Global brands launch trio of flagships in Seven Dials

Following a strong year of brand signings and openings, Shaftesbury has officially launched a further three international fashion and accessory retailers in Seven Dials: Indian leatherwear label Kompanero, and Scandinavian brands Nudie Jeans and Rains. Each of the three global brands have selected Seven Dials for flagship UK sites, in the heart of London’s West End.

Marking the brand’s UK debut, Kompanero open its doors on Sunday 15 December at 53 Neal Street. Taking its name from the Spanish word for ‘companion’, the Kolkota-based brand specialises in timeless bags made from ethically manufactured leather and natural, sustainable materials. Launching in time for the Christmas season, the opening is a milestone within the label’s European expansion strategy.

57-59 Monmouth Street is now home to cult Swedish brand Nudie Jeans, which pioneers
sustainable denim through ethical production processes, an upcycling re-use program, and a free repair service which features at the new store.

Completing the trio, Rains has launched at 20 Earlham Street with a 700 sq ft store which is the Danish label’s third in London and will be the primary concept space to host events, customisation, exclusives and any limited-edition collections. Designed to reflect Rains’ Scandinavian character, the store will offer the full collection of signature outerwear, along with the brand’s collection of waterproof apparel, bags and accessories.

Samantha Bain-Mollison, group retail strategy & leasing at Shaftesbury commented on the openings: “The line-up of new international brands we’ve welcomed to Seven Dials throughout 2019 has been so exciting, and reflects our strategy of curating unique, cult-status retailers at the destination. We’re ending the year on a high note with this trio of flagships, each of will further strengthen the Seven Dials community, and set it apart as a prime destination.”

Daniel Brix Hesselager, co-founder and head of retail at Rains added: “Seven Dials is a natural home for our flagship UK store. The store provides a great showroom space for our collection and we are in very good company, neighboured by like-minded, global brands which also prioritise premium design and craftsmanship. We look forward to getting better-acquainted with our London customers.”

These global signings follow a raft of fashion, beauty and lifestyle entrants to Seven Dials for 2019, including contemporary womenswear labels L.F. Markey and Emin + Paul, menswear hub Oi Polloi, and activewear boutique Fashercise. Monmouth Street has also recently welcomed cult beauty brand Aesop, while international gallery concept LUMAS recently launched its new flagship London location on Earlham Street, overlooking the iconic Sundial Pillar.