Sir Tom Farmer, the esteemed founder of the Kwik Fit garage chain and a pivotal figure in Scottish football, has passed away at the age of 84. His family announced that he died peacefully at his home in Edinburgh on Friday, May 9, 2025. Farmer's legacy as a businessman and philanthropist is profound, having transformed the automotive industry and significantly impacted his local community.
Born in Leith in 1940, Tom Farmer was the youngest of seven siblings. He began his entrepreneurial journey in 1964 with a tyre retail business, which he sold five years later for £450,000. This initial success set the stage for the founding of Kwik Fit in 1971, a venture that would grow to become the world's largest independent tyre and automotive repair chain, boasting over 2,000 locations across 18 countries. In 1999, Farmer sold Kwik Fit to Ford for more than £1 billion, cementing his status as one of Scotland's most successful entrepreneurs.
However, Farmer's contributions extended far beyond the automotive world. He was also known for his long-standing involvement with Hibernian Football Club (Hibs), which he saved from the brink of extinction in 1990. At that time, Hibs faced a hostile takeover by Hearts, and Farmer stepped in to rescue his local team, investing £3 million of his own money to ensure its survival. His commitment to the club was not just financial; he oversaw the transformation of Easter Road into a modern stadium, enhancing its capacity and facilities.
Despite his substantial influence in football, Farmer famously maintained a disinterest in the sport itself. He was not often seen at matches, preferring to focus on the business side of operations. This approach allowed Hibs to stabilize financially during a turbulent period in Scottish football, as many clubs struggled to survive.
Farmer's philanthropic efforts were equally noteworthy. He was honored with numerous accolades throughout his career, including being knighted in 1997 for his services to the automotive industry. His charitable work earned him the Carnegie Medal and the title of Knight Commander with Star of the Order of St. Gregory the Great, bestowed by Pope John Paul II. In 2006, he became the first Scot to receive the prestigious Andrew Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy.
His family described him as a devoted family man, emphasizing that his Roman Catholic faith was central to his life. Farmer attended mass weekly and cherished his relationships within the Catholic community. He married his beloved wife, Anne, in 1966, and they shared a 57-year marriage until her passing in 2023. His family reflected on his deep commitment to them, stating, "More than anything, Sir Tom was a family man." They noted that he frequently credited Anne for his success, often saying it was because he “married a girl like Anne.”
Farmer's impact on Hibs was profound and lasting. After acquiring a controlling interest in the club, he played a crucial role in its recovery and growth. Under his leadership, Hibs won the Skol Cup in 1991 and another League Cup in 2007. The crowning achievement came in 2016 when the team won the Scottish Cup, ending a 114-year wait for the trophy. This victory was particularly poignant for Farmer, as it echoed a family legacy; his grandfather had taken home the cup in 1902.
In a statement released shortly after his passing, Hibernian FC expressed their sorrow, saying, "Hibernian FC are devastated to hear of the passing of former owner Sir Tom Farmer, aged 84. Thank you for everything, Tom. Rest in peace." First Minister John Swinney also paid tribute, stating, "Very sorry to hear of the death of Sir Tom Farmer, an outstanding entrepreneur and such a generous individual to so many causes in Scotland. My respect and condolences to his family."
Farmer's life was marked by a blend of business acumen, community spirit, and deep familial love. His contributions to both the automotive industry and Scottish football will be remembered for generations. As the tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Sir Tom Farmer leaves behind a remarkable legacy, characterized by his dedication to his work, his faith, and the communities he cherished.
In the wake of his passing, his family has requested privacy, allowing them to mourn the loss of a man who touched many lives through his business ventures and philanthropic efforts. Sir Tom Farmer's story is one of resilience, commitment, and a profound sense of community, making him a cherished figure in Scotland's history.
