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Sloane Street completes £46m transformation

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On this episode of Talking Shop I’m joined by Alain Bejjani—former Group CEO of Middle East retail giant Majid Al Futtaim, and author of the definitive new book, NEXT: Leading Through the New Realities. Drawing on his childhood in war-torn Beirut, and his experience steering a $9.5bn dollar retail and lifestyle empire through a global pandemic, Alain brings an unmatched perspective on leadership under pressure. Today, we break down his crisis survival playbook for retailers operating in distress. We discuss why resilience must always outpace efficiency, the four assets a brand must protect at all costs, and how to turn macro-turmoil into a long-term direction that scales.

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London’s luxury shopping destination Sloane Street has officially completed its £46m transformation after more than a decade of planning and extensive public consultation.

The project, funded by property manager Cadogan and delivered in partnership with Kensington and Chelsea Council, has created a green 1km long boulevard spanning from Knightsbridge to Sloane Square.

It said the transformation represents the “most significant” enhancement to Sloane Street’s streetscape in nearly 250 years, dating back to its original commissioning by the 1st Earl Cadogan in the 18th Century.

The transformation also includes 23% widening of the street’s pavements, silver-grey granite and bespoke brass studs that demarcate reconfigured parking and loading bays, handcrafted granite planters that act as a physical buffer between traffic and pedestrians while serving as a discreet security measure, a planting scheme of more than 100 trees, new street furniture and enhanced LED lighting.

Additionally, traffic calming measures, engraved wayfinding stones and increased crossing points have been introduced to support navigation and improve the pedestrian experience, while in-depth traffic modelling has ensured that vehicular flow “will not be impacted”.

The project was formally completed at a ceremony on 13 February 2025 as Lord Cadogan and councillor Elizabeth Campbell, leader of Kensington and Chelsea Council, laid the final commemorative stone.

Hugh Seaborn, chief executive of Cadogan, said: “This project marks a new era for Sloane Street, enhancing its elegance and timeless appeal as the epitome of a luxury destination that is equally ‘global yet local’ and will entice new visitors, while enriching the experience for the local community.

“The ‘new’ Sloane Street is defined by tradition and innovation, amplifying its inherent craftmanship, creativity and heritage. It seamlessly connects the experience created by the world’s most iconic fashion houses in-store out into the public realm. Every aspect has been meticulously considered, including the exact hue of Yorkstone that ensures the Street feels warm and welcomes everyone, residents and visitors alike.”

Campbell added: “As we aim to make and keep our borough’s streets the best in London, the new and improved Sloane Street is the standout example in our amazing spaces programme.

“This corner of Chelsea has always been very special – with a shopping experience to rival Paris and New York. Now it is even better, with spacious pavements and beautiful greenery creating a street that makes you want to stick around and enjoy the area. We are fortunate to have Cadogan as a partner, working with the Council to make these improvements happen.”

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