The owners of a family-run convenience store in Lee have retired after around four decades of service, prompting an emotional farewell from more than 100 residents. Renuka Patel and her husband, Bupendra Patel, affectionately known as “Bob,” have stepped away from the business at 59-63 Sibthorpe Road, which they had operated since approximately 1986.
Four decades of serving the community
The Patels took over the shop from what Mrs Patel said was a former Co-op, and the store became a fixture of life on the local estate. Over the years, the family served as many as four generations of customers, with Mrs Patel noting that they had watched entire families grow up in the community.
Mrs Patel said: “We worked there for 40 years and we've seen whole families grow up in the community.” She added: “People are sad to see us go because we've seen nearly four generations. But we have no choice now. It's time to say goodbye.”
The 'Bob Shop' nickname and farewell event
The store was widely known by locals as the “Bob Shop,” a nickname inspired by Mr Patel. Mrs Patel explained: “They used to call him Bob in the shop because his name is Bupendra. They know that shop as the Bob Shop. You ask any kids and they say, 'I'm going to the Bob Shop.'”
To mark the end of an era, the family organised a farewell event for residents before leaving the business. Mrs Patel said: “We thought we'd give them a nice goodbye and it was so lovely to see so many people turn out for it.” The event was attended by more than 100 residents, according to Mrs Patel, with customers turning out to thank the family for their years of service.
Retirement plans and new owners
The couple decided to retire as they approached their 70s and wanted to spend more time with their family. Mrs Patel also said she hopes to travel with her 90-year-old mother and visit places that hold special memories for her family. The business has now been sold to new owners known to the family.
Reflecting on the relationships built over the years, Mrs Patel said: “We got along with everyone, and it's a really fabulous community.” For longstanding customers like Sharon Green, who first moved to the area in 1992, the Patel family have been a constant presence for decades. Sharon explained: “They have always been there for everyone on the estate. I no longer live round there, but I've always popped into the shop to say hi. They are wonderful and will be greatly missed, but I wish them all a happy retirement. They have worked so hard and will be missed.”
