Partridges, the iconic Sloane Square grocer favored by celebrities, royals, and the affluent, is closing its flagship store after more than half a century, leaving loyal customers heartbroken. This closure comes as a surprise, especially following the recent bestowal of a Royal Warrant by King Charles, signifying the store’s esteemed status. The store, known for its gourmet delicacies, international products, and high-end offerings, will officially shut its doors on February 2nd, transferring its operations to its sister branch on Gloucester Road in Kensington. While the Sloane Square chapter concludes, owner John Shepherd emphasizes a commitment to a more sustainable future for Partridges, envisioning smaller store formats across London. He also highlighted the store’s recent achievement of carbon neutrality for both its Chelsea and Kensington locations, showcasing their commitment to environmental responsibility.
The closure marks the end of an era for the Sloane Square landmark, a fixture in the community for over 50 years. Patronized by generations of families, Partridges catered to a discerning clientele, offering everything from bird’s nest soup and gulls’ eggs to frozen jugged hare. The store’s deli was a particular draw, attracting celebrity chefs, members of parliament, and the mega-wealthy. The store boasted a roster of famous patrons, including former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and actresses Jane Asher and Sophie Winkleman. The weekly Saturday Fine Food Market, a hugely popular event attracting both locals and visitors, even drew royalty, with Princess Michael of Kent participating as a judge in the 2023 Partridges World Chelsea Bun Awards Bake-Off Competition, an event garnering international recognition.
Partridges’ royal connection began in 1991 with an order from Buckingham Palace, culminating in the prestigious Royal Warrant as grocers to Her Majesty the Queen three years later. The connection underscores the store’s high quality and dedication to excellence. Shepherd acknowledged the significance of the market, curated by the Partridges team for over 19 years, hosting nearly 1,000 markets and providing a launchpad for hundreds of startup artisan businesses. He expressed gratitude to the traders and wished them well for the future, underlining the positive impact Partridges has had on the local entrepreneurial community.
The future of the Saturday Fine Food Market has been secured, with property manager Cadogan taking over operations from February 8th, ensuring the continuation of this beloved community event. Cadogan will also take over the shop premises from mid-February. While the Sloane Square location is closing, Partridges loyalists can find solace in the proximity of the Gloucester Road branch, located just an eight-minute drive away. Those willing to navigate London’s transportation system can reach the Kensington store via a 35-minute walk or a 12-minute cycle.
Shepherd expressed sincere gratitude to the loyal Chelsea customers who have supported Partridges for over half a century, emphasizing the store’s role in serving multiple generations of families. This heartfelt acknowledgment highlights the deep connection Partridges forged with its community, a testament to the store’s enduring legacy. The closure of the Sloane Square store represents a significant loss for the neighborhood, marking the end of an era for a beloved institution deeply ingrained in the local fabric.
The transition to the Gloucester Road location signifies a new chapter for Partridges, offering the opportunity to build on its legacy in a different setting. While the change undoubtedly evokes sadness among long-time patrons, the continued operation of the Kensington branch ensures that the Partridges tradition of quality and excellence will endure. The focus on smaller, more sustainable store formats suggests an adaptation to evolving retail trends and a commitment to environmental responsibility. This strategic shift allows Partridges to maintain its presence in London’s vibrant food scene, albeit in a different capacity.
