Early Life
John Gandel was born in Australia in 1935 to Polish-immigrant parents, Sam and Fay Gandel. His parents operated a corsetry store in Melbourne, providing him with early exposure to the retail industry. He was educated at Melbourne High School.
Rise to Success
In the 1950s, Gandel took control of his parents' women's clothing business, Sussan, and, with his brother-in-law Marc Besen, expanded it into a chain of over 200 stores. He sold Sussan in 1985 to focus on real estate ventures. One of Gandel's most significant achievements was the purchase of the Chadstone Shopping Centre in 1983. Under his leadership, Chadstone was transformed into Australia's largest shopping mall.
Key Business Strategies
Gandel's key business strategy involved identifying and capitalizing on opportunities in the retail and real estate sectors. His focus on shopping centers, particularly Chadstone, proved to be highly successful. He also invested in other property companies and listed property trusts. He is known for adapting to changing market conditions and has demonstrated a long-term vision for the industry.
Philanthropy
John Gandel, along with his wife Pauline, is deeply involved in philanthropy through Gandel Philanthropy, one of Australia's largest family philanthropic funds, established in 1978. The foundation provides grants to charitable community organizations for Jewish and Australian causes, focusing on Judaism, education, medical causes, and the arts.
