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It’s only accurate to call Dave Nichol a food retailing genius. Nichol created the private-line concept in Canada and was responsible for household terms ranging from President’s Choice to The Insider’s Report to the entire “Memories of…” line of products. He was a dynamo who expected high performance from staff and ultimately fell out with his employer, Loblaw, over money. Nichols died Sunday at the age of 73. No cause of death was given. The Chatham, Ont., native appeared in television ads for Loblaws in the 80s and 90s, pitching products and promotions of all types. Nichol joined Loblaws in 1972 and held various roles with the company, including president of Loblaw Supermarkets and head of the product development team. Many of the products Nichol is responsible for remain popular, including the Decadent Chocolate Chip Cookie A statement from Loblaw Companies Limited praised Nichol as an innovative marketer who left a lasting mark on the company. “We are deeply saddened and our thoughts and prayers go out to Dave’s family,” said chairman Galen G. Weston. “Dave’s passion for food and his vision helped to transform the way Canadians eat, and he has left a tremendous legacy that endures in the company today. He will be missed by all who had the opportunity to work with him and benefit from his guidance and friendship.”
