Gandys, a renowned British brand, has launched its flagship store in London’s vibrant Covent Garden.
- Established by brothers Rob and Paul Forkan, the brand focuses on giving back to global communities.
- The store at 66 Neal Street features a distinctive range of travel-inspired products.
- Gandys commits 10% of each order to its foundation supporting education for underprivileged children.
- The new location also features items from small conceptual brands and a unique travel book library.
Gandys, known for its charitable initiatives, has inaugurated its first physical store in London’s bustling Covent Garden. This opening marks a significant milestone for the brand, which was founded by Rob and Paul Forkan. These entrepreneurs, who tragically lost their parents in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, are committed to philanthropy. They have pledged 10% of every order to the Gandys Foundation, aiming to provide educational support to underprivileged children in regions like Sri Lanka, Malawi, and Mongolia. The foundation has successfully raised over £600,000 till now, reflecting the brand’s dedication to social responsibility.
The store, located at 66 Neal Street, offers a diverse collection of travel-inspired products including backpacks, waterproof coats, hats, and accessories. The aim is to provide quality and functionality blended with a spirit of adventure. According to Managing Director Natalie Nelson, the intent is to create a space where customers can not only appreciate the collections but also learn about the brand’s global community support efforts.
Nick Robertson, co-founder of Asos and chair of Gandys International, is also lending his expertise to the venture. This adds a layer of retail experience and strategy to the brand’s expansion.
Apart from the Gandys’ own range, the store features a curated selection of items from smaller conceptual brands. Notable mentions include Nalgene Water Bottles and Cocoon ecological travel towels. This selection broadens the store’s appeal by offering unique and eco-friendly products.
Additionally, the store boasts a travel library area, which serves as an innovative point of interest for customers. Here, visitors can explore a collection of travel books, adding an educational facet to their shopping experience and inspiring their future adventures.
The new Gandys flagship store not only offers diverse products but also strengthens its philanthropic mission, supporting global educational initiatives.