From The Peopling of New York City

For my assignment on the practice of the dual-business in Jackson Heights, I conducted interviews with shop owners who were currently engaging in this business tactic. The first individual I interviewed was the owner of the Jay Variety and Corner Luggage Appliances shop. The shop itself is on the lower level of the building addressed 37-50 and was partitioned into two separate shops, the appliances shop and Jackson Tailors. At the time I did not have a set of questions to ask, but merely decided to have a conversation with the owner and transcribe the conversation once I had left the building. The following are the questions I asked during the conversation and the responses I was given:

-How long have you been at this current establishment?

22 Years

-What country are you from, and what region of that country?

I am from Gujrat, India.

-How long has the owner of Jackson Tailors been at this current establishment?

18 Years

-Do you own the area in which your shop is located, or are you currently paying rent for the space?

I am currently paying rent

-To whom do you pay the rent?

The owner of Alankar Jewelers, the jewelry shop across the street.

-What is your personal opinion about this practice of the dual-business?

I feel it is a great business tactic, and has helped my business thrive for the past two decades.

-Are you in any way related to the owner of Jackson Tailors?

No we are not related, but we are very good friends.

-Is he from India as well?

Yes he is.

-Are you from the same region of India?

No I am from Gujrat and he is from Punjab.

-Did you know him before you started your business?

No, I first met him when he moved into his current location and we have developed a great friendship over the years.

-Do you feel you benefit from the Jackson Tailor shop being situated right next to your shop?

Yes I do, and we often share our customers. Many times a customer will come down to the tailor shop, and pick up a few items from my shop along their way. Also, I recommend Jackson Tailors to many of my customers who are looking for a good, reliable tailor.

-How is your relationship with the owner of Alankar Jewelers?

I feel we have a very good business relationship.

-How have the rates for your rent been over the years?

The rates have been very steady, no dramatic changes or increases. I am charged a fair price for this location.

-Did you decide what you were going to sell or were you told what to sell by the owner of the jewelry shop?

I decided what I was going to sell in my shop. I am given complete autonomy to run the shop as I please, and as long as I pay the monthly rent, I am free to do whatever I like with my shop.