Premier Christy Clark issued the following statement when she learned of Alex Campbell's death:

"It is with great sadness that British Columbians mark the passing of Alex Campbell, an entrepreneur, philanthropist and home-grown hero.

"Campbell's story is an inspiration for all of us. He got his start at the age of 15, bagging groceries and stocking shelves. In 1977, he and Ernie Skinner opened the first Thrifty Foods in Victoria's Fairfield neighbourhood.

"While there is no doubt he had a knack for business, it was his philosophy of treating everyone with respect and kindness that made Thrifty Foods such a huge success. The enduring admiration of his many employees is perhaps his greatest legacy.

Campbell was also a devoted philanthropist, raising millions of dollars for cancer research. He was a recipient of the Order of BC and was named Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year in 2010, an award recognizing an inspirational entrepreneur who has had a significant and positive impact on the global community through business leadership.

"On behalf of the Province of British Columbia, I extend my condolences to his wife, Jo, his children and grandchildren."

Contact:

Chris Olsen
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
604 220-1640