October 28

Erling Persson was born in 1917 in Borlänge, Sweden, and opened his first clothing store in 1947. Driven by a vision for affordable yet stylish apparel, he founded Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) in 1968 after acquiring a hunting outfitters business. Under his leadership, H&M expanded rapidly across Scandinavia and pioneered the fast fashion model. Persson emphasized efficient manufacturing and a customer-focused approach, setting trends in the retail industry. He remained active as chairman until the 1980s, overseeing continued growth. By the time of his passing in 2002, H&M had become an international brand with a significant cultural impact. Persson’s innovative business strategies continue to influence modern retail practices.

Jack Dellal was an English entrepreneur and merchant banker celebrated for his high-stakes investments in the London property market. Born in 1923, he built his fortune through innovative financing structures and strategic acquisitions during the post-war boom. Dellal's deals often involved complex negotiations, earning him a reputation as a dealmaker. He founded Precise Masonry and co-led the development of landmark commercial properties in the City of London. Dellal was also known for his philanthropy, supporting healthcare and education causes in the UK. His legacy endures in the city skyline and in the generations of financiers inspired by his daring approach.