Wendy Ackerman, South African billionaire and wife of the late Raymond Ackerman, inventor of Pick ‘n Pay, has been selected a 2024 Hall of Femme Inductee by the International Women’s Forum South Africa. Ackerman’s efforts to business and community shaped Pick ‘n Pay into one of South Africa’s largest grocery chains, solidifying her reputation as a trailblazing entrepreneur.
Wendy Ackerman’s award comes just months after the death of her husband, Raymond Ackerman, in September 2023 at the age of 92. They launched Pick ‘n Pay in 1967 with only four stores in Cape Town, motivated by a dedication to customer-centric ideals, low prices, and ethical business methods. Over time, these concepts helped Pick ‘n Pay establish itself as a dominant force in South African retail.
The Hall of Femme Awards Gala, held on October 31, 2024, in Johannesburg, honored powerful women who have empowered others and strengthened women’s leadership. Wendy Ackerman was recognized for her key role in business and consistent contributions to societal development.
Wendy Ackerman’s contribution in founding Pick ‘n Pay, though frequently overlooked, was critical, particularly during the 1960s, when she matched parenting four children with assisting the company’s expansion. In her acceptance speech, she described the obstacles she encountered as a woman in the male-dominated corporate world: “It wasn’t just a glass ceiling; it was a glass cube. And I had to push myself through it.”
Her determination and grit influenced her trajectory and provided a positive example for women in business. Wendy also reflected on the personal sacrifices she made, such as abandoning her children to study marketing in the United States, which helped prepare her for a successful career alongside her husband.
Wendy Ackerman’s commendation by IWFSA reflects her leadership and compassion. She has long been an advocate for employee well-being, education, and community development. Her activities at Pick ‘n Pay, such as creating HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns, offering staff benefits, and assisting with home building in Soweto, have had a long-term influence on thousands of lives.
Pick ‘n Pay remains a cornerstone of South African retail, carrying on the Ackerman tradition. Despite issues such as load shedding, the firm posted a profit of R1.169 billion ($64.1 million) in 2023, while sales increased by 8.9 percent to R106.6 billion ($5.84 billion). The Ackerman family’s considerable ownership position in Pick ‘n Pay, presently run by their son Gareth Ackerman, is 25.53 percent, worth more than $250 million.
Wendy Ackerman’s latest honor, combined with her and Raymond’s lifelong devotion to ethical business practices, exemplifies how one family’s vision not only altered a firm, but also reshaped South Africa’s retail scene. Wendy continues to inspire with her commitment to education, employee well-being, and community development.