited. "Dave's passion for food and his vision helped to transform the way Canadians eat, and he has left a tremendous legacy that endures in the company today.  He will be missed by all who had the opportunity to work with him and benefit from his guidance and friendship."

Dave joined Loblaw in 1972 and held various roles with the Company, including president of Loblaw Supermarkets and head of the product development team. He made significant contributions to Loblaw, most notably as the force behind establishing the iconic President's Choice® and no name® brands.  President's Choice® has become the number one consumer brand in Canada and many of the products he introduced are still on the market today, including the President's Choice® The Decadent® Chocolate Chip Cookie, which celebrated its 25th anniversary this year.

Dave was also a masterful marketer and was recognized both inside and outside Loblaw for his creativity and skill. He launched the first Insider's Report® in November 1983, and it reflected his belief that success required not just great products, but great stories as well. He always listened to the customer and kept their needs front-and-centre - something that Loblaw continues to aspire to today.

Today, Dave's passion and vision live on in Loblaw through the number one and two consumer brands in Canada, President's Choice® and no name®, and the Company's commitment to innovation and bringing unique and compelling products to Canadians.

About Loblaw Companies LimitedTSX:L
Loblaw Companies Limited, a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, is Canada's largest food retailer and a leading provider of drugstore, general merchandise and financial products and services. Loblaw is one of the largest private sector employers in Canada. With more than 1,000 corporate and franchised stores from coast to coast, Loblaw and its franchisees employ more than 134,000 full-time and part-time employees. Through its portfolio of store formats, Loblaw is committed to providing Canadians with a wide, growing and successful range of products and services to meet the everyday household demands of Canadian consumers. Loblaw is known for the quality, innovation and value of its food offering. It offers Canada's strongest control (private) label program, including the unique President's Choice®, no name® and Joe Fresh® brands. In addition, the Company makes available to consumers President's Choice Financial^® services and offers the PC^® points and PC Plus™ loyalty program.

SOURCE: Loblaw Companies Limited

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