The death has been announced of business founder and music industry leader, John Packer. The founder of the instrument retailer that bore his name, passed away on October 10th following a short illness.

Hugely respected, he leaves an extraordinary legacy that transformed a modest local enterprise into an international business, although its success never changed his renowned simple approach to his personal and business life.

Driving force

John Packer founded his company in 1974 in his hometown of Taunton in Somerset.

Over half a century and more he was to be the driving force behind its growth, with his entrepreneurial skills combining with a tireless work ethic and steadfast set of business morals — a personal rule that saw him always treat people exactly the way he expected to be treated himself.

It also brought widespread business acclaim. The company was recognised with both the Queen's Award for Enterprise in 2018 and the King's Award for International Trade in 2025.

Humble

A company spokesperson said: "These were milestones that John was incredibly proud of yet remained deeply humble about.

His legacy will undoubtedly live on for generations to come. The small retail shop in Somerset that he started over five decades ago has grown into an internationally recognised brand of musical instruments sold all over the world.

Today, thousands of musicians perform on a daily basis using instruments proudly bearing John's name."