A new specialist independent grocery store is set to open in Chelsea this May.The Chelsea Grocer will offer the best local produce, combined with the finest products from across the globe. The carefully designed space will feature a delicatessen counter, a wide selection of cakes and sweet treats, fresh seasonal flowers, a coffee bar and an extensive grocery offer – focused on quality, service and community.
Occupying a prominent 9,600sq ft site on Duke of York Square, opposite the Saatchi Gallery, it will continue the previous grocery use operated by Partridges, who took the decision to close earlier this year. The store will be managed by Raj Bathia, Founder of The Chelsea General Store on Pavilion Road and the Battersea General Store. With a long-standing commitment to sourcing the right products for the community and delivering exceptional customer service, Bathia brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the neighbourhood to the role.
Raj Bathia, manager of The Chelsea Grocer, comments: “I am incredibly excited to bring The Chelsea Grocer to life in such an iconic location, at the heart of a community I know so well. Our vision is to offer a warm, welcoming space filled with exceptional products and impeccable service from our team who really listen to customers and tailor our offer based on their feedback, from rare specialist products to everyday staples at competitive prices.
I have been in retail for over 20 years and this store is the culmination of my knowledge – I select every product personally, whether it is artisan bread, cheese and beer from suppliers around the corner, or rare Japanese whiskies and cookies from New York, with regular tastings to encourage the joy of discovery I would like everyone to feel when they walk in. I hope locals will keep popping in to find new inspiration, as well as grab the essentials. We are proud to continue the tradition of independent food retailing in Duke of York Square.”
Hugh Seaborn, CEO of Cadogan, says: “The Chelsea Grocer reflects Cadogan’s ongoing commitment to curating and championing independent, high-quality retail experiences for the local community. We were sad to see Partridges leave earlier this year and determined to keep this important local provision – Raj’s thoughtful approach and passion for excellent produce will ensure that it continues to thrive as one of London’s best independent grocers. We are pleased to support this exciting opening and look forward to The Chelsea Grocer becoming a new local favourite.”
The Chelsea Grocer will open on Friday 9th May at 10am, marked with live music and a series of tastings to welcome residents, visitors and food lovers to explore the new store. www.thechelseagrocer.
