Scottish businessman Sir Tom Farmer, best known as the founder of the Kwik Fit garage chain, passed away at the age of 84 on May 9, 2025, at his home in Edinburgh. Farmer's impact on both the automotive industry and the Scottish community was profound, as he not only built a successful business but also engaged deeply in philanthropy and local sports.
Born in Leith, Edinburgh, in 1940, Farmer was the youngest of seven children. He often reflected on the love and support he received from his family, which he credited for shaping his character and work ethic. His entrepreneurial journey began early, as he launched his first business, Tyres and Accessory Supplies, in 1964. By the age of 27, he had already made his first million.
In 1971, Farmer founded Kwik Fit, which quickly became a household name in the UK. His innovative marketing strategies, including the memorable catchphrase "You can’t get quicker than a Kwik-Fit fitter," helped to establish the brand as a leader in the automotive aftermarket sector. In 1999, he sold Kwik Fit to Ford for over £1 billion, netting him a personal fortune estimated at £126 million.
Farmer's business acumen extended beyond Kwik Fit; he also served as a director for MyTravel Group and Scottish Power. His involvement in the community was equally notable. He owned a majority stake in Hibernian Football Club for 28 years, rescuing the club from financial difficulties in the early 1990s. Despite his lack of deep interest in football, he recognized the importance of the club to the local community and invested nearly £3 million to save it from receivership.
His philanthropic efforts were extensive. Farmer was the first Scot to receive the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Philanthropy and was recognized with numerous accolades for his charitable work, including being knighted in 1997 for his contributions to the automotive industry. He was also made a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order in 2009 and received the Knight Commander with Star of the Order of St Gregory the Great from the Catholic Church, highlighting his commitment to both business and faith.
Farmer's family released a statement expressing their deep sadness at his passing. They noted, "Sir Tom's life and career touched many aspects of Scottish and UK life, and his philanthropy will be remembered. More than anything, Sir Tom was a family man." The family emphasized his deep commitment to his loved ones, including his late wife Anne, whom he married in 1966. They were together for 57 years until her death in 2023, and Farmer often credited her as a key factor in his success.
In a heartfelt tribute, Scottish First Minister John Swinney recognized Farmer as a "generous individual to so many causes in Scotland," acknowledging the significant impact he made on the community and the wider world. Scottish Secretary Ian Murray also paid tribute, calling him a "proud Scot" and a "huge contributor" to community football.
Hibernian Football Club expressed their sorrow through a social media post, stating, "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." This sentiment was echoed across various platforms as many in the community mourned the loss of a beloved figure.
Farmer's life was marked by a strong sense of faith and community. He was a devout Roman Catholic, attending mass weekly and actively engaging with the Catholic community in Scotland. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions both personally and professionally.
In addition to his business and philanthropic endeavors, Farmer was known for his down-to-earth nature and approachable demeanor. He often shared stories about his childhood in Leith, where he grew up in a crowded tenement. Despite his immense success, he remained humble, often stating, "I sometimes wonder if this life is a dream, and I might wake up one morning as a 23-year-old van driver in Leith." This humility resonated with many who admired him.
As the news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the business and sports communities. Many recognized Farmer not just for his business achievements but for his unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the institutions he supported.
In the wake of his death, the family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss. Sir Tom Farmer's contributions to Scotland and the UK will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come, as he leaves behind a legacy of entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and community engagement.
