NRF Saddened by Passing of Longtime LP
Industry Leader Gus Downing

WASHINGTON – The National Retail Federation is saddened by the passing of Gus Downing, a longtime leader in the loss prevention industry and a strong supporter of NRF.

Downing's dedication to the industry began as a practitioner. His career spanned more than five decades, during which he served as a leader, mentor and advocate for professional growth and career development. As co-founder and president of Downing & Downing Inc., the leading executive search and placement firm for LP/AP professionals, Downing helped build and staff many of the industry's top LP/AP departments.

"Gus deeply cared about the retail loss prevention industry and those committed to its profession," said NRF Vice President of Asset Protection and Retail Operations David Johnston. "He understood the value of loss prevention to a retail organization and inspired many throughout the industry to continue learning, evolving and striving for high achievements. His legacy as a leader and mentor will live on through the careers he helped build over the decades."

For the past 15 years, Downing led the D&D Daily, providing essential news and information to support the growth and evolution of loss prevention and cybersecurity professionals. Both Downing and the D&D Daily were strong supporters of NRF advocacy efforts, and helped to amplify our messages and support our annual NRF PROTECT conference.

"The memory of Gus serves as a powerful example of a true industry partner. His ability to reinvent himself, provide solutions and foster communication solidified his legacy as a leader in the field and, more importantly, as a true friend," said Scott McBride, AEO Inc. chief global asset protection officer and chair of the NRF LP/AP Council.

NRF extends our condolences to Downing's family, his D&D community, and all those he touched throughout his long career in supporting the retail industry and the loss prevention profession.

In 2019, NRF recognized Downing with the Ring of Excellence award, NRF’s highest honor for distinguished professionals who have impacted the loss prevention industry throughout their careers. His acceptance speech is available here.

NRF Press Release originally published here.

A look back on Gus receiving the 2019 NRF Ring of Excellence Award





Watch Gus's acceptance speech below: