Mr Selfridge episode 8 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

In this episode, Mr. Selfridge faces the challenge of balancing business ambitions with personal relationships. As he plans a dinner for Mr. Woolworth, discussions revolve around family, competition, and expansion. Despite the success of his store, particularly highlighted by a successful mid-season sale, Mr. Selfridge is reminded of the value of family and integrity, especially when dealing with Miss Bunting's plea for a reference due to her past dishonesty. Meanwhile, the introduction of Roddy Temple brings a layer of personal intrigue, suggesting that success is not solely measured by business achievements but also by the quality of personal relationships and integrity.

Full Episode S00E08 Recap

### Introduction to Miss Bunting's Predicament - Miss Bunting, a former employee, is in dire need of a reference to improve her situation, but Mr. Selfridge is hesitant due to her past dishonesty. ### The Selfridge and Woolworth Dinner - Mr. Selfridge hosts a dinner for Mr. Woolworth, an American businessman, emphasizing the importance of no fuss and naturalness. - The gathering includes Harry Selfridge's wife, Rose, their friends, and notable guests discussing their children, ambitions, and the future of their businesses in England. ### The Challenge of Affordable Shopping - Mr. Selfridge challenges his staff to find something he can buy with a thrupenny bit, highlighting the store's focus on catering to a wide range of customers, not just the wealthy. ### Plans for Expansion and Competition - Discussion about the opening of Selfridge's new store in Brixton and potential competition with Woolworth's, as they contemplate opening stores in central London, specifically Oxford Street. ### The Importance of Family and Friendship - Conversations at the dinner emphasize the value of family and the complexities of business and personal lives intertwining, with Mrs. Selfridge expressing her sense of loss for family and friends. ### The Predicament of Miss Bunting - Despite her hard times, Mr. Selfridge refuses to give Miss Bunting a reference due to her previous dishonesty, leaving her in a difficult position. ### A New Venture in Discounting - Mr. Selfridge contemplates discounting items around the store as an experiment to attract more customers, including those who are more thrifty, like Mrs. Crabb. ### The Soiree and Future Prospects - A soiree is planned with the intention of introducing Rosalie Selfridge to eligible young men, despite her mother's desire for her to marry for love rather than money or title. ### The Decision on Senior Assistant - The decision between Miss Millar and Miss Hawkins for the Senior Assistant position reflects differing opinions on ambition, capability, and the future direction of the store's staff. ### The Mid-Season Sale - Selfridge's hosts its first mid-season sale, aiming to attract a diverse customer base with discounted items, leading to exceptional sales figures and discussions on the importance of family over business. ### The Intrigue of Mr. Temple - Roddy Temple's interactions with the Selfridge family, particularly Rosalie and Mrs. Selfridge, introduce an element of personal and potentially scandalous intrigue. ### Conclusion: A Reflection on Success and Family - As the sale concludes successfully, there's a poignant reminder of the true value of family and personal relationships over business achievements, with Mr. Woolworth postponing his store opening to care for his wife, Jennie.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Miss Bunting need a reference from Mr. Selfridge?

Miss Bunting is in a difficult situation and believes a reference could help improve her circumstances.

What is the main theme of the dinner hosted by Mr. Selfridge for Mr. Woolworth?

The dinner emphasizes no fuss and everything natural, with discussions on family, business ambitions, and the future.

How does Mr. Selfridge challenge his staff regarding affordable shopping?

He challenges them to find something he can buy with a thrupenny bit to demonstrate the store's range of offerings.

What potential business competition is discussed at the dinner?

The potential competition between Selfridge's and Woolworth's stores in central London, specifically on Oxford Street.

What is Mrs. Selfridge's sentiment about family and friends?

She expresses a sense of loss for her family and friends, highlighting the sacrifices made for their current lifestyle.

What is Mr. Selfridge's stance on giving Miss Bunting a reference?

He refuses to give her a reference due to her past dishonesty.

What new sales strategy does Mr. Selfridge consider?

He considers discounting certain items around the store as an experiment to attract more customers.

What is the purpose of the soiree planned by Mrs. Selfridge?

The soiree is intended to introduce Rosalie Selfridge to eligible young men, although her mother wishes for her to marry for love.

How is the decision on Senior Assistant portrayed?

The decision reflects differing opinions on ambition and capability, ultimately choosing Miss Hawkins for her drive.

What is the outcome of Selfridge's first mid-season sale?

The sale is exceptionally successful, attracting a diverse customer base and leading to discussions on the importance of family over business.

Who is Roddy Temple and what is his role in the story?

Roddy Temple is a character who introduces personal and potentially scandalous intrigue through his interactions with the Selfridge family.

What lesson does Mr. Woolworth share with Mr. Selfridge?

He emphasizes the importance of family and personal happiness over business achievements.

Mr Selfridge episode 8