This generous contribution will enable the creation of the state-of-the-art Albert Gubay Business School, housed in the soon-to-be converted site of the former Friars Junior School. The new development will link directly to the existing campus, comprising the Reichel Building and the wider University Ffriddoedd Site. The acquisition, refurbishment, and development of this historic building and site will offer a really exciting opportunity to create a sector-leading business school whilst conserving and renewing a significant, historic building in Bangor.
The Albert Gubay Business School will stand as a beacon of innovation, providing students with modern facilities in a prime location that will inspire and equip the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders.
Born and brought up in Rhyl, Albert Gubay was an exceptional man and a visionary entrepreneur who made a lasting impact on both the business and charitable sectors. After being demobbed in 1948, Gubay left with a suit and £80, and, along with a loan of £100 secured against his mother’s jewellery, started selling “non-sugar sweets” (while sugar was still rationed) and later Blackpool rock and other confectionery, from the back of a van and on market stalls in North Wales. A retail pioneer, he started the Value Foods chain in Rhyl in 1959. He went on to establish Kwik Save, for which he is most famous, the first store opening in Prestatyn in 1965.
Today, the Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation manages a substantial property portfolio through its subsidiary, Derwent Estates. Income from these properties supports the Foundation’s grant-making initiatives. Since 2016, the Foundation has awarded over 700 grants, funding a range of projects that benefit communities and educational endeavours across Wales and beyond.
This donation will allow the University’s Business School to move into a dynamic, modern facility. The new Albert Gubay Business School will foster innovative programs that will prepare students to thrive in the rapidly evolving global economy. It will feature cutting-edge learning spaces and collaborative hubs designed to encourage creativity, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship.
Bangor University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Edmund Burke, expressed his gratitude for the generous gift, saying: “This extraordinary act of generosity reflects Albert Gubay’s lifelong commitment to empowering future entrepreneurs. It is only fitting that the new school will bear his name, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations of students.”
Professor Burke continued: “This donation will not only elevate Bangor University’s reputation as a centre of academic excellence but also open up further opportunities for students to make a significant impact in the business world.”
He added “Although the financial landscape for universities is currently challenging, strategic investments in key areas like this are instrumental in ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of our institution.”
Speaking on behalf of The Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation, Mrs C Gubay shared: “Our Foundation is proud to support this visionary project. The Albert Gubay Business School will be a place where students can grow, innovate, and become the entrepreneurs of tomorrow. We believe it will help shape the future of business education, both in North Wales and beyond. Integral to this decision to support Bangor University, was its commitment to attracting Welsh students to stay and study in their home country.”
Following the successful relocation of Coleg Menai from the Friars and Ffriddoedd site to the new campus in Parc Menai, the acquisition of this historic Friars building means that education remains a core function.
Grwp Llandrillo Menai CEO commented: “We are pleased to be able to sell the Friars building to Bangor University, a strategic partner of Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, to ensure that such a historic landmark in upper Bangor remains in educational use. We welcome the news that the building will be renovated to create a state of the art business school.”
Construction of the new Albert Gubay Business School is set to begin in 2026and is expected to be completed by 2027. Once finished, the University will hold an opening ceremony to celebrate this momentous occasion, inviting the student community and local stakeholders to come together and mark the launch of this significant collaboration in Bangor University’s history.
