New service launched to help indies set up shop in London’s West End

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Nov 26, 2018

Central London landowner Grosvenor has introduced a new retail concierge service to help smaller, independent retailers build a high street presence in the West End.

The company is trying to attract more independent brands to the area, which includes high-footfall streets and neighbourhoods such as Mayfair and Belgravia.

Designer brands and high-end retailers including Balenciaga, Celine, Lanvin, Jenny Packham and Christian Louboutin have stores there, but Grosvenor said there is also a large representation of independent brands.

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“With so many young and independent brands on the estate we are acutely aware of the stress and time that is involved in launching a store. Our Retail Concierge Service makes it a lot easier for ambitious retailers to take new space. We provide critical support and infrastructure in a cost effective and collaborative way, preventing the most common mistakes and accidental overspends, which can be damaging to a small, cost sensitive, brand,” said Tor Burrows, director of placemaking at Grosvenor Britain & Ireland.

The company has also recently opened a pop-up multi-brand concept store on Duke Street, Mayfair with a selection of six independent menswear, womenswear and accessories brands. The North Mayfair Emporium trials a new leasing model that makes it easier for small brands to showcase their collections in the heart of the West End.

Due to run until the end of December, the North Mayfair Emporium offers men’s and women’s clothing, gifts, eyewear and accessories from brands including Bailey Nelson, Lumitrix, Roscomar, Sons of London, Winser London and Youpeople.