The royal family’s cherished greengrocers, Partridges, has announced the closure of its flagship store in Chelsea after 53 years of service.
On Tuesday, the family-run business, located in Duke of York Square, confirmed it will shut its doors on February 2.
Awarded a Royal Warrant by Queen Elizabeth in 1994 and another by King Charles just weeks ago, Partridges has been a trusted supplier to the royal family for decades.
John Shepherd, who co-founded the business with his late brother, Sir Richard Shepherd, shared his thoughts on the closure: “We are very sad to be leaving Chelsea after an incredible 53 years serving local residents. Although our Chelsea chapter is coming to an end, we are excited to develop Partridges in smaller, more sustainable shop formats across London.
“We are proud to have recently achieved carbon neutrality for both our Chelsea and Gloucester Road stores. We’ve received a new Royal Warrant from King Charles and supported hundreds of small artisan businesses through the fine food market on Duke of York Square nearly 1,000 Saturdays. We send our best wishes to all the traders for the future.
“Partridges has also been a positive force in the local community, raising over £30,000 for the Children’s Surgery Foundation and supporting various charities and good causes. Our success has been made possible by our dedicated and knowledgeable staff, whom we thank immensely for their years of service. We hope this is not goodbye and look forward to welcoming our customers to our Gloucester Road store.”
Partridges will continue operating from its Gloucester Road location, with plans to open a new shop in 2025. Known for its artisan offerings and weekly Saturday market on King’s Road, Partridges first captured Queen Elizabeth’s attention in 1991.
John Shepherd’s contributions to the Royal Warrant Holders Association include serving as its President in 2007 and Honorary Secretary from 2008 to 2013.
