Retail industry mourns loss of independent retail champion Maurice John Jones

Tributes are pouring in from across the independent retail sector following the death of Maurice John Jones, aged 83.

Mr. Jones, a prominent figure in British retail and long-standing member of Bira, passed away on 13 April 2025 after a period of illness.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "Mr. Jones was a true champion of independent retail and a valued member of our community for many decades. Maurice was one of the first members I met at a branch meeting in 2018 and I was impressed by his enthusiasm for and knowledge of independent retail. His dedication to excellence in customer service and his commitment to the high street were exemplary.

"Mr. Jones's contributions to Bira and its predecessor organisations have helped shape the landscape for independent retail in the UK. We are profoundly saddened by his loss but immensely grateful for his legacy."

Many will remember Mr. Jones from Bira conferences and study trips, most notably for delivering the retailers' address at the 2008 Bira conference, alongside his wife and long-time business partner, Bunty. He was also a long-standing member and former Chairman of the Bira Three Counties Branch.

Jeff Moody, Commercial Director of Bira, added: "Mr Jones represented the very best of independent electrical retail. His unwavering commitment to quality customer service and his deep understanding of the trade earned him enormous respect among his peers. The modern incarnation of Philip Morris & Son is testament to his vision and leadership. His insights and experience will be sorely missed, but his influence will continue to inspire independent retailers across the country."

John Jones, Managing Partner of Philip Morris & Son and Mr. Jones's son, and current Bira president, said: "His contribution to the industry and the friendships he built over the years meant a great deal to him — and to us."

The modern Philip Morris & Son is a business that thrives by differentiating itself on the basis of quality customer service. Whether serving the 120,000+ people who buy online annually or Herefordshire locals who have been shopping with them for generations, the business continues Mr. Jones's legacy of providing quality goods and service.

Mr. Jones will be remembered not only for his dedication to his trade but for the warmth, wisdom, and good humour he brought to all who knew him. His contributions to the industry and the community will live on through his family and the many lives he touched.

Mr. Jones is survived by his beloved wife Bunty, daughter Marie, sons John and Bruce (who continue his legacy at Philip Morris & Son), and eight grandchildren.

The funeral will take place at St Michael and All Angels Church, Bodenham, Herefordshire, at 2.30pm on Thursday, 1st May. Part of the retiring collection will be donated to The Rainy Day Trust.