In a poignant farewell, scores of residents gathered at a modest repair shop in Hong Kong’s Sham Shui Po district to bid adieu to Yau Yiu-wai, affectionately known as the city’s “king of umbrellas.” After over seven decades of service in the family-owned Sun Rise Company, Yau announced the closure of his shop, a venerable institution that has been in operation since 1842, making it one of the oldest family businesses in the region.
The Sun Rise Company, originally established by the Yau family in Guangzhou during the Qing Dynasty, has endured significant historical changes, including wartime disruptions that forced its relocation to Hong Kong. Over the years, the shop has served countless customers, providing not just repairs but also a personal touch that larger retailers often lack. Yau, now 73, cited the shift in consumer preferences towards online shopping and his advancing age as the primary reasons for the impending closure. “We’ve upheld our family’s reputation, and this legacy has come down to me. It truly pains me to end it,” he expressed, reflecting on the emotional weight of closing a chapter that has spanned five generations.
Residents of Sham Shui Po have expressed their dismay at the news of the shop’s imminent closure, with social media users mourning the loss of a cherished community business. Local student Niki Lum remarked, “He genuinely cared about selling customers a good, practical umbrella. I could tell he put his heart into running this shop.” The sentiment resonates with many who have come to regard Yau not just as a tradesman, but as a custodian of local culture and community history.
Yau’s commitment to sustainability through umbrella repair stands in stark contrast to the throwaway culture prevalent in today’s consumer environment. While many retailers prioritize selling new items, Yau has focused on creating durable products, highlighting his belief in social responsibility and environmental consciousness. “This is for environmental protection,” he noted, emphasizing the significance of repairing rather than replacing goods.
Despite the dwindling number of repair artisans remaining in Hong Kong, Yau forged meaningful connections with patrons, often sharing stories that transcended the mere transactional nature of retail. He noted, “Those who brought umbrellas for repair included couples hoping to mend their relationships and married couples who had used umbrellas as tokens of affection.”
As Yau prepares to close the doors for the final time at the end of the year, he acknowledges the challenges posed by his health, having suffered a stroke several years ago. “You have to forgive me, I just can’t carry on anymore,” he said. With his retirement, the local community not only loses a beloved shop but also a piece of its history—reminding us of the importance of preserving small businesses that embody cultural heritage and personal craftsmanship.
