An independent, family-run food deli store which has been a fixture in Chelsea for more than 50 years is to close next month.
Partridges will cease trading in Duke of York Square on Sunday, February 2.
But its store at 17-19 Gloucester Road, Kensington – open since 1998 – will continue to trade as usual and a new store will be opening in autumn 2025.
The store has not given a reason for the decision.
A fine food store was the vision of Sir Richard Shepherd who studied at the LSE with Mick Jagger and founded the traditional food store on May 25, 1972.
Originally located on Sloane Street, Chelsea, its slogan has always been “Good things for the larder”. From the early days it was a convenient place to shop as it opened long hours and offered a free bicycle delivery service.
Owner John Shepherd (Picture: Partridges)
In 1981 Sir Richard’s younger brother John Shepherd took over the reins and continues to run the business today.
Partridges has expressed thanks to its many local Chelsea customers “for their loyal support over the years and all its staff for their extreme hard work and dedication.”
John Shepherd said: “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 looking forward to building Partridges in smaller and more sustainable shop formats across London.
All our yesterdays – the original Partridges store in Sloane Street pictured in 1972 (Picture: Partridges)
“We are very proud to have recently achieved carbon neutrality for both our Chelsea and Gloucester Road stores, we have received a new Royal Warrant from King Charles and we have supported several hundred small artisan businesses by creating and curating the fine food market on the Duke of York Square on nearly 1,000 Saturdays.
“Partridges has also been a force for good in the local community supporting many local charities and good causes and raising over £30,000 for the Children’s Surgery Foundation. At the heart of our success though lies our experienced and knowledgeable team of staff, who we thank enormously for all their years of service.
The store in all its glory – chock full of Christmas produce (Picture: Partridges)
“We hope that this is not goodbye and that many of our current customers will venture over to Gloucester Road to visit us there.”
Pictured top: The Partridges Store, which claims to be the home of the Chelsea bun (Picture: Partridges)