Ramón Ramos Uría, Founder of Grupo Ramos, Dies at 84

Ramón Ramos Uría, founder of Grupo Ramos and one of the most influential figures in the evolution of the Dominican Republic’s retail sector, has died at the age of 84. His leadership helped modernize the country’s commercial landscape through the expansion of brands including La Sirena, Super Pola, Aprezio, and Multiplaza.

Born in Asturias, Spain, Ramos Uría arrived in the Dominican Republic in 1959 when he was just 17 years old. Four years later, he joined the textile store La Sirena on Santo Domingo’s Avenida Mella as an employee. In 1965, during the Dominican Civil War, he acquired the business, a decision that marked the beginning of one of the country’s most successful retail companies.

A Vision That Changed Dominican Retail

Under Ramos Uría’s leadership, the small department store evolved into Grupo Ramos, a retail company that introduced modern shopping concepts and expanded across the Dominican Republic with multiple formats designed to serve different consumer segments.

Over the decades, the company developed well-known brands including La Sirena, one of the country’s largest department store chains; Super Pola, a supermarket network; Aprezio, focused on value-oriented grocery shopping; and Multiplaza, its commercial real estate business.

His entrepreneurial vision contributed to changing how Dominicans shop by expanding organized retail and supporting the growth of modern distribution networks throughout the country.

One of the Country’s Largest Private Employers

Beyond its commercial success, Grupo Ramos became one of the Dominican Republic’s leading private employers. The company currently provides more than 10,000 direct jobs, making it an important contributor to the country’s economy and labor market.

The retailer’s nationwide presence also supports thousands of suppliers, service providers, and business partners, extending its economic impact well beyond its stores.

A Lasting Business Legacy

Ramos Uría was widely recognized as one of the entrepreneurs who helped modernize the Dominican Republic’s retail industry during the second half of the 20th century. His long-term focus on expansion, innovation, and customer service established Grupo Ramos as one of the country’s most recognizable corporate groups.

His passing marks the end of a remarkable business career that began with a single store on Avenida Mella and grew into one of the Dominican Republic’s largest retail organizations. The company he founded continues to play a significant role in the country’s commercial sector and employment landscape.