Sat, 10 May 2025

Sat, 10 May 2025 Kwik Fit founder Sir Tom Farmer dies aged 84

The Edinburgh-born businessman built the firm into a £1bn business and also owned Hibernian FC.
Sir Tom Farmer, founder of Kwik Fit garage chain, has passed away at the age of 84. Born in Edinburgh in 1940, he built a successful business career, founding Kwik Fit in 1971 and growing it into a global brand with over 2,000 locations in 18 countries. He was knighted for his services to the automotive industry in 1997 and made a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in 2009 for his charitable work. Farmer also owned a majority stake in Hibernian FC for 28 years, selling his interest in 2019. Farmer's philanthropic efforts earned him the Carnegie Medal, and he became a Knight Commander with Star of the Order of St. Gregory the Great in 1997. His commitment to his family, work, and faith was evident throughout his life. He married Anne in 1966, and they were together for 57 years until her death in 2023. Farmer's legacy extends beyond business; he brought innovative customer service and staff training to Kwik Fit, emphasizing the importance of every individual in delivering exceptional experiences. His humility and recognition that every person mattered set a high standard for his company and industry.
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