Businessman set up housebuilder in 1972
Persimmon has announced that its founder Duncan Davidson has died. He was 84.
Davidson set up Persimmon, which was named after the Prince of Wales’s horse that won the 1896 Derby and St Leger. in 1972 and floated it on the on the stock market in 1985. He became life president of the business in April 2006 when he stepped down as chairman.
He joined George Wimpey as a trainee in 1963 and set up Ryedale Homes two years later before selling it in 1972 and using the proceeds to set up Persimmon.
The firm bought Ideal Homes in 1996 and Beazer Homes five years later. It bought Westbury in late 2005 to become the then largest housebuilder in the UK by volume, entering the FTSE 100 the following year.
In a statement, Persimmon said: “Duncan established Persimmon in 1972 with a clear vision – to build quality homes and thriving communities across the UK. Through his determination, integrity and pioneering spirit, he grew Persimmon from a small regional builder into one of the nation’s leading housebuilding companies.
“Beyond his achievements in business, Duncan will be remembered for his warmth, humility and his belief in doing things the right way. His values continue to shape who we are today.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Duncan’s wife Sarah and their four daughters at this very difficult time.”
No comments yet