Noel Stockdale

Sir Arthur Noel Stockdale (25 December 1920 – 2 February 2004) was an English businessman who co-founded the British supermarket chain Asda, alongside Peter and Fred Asquith.

Early life Stockdale was born at The Mill in the Yorkshire village of Pateley Bridge on 25 December 1920, the son of Arthur Stockdale (d. 1961) and Florence Alberta (née Wilson). He was educated at Woodhouse Grove School in Apperley Bridge near Bradford. His father Arthur was a farmer who established Hindells Dairy Farmers, a West Riding of Yorkshire co-operative which became Associated Dairies in 1949. Arthur was its managing director until his death in 1961.

Military career Stockdale's studies at Reading were interrupted by the Second World War. He volunteered for the RAF in 1940, serving as a pilot, and flying instructor, reaching the rank of Squadron Leader.

Business career On demobilisation Stockdale returned to work at Associated Dairies, becoming a board member in 1950. In 1964 he founded Asda Stores Ltd with grocers Fred and Peter Asquith. Upon his retirement in 1986, Stockdale was knighted in the Queen's Birthday Honours List, made Life President of Asda, and awarded an honorary degree from the University of Leeds.

Personal life Stockdale married Betty Monica Shaw in 1944.