Monday, June 24, 2024 at 10:00 a.m
Iconic Beigel store in Brick Lane will reopen this week as the family owners behind the late-night favorite reveal why it closed suddenly in February.
The famous yellow-fronted purveyor will begin serving lox again on Wednesday, June 26, marking nearly 20 weeks of closure.
It comes after the Brick Lane Beigel Shop – known as ‘the yellow’ – closed its doors in mid-February and a law firm took over the building.
At the time, there was much speculation as to why it closed its doors, with a letter from the firm saying: “Please note that we have taken possession of the above mentioned property. Any attempt to re-enter said property is a criminal offense and will be prosecuted for trespass and criminal damage.
Please direct all inquiries regarding this property to Thirsk Winton LLP’.
The family that runs it have now lifted the lid on why it closed, citing a mix of financial problems, internal disputes and health issues.
In a statement released today, they announced the reopening of their “precious family business” just a stone’s throw from the city.
She thanked supporters during the “challenging chapter” of closing the Beigel store, which first opened in 1855.
A statement explained why it closed: “Our family, led by siblings Aron, David and Mazal, have poured heart and soul into this business for decades, fostering connections and sharing fresh warm beige colors with generations of patrons.”
Recently, we have faced trials, including complex family dynamics and health setbacks that are common in many extended family businesses.
It explained that the closure in February was “a culmination of a long-running family dispute over ownership of the building and the subsequent lease, along with the health issues of our beloved father and uncle Aron, who is still recovering from a heart attack and multiple strokes.”
“Amid these difficulties, we are determined to move forward with renewed vigor and optimism,” they said.
With a view to reopening, the family said “the younger generation, including Aron’s 22-year-old quadruplets and Mazal’s three children, want to continue the esteemed legacy of the Beigel store by taking over the business.”
“Nevertheless, we are aware of the financial hurdles we face, from doubling the rent to upgrading machinery and necessary renovations, including some electrical updates, which have contributed to our temporary closure.”
As well as bringing in the next generation, she has also launched a GoFundMe campaign to help “ease some of those financial burdens” as they asked for donations to help “restore our business and preserve a valuable piece of East London’s heritage”.
The fundraising target has been set at £50,000 with three main targets to raise the cash. He said he needed a new beige machine because his “old” machine often breaks down, which slows down production. It also needs workshop repairs as well as a brand new oven.
To encourage donations, she is offering the first 50 customers a Beigel Shop bag that will give away more than £5.