Peter Dennis Cooper, a respected figure in the London wholesale fruit trade and Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers, has passed away at the age of 78.
Cooper, whose life was deeply intertwined with the fruit industry, leaves behind a legacy of dedication, business acumen, and a rich network of friendships.
Born in Maidenhead in 1945, Cooper grew up in post-war London, the son of a senior fruit inspector. His family's ties to the Covent Garden Market ran deep, with his father and grandfather both involved in the fruit trade. Despite the opportunity to pursue other family businesses, including sawdust contracting and the fairground community, Cooper followed in his father’s footsteps, entering the fruit industry in 1960.
At just 15, Cooper began his career as a shop boy with British & Brazilian (B&B) at Covent Garden. His quick progression in the business saw him working with major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose. By the age of 23, he had become the manager of Simons & Co Ltd, a leader in apple and pear imports.
His career took him from Brentford to Spitalfields Market and even to France, where he honed his expertise in international trade. Cooper’s fluency in French and knowledge of the fresh produce supply chain allowed him to build lasting relationships with suppliers and buyers alike.
In 1978, he established his own business, Peter Cooper (Fruit) Ltd, at Western International Market. Known for his knack of finding buyers for unsellable or ‘unloved’ fruit, Cooper became legendary in the trade. His clear business principles — “In the Lord we trust, all others pay cash” — ensured his success for nearly three decades. He retired in 2007 after selling his business, having built a reputation for both his sharp trading skills and his integrity.
Beyond his business, Cooper’s love for London and its history was profound. As a London Guide and an active member of the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers, he contributed extensively to the Livery Company, serving as Master in 2014 and as its Archivist from 2010 onwards. His fellow Fruiterers remember him fondly, not just for his professional achievements, but for his generosity and knowledge.
Cooper was also a well-known figure in the London restaurant scene, dining regularly at some of the city’s finest establishments. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life, paired with his warmth and humour, made him a cherished companion to many.
Though he never married, Cooper lived a life full of friendships and experiences. He is survived by his sister, Jackie, who will announce the details of his funeral in due course.
Peter Dennis Cooper will be remembered as a man who brought passion, wit, and a unique touch to everything he did — a true luminary in the world of fruit, and a beloved figure in London’s social and business circles.
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