Industry legend will be sorely missed

John with friends and colleagues Gillian Edgar and Kathryn Neil.

IT is with great regret that we must report that John Drummond has passed away.

John was a true legend of Scottish retailing but, far more importantly, he was a man of outstanding character who was fair and kind to those fortunate enough to work with him.

During his decade of service as chief executive of the Scottish Grocers Federation, John was unwavering in his support of the industry.

John was also instrumental in the creation of the Healthy Living Programme, where his leadership was invaluable in educating a generation of Scottish youth on the benefits of making healthy choices.

Earlier this year, John stepped down from his role at the Healthy Living Programme and was succeeded by his colleague and friend Kathryn Neil.

Kathryn commented: “Myself and the SGF Healthy Living team were deeply saddened with the news of John Drummond’s passing. John worked with the programme for the past four years and was an inspirational driver of the Healthcare Retail Standards work carried out in all NHS hospitals in Scotland.

“John was a true gentleman and was highly thought of by everyone who met and worked with him, it was an honour to have worked so closely with him over the last few years. John will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts go out to his daughter and the rest of his family at such a sad time.”

Everyone at Scottish Grocer wishes Kathryn, the team at the Healthy Living Programme and John’s friends and family condolences at this difficult time.