UK's most iconic department store plots its first shops outside London after 318 years in business

Scottish Sun

16-06-2025

Plus UK stores returning to the High Street
SHOP TO IT UK's most iconic department store plots its first shops outside London after 318 years in business
THE UK's most iconic department store plots its first shops outside London after 318 years in business.
The upmarket store currently has four UK stores that are all based in the capital.
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The UK's most iconic department store plots its first shops outside London after 318 years in business
Credit: Alamy
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The department store is well known for its luxury products
Credit: Alamy
Fortnum & Mason was established 318 years ago in 1707 and was founded by William Fortnum, a footman for Queen Anne, and Hugh Mason, his landlord.
The pair started operating from a small store in St James Market and a spare room in Mason's house.
The store quickly became known for its innovative and high-quality products, appealing to the tastes of the affluent and aristocratic clientele.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Fortnum & Mason expanded its offerings, becoming a purveyor of fine foods, wines, and spirits.
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Currently, Fortnum & Mason has stores in Piccadilly, St Pancras station, the Royal Exchange in Bank and in Heathrow Terminal.
But now the upmarket department store is thinking about venturing outside of the capital.
The retailer said earlier this year that it was no longer seen as a 'Christmas focused' business as shoppers were snapping up its luxury food products to 'stock their own larders' throughout the year.
The retailer's chief executive Tom Athron told The Telegraph that he would be interested in having branches 'up the spine of the country'.
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He said the business would look at sites in a 'beautiful location' with 'beautiful architecture'.
'This isn't about ubiquity. But there are other locations across the country where we think that Fortnum could offer both retail and restaurants, where it would be relevant.
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"And we're looking at those now,' Athron said.
The news comes as the retailer says there is a surge in demand for its luxury teas, biscuits and jam.
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The store underwent a significant refurbishment in 2007, celebrating its 300th anniversary with a rejuvenated look that honoured its storied past.
History of Fortnum & Mason
Fortnum & Mason was established 318 years ago in 1707.
It was founded by William Fortnum, a footman for Queen Anne, and Hugh Mason, his landlord.
The pair started operating from a small store in St James Market and a spare room in Mason's house.
The department store eventually set up shop at its current location at 181 Piccadilly.
One of Fortnum & Mason's earliest claims to fame was its invention of the Scotch egg in 1738, a portable and filling snack ideal for travellers.
The store quickly became known for its innovative and high-quality products, appealing to the tastes of the affluent and aristocratic clientele.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Fortnum & Mason expanded its offerings, becoming a purveyor of fine foods, wines, and spirits.
It was also during this period that the store became renowned for its hampers, which were meticulously curated and became a staple of British festivities and picnics.
These hampers were often sent to British troops during times of conflict, providing a comforting taste of home.
By the Victorian era, Fortnum & Mason had firmly established itself as a symbol of British luxury.
The store's association with the royal family was further cemented when it was granted its first Royal Warrant by Queen Victoria.
This distinguished honour recognised Fortnum's as a supplier of goods to the royal household, a tradition that continues to this day.
The 20th century saw Fortnum & Mason adapting to the changing times while maintaining its commitment to quality and tradition.
During both World Wars, the store remained open, offering solace and a sense of continuity to Londoners. Post-war, the store further diversified its range, introducing new departments and expanding its international reach.
In more recent years, Fortnum & Mason has continued to evolve, embracing modernity while preserving its heritage.
The store underwent a significant refurbishment in 2007, celebrating its 300th anniversary with a rejuvenated look that honoured its storied past.
Today, it offers a wide array of products, from gourmet foods and fine teas to exquisite homewares and beauty products.
It offers a wide array of products, from gourmet foods and fine teas to exquisite homewares and beauty products.
Meanwhile, a popular British retailer has returned to the high street after collapsing into administration is set to open more shops.
Earlier this year ASOS also revealed plans to relaunch a Topshop website.
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And major brand Wilko is already back on the high street after closing 400 stores in 2023.
Its new owners, CDS Superstores, have opened branches across the UK.