Fortnum & Mason Tea and Fine Foods

Founded in 1707 by William Fortnum and Hugh Mason, Fortnum & Mason is an iconic British luxury department store and food brand headquartered in Piccadilly, London. Originally started as a small grocery shop, it became famous for its high-quality tea, hampers, and specialty foods, famously serving the British Royal Household for centuries.

While the brand is deeply rooted in London, its manufacturing footprint is diverse. Most of its famous teas are blended and packaged in the United Kingdom, and its luxury biscuits and preserves are produced by specialist British artisans. However, some raw ingredients—especially tea leaves—are sourced from international estates in China, India, and Sri Lanka to maintain their premium quality standards.

Today, Fortnum & Mason remains a privately held British institution. Since 1964, it has been owned by Wittington Investments Limited, which is the investment vehicle for the Weston family. This ownership structure places it in the same corporate group as Associated British Foods, though Fortnum & Mason operates as a distinct luxury entity focused on its heritage and gourmet retail presence.