news
Latest News The Royal Exchange is not only a luxury shopping destination located in the heart of the Square Mile; for hundreds of years, international businessmen, merchants and tradesmen have met within the columned courtyard, and this historical venue has been at the centre of the capital’s cultural and financial landscape since it was first erected in the sixteenth century. Throughout the summer and autumn months, The Royal Exchange has revived its connection to London’s cultural pulse through affiliation with exclusive events, charity occasions, luxury brands and the arts community.
SUMMER EVENTS
AUTUMN & WINTER CELEBRATIONS
May 2010 saw the arrival of 260 model elephants to iconic landmarks throughout the capital as part of The London Elephant Parade. Each miniature replica glittered with the decorative genius of the country’s leading artistic talent and was auctioned at the end of the event to raise funds for the conservation of Asian elephants. For one month, The Royal Exchange played host to four such creatures, designed by Cartier, Sir Paul Smith, Tarun Tahiliani and Benjamin Shine. In June, the whimsical storytellers of 40 Winks ventured outside of their East London hideaway to delight and bewitch guests with Tales of Wonder and Amazement. Two months later, American artist Todd White launched his WOMAN Collection at Artisan Fine Art Gallery. Artworks included a mischievous cocktail party of White’s favoured ‘femmes fatales’ from Hollywood’s Martini nightlife and a portrait of Princess Diana.
On 14 October, the building was taken over by the Samsung Pink Ribbon Celebration, raising awareness of breast cancer in Europe. Celebrity guests joined some remarkable people whose lives have been touched by the disease to enjoy a memorable evening and performance by Alexandra Burke. 2010 will draw to a close with the annual Christmas party on 23 November where the entire venue will come alive with festive spirit, music and entertainment.
FUTURE PLANS
EXCITING NEW ARRIVALS New arrivals include Bachet, the French fine jewellers, bringing classic pieces, created with white and black diamonds, to the heart of the City. We are delighted that David Bacher, the brand’s founder and renowned gemmologist chose to launch his first British boutique at the Royal Exchange. We have also welcomed Kiehl’s, the apothecary brand offering unique formulations created with natural ingredients. Both have proved exceptional additions to our unrivalled selection of luxury brands, cafés and restaurants. Opening soon we are delighted to welcome skincare and home spa experts Occo.
54
Next year, we plan to expand upon our programme of culture-led events, collaborating with the worlds of music, fashion, performing and visual arts, presenting the Royal Exchange in an entirely new light. In addition, the Royal Exchange will take its place alongside luxury car brand Jaguar, as one of the lead sponsors for London Jewellery Week 2011; the ideal platform for both established and emerging designers. the Royal Exchange will host the January launch and subsequent events in June. In the spring we will partner with Sunday Times Style to host ‘Work & The City’ for London’s women in business – this will be a two day event held exclusively for Style’s most dynamic female readers, featuring fashion workshops, seminars and networking opportunities.