It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of an industry stalwart, a long-time contributing writer and friend to Retail Media, David Burton, on 29 September 2021.
David’s association with Retail Media began in 1991, before the amalgamation of Sterling Media and Retail Media which became Retail Media Pty Ltd.
He was a consultant for Retail Media and acted as research editor for Retail World Annual Report and Convenience World Annual Report, compiling the industry market share reports from 2000. He also acted as a consulting journalist for both Retail World and Convenience World.
With a background of more than 30 years in FMCG, David developed and maintained a high profile within the industry. He led a grocery discussion group, Food Industry Discussion Organisation (FIDO), for 10 years as honorary chairman, and recently through his business, DB Management Services, he managed FIDO as executive director.
David launched the Universal Buying Form trade presentation software owned by his DB Media business. He also established Australian Brokers and Manufacturers Lobby (ABML) and was a member of industry work groups on product recall and e-commerce.
Through ABML/DB Media, David also provided outsourced data and catalogue management for the GS1 Australia National Product Catalogue for FMCG clients ranging from mid-size companies to multinational market leaders. The ABML business was sold to Si Management Consulting Pty Ltd on 1 September 2020.
Managing Editor Lorna Gloria and Features Editor Hailey Settineri of Retail World and Convenience World worked alongside David for more than 10 years. He also worked in collaboration with other Retail Media staff for 15 and 20-plus years and formed many friendships in and out of the office.
Outside of the magazine deadlines, we shared plenty of talks and cheer over chocolate, cake and lunch. David had a passion for football, especially Manchester United, and would often be found at the office providing highlights of recent matches. He enjoyed writing the regular columns that reflected his vigour for the industry, analysing the retail market and providing news coverage, also representing Retail Media at various events.
David was a true gentleman, a dear mentor and a good friend.
Our thoughts and love go out to David’s family.
He will be greatly missed.
