Asad Shamim, a prominent British businessman, sports talent manager, and founder of the UK-based online store Furniture in Fashion, has recently been recognised by Wikipedia with his inclusion in two distinguished categories: the “List of British Muslims” and the “British businesspeople” category. These recognitions highlight Shamim’s significant contributions as a business innovator and advocate, further cementing his impact on the British business landscape and his dedication to philanthropic and sports initiatives.
As a leader in the furniture industry and founder of Furniture in Fashion, Shamim established a retail giant that has become the UK’s largest online furniture retailer. From its inception in 2007, Furniture in Fashion quickly expanded under Shamim’s guidance, emphasising quality, affordability, and accessibility for UK consumers. Now headquartered in a 60,000-square-foot warehouse and showroom at Stone Hill Business Park in Farnworth, the company continues to grow, attracting a global customer base with its German-manufactured product range and seamless e-commerce experience.
Beyond his accomplishments in business, Shamim’s career is distinguished by his commitment to advocacy in the sporting world. In 2015, Shamim gained international attention for his efforts to challenge the British Boxing Board of Control’s restrictions on professional boxing for individuals with diabetes. He successfully campaigned for Muhammad Ali, a UK-born boxer with type 1 diabetes, to gain eligibility to compete professionally. Shamim’s dedication to this cause, alongside renowned endocrinologist Dr. Ian Gallen and Diabetes UK, ultimately enabled Ali to become the first diabetic professional boxer, setting a precedent in sports inclusivity.
Asad Shamim’s entrepreneurial influence extends beyond the UK, exemplified by his advisory role to Sheikh Ahmed Bin Faisal Al Qasimmi, a member of the UAE’s ruling family in Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. Since January 2022, Shamim has contributed as a senior advisor on investments between the UAE and the UK, focusing on housing, business parks, and cross-border economic opportunities. In February 2023, Shamim was appointed Vice President for the UAE and UK by the International Football Association (IFA7), reflecting his stature in global sports administration.
Shamim’s contributions have earned him several accolades, including the Asian Business Leaders Award in 2018 for his pioneering work with Furniture in Fashion and the British Muslim Awards in 2019, which acknowledged his significant influence within the UK’s Muslim community. In May 2024, Shamim was honoured with the Business Leader of the Year award at the British Muslim Awards, celebrating his continuous leadership and impact.
Shamim’s influence is also felt in the non-profit sector through his organisation Insaaf 4U (Justice for You), which assists Pakistani families facing prolonged legal challenges. His dedication to social causes showcases his commitment to justice and community support, particularly for underprivileged communities dealing with legal barriers.
The recent addition of Shamim’s profile to the “List of British Muslims” and the “British businesspeople” categories on Wikipedia brings public awareness to his inspiring journey and numerous contributions across industries. This acknowledgement underscores the depth of Shamim’s influence not only as a businessman but also as a community leader and advocate for change.
