The owners of an iconic bagel shop today told how ‘a longstanding family dispute’ led to its dramatic closure four months ago – as it is set to reopen.
They revealed the Beigel Shop in London’s Brick Lane was forced to shut its doors in February amid a series of setbacks.
The bakery – known affectionately as ‘the yellow one’ because of its distinctive signage and famed for never closing its doors because of its round-the-clock opening hours – is said to have been founded by Jewish immigrants from Russia in 1855.
It was taken over by three siblings – Aron, David and Mazal – in 1987.
In a statement the family which runs the bakery said: ‘In recent times, we’ve faced trials, including complex family dynamics and health setbacks, common in many extended-family businesses.
‘Our recent hiatus came as a culmination of a longstanding family dispute over the building’s ownership and subsequent rents, alongside the health struggles of our beloved father and uncle, Aron, who remains in recovery from a heart attack and multiple strokes.
‘Amidst these difficulties, we are determined to move forward with renewed vigour and optimism.’
The family said that while it is ready to welcome customers for the first time in nearly five months they are still facing an uphill battle to save the shop which claims to be the oldest in London.
They are launching a crowd-funding campaign in the face of crippling ‘financial burdens’ which included the doubling of their rent along with vital upgrades and renovations.
Family member Louise Zelman told : ‘We’re thrilled to announce the imminent reopening of our beloved Beigel Shop, a treasured family establishment in the heart of East London.
‘The shop holds a rich history spanning over a century, and its revival after a period of closure marks a significant moment for our community.’
The family said it had ‘poured heart and soul into this establishment for decades, fostering connections and sharing fresh warm beigels with generations of patrons.’
In a message to loyal customers the family said: ‘We are absolutely delighted to share the wonderful news of the reopening of our beloved family’s Beigel Shop on Wednesday, June 26 2024!
‘Throughout our closure, we’ve been deeply touched by the incredible support that has poured in from our cherished community.
‘Your steadfast loyalty has truly been a guiding light during what has been a challenging chapter, and for that, we cannot thank you enough.
‘For over a century, Brick Lane’s Beigel Shop has been a cornerstone of London’s culinary tapestry, embodying tradition and serving as a vibrant gathering place for our diverse East End community.’
Customers were left devastated after arriving at the shop – which specialises in salt beef bagels with gherkins and mustard as well as smoked salmon and cream cheese – to find chains and a giant padlock on the front door on February 13.
An eviction notice was posted on the glass front door which warned that proceedings for criminal damage and trespass would be launched against anyone attempting to enter the property.
To add to the speculation about the fate of the shop a replacement sign was later taped over the High Court writ saying the ‘temporary’ closure was due to ‘electrical maintenance work’.
The sign was later torn down and the shop remained closed.
But last week workers were spotted busily washing graffiti from the shop’s windows.
The family say that ‘stepping into the next chapter, the younger generation who are ‘eager to carry on the Beigel Shop’s cherished legacy’ will be taking over the business.
They include ‘Aron’s 22-year-old quadruplets and Mazal’s three children’.
Their statement said: ‘We recognise the financial hurdles that lie ahead, from doubled rent to machinery upgrades and necessary renovations, including some electrical updates that added to our temporary closure.
‘After careful consideration, we’ve decided to launch a GoFundMe campaign to help ease some of these financial burdens during this pivotal time.
‘Your generous contributions, regardless of size, will play a significant role in rebuilding our business and preserving a treasured piece of East London’s heritage.’
They added: ‘As we reopen our doors, our hearts are filled with hope for the future, buoyed by the unwavering support of our incredible community.
‘We are deeply grateful for your loyal presence through every twist and turn.’
They signed their message off saying: ‘With heartfelt gratitude and a sprinkle of doughy love.’
In March, revealed plans were being drawn up to get the beigel shop back in business after a new set of directors were appointed.
Until last September, Beigel Shop Brick Lane Limited was co-owned by Ellis and Ashley Zelman.
But in September Ashley’s shares were all transferred to Ellis, giving him sole control.
The records show that as the drama unfolded a company set up by members of the extended family – which had previously been known as Beigels on Wheels – underwent a name change to Yellow Beigel Shop Group Ltd on February 24.
Ellis and Ashley Zelman were appointed directors of the firm in March 2022 when it was operating under its previous name.
While Ellis remains a director, Ashley resigned his position in April last year.
Three new directors were appointed on March 4 including Hayley and Melanie White who have been involved in helping to run the establishment for a number of years.
According to Land Registry documents the building appears to be separately owned by Derrick, Darren and Karen Lefcoe who live in Washington, USA and London.
The shop’s closure meant that ever-growing queues have been forming at the rival Beigel Bake, which is two doors away, and is known as the ‘white one’ because of the different coloured signs above the shops.
Both 24-hour establishments attract tourists from around the world to London’s East End.