Jim Ukrop, Richmond’s grocery titan and civic architect, dies at 89
Jim Ukrop, the former president of Ukrop’s Super Markets and a pivotal figure in Richmond’s civic and economic development, has died at 89. He transformed a single Depression-era store into a regional chain, later selling it to Giant-Carlisle in 2010. Beyond business, he championed downtown revitalization, the Richmond Folk Festival, and local entrepreneurship, leaving a legacy defined by active community involvement and philanthropy.
Key points
- Ukrop died Friday at age 89 after a period of declining health, according to his family.
- He joined the family grocery business in 1960 and became president in 1974, overseeing expansion until 1994.
- Ukrop’s sold its 25 stores to Giant-Carlisle for approximately $140 million in 2010, transitioning to the Martin’s brand.
- He co-founded New Richmond Ventures to invest in local startups and served as chairman of First Market Bank.
- Civic contributions include helping form Richmond Renaissance, the Richmond Folk Festival, and the Performing Arts Alliance.
- He supported the 1993 election of David Hicks and opposed casino proposals in Richmond.
Background
Richmond’s business landscape has seen significant shifts in recent years, including corporate layoffs at CarMax and rising grocery costs due to global supply chain pressures. Ukrop’s legacy stands in contrast to these modern economic challenges, representing an era of local, family-owned business dominance and deep civic integration. His work in the 1980s and 1990s helped shape the city’s cultural and economic infrastructure, including the downtown revitalization efforts that preceded current development trends.
Why it matters
Ukrop’s death marks the end of an era for Richmond’s local business and civic leadership. His model of combining commercial success with active community investment influenced the city’s development for decades. His support for urban entrepreneurs and public education reflects a long-standing commitment to local wealth creation and social mobility, which remains relevant as Richmond navigates modern economic and social challenges.
What to watch
The Ukrop family will continue to operate the remaining food manufacturing and market hall operations. Community members are invited to share memories of Ukrop with The Richmonder for publication. His legacy will likely be remembered through the ongoing impact of the civic institutions and cultural events he helped establish, as well as the local businesses he supported through New Richmond Ventures.
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