Tangled Dreams

CHAPTER 2: A FAMILY NURTURED WITH LOVE (Part 5) | Athirah Mansor

Oxford Street was the start of it all. The street, which started at Marble Arch extending a distance of two and a half kilometres towards Holborn, was a well-known shopping destination for locals and tourists from all around the world. There were about 300 shops along the street with attractions of the latest fashions, ethnic foods and entertainment for the whole family. My family did not own Oxford Street; we only owned eighty percent of the businesses there. They were the result of the blood, sweat and tears of my late grandfather who had arrived in London several decades ago.

In the 1940s, my grandfather went to further his studies in London. His family was poor then, so grandfather had to work and study. He was employed as a salesman at a clothing store at Oxford Street. In those days, salesmen did not receive commission from their sales, but grandfather never complained. He was grateful as long as he received enough remuneration to cover his study fees, accommodation and food.

Due to grandfather's diligence and courteousness extended even to the most demanding customers, his employer's business expanded. Eventually, grandfather was promoted to store manager. His employer began to invest and bought out other shops along Oxford Street. Wherever possible, my grandfather helped his employer. Together, they built up numerous businesses. From fashion and souvenirs to food and entertainment; everything was there. After completing his education, grandfather did not return home. Instead, he continued his work in Oxford Street.

During World War II, bombs targeted on London hit Oxford Street. Four shops managed by my grandfather, i.e. John Lewis, Selfridges, Bourne & Hollingsworth and Peter Robinson, were destroyed. My grandfather's employer disappeared during the chaotic situation. When the war came to an end, grandfather decided to rebuild the businesses along Oxford Street.

Starting with a small shop, grandfather began to expand his business. He saved every penny of his profits and invested judiciously. Grandfather was a brilliant investor. He started buying shops along Oxford Street one by one, and then rented them out to other businessmen. It was from there that our family's business empire started. The empire is now managed by my father; the empire that I did not wish to take over because I was not a businessperson. I much preferred to explore the world than be tied down by a family business.