Online watch retailer opens first bricks and mortar store in Richmond, London

Watch specialist retailer WatchPilot is set to open its first high street store on November 3, at 6 George Street, Richmond, London, becoming a bricks and mortar retailer to complement its online presence.

Founded in 2020 at the beginning of Covid19 pandemic by Tim Harrison and Akbar Hussain, WatchPilot launched online with success and has added new brands to the platform monthly.

Now, along with “affordable and high-end” timepieces, the new bricks and mortar store will showcase more than 30 brands of watches and seek to employ “highly experienced and knowledgeable” staff.

The retail store was inspired by a chance meeting between Tim and Akbar and their long-standing passion for watches, each having an extensive collection. The original plan was to open a physical store much sooner but due to the Covid-19 pandemic, plans were pushed so they continued to build on the website offerings.

Tim Harrison, co-founder and co-director, commented: “We will continue to grow our online presence however particularly within the luxury side of watch retail there will always be demand for a premium in store experience. If our initial Richmond store proves successful, we are open to replicating the concept in other similar locations.”

“We will provide a premium shopping service delivered by a staff of watch experts in a relaxed modern retail environment. “

Akbar Hussain, co-founder and co-director, added: “We are looking to deliver a local retail alternative in the Richmond area which will offer leading Swiss as well as fashion brands along with smaller niche brands that do not gain the visibility they deserve in major national retailers.”

WatchPilot has worked with Redd Retail Group, an international design and display company specialising in the watch, jewellery and accessories categories, to help design and provide a concept store which will allow shoppers to browse with ease whilst also providing “comfortable consultation areas” where watch experts can provide advice.

Stephen Kane and Company, property surveyors and consultants, helped source the location and advised on the transaction. The new retail location will also offer 13 brands of designer and sport sunglasses.

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

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