Robert Wegman, a pioneer of one-stop shopping who transformed his family's business into one of the nation's largest private companies, died Thursday. He was 87.
Wegman, chairman of Wegmans Food Markets, died at Strong Memorial Hospital, where he was admitted after his health deteriorated in recent days, a company statement said. The cause of death was not disclosed.
"Until recently, Mr. Wegman kept a full schedule working in the office and enjoying his favorite pastime of visiting Wegmans stores," the statement said.
Wegman took over as president of the 90-year-old business begun by his father and uncle in 1950 and over decades introduced private-label products and laser scanning at the checkout.
He was behind the "Shoppers Club" electronic discount program and Wegmans' "Strive for 5" program offering recipes with nutritional analyses that emphasized fresh vegetables and fruits.
He is credited with pioneering one-stop shopping, placing bakeries, imported foods and cafes into huge stores, along with photo labs, video departments and child play centers.
The 70 Wegmans emporiums in five states employ more than 35,000 people and posted sales of $3.8 billion in 2005.
The company's employee scholarships, high-end wages and health insurance program have landed Wegmans on Fortune magazine's list of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" for nine straight years.
In 2005, Wegmans was ranked No. 1 on the list, leading the chairman to say, "This is the culmination of my life's work."
Wegman chaired the company since 1969. His son, Danny Wegman, is chief executive officer. Colleen Wegman, Danny Wegman's daughter, became president in 2005.
Wegman was a passionate golfer and self-taught harmonica player. He has received a host of awards for community service and philanthropy.
On the Net:
Wegmans:
http://www.wegmans.comHe was a great man and will be missed by many.
R.I.P.
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