West London, an area synonymous with affluence, creativity, and a rich historical tapestry, has long been a crucible for brands that have not only achieved national acclaim but have also left an indelible mark on the global stage. From the distinguished halls of luxury retail to the pioneering spirit of its creative industries and the enduring traditions of its local breweries, West London boasts a diverse portfolio of iconic names.
The Epitome of Luxury Retail: Harrods
Perhaps no single name is more globally synonymous with West London luxury than Harrods. Located in Knightsbridge, this iconic department store began its journey when Charles Henry Harrod opened a small grocery store in 1834, relocating to its current Knightsbridge site in 1849. Over the decades, Harrods transformed into a symbol of excellence and a purveyor of the world’s finest goods. Its defining moment came in 1883 when, despite the store burning down, all Christmas orders were fulfilled, embedding a culture of making the “impossible possible”. The Harrods brand is recognised worldwide, offering a transformative experience to millions of domestic and international visitors annually, a testament to its enduring legacy in luxury retail.
West London’s Sartorial Scene
West London has also been a significant launchpad for contemporary fashion brands.
Orlebar Brown, founded by photographer Adam Brown in 2007, carved a unique niche with its tailored approach to men’s swimwear. The brand began with the idea of creating a swim short that men could also wear smartly for lunch or at a bar, moving away from the then-prevalent scruffy board shorts. It rapidly expanded its offerings beyond swimwear to include a full range of resort wear, including its popular men’s designer polo shirts, and gained international recognition, particularly after a pair of its shorts were famously worn by Daniel Craig as James Bond in Skyfall.
Today, there are Orlebar Brown retail outlets all over the world, including one in Selfridges & Co on Oxford Street, West London.
A Brewing Heritage
In the realm of brewing, Fuller, Smith & Turner’s Griffin Brewery in Chiswick stands as a testament to West London’s rich industrial heritage. Though the brewing operations were sold to Asahi in 2019, the Fuller’s brand continues to symbolise British brewing heritage and its strong association with London’s pub culture. The historic brewery has remained largely unchanged externally, a beacon of tradition in an ever-evolving city.
Cinematic and Creative Powerhouse: Ealing Studios and Beyond
West London’s contribution to the creative industries, particularly film and television, is monumental, with Ealing Studios at its forefront. Acquired by Will Barker for filmmaking in 1902, it is the oldest continuously working studio facility for film production in the world.
The wider West London area has historically been a strong base for the film and TV industry and continues to see growth in creative businesses, from large corporations to numerous small businesses and freelancers.
A Confluence of Innovation and Tradition
The iconic brands born and nurtured in West London reflect a dynamic interplay of tradition and innovation, and these entities have not only shaped their respective industries but have also significantly contributed to the unique cultural and economic fabric of this distinguished part of the capital.
