Vera Weisfeld, the pioneering retail entrepreneur behind the iconic Scottish fashion chain ‘What Everyone Wants’, has passed away at the age of 87. Weisfeld, alongside her husband Gerald, revolutionised affordable fashion in Scotland, building a retail empire that catered to the masses with trendy yet budget-friendly clothing.
Key Takeaways
- Vera Weisfeld, co-founder of the ‘What Everyone Wants’ chain, has died at 87.
- The couple sold the business for £50 million in 1990.
- They were renowned for their significant charitable contributions.
A Fashion Revolution
Vera Weisfeld, a true retail queen, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Thursday night. She and her husband Gerald established ‘What Everyone Wants’ in 1971, a groundbreaking chain that predated many of today’s budget fashion retailers. Their innovative approach brought the latest trends to high streets across Scotland at accessible prices, making fashion a reality for many.
Humble Beginnings to Retail Empire
Born in Coatbridge, Lanarkshire, Vera Weisfeld’s early life was marked by humble beginnings in a basement flat without basic amenities. Her career in retail began at the age of 15 at C&A in Glasgow, where she quickly rose through the ranks. Initially hesitant to join Gerald’s venture, she eventually became instrumental in transforming ‘What Everyone Wants’ into a national phenomenon. At its peak, the chain boasted 40 stores, employed 200 people, and achieved an annual turnover exceeding £100 million. The distinctive purple carrier bags and the use of Status Quo’s hit song ‘Whatever You Want’ in their advertising became synonymous with the brand.
Generosity and Legacy
Following the sale of their business for a reported £50 million in 1990, Vera and Gerald Weisfeld dedicated a significant portion of their wealth to charitable causes through The Weisfeld Foundation. Their philanthropic efforts included travelling to Bosnia to distribute aid to refugees and establishing homes for children with HIV in Romania. Gerald Weisfeld passed away in 2020, and Vera’s passing marks the end of an era for Scottish retail and a testament to a life of entrepreneurial success and profound generosity.
