Among the Supporting Cast: Reminiscences and Reflections on Three Careers

Tim Sainsbury, a fourth-generation Sainsbury, has written a business book-cum-political and cultural memoir that gives a behind-the-scenes look at the revolution of one of the world's great retail dynasties. His retail insight and reflections, including on competition, management, and remuneration, and the role of Government, will be especially relevant as we witness a new retail revolution and crisis on our high streets. He also reflects on the changes he lived through in Parliament, which are unacceptable and difficult to attract men and women of the calibre ministerial responsibility demands.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2020
Publisher: Everyman

This captivating business book-cum-political and cultural memoir delves into the remarkable revolution of one of the world's most renowned retail dynasties. Written by Tim Sainsbury, a fourth-generation member of the Sainsbury family, the book offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the transformative era from 1962 to 1974. During this pivotal period, the company underwent a radical shift from counter service to self-service supermarkets, a seismic shift that had far-reaching implications for the retail industry. Tim's retail insight and reflections, encompassing topics such as competition, management, remuneration, and the role of government, become particularly relevant in the context of our current malaise. As we witness a new retail revolution and crisis unfolding on our high streets, his insights offer valuable perspectives and lessons for navigating the challenges and opportunities of the modern retail landscape.

In addition to his business career, Tim Sainsbury had a significant political presence. The book features a foreword by Michael Heseltine, in which he praises Tim's reflections on the changes he witnessed in Parliament. Heseltine highlights the unacceptable working conditions, the abundance of MPs, and the increasing social pressures, particularly from the internet, that make it challenging to attract and retain individuals of the caliber required for ministerial responsibility.

Throughout the book, Tim Sainsbury tells his story with warmth, wisdom, and a self-deprecating sense of humor. Among the Supporting Cast, he shares personal anecdotes and anecdotes from his family's history, providing a deeper understanding of the company's origins and the values that have shaped its success. This memoir is not only a fascinating read for business enthusiasts but also for those interested in politics, culture, and the evolution of retail. It offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing modern organizations and provides a roadmap for navigating the ever-changing landscape of commerce.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 160 x 242 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781999589110