It is often the hope that the work that one does – resonates in the world and leaves a lasting mark. To be able to truly shape an industry is rare, and thus it is with great sadness that we say goodbye to a legend of the market research industry – Jack Honomichl.
From the creation of The Analyst, the first trade journal if the U.S. research industry to his 18 years as a research columnist for Advertising Age, Jack not only informed the market research community, but the broader marketing and advertising communities as well.
Larry Gold, friend and research colleague warmly noted that “Jack will be remembered for his ultimate achievement: defining market research as an industry through his writings and publishing over a period of 30 years…”
“The most vivid expression of Jack’s work is his creation of the Honomichl Top 50 U.S. ranking of market research firms, now in its 40th year. This focused attention, as nothing before, on a cohesive set of businesses and their activities worthy of merit and use, conferring financial, business and social benefits on the entire industry. In 1986, the separate Honomichl Global Top 25 was created among the world’s largest research firms.”
“ESOMAR was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jack Honomichl; our industry has lost one of the great pioneers of “celebrating research”, as Jack was instrumental in lauding market research for its contribution to the business world, and to business success” noted ESOMAR Director General, Finn Raben.
“Jack was a man who always combined a passion for research with a passion for journalism and his establishment of the Honomichl Top 50 was one of the first defining measures of market research as an industry, and one duly recognised by CASRO in 2011, when Jack was awarded its Lifetime Achievement Award. Our sincerest sympathies go to all his family and friends at this time. “
Jack was married to his late wife Frances for 50 years and is survived by three daughters, a son and eight grandchildren. A memorial/celebration service will be planned next year.
