Raymond Ackerman, the South African retail magnate who founded Pick n Pay supermarket chain, died on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at the age of 92.

Ackerman was born in Cape Town in 1931. He studied business at the University of Cape Town and worked for a number of companies before buying the Pick n Pay supermarket chain in 1967. Under his leadership, Pick n Pay grew to become one of the largest supermarket chains in South Africa.

Ackerman was a pioneer in the South African retail industry. He was one of the first retailers to challenge the apartheid state's monopoly on basic goods, and he was also a strong advocate for consumer rights. He was awarded the Order of the Baobab in 2005 for his contributions to business and society.

In addition to his business achievements, Ackerman was also a philanthropist. He founded the Ackerman Family Foundation, which supports a variety of educational, environmental, and social causes.

Ackerman is survived by his wife Wendy, four children, and several grandchildren. He will be remembered as a visionary businessman, a tireless philanthropist, and a true South African patriot.

A memorial service will be held at the Pick n Pay head office in Cape Town on Saturday, September 10, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Ackerman Family Foundation.