In the category of iconic British brands, Fortnum & Mason is certainly one of the higher profile entries. The department store has been situated at 181 Piccadilly since 1707 and has become a mecca for tourists keen to sample the best of British retail.
Now, for the first time in 307 years, the high quality goods retailer has announced that it will be launching a new store in the UK. The store will be located in the former ticket hall of St Pancras International Station and has been labelled a “prestige outlet” rather than a simple subsidiary business.
Fortnum & Mason have confirmed that a total of 25 jobs will be created by the initiative, which will hopefully be up and running as early as November. The 2,000 square foot space was chosen, according to sources within the business, as the historic brickwork and vaulting retains the character of the original building and “chimes with Fortnum’s own sense of tradition.”
As well as the obvious role as a train station, St Pancras International is also a popular retail location – meaning that Fortnum & Mason will be in excellent company. Common high street names such as Boots and Marks & Spencer mingle with independent boutiques, thus attracting a diverse consumer base which is sure to multiply with this exciting new development.
Chief executive of Fortnum & Mason, Ewan Venters, spoke of his enthusiasm for this latest project. He said; “St Pancras is London’s Grand Central Station.
“It’s a great opportunity. We feel the centre of gravity in London is moving north and east from Piccadilly.
“Thirty five million people a year go through the station, and nearly a quarter of these people are going there to shop rather than to travel.”
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the new property, at least for commuters, is that the brand’s iconic teashop will also be branching into St Pancras. A tablecloth tea service, with tables located both inside and outside the shop, will be on offer – and for the very first time, commuters will be able to have their luxury hot beverage on the move with a carry-out option capitalizing on hurried workers.
It is almost certain that Fortnum & Mason will remain a firm favourite with tourists and Londoners alike – in fact, the Royal Family are counted as honoured customers and three generations still visit the Piccadilly store to this day. However, the question is whether the aura of top-drawer British retailing at its best will carry over to the modern halls of St Pancras International.
Do you think Fortnum & Mason should consider further expansion into other London landmarks, or should the brand have remained a stand-alone British icon?
Previous Post
Is your Office Making you Ill?
