Early Life
Jeremy Maurice Jacobs Sr. was born on January 21, 1940, in Buffalo, New York. His father, Louis Jacobs, co-founded Delaware North in 1915 with his brothers. The company started as a concessions business in theaters and expanded to major league ballparks. Jeremy took over the family business at age 28 when his father died in 1968.
Rise to Success
Under Jeremy Jacobs' leadership, Delaware North grew into a global powerhouse in hospitality and food service. The company operates in lodging, sporting, airport, gaming, and entertainment industries. He acquired the Boston Bruins in 1975. In 2011, the Bruins won the Stanley Cup under his ownership. Jacobs served as Chairman of the NHL Board of Governors starting in 2007.
Key Business Strategies
Jacobs transformed Delaware North into a major player in food and hospitality by expanding its operations globally. Key strategies involved securing contracts in major airports, stadiums, and parks, as well as diversifying into gaming and real estate. He was also involved in NHL labor negotiations. Delaware North has over 55,000 employees worldwide and annual revenues of about $3.2 billion.
Philanthropy
Jacobs and his family have made substantial philanthropic contributions, particularly in healthcare and education. They donated $30 million to the University at Buffalo's medical school, which was renamed the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. He has also contributed to the Boston Bruins Foundation. The Jacobs family has also funded scholarships and supported academic chairs.
