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Article : Tributes Paid to Pradip Dave, 16th August 1950 to 31st August 2023

Date: Friday 1st September, 2023

Pradip Kumar Dave

August 1950 – 31st August 2023

Mica is sad to announce the death of longstanding Mica member & director Pradip Dave, of Finchley in North London, at the age of 73.
Pradip (often known as ‘Dave’ to friendly reps and customers) ran Daves Trade Centre Mica Hardware for well over 40 years with his brother Naren, and only recently stepped back from the shop floor.

The business is a stalwart on the Finchley main street, selling paint & DIY products, and over the last 20 years becoming a specialist in power tools.

Daves joined Mica around the turn of the millennium, and by 2005 Pradip had taken up a position representing London members on the Mica board. He offered his guidance to three heads of Mica in that time, which saw the business through the financial crisis and rebuild following an unsuccessful attempt at wholesale for its members. Steve Ball, who ran Mica as MD then CEO from 2009 until 2017, and worked with him previously as FD, had this to say about Pradip:

‘He was a lovely person, quietly spoken yet commanding great respect in our London region. He was supportive of Mica and me personally, whilst being driven for his family and independent Mica business. Val & my thoughts are with his family.

Fellow London member Mr. Mahesh Govindia, Director of Ace Mica Hardware, Tooting paid this tribute:

’Deepest sympathies and condolences from all at Ace Mica Hardware Ltd in Tooting, may his soul rest in peace.’

Former Purchasing Director Neil Hoy, who worked with Pradip in the 2000s, offered these kind words:

’Pradip was always a good, knowledgeable friend with a sense of fun. I will remember him fondly for his sage advice, presented in a positive way. I always looked forward to our conversations, he will be missed by so many people.’

Current Business Unit Director Michael Ball, who also worked with Pradip on the Mica board prior to his retirement after 15 years in 2019 added:

‘This has come as very unexpected news, and we can only offer our support to Naren and the rest of his family in their time of grief as part of the wider Mica Co-operative family. Pradip will leave behind a legacy both in his own business and in Mica that will be cherished because of his kindness and passion for retail.’

Funeral arrangements have not yet been confirmed, but will be advised locally. Daves Trade Centre Mica continues to operate as normal, although hours may vary during this time of grief.

All of Mica’s thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time.

Rest in peace.

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Images
  • Pradip with brother Naren outside their store in 2018
  • Pradip (front right) with a group of Mica board & staff members at the 2013 Christmas lunch

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