Latest news with #Fortnum&Mason
Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
UK's most iconic department store plots its first shops outside London after 318 years in business
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. Advertisement 2 The UK's most iconic department store plots its first shops outside London after 318 years in business Credit: Alamy 2 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. Advertisement 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'. Advertisement 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. The Viking Centre: Britain's first American-style mall faces demolition "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. Advertisement 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. Advertisement 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.
Powys County Times
10-06-2025
- Business
- Powys County Times
Pantri Swswen's award-winning marmalade stocked by Fortnum
A luxury marmalade made in Powys is being stocked at one of the Royal Family's favourite department stores after being named among the best in the world for its 'exceptional quality'. More than 3,000 jars of marmalade from over 30 countries worldwide including Iran, Hawaii and Japan were submitted to the annual Artisan World Marmalade Awards in Cumbria. The Gold Award-winning Ruby Grapefruit and Welsh Honey marmalade from Caersws -based preserve makers Pantri Swswen impressed the judges so much that it has been chosen by Fortnum & Mason as one of their top picks of the awards this year. The judges were impressed with the marmalade's appearance, colour, consistency, aroma and flavour, describing it as 'perfect', 'inviting and delicious' and 'like eating a ruby grapefruit and opening a jar of honey all at the same time'. RECOMMENDED READING Jars of the Powys-made marmalade, which narrowly missed out on taking the top prize at the Dalemain World Marmalade Awards and Festival, are now on sale as a limited edition in Fortnum & Mason's flagship Piccadilly store in London. Pantri Swswen also scooped another Gold Award for their Seville Orange and Welsh Apple Brandy marmalade. Launched by Lizzie Jones in 2012, Pantri Swswen has gone on to win multiple awards for their Welsh artisan preserves and cakes which are made in the village near Newtown. 'It is a real pleasure to have won these awards against such strong competition from all over the world,' Lizzie said. 'We have been making our luxury Welsh artisan preserves for many years and it is a great thrill to have received this recognition, and we are extremely proud to have our marmalade stocked by Fortnum & Mason in their flagship Piccadilly store. 'Making our Ruby Grapefruit and Welsh Honey Marmalade is a delight; it's made using fresh organic Ruby Grapefruit combined with raw Welsh Heather Honey from Bee Welsh Honey - a heavenly combination and a marmalade experience not to be missed." Beatrice Hasell-McCosh, Director of the Awards, said the artisan marmalades judged this year had been 'of exceptionally high standards'. 'This really is a competition of the giants of the preserving world,' she said. 'I know that Pantri Swswen will have huge success with their wonderful marmalade which was very justifiably recognised as one of the special jars in the competition.'
Daily Mirror
06-06-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
Eggs remain firm for weeks and not watery if stored in unlikely kitchen spot
The best way to store eggs is a contentious issue, while some people prefer to keep theirs in the fridge, others believe keeping them at room temperature is better The debate on the best way to store eggs rages on, with some Brits favouring the fridge and others leaving them out at room temperature. Unlike in the US where eggs must be refrigerated due to a washing process that strips their natural coating, UK eggs retain this layer, leading to varied storage habits. Dean Harper of Harper Fine Dining, known for his fusion of classic French methods and contemporary flair, insists on refrigeration for egg storage. He shared with the Express: "Warmer temperatures and frequent handling can speed up the decline of freshness-that's why it's said to treat your eggs gently." The gourmet chef elaborates, "On the other hand, keeping them consistently cold and undisturbed slows this down, and this method's stuck with me since my early culinary days." Lemons stay fresh for a month if kept in unlikely kitchen location For optimal freshness, Dean advises storing eggs between three and five degrees Celsius in the fridge's main compartment rather than the door. He explains that eggs should avoid the door due to the risk of faster deterioration from temperature changes, a valuable tip he has long adhered to: "Temperature fluctuations from opening and closing the door can cause the whites to break down faster. This is a tip I picked up ages ago, and it truly makes a difference." Watery egg whites can be a sign of ageing, as eggs lose carbon dioxide and moisture over time. Dean pointed out, "As an egg ages, it starts to lose moisture, and this affects the texture. Such changes can be subtle, but even a few days can affect your poached eggs." But it's not all down to the fridge when it comes to keeping eggs in tip-top condition at home. Dean highlighted that Fortnum & Mason always stores its eggs in cartons, explaining, "That's key. The carton helps prevent the eggs from absorbing strong odours from other foods and shields them from light, which can break them down faster." The culinary whizz shared, "What fascinates me is that sometimes, the simplest steps are often overlooked, yet they make all the difference in food quality." British Lion Eggs experts also recommend sticking with traditional egg cartons rather than fancy holders or even the fridge's egg shelf. The carton not only safeguards the eggs but also displays the best-before date. However, Sophie Trueman, UK&I Country Director for Too Good To Go, advises against using this date as an absolute guide for throwing away eggs. Sophie explained that these dates signal when eggs are at their optimal freshness, noting that Best Before dates, unlike Use by or Expiry dates which concern safety, allow for some leeway. A rotten egg will reveal itself once cracked open. Fresh eggs should smell neutral and clean, so if you catch a whiff of something sulphurous or just plain nasty, it's time to bin the egg. If the egg appears and smells alright, you can go ahead with a small taste test. Whip up a tiny bit and give it a try before deciding to consume the entire egg.
Daily Record
29-05-2025
- General
- Daily Record
Chef shares secret on 'best spot' to store eggs to stop whites turning watery
Eggs are a staple ingredient in most people's diets, but how you store them can affect their freshness. A chef has shared the best spot to keep eggs to stop the whites turning watery The debate on proper egg storage has stirred quite the conversation between those preferring to chill their eggs and others who stand by room-temperature storage. Unlike in the US, where eggs are washed and sanitised thereby requiring refrigeration, UK packaged eggs retain their natural protective coating, yet many Brits staunchly support keeping eggs in the fridge for extended freshness. Mastering a fusion of classical French cooking and contemporary gastronomy, Dean Harper of Harper Fine Dining is well versed in the science of food and ingredient preservation. He insists that eggs "should definitely be stored in the fridge, but not just anywhere." Speaking with the Express, he advised: "Warmer temperatures and frequent handling can speed up the decline of freshness-that's why it's said to treat your eggs gently." Emphasising consistent, undisturbed coolness for preserving egg quality, Dean shared a tip from his experiences: "On the other hand, keeping them consistently cold and undisturbed slows this down, and this method's stuck with me since my early culinary days." He strongly champions storing eggs in the colder climes of the fridge, recommended to be between three and five degrees Celsius (37F to 40F), for maintaining egg integrity. Revealing his insight into the ultimate refrigeration tactic, Dean highlights that the "best spot" for eggs is not the fridge door but the main compartment. Concluding his storage wisdom, Dean said: "Temperature fluctuations from opening and closing the door can cause the whites to break down faster. This is a tip I picked up ages ago, and it truly makes a difference", he divulged. Watery egg whites can occur as eggs become older, losing carbon dioxide and moisture. Dean added, "As an egg ages, it starts to lose moisture, and this affects the texture. Such changes can be subtle, but even a few days can affect your poached eggs." Preserving eggs in the fridge involves more than just temperature control. Dean pointed out that at Fortnum & Mason, eggs are always stored in cartons, explaining, "That's key. The carton helps prevent the eggs from absorbing strong odours from other foods and shields them from light, which can break them down faster." The food expert remarked, "What fascinates me is that sometimes, the simplest steps are often overlooked, yet they make all the difference in food quality." Egg storage experts at British Lion Eggs also advocate for using traditional egg cartons instead of trendy holders or even the fridge's dedicated egg shelf. The carton not only provides protection but also displays the best-before date, a guide to freshness rather than an absolute indicator for disposal, according to Sophie Trueman, UK&I Country Director at Too Good To Go. Sophie explains that Best Before dates suggest when eggs are most fresh, offering more leeway than Use by or Expiry dates that are tied to food safety. A bad egg becomes obvious once cracked open; it should smell neutral and clean. If there's a sulphur-like or foul odour, it's safer to bin the egg. If the egg appears and smells normal, you can carry out a small taste test. Whip up a tiny bit and give it a try before deciding to consume the entire egg.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Kate Middleton vs Meghan Markle: which royal is winning the beekeeping competition?
Feels like a brewing royal roulette! In a span of a week – give or take – two royals have enlisted the testament of their 'favorite' passion! It's 'bee-spoke' beekeeping! A hobby that was once well-known in the royal circle might have become a point of yet another royal rivalry! At least, it seems so. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Only a week back, Kate Middleton's (Catherine, Princess of Wales) Instagram account was abuzz with a beehive video to celebrate World Bee Day. The minimalist video was captioned as, 'Happy World Bee Day! Celebrating a small insect with a big job. Bees pollinate our flowers, plants and crops, support biodiversity and keep our ecosystems thriving.' Nearly a week from that, now, (Duchess of Sussex), has posted a story on her Instagram account, where she takes her daughter Princess Lilibet along for a visit to an apiary. Are the estranged trying to beat each other at their beekeeping game? Who's keeping the score? Let's take a look at their apiary track records: Kate Middleton's beekeeping endeavors Kate Middleton, known for her environmental advocacy, has also embraced beekeeping. And as it turns out, beekeeping is something that runs in Kate's family – from both sides. Princess of Wales shares the hobby not only with her younger brother, James Middleton, but also with her mother-in-law, Queen Camilla. In fact, the Princess of Wales keeps a hive at her country home, Anmer Hall. In 2021, on a visit to London's Natural History Museum to promote their Urban Nature Project, Kate Middleton brought a jar of honey from her hives for school children to taste. In 2023, Princess Catherine shared a photo of herself in a full beekeeping suit, brushing bees off of a honeycomb frame, via Instagram to honor World Bee Day, writing, "We are buzzing about #WorldBeeDay. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Bees are a vital part of our ecosystem and today is a great opportunity to raise awareness of the essential role bees and other pollinators play in keeping people and the planet healthy.' Queen Camilla and King Charles love a good garden-themed hobby, so it's no surprise they're also avid apiarists. The King keeps beehives at various royal properties such as Windsor Castle and also at his country retreat, Highgrove House, and The Queen once sold honey from her Wiltshire home, Ray Mill, at iconic London department store Fortnum & Mason. Queen Camilla even sells her honey at the British department store Fortnum & Mason, with all proceeds going to ShelterBox, a disaster relief organization that provides shelter and emergency tools. In fact, Camilla is such a bee enthusiast that she recently awarded a royal warrant to bee venom facialist Deborah Mitchell. Meghan Markle's beekeeping journey Meghan Markle has developed a strong interest in beekeeping, transforming part of her Montecito estate into a sanctuary for thousands of bees. In 'With Love, Meghan', the Duchess of Sussex shared her Royal-approved hobby while she showed off her pristine white beekeeping suit and hood. Meghan was seen being excited while walking into the apiary as she whispered in excitement while scraping honey from a tray, saying, "Look at how much honey we have!" In a scene from the lifestyle series, Markle is seen pulling honey from a live hive, saying, "It's like also that little reminder to do something that scares you a little bit. I think that's part of it, but I'm trying to stay in the calm of it. Because it's beautiful to be this connected." In fact, Meghan even used 'organic honey' in her kitchen throughout the run of the series. In the most recent social post, the Duchess of Sussex was seen approaching an apiary while holding her 3-year-old daughter's hand. The pair were dressed in matching beekeeper suits. However, apart from her lifestyle series, she has not been seen being involved in the process of extracting the honey. So, who's winning the beekeeping game so far? While there is no official beekeeping competition between Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton, their underlying rivalry has been much-discussed and pondered over. Well, the scoreboard is in your court, and it's up to you to decide – who takes the 'bee-spoke' prize! Kate Middleton Gives Unexpected Nod To Prince Harry & Meghan Markle's Wedding Anniversary
