Lanre Alfred: From the Newsroom to Business Visionary — The Face Behind Old English Stores

Lanre Alfred’s name resonates across Nigeria’s media and business landscapes as a story of reinvention, influence, and unwavering commitment to quality, service and community.

Best known for his celebrated career in journalism and his dynamic leadership in enterprise, Alfred now stands as a visionary business figure and cultural influencer, driving growth and everyday value through the rapidly expanding Old English Superstores & Bakery brand.

As 2026 approaches, stakeholders, consumers and business leaders alike are watching closely — expecting a year of accelerated expansion, deeper community impact and elevated service experiences under his stewardship.

From the Heart of the Newsroom to the Forefront of Enterprise

Lanre Alfred’s professional journey began in the newsroom, where he carved out a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most notable society writers and media personalities.

A former society editor and columnist at ThisDay newspaper, and publisher of the online platform The Capital, Alfred cemented his reputation by capturing the lifestyles, trends and stories of Nigeria’s high society with flair and insight.

His influence in media extended beyond reportage — he authored multiple acclaimed books that chronicled the exploits of prominent Nigerians and celebrated leadership and achievement across industries, contributing to the country’s narrative of excellence and enterprise.

Today, Alfred’s evolution from journalist to entrepreneur has become a blueprint for purposeful transition — demonstrating that storytelling excellence and business leadership can combine to create brands that resonate deeply with everyday Nigerians.

Old English: A Brand for Every Family

At the heart of Alfred’s entrepreneurial success is Old English Superstores & Bakery — a retail and bakery enterprise that has rapidly grown into a household name known for quality products, affordability and exceptional customer experience.

With multiple outlets already established in Lagos and Ogun States, the brand has expanded its presence with strategic new locations, including the recently launched Bodija branch in Ibadan — a move that strengthens Old English’s footprint across the South‑West and brings its offerings closer to more families.

The emerging success of Old English is rooted in Alfred’s customer‑centric philosophy: providing fresh bakery products, nutritious food items and affordable grocery essentials that cater to the daily needs of consumers while offering a shopping experience that is convenient, dependable and value‑driven.

The Bodija branch joining the network of stores reflects this mission and underscores the brand’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of a growing population.

Alfred’s voice at the opening captured this commitment perfectly: “Our mission has always been to provide affordable, high‑quality goods to families, and this new outlet is another step toward achieving that goal.”

A Leadership Style Marked by Purpose and Growth

What distinguishes Alfred’s leadership is not only his media pedigree but his strategic vision for business, community and industry. He blends an understanding of consumer behaviour with strong operational discipline and brand positioning — qualities that have positioned Old English as a trusted staple for families seeking quality and value.

His entrepreneurial style is proactive and community‑focused. By structuring his business expansion around consumer needs and accessibility, Alfred ensures Old English stays responsive to market demand while upholding standards of quality and affordability. This approach has fostered strong brand loyalty and deepened public trust.

What to Expect in 2026: Bigger Reach, Better Experiences

Looking ahead to 2026, Lanre Alfred’s vision for Old English and his broader contributions to Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem point toward continued growth and enhanced consumer impact. Key expectations include:

Accelerated Expansion: With existing outlets performing strongly across Lagos, Ogun and now Ibadan, further expansion into new cities and regions is expected, bringing jobs, convenience and economic activity to new communities.

Enhanced Customer Experience: Investments in store design, product quality and customer service are likely to intensify, making every visit to an Old English outlet pleasant, efficient and rewarding for shoppers.

Community Engagement: Alfred’s leadership has always reflected a commitment to people. As Old English’s presence grows, so too will its community outreach initiatives, employment opportunities and local partnerships.

Innovation in Retail Offerings: In a competitive retail landscape, continued innovation in product lines, bundles, and pricing strategies will position Old English to meet evolving consumer needs without compromising quality or value.

A Legacy of Influence Beyond Business

Lanre Alfred’s personal legacy stretches beyond business success — his dual identity as a celebrated journalist and a dynamic entrepreneur positions him as a role model for emerging professionals who aspire to build impactful careers across sectors.

His work celebrates not just products and profits but stories of people, progress and possibility.

In a time when the Nigerian business environment rewards both innovation and resilience, Alfred’s journey serves as a testament to the power of adaptive leadership, creativity and purpose‑driven enterprise.