Billionaire Profile
Brandt Louie
Global Rank
#2436

Image: Simon Fraser University Public Affairs and Media Relations | CC BY 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Brandt Louie

CEO, Drugstores
CANADA
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.697B
Estimated based on Drugstores stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
82
Source
Drugstores
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
CANADA

Biography

Brandt Louie, a prominent Canadian businessman and philanthropist, is the Chairman of London Drugs and the President of H.Y. Louie Co. Limited, a major distributor to IGA stores in British Columbia. Born in Vancouver in 1943, Louie's career began with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of British Columbia, followed by experience as a chartered accountant. He joined the family business in 1972 and became CEO of London Drugs in 1998. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $1.7 billion, primarily stemming from his involvement with drugstores and the food and beverage industry. He is celebrated for his leadership, his commitment to community service, and has contributed greatly to education and healthcare initiatives. He was named to The Order of Canada in 2024.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Brandt Channing Louie was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, on July 5, 1943. He is the grandson of Hok Yat Louie, who founded a general store in Vancouver's Chinatown in 1903. Louie earned a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of British Columbia (UBC) in 1966. Following his education, he became a chartered accountant, a path that provided a strong foundation for his future business ventures.

Rise to Success

Louie joined his family business, H.Y. Louie Co. Limited, in 1972. He became Chairman and CEO of London Drugs in 1998. Under his leadership, London Drugs has grown significantly, becoming one of the largest drugstore chains in Canada. He also served as the Chairman of Grosvenor Americas board of directors.

Key Business Strategies

Brandt Louie has focused on innovation, customer service, and community involvement to drive the success of London Drugs. He has expanded the business, venturing into new areas such as a charter airline business and the development of Fresh St. Market. His grandfather's principles, emphasizing fairness, hard work, and charitable giving, have greatly influenced his management style.

Philanthropy

Louie oversees the Tong and Geraldine Louie Family Foundation and the London Drugs Foundation. These foundations support various charities, including those focused on education, healthcare, and the arts. For instance, the foundations donated $6.5 million to St. Paul's Foundation to support cardiac care.

Career Milestones

1966

Graduated from UBC

Earned a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of British Columbia.

1972

Joined H.Y. Louie Co. Limited

Began working in the family business after practicing as a chartered accountant.

1987

President of London Drugs

Became the president of London Drugs.

1998

Chairman and CEO of London Drugs

Took on the role of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of London Drugs.

2005

Chancellor of Simon Fraser University

Appointed as Chancellor of Simon Fraser University.

2009

Member of the Order of British Columbia

Made a Member of the Order of British Columbia.

2012

Canadian Business Hall of Fame

Inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame.

2016

Honorary Degree from UBC

Received an honorary degree from the University of British Columbia.

2024

Order of Canada

Appointed to the Order of Canada.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare

St. Paul's Foundation

$6.5M

Donated $6.5 million to the St. Paul's Foundation to support the provincial Heart Centre at the new St. Paul's Hospital.

Various

Tong and Geraldine Louie Family Foundation

Millions of dollars annually

Supports education, healthcare, and arts initiatives.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""Young people should always be earnest in your work. Treat your customers with trust and loyalty.… When pursuing prosperity you must follow the laws of heaven. Don't be afraid to be kind and charitable. Ill deeds should be avoided.""

Leadership Principles

Authentic Leadership

Practices authentic leadership in his business and community involvement.

Diverse Thinking

Emphasizes the importance of diverse thinking in business strategies.

Willingness to Take Risks

Encourages taking calculated risks and speaking up.

Community Service

Promotes the importance of giving back to the community.