End of an Era: Daniel of Ealing Bids Farewell After 124 Years

Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting Natasha and Alice, two of the descendants of Walter James Daniel, the original founder of Daniel of Ealing. Both were brought up in Ealing and attended Notting Hill & Ealing High School, and it’s clear that the store - and the community - hold a very special place in their hearts. The business remains very much a family affair, and they spoke with both pride and sadness about the decision to close the Ealing branch of the store their family has nurtured for generations.

For over 120 years, Daniel of Ealing has been a cornerstone of the local community, serving generations of customers with quality furniture, homeware, and fashion. However, due to rising costs and a challenging retail environment, the store has made the difficult decision to close. We sat down with Tony Durkin, Managing Director, to reflect on Daniel’s legacy and the impact of its closure.

Daniel of Ealing has been a beloved institution for over a century. How does it feel knowing this chapter is coming to an end?

Tony Durkin: It’s incredibly bittersweet. We’ve always been more than just a store - we’ve been part of the fabric of Ealing. Families have shopped with us for generations, and we’ve built relationships that go beyond simple transactions. While we understand the economic pressures that led to this decision, it’s still heartbreaking to say goodbye to such a historic presence in the community.

Daniel has always been a family-run business, with a deep heritage. What do you think has been the key to its longevity?

Tony Durkin: I think it’s the personal touch. The Daniel family has always placed a huge emphasis on quality service and community engagement. Walter James Daniel founded the business on hard work and resilience, and that spirit has been passed down through the generations.

Walter rented his first shop at 96 Uxbridge Road in 1901 for £50 a year, selling drapery and fashions. Business was tough in the early days - so much so that he once tried to return the shop keys to his landlord. But the landlord encouraged him to keep going, and Walter, along with his wife and four children - Florence, Charles, Mabel and Douglas - worked long hours, from early morning until 9pm. That perseverance is what laid the foundation for everything that followed.

Charles, Walter's eldest son, joined the business after completing his apprenticeships. He went on to expand the company, purchasing a shop in Windsor in 1918 for his sister Mabel to run, and another in Newbury for his brother Douglas.

Today, Peter Daniel, Charles’ son, is the current chairman, and members of the 3rd, 4th and 5th generations are still involved in all areas of the company.

Can you share a memorable moment or story from your time working at Daniel?

Tony Durkin: There are so many! One that stands out is when we were awarded the Royal Warrant as a supplier of gifts to the Royal Household. It was a proud moment for everyone involved. But honestly, some of the best memories are the everyday interactions with customers - the regulars who come in just for a chat, the children who have grown up visiting the store with their parents and now bring their own kids. Those moments make all the difference.

How has the community reacted to the news of the closure?

Tony Durkin: There’s been an overwhelming outpouring of sadness and support. People are coming in just to reminisce and share their memories. We’ve had customers telling us stories about buying their first pram here, picking out wedding gifts, or decorating their first home with furniture from Daniel. It’s really touching to see how much the store has meant to people.

What’s next for the staff affected by the closure?

Tony Durkin: It’s a difficult time, but the company is doing what it can to support. Many have been here for decades, and it’s more than just a job - it’s been a second home. One of our Store Managers actually started as a Porter and worked their way up, and three of the team were with us when we were located further up the road, where The Gym Group, Dreams, ASDA and InHealth now stand.

Though Daniel of Ealing is closing, the Windsor store remains open. Do you think the Daniel name will continue to thrive?

Tony Durkin: Absolutely. The Windsor store is still going strong, and customers can continue shopping online with delivery available to Ealing and the surrounding areas. While it’s the end of an era for Ealing, the Daniel legacy lives on. I think that’s something Walter James Daniel would be proud of.

Finally, if you had one message for the loyal customers of Daniel of Ealing, what would it be?

Tony Durkin: Just a huge thank you. Thank you for your loyalty, your support, and for making Daniel of Ealing such a special place. It’s been an honour to serve this community, and while the store may be closing, the memories will last forever.