Jean Coutu, O.C., O.Q., is a Canadian businessman, the self-made billionaire Founder of The Jean Coutu Group (PJC) Inc., a major chain of discount pharmacies in Quebec and New Brunswick. Born in Montreal, Quebec, in 1927, his father was a pediatrician. Coutu initially enrolled in Medicine at the University of Montreal before switching to the Pharmacy program, obtaining his license in 1953.

His early career began working as an assistant manager for a traditional pharmacy chain (Leduc Pharmacy). His pivotal moment came in 1966 when he opened Farmateria (later renamed Pharm-escompte Jean Coutu), recognizing the immense opportunity to offer discount prices on over-the-counter health, hygiene, and beauty products in a traditional pharmacy setting—a groundbreaking concept for Canada.

• The Jean Coutu Group (PJC) Inc. (Founder & President of the Board): The core publicly traded asset, a major chain of discount pharmacies in Quebec and New Brunswick.
• Discount Retail Pioneer: He was a pioneer in offering discount prices on non-prescription pharmacy goods in Canada (starting with Farmateria in 1966).
• Family Governance: The company is a prime example of a family business, with his son, François Coutu, serving as President and CEO.
• Academic Background: He holds a pharmacy license and a B.A. in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics from the Université de Montréal.

Jean Coutu's strategic genius was his commitment to high-volume, low-margin retail in the regulated pharmacy industry. In June 1969, he opened his first discount pharmacy (Pharm-escompte Jean Coutu) on Mont-Royal, investing his entire savings in the venture. The company grew rapidly through a successful franchise contract model (starting in 1973).

In 1980, Coutu became the sole owner of the Jean Coutu Group. He successfully led the company's IPO in 1986. He named his son François President and CEO in 2007, ensuring generational continuity. His wealth is tied to the long-term, stable profitability of the essential pharmacy and retail service sector in Quebec. He is an active philanthropist and has been honored as an Officer of the Order of Canada (O.C.).

Jean Coutu's social impact is structural, stemming from The Jean Coutu Group's role in providing essential pharmaceutical services and affordable consumer goods to the public. His discount model provided massive economic benefits to consumers. His philanthropic foundation supports various educational and community initiatives.

His structural contribution is tied to the successful franchising and industrialization of the pharmacy retail model in Canada. His high honors (Officer of the Order of Canada, Officer of the Ordre national du Québec) reflect his profound civic and business contributions.

Jean Coutu maintains the professional, composed style of a successful business executive. His attire is consistently formal and high-quality, favoring tailored suits. His aesthetic reflects stability and his commitment to entrepreneurship and community service.

Residing in Montreal, Quebec, his luxury is the immense security and financial reward derived from his multi-billion dollar fortune. His life is dedicated to the stewardship of his family's legacy, financial services, and philanthropy.