In the Paddington stories, Mr Gruber’s first name is Samuel. He is the kindly antique-shop owner who becomes one of Paddington’s closest friends in London.
Mr Gruber operates an antiques shop on Portobello Road and often invites Paddington for elevenses. Their conversations give Paddington opportunities to learn about British customs, history and unusual objects. Mr Gruber also understands Paddington’s immigrant experience because he came to Britain from Hungary.
The character is usually called Mr Gruber, so readers may remember his surname more readily than Samuel. He is not a member of the Brown family and is not Paddington’s employer; his role is that of a trusted friend and guide. The name Samuel is associated with the established Paddington character in the books and screen adaptations.