inspirational leaders
Respecting the past as store looks to the future Few sectors experience as much change as retail and department stores, in particular, face a constant challenge to innovate while also respecting what are often long traditions. Ensuring that the famous old name of Bentalls in Kingston survives and thrives in such a competitive market place is Jenny O’Donoghue, who has spent her career working in department stores. Having started out as a trainee at Harrods then gone onto work for House of Fraser, Jenny later moved to Fenwicks, which acquired the Bentalls group in 2001.
24
She became Fenwicks-Bentalls Regional Director in 2014 and added Bentalls in Kingston to the stores for which she is responsible in April 2016, taking the number of outlets under her leadership to five.
For Jenny, maintaining a balance between respect for the store’s long history dating back to 1867 and its need to compete in a modern world is crucial.
brands including Ted Baker, Gant, Diesel, DKNY, French Connection, Guess, Hugo Boss, Kurt Geiger, Longchamp, Paul Smith, Ralph Lauren and Coast.
Bentalls offers something for everyone, acting as a one-stop shop for fashion, beauty, homeware, appliances, electronics and food.
If you work up an appetite, you can visit Carluccio's, Caffe Nero, Restaurant on 3, Gelateria Danieli, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts or Satori Sushi & Gyoza Bar.
Shoppers can find fashion, handbags, beauty, menswear, childrenswear and homeware from the most sought-after
In addition, shoppers can treat themselves to an appointment at Clarins Red Room, Dermalogica, Glow Bar
BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community