Signs that have sprung up around the Lloyd’s of London insurance market, suggest that Inga Beale, is already keeping the boys on their toes.
The first woman to lead the male-dominated City institution is a former rugby player with London Wasps and has taken no time in tackling health and well-being at the 326-year-old market.
“She even carries her own bag to the 12th floor, unlike some other people I can think of who made the waiters do it,” City Spy’s mole remarks.
Beale replaced Richard Ward as chief executive last month and has already impressed with her approachable manner. Perhaps it’s a good thing the legendary long liquid lunches enjoyed by some at the market have (mostly) been consigned to the past. Alcohol and exercise don’t mix well.
Property agents hit a rich London seam
Further evidence of London’s position as a top destination for the world’s richest people: a raft of top-end, über-luxury brands are clambering for space in the capital.
The latest clutch of names sell goods costing thousands. Richard Mille, purveyor of watches that can go for well over £100,000, is to open in Mount Street, Mayfair. Joining it in the same street is French handbags and luggage group Moynat. Owned by LVMH’s Bernard Arnault, it sells exotic skin handbags at £20,000.
Opposite Claridge’s, at 33 Davies Street, Paris-based cashmere specialist Franck Namani will open in June. It sells jumpers for hundreds of pounds each.
Property agent Peter Mace at Cushman & Wakefield, says: “London is now recognised as one of the most important retail capitals of the world. To give credibility to any luxury brand, they have to have a retail presence in the capital alongside other major cities such as Milan, Paris, New York and Tokyo. In short, it is a must-have location.”
And what is good for London is certainly good for the property agents who advise on these mega-deals.
Andy and Ed in head-to-head
To Portcullis House at Westminster, where City Spy spotted Asda chief executive Andy Clarke waiting patiently in the foyer. He was there to meet shadow chancellor Ed Balls, but it left Spy wondering who invited whom. Did Balls want to build up his business credentials? Or did Clarke want to raise personal grievances with the West Yorkshire MP, whose constituency sits just next to Asda’s HQ? Do tell.
