This month’s Spotlight is about the iconic St Christopher’s Place – focusing on the leasing strategy that has increased footfall by 8% in the last quarter.

This buzzing enclave and historic piazza opposite Selfridges need no introduction.  St Christopher’s Place’s unique mix of innovative F&B and quirky boutiques – set adjacent to major global brands of Oxford St -has made it both a regular drop in for Londoners and a must-visit for tourists alike.

Bruce Gillingham Pollard has been appointed by landlord Columbia Threadneedle for 5 years as sole leasing agents, handling leasing across retail and F&B alongside the retail lease consultancy. This comprehensive service line allows us to take a holistic approach to our leasing strategy, offering well rounded advice to benefit the whole Estate.

So how has the leasing strategy of this iconic destination ensured St Christopher’s Place maintains its position in an increasingly competitive marketplace?

Give people reasons to visit throughout the day.

This was one of our key objectives when we were first instructed – create multiple reasons to visit. Grab a coffee from Ole & Steen as you pass by, hold a lunchtime meeting at Sunday In Brooklyn or treat yourself to an early evening manicure at Nail Luxury before meeting friends in Harry’s Bar.  When you create a dynamic blend of tenants driving footfall at different periods of the day –  you end up with consistent visitor numbers throughout the day, seven days a week.

Create a ‘one-stop’ location for office workers.

The opening of the Elizabeth Line, coupled with a post-covid increase in demand for centrally located office space, has driven strong demand from office occupiers in the West End, including those offices on the Estate.  By focusing on offering a range of amenities for the immediate office catchment – with boutique offerings including Adam Grooming Atelier, Angelique Wine House, Morena and Nail Luxury – the local office worker catchment can fulfil their ‘life admin’ thoughout the working day at St Christopher’s Place.

Create a unique identity with a blend of innovative independents and anchor brands.

Classic British hatmakers Christy’s and Carolina Wong Jewellers set alongside Whistles and L’Occitane has built a unique character for the retail at St Christopher’s Place, while simultaneously providing a range of price point. This selection of unique brands clustered together develops a point of difference, giving St Christopher’s a unique identity.

Prioritise UK market customers over tourists. 

Despite proximity to Selfridges and Oxford St and their large tourist footfall, we were clear that targeting domestic footfall should take priority in the F&B mix in St Christopher’s Place. By focusing on great London F&B brands such as Bao, Bone Daddies, Bar Kroketa and Flat Iron, we can rely on robust trading regardless of tourism trends. At this same time, this strong focus on London talent appeals to our international visitors who are drawn to the very best restaurants in London.

Current Opportunity:

We have a 4,000 sq ft. town house opportunity trading over 4 levels. This space may suit a retailer looking for treatment rooms, or a restaurateur looking for private dining or event space.

We are also seeking a healthy grab and go lunch operator to serve the immediate office catchment, in a unit of @ 1,000 sq.ft.  This is a key priority for an opening in January 2025.