Tributes Paid to Co-founder of Birmingham’s Azad Supermarket

Thousands of Birmingham residents have paid tribute following the death of Nazir Hussain, who co-founded the Azad Supermarket chain in the city.

Mr Hussain and his two brothers initially opened a small shop in Stoney Lane when he moved to Birmingham in the 1970s.

He went on to open four Azad Supermarket branches, including on Stratford Road and Ladypool Road.

The 64-year-old died from a suspected heart attack on January 13, 2024. Mr Hussain was known as a hardworking and humble man.

The father-of-seven had eight grandchildren and many of his customers posted messages of condolences online.

His son, Rashad Hussain said: “My father, Nazir Hussain, also known as Arshad, was a very well-known person in and around Birmingham as we managed four Azad Supermarkets in different parts of the city with our family.

“He came to Birmingham in the 1970s and set up a small shop on Stoney Lane with his brothers.

“We are overwhelmed with the thousands of messages from people in the city and beyond together with the hundreds who have come to pay their respects at the Sparkbrook Islamic Centre.

“My father was blessed with seven children and eight grandchildren. He was a religious and pious individual who worked tirelessly till his last day.

“We will announce the details of the janaza (funeral) details soon.”

In addition to running Azad Supermarket, Mr Hussain did a lot of charity work, both in the UK and abroad.

Councillor Majid Mahmood (Bromford, Hodge Hill) is a close family friend.

He said he was “shocked and saddened” to hear of Mr Hussain’s death. He called Mr Hussain a “very humble, hardworking and genuine person”.

Councillor Mahmood added:

“He was well-liked in all circles, and did his utmost for the people, and for charity both here and abroad.”

“I was honoured he visited me a few months back at home, and he was delightful company talking about the early struggles on the Kashmiri diaspora in the city.”

On social media, customers and locals paid tribute to Mr Hussain.

One said: “Loss felt by many. Thoughts and prayers are with the grieving family.”

Another wrote: “Sad news such a nice man so humble and down to earth.”

One post read: “I met him the first time in 1986/87. He was so gentle kind and good man. Allah grants him a high place in jannah ameen.”