Ann Summers founder Jacqueline Gold dies aged 62

Ann Summers founder Jacqueline Gold has died at the age of 62, her family said.

The businesswoman died on Thursday evening after seven years of treatment for breast cancer.

In a statement the family said: “It is with unspeakable sadness that Ann Summers confirm our amazing executive chair Jacqueline Gold CBE passed away yesterday evening with her husband Dan, daughter Scarlett, sister Vanessa and brother-in-law Nick by her side.

“Jacqueline is best known for founding Ann Summers and leading a business run by women, for women. She was also an activist for women in business and championed female entrepreneurs with the ambition to better the working environment for women.

“From an internship to chief executive officer in less than 10 years, her determination and commitment to creating a unique retail offering led to the creation of a multichannel retail chain, consisting of retail stores, direct sales ambassadors and a fast-growing online and third-party business. It is her vision and creativity that saw Ann Summers grow from an unknown brand to a British household name and stable of the British high street.

“In recognition of Jacqueline’s significant achievements during her 40-year career, she was awarded a CBE in the 2016 New Year honours for services to entrepreneurship, women in business and social enterprise.”

The family statement continued: “Jacqueline’s death comes just two months after the passing of her father, David Gold, the joint chairman of West Ham United FC. The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at Ann Summers are with Jacqueline’s husband Dan, daughter Scarlett and sister Vanessa at this extremely sad time.”

More details soon …