While many Brits complain about needing another holiday shortly after returning from one, one Melbourne business owner presents a stark contrast, having not taken a single day off work in 36 years.
A Local Legend's Unbroken Work Ethic
Vietnamese tailor Nam Huynh has been operating his family enterprise, Dejour Jeans, from his Brunswick East shop in Melbourne for more than three decades. Known locally as a legend, Huynh has worked every single day since 1989, crafting custom denim jeans for generations of loyal customers.
His remarkable dedication means he has worked for over 13,000 consecutive days. Speaking to The Fox's Fifi, Fev & Nick radio show, Nam revealed his profound love for his business, which has kept him going without a break for 36 years.
Co-host Fifi Box expressed amazement, asking: "This is so impressive. Not one day off... have you pushed through sickness, personal things, you just keep working?"
The Seven-Day Work Week Routine
Nam's commitment extends to a rigorous seven-day schedule. He spends six days each week in his retail shop on Sydney Road, with his so-called 'seventh day' dedicated to working in his warehouse, designing new jeans and preparing stock for the coming week.
When co-host Brendan Fevola inquired if he ever goes out for dinner or enjoys leisure activities after work, Nam simply replied: "No." He explained: "All work... after working all day, I feel tired, I want to go home and relax."
"I love my work. To me, a day off or not, I don't mind," he told the radio hosts. Reflecting on his decades of labour, Nam believes he has produced millions of pairs of jeans.
Cult Following and Customer Devotion
Dejour Jeans has attracted a substantial cult following, with shoppers frequently queuing to acquire its famously crafted denim. The brand boasts an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars from more than 680 glowing reviews.
One satisfied customer declared them the "best fitting jeans I have ever worn for very reasonable prices," while another shared: "Never had a pair of jeans that fit so well and the quality is amazing."
What truly distinguishes Dejour Jeans from competitors is its policy of free alterations, included in the reasonable price of around £75-£85 per pair. One shopper praised the "efficient and professional service," noting that their tailored jeans were ready within an hour.
When asked about popular styles, Nam identified wide-leg and high-waisted jeans as current best-sellers. As for when he might finally take a break, the dedicated businessman stated: "I will wait until customers are sick of me and then I will take a day off."
