Business Spotlight: Albert Lam Bespoke
Albert Lam, owner of Albert Lam Bespoke
Albert Lam Bespoke
80 Bowery, Ste 500
(212) 226-2130
We’re excited to spotlight Longevity Fund grant recipient Albert Lam Bespoke. In 1978, Albert and his wife opened their custom suit and tailoring shop on Lafayette Street. Since then, they have served generations of local Chinatown residents and earned a national reputation for expertly-crafted suits.
How did you start your business?
My wife and I emigrated from Hong Kong to NYC’s Chinatown in the late 1970’s. When I first arrived, I apprenticed with an Italian tailor to learn his craft while working at a local garment factory to support my family. In 1978, my wife and I decided to open a tailor shop to sell handmade men’s suits. Even though my wife and I didn’t have high school degrees or spoke English, we were able to open our own shop because the Chinese community gave us multiple resources and support channels.
How has your life and business evolved in Chinatown over the years?
Like many in our working-class neighborhood, my wife and I worked 7 days a week, for over 40 years. We eventually attracted the attention and business of notable people such as former mayor David Dinkins, who became my customer and friend for over 35 years. With our work ethic, chutzpah, and resilience, we sent our three children to college. All 3 are thriving professionals in NYC who give back to our community.
What changes has your business experienced since you started?
Throughout the 70’s to 90’s, I built a thriving business. We witnessed 9/11, economic booms and busts, as well as gentrification. We were at the Lafayette/Canal Street location for over 35 years and needed to expand to a bigger space. However, gentrification in the 90’s with million-dollar condos, expensive hotels and restaurants displaced many small shops. Many business owners weren’t able to recover after being uprooted.
A few years ago, my landlord at Lafayette/Canal Street raised my rent by 100%. They forced my business out so they could sell the building. My shop, along with other local Chinese-owned and operated small businesses, have been replaced by Glossier, Dunkin Donuts, and a tattoo shop. These businesses erode the unique character and cultural richness that is Chinatown. We must save Chinatown. Due to this rapid gentrification, I moved to a shop on the 5th floor at Bowery/Canal. I hope to stay and survive the pandemic.
“Chinatown is an essential part of my life, as well as thousands of New Yorkers from all backgrounds, colors, creeds, and walks of life.”
Who are your typical customers?
Over the years, our business thrived through word of mouth — serving our community during memorable moments in the circle of life. New customers came based on reviews from happy patrons in law, finance, medicine, and business. Customers come from all walks of life, from local residents who need a suit to look sharp at their child’s wedding to Chinatown-bred college grads who need their first interview suit. My wife and I have made the finest hand-made suits for families across generations — from grandfathers to fathers, sons, and grandsons.
How do you support other people in Chinatown?
As a Chinatown business owner for over 40 years, I interact with local Chinese-owned businesses on a daily basis. Chinatown is where I get everything done: from daily meals to banking, haircuts, accountant, grocery stands, hardware shops, and doctors. Chinatown is an essential part of my life, as well as thousands of New Yorkers from all backgrounds, colors, creeds, and walks of life.
“I'm fighting to survive and may need to shut down the business.”
How has COVID impacted you?
My business is down 100% since reopening, yet my bills have stacked up. My shop also suffered losses prior to COVID shutdown due to racism and xenophobia. I'm fighting to survive and may need to shut down the business. Before COVID, I was working 7 days a week, 8 hrs a day. Now, I’m by appointment only.
How are you planning to use the Longevity Fund grant?
I urgently needed the grant to save my small business, continue my service to the community and be a vital part of Chinatown's comeback from COVID. The grant will help with rent and operational expenses.
How can people support your business?
Please view and share our instagram page to see what a bespoke suit is all about. Thank you for helping to get the word out!
Chinatown establishments like Albert Lam Bespoke are what makes the spirit of our neighborhood. We need your support now more than ever to keep that spirit alive. Together, we can preserve Chinatown businesses and ensure Chinatown will always be open for business. To support Chinatown organizations like Albert Lam Bespoke, donate to the Longevity Fund here:
Photo credit: Fuxuan Xin
