The convenience sector is in mourning following the sudden passing of a much-loved Manchester-based retailer on Monday (Feb 2). She was just 45.
Retailer Nila Patel, owner of One Stop Millbrook Mini Mart, Stalybridge, Greater Manchester, suffered a brain aneurysm on Sunday evening (Feb 1). She was rushed to the nearest hospital where the doctors tried to resusciate her but could not.
Nila is survived by her husband Suresh Patel, her son, aged 18, and her daughter, aged 14.
For many in the local area, One Stop Millbrook Mini Mart was far more than a convenience store. Under Nila's stewardship, it became something far more precious, a beating heart within the community, radiating warmth, generosity, and genuine care.
From offering free fruit to schoolchildren to raising funds for local charities, Nila and her team created a space where everyone felt welcome, supported and genuinely cared for. Her compassion extended well beyond the shop doors. Last year, through a GoFundMe campaign supporting Manchester charity Don’t Walk Past, Nila raised enough money to purchase ten high-quality sleeping bags for people experiencing homelessness.Since news of her passing broke, tributes have poured in from across the convenience sector, reflecting the deep respect and affection she inspired.
Retailer Dee Sedani wrote, “For those that knew Nila and worked with her would have known that she was a very kind and caring person.
“I spent a lot of time with Nila and her husband Suresh helping them and mentoring her, and during that time I admired the passion she had. It just shows how short life is, so love, care and support each other.
“Value what we have and value the friendships we all carry today and forever.”
Expressing his shock and disbelief, retailer Priyesh Vekaria told Asian Trader, "It feels like one moment she was there and in the other, she is gone.
“We were very close as friends and often used to travel together for events. It is a personal loss for me. She was so vibrant and bubbly. I cannot believe she is no more.”
The convenience sector has lost not just a retailer, but a remarkable human being who understood that true success is measured not in profits, but in the lives we touch and the love we share.
Asian Trader extends its sincere condolences to Nila Patel’s family, friends and colleagues, and joins the wider convenience sector in mourning the loss of a respected retailer whose compassion, commitment and community spirit leave a lasting legacy.