Well-known businessman and the face of Pick n Pay Ipic Vredenburg, Kevin Wilson has retired after 27 years.
Wilson bid farewell to PnP Vredenburg on Friday 30 June. As many may know, Wilson initially worked alongside his uncle and mentor, Alliston Wilson at the old Spar in Saldanha from September 1985 until May 1995. Together they opened PnP Ipic Vredenburg in 1996, until he bought his uncle’s shares in 2001 and ventured on his own. In 2016 his business partner Jacques Lombard joined him. Customers will be happy to know that Lombard is now the sole owner of PnP Vredenburg and intends to serve the community for many years to come.
Wilson shared with Weslander that he will miss the team he worked with. “My partner was a friend and the team were not just staff, they were family. And we as a family owe them so much for their dedication, hard work, effort and loyalty. I am also going to miss the excitement of trade, because that is what I was, a trader.”
Wilson said he was very blessed through all the ups and downs and enjoyed what he did dearly. He appreciates the community and the customers for their loyal support and friendliness. “Without them we as PnP Vredenburg would never have been able to put bread on our tables.”
Residents and colleagues of Wilson shared heartfelt messages on social media and expressed their appreciation towards him throughout the years. Many said that he will be dearly missed. They also wished him well on his retirement.
Staying in Saldanha and remaining a true Weskusser, Wilson said his plan for his retirement is to spend time with his wife Elene, his children and grandchildren, who had to sacrifice their time together.
“But with sacrifice there are fruits and thankfully I am still healthy enough to have these special times.
“I am thankful that hopefully after 35 years we can be seen as Weskussers. What we have and are, is only grace and blessings. We are only instruments in His hand here on earth to make a difference in each other’s lives. May we all go and live our lives to the fullest and make that difference, even if you think it is small or nothing. Thank you for loyal support and friendliness for 35 years,” Wilson added.
