Retail pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

The announcement was met with tributes from across the globe and retailers have been among those paying their respects to Her Majesty.

The Co-op chief executive Shirine Khoury-Haq said: “On behalf of Co-op UK, I would like to offer our deepest condolences to the Royal Family, following the news about the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.

“Our thoughts are with the Royal Family and we join all others who will be reflecting on her historic reign.”

Theo Paphitis said: “Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of the Queen, one of the few constants in most of our lives, and an unparalleled dedication to duty. An inspiration to us all. May she rest in peace.”

Paphitis later tweeted an image of the Queen and added: “Your picture has shone brightly in my private office for many years and will continue to do so.”

Britain’s biggest retailer Tesco tweeted: “We are deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty The Queen. Our thoughts and condolences are with the Royal Family, as we mourn the loss of our longest-serving British monarch. We are indebted to her dedicated service to this country.”

Sainsbury’s tweeted: “We are very sorry to learn of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. 

“She was a truly remarkable woman and an inspiration to so many people.

“We thank her for her decades of service to our country. Our thoughts and condolences are with Her Majesty’s family at this difficult time.”

Marks & Spencer tweeted: “We’re deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. She’s led for over 70 years with quiet determination and selfless devotion.

“We join the Royal Family and the nation in their grief and offer the Royal Family our heartfelt condolences.”

M&S chief executive Stuart Machin described the Queen as “our nation’s strength and stay. Our rock.”

John Lewis and Waitrose both tweeted: “We are deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty The Queen. She faithfully served the nation as our sovereign during her long, happy and glorious reign. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the Royal Family.”

Aldi UK said: “We are heartbroken to hear the news that Her Majesty The Queen has passed away. As our longest-reigning monarch, she led with grace and selfless devotion. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Royal Family at this difficult time.”

Currys chief executive Alex Baldock said: “Nobody working in our business has known any other UK and Commonwealth head of state than Queen Elizabeth II. Nor can many of us have known a leader of any kind, anywhere, with her extraordinary dedication and duration of service. In mourning her death today, I’m not only mourning the person, but also reflecting on a model of selfless leadership and service from which many of us can learn. We’ll be fortunate to see its like again.

“We join the nation and millions around the world in the mourning of Her Majesty.”