13 Facts About Gerald Ratner

Gerald Irving Ratner was born on 1 November 1949 and is a British businessman.

Gerald Ratner was formerly chief executive officer of the major British jewellery company Ratners Group.

Gerald Ratner achieved notoriety after making a speech in which he jokingly denigrated two of the company's products.

Gerald Ratner was born in London to a Jewish family and based his philosophy of business on his experiences as a boy in Petticoat Lane Market.

Gerald Ratner compounded this by going on to remark that one of the sets of earrings was "cheaper than a prawn sandwich from Marks and Spencer's, but I have to say the sandwich will probably last longer than the earrings".

Gerald Ratner made a guest appearance on TV chat show Wogan the day after his speech, where he apologised and explained his joking remark that some of his company's products were "total crap".

Gerald Ratner's comments have become textbook examples of why CEOs should choose their words carefully.

Gerald Ratner hired a chairman in an attempt to stabilise the situation, and was dismissed by the new company chairman in November 1992.

Gerald Ratner's speech is famous as an example of the value of branding and image over quality.

Gerald Ratner has said that his remarks were not meant to be taken seriously.

Gerald Ratner blamed what he called aggressiveness and deliberate misinterpretation by several media outlets for the severe consumer reaction.

In 2013, during a visit to India for the inaugural eTailing India Expo, Gerald Ratner announced that he would be entering the Indian market.

Gerald Ratner later married Moira, and they lived in Cookham, Berkshire.