Together with his brother Yakub, Mr Patel established the Cohens Chemist group in 1979, opening branches throughout the UK. Today, there are more than 215 Cohens pharmacies.  

Zoe Serrant, Cohens' head of operations and superintendent pharmacist, said: “Everyone within the Cohens Group is deeply saddened by the news of Anwer’s passing.

“Anwer, along with his brother Yakub, dedicated much of his life to building Cohens Chemist from their first branch in 1979 to the successful pharmacy group that it is today.

“His passion for Cohens and his employees was evident in all that he did. He had an incredible presence, which made anyone that he spoke to feel important. He was a warm, kind and compassionate man who was always willing to help others, especially those who were less fortunate than him.

“Anwer has left a massive legacy behind and his absence will be felt acutely, not only within Cohens, but also in the community that he served. He has been a true inspiration to us all and he will be sorely missed.”

“Pioneer of growth and innovation”

Mr Patel was also a member of the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies (AIMp) and a big advocate for it, according to CEO Dr Leyla Hannbeck.

“On behalf of AIMp, we would like to offer our deepest condolences upon the sad news,” Dr Hannbeck said.

The two brothers have always been “pioneers in growth and models of innovation across our sector”, she added.

“Anwer was a man who liked to listen and learn. A modest man hugely respected for his council and pleasant disposition. He will be sadly missed by this sector and community pharmacy in general. Our thoughts and love go out to his family and for all who knew him and the legacy he leaves,” Dr Hannbeck said.