Celebrating a Remarkable Milestone: Fred Harrison’s 50 Years at Ritchies

Today, we proudly celebrate an extraordinary achievement—our CEO, Director, and shareholder, Fred Harrison, marks 50 years with Ritchies! 

From humble beginnings selling fresh produce from his family garden to starting as a trolley boy in the early 1970s, Fred’s journey through every level of the business has played a vital role in shaping Ritchies into what it is today. His passion for retail, dedication to community, and visionary leadership have driven Ritchies’ growth from a local store to a network of over 80 supermarkets and liquor stores, employing 6,500+ staff, and generating $1.4 billion in revenue.

But Fred’s impact extends far beyond business success. Under his leadership, Ritchies has proudly donated over $54 million to local clubs, schools, and charities—reinforcing our commitment to community, loyalty, and continuous improvement.

Recognizing Fred’s Impact

Mal Cameron, Director at Ritchies, reflected on Fred’s contributions:

“Fred’s 50-year journey epitomizes Ritchies’ core values of community, loyalty, and continuous improvement. His passion and commitment have shaped both our company’s success and its role in supporting local initiatives. We couldn’t be prouder to celebrate this milestone with him.”

Wayne Harrison, Victorian State Manager, Director, and Fred’s son, shared:

“Dad has been at Ritchies my whole life, and the majority of his. His passion for independent retail is unwavering, and his vision has been pivotal in ensuring Australian customers always have a strong alternative to the chains.”

Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Fred shared:

“I’ve always felt at home at Ritchies. My greatest pride is seeing how we’ve grown while keeping that strong community focus that sets us apart.”

A Legacy of Leadership and Community

Fred’s 50 years at Ritchies is a testament to hard work, vision, and an unwavering commitment to both customers and the communities we serve. His leadership continues to inspire the next generation, ensuring that Ritchies remains a trusted name in Australian retail.

Congratulations, Fred, on five decades of dedication, leadership, and impact! 🎉👏

#Ritchies #Leadership #Community #Retail #CelebratingSuccess

 

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