It’s been a long time coming, but Globe-Trotter is delighted to announce the opening of the new Flagship in Mayfair’s prestigious Burlington Arcade. Here, global flagship manager Michael Rodie takes us behind the scenes of the new boutique.
Why do you think Globe-Trotter is a good fit for Burlington Arcade?
Globe-Trotter and Burlington Arcade share many similarities, not only in the deep, rich heritage and history spanning well over a century, but also in the fact that they have stayed true to their traditions and methods throughout the years.
What can visitors expect at this store?
The look and feel of our new flagship store has had a total overhaul. Imagine a Georgian townhouse that belongs to an eccentric traveller, filled with memorabilia from their various escapades. Aside from the design, the store also now features a fully functional workshop on the shop floor where you can watch one of our skilled craftsmen carry out repairs on some of our clients’ more well-travelled pieces. In the basement, you will find our new intimate bespoke lounge where customers can escape the hustle and bustle of central London and enjoy a drink from our bar. We are all very excited about the opening as there is so much to explore and enjoy in our new home.
The brand has had a recent refresh. Can you tell us a little about this?
Much like the new store, the Globe-Trotter brand has adopted a new look and feel. It’s still the same Globe-Trotter that we all know and love, but it's evolving. Our North Star logo is still recognisable, but it has been given a fresh new look with a distinctive yellow and navy colourway. Along with this we have also introduced a 4-wheel suitcase system into our luggage collection, offering the convenience of modern travel while staying true to our heritage.
What unique services are available at this store?
We have always carried out on-site repairs but now you can be part of the experience. With our workshop situated on the shop floor, you can watch as one of our specialists carries out your repairs while you wait, giving you a glimpse of the traditional methods of craftsmanship that we have used for decades. We also offer an in-store personalised embossing service for small leather goods, such as luggage tags and passport covers. The newly-designed bespoke lounge will also feature a fully functional bar, so you can enjoy a glass of champagne or a cocktail while you wait for your repair and we pack up your purchases.
What are the key collections that are currently in store?
There are so many new additions to the range to explore. The one we are most excited about is the addition of 4-wheels across the range. Now you will have the option to buy your favourite case in either a 2 wheel or 4 wheel option. In the coming months we will have many new collaborations and seasonal collections landing, but the one I am most excited about is our in-store exclusive, The Burlington Collection. We have designed these cases in collaboration with the Arcade by really capturing their heritage and infusing it with our distinctive cases. The Beadles’ uniform is the source of the inspiration, taking the main colours from their formal regalia and creating beautiful combinations of navy and burgundy, along with the Burlington Arcade Rosette adorning the interior lining. This case is as unique as the Arcade is.
What do you like about the Mayfair neighbourhood?
Mayfair is perfectly situated in the heart of London, to the south you have the exciting area of Piccadilly and all the key landmarks it has to offer. But as you venture deeper into Mayfair, you find the quieter streets where things become a little more relaxed with the vastly different offerings, from Savile Row and Dover Street, to the historic Old Bond Street, which in fact never gets old.
Do you know any local hidden gems you could recommend?
The Paul Smith flagship store in Albemarle Street is such an unsuspecting store. From the front it looks like any fashion store but as you venture further in you discover a huge selection of art on offer, enticing you to visit their gallery in the basement with its ever-changing installations. There’s a cool little outdoor space with ivy draped all around, and one room has its walls completely covered in dominos. And if you go on the right day you might just catch Paul Smith himself riding around the store on a bicycle.
What are your hopes for the new store for the rest of 2021?
It goes without saying that we are very excited to have our customers back in the store. Although we have been assisting them, working remotely, it’s not quite the same as seeing them in person. Being avid travellers, we love hearing about our clients’ adventures and this is something that we really miss. We are also looking forward to having customers come in-store to tell us about their upcoming trips while we help them decide on which cases will be suited to their needs. Yes, we are helping visitors, but we get a lot out of this ourselves – believe me.
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