The United Kingdom is in mourning after the death of its Queen Elizabeth II, and retailers and brands have taken to Twitter to send their condolences. Some retailers go a step further and close their shops or cancel events as a mark of respect.
Stores closed
After seventy years on the throne, the United Kingdom has lost its Queen. The country is in mourning after the death of Queen Elizabeth II, and brands and retailers step in as well. Or as Harrods, another British icon, put it on Instagram: “We stand with the entire nation in grief on the passing of Her Majesty the Queen.”
“Her Majesty stood as a symbol of Britain, bringing comfort, leadership and steadfastness to millions during her 70-year reign”, the London department store continued. Harrods will remain closed in tribute on the day of the state funeral. That day, possibly Monday 19 September, is likely to be declared a bank holiday. On that day, many shops may limit their opening hours, although they are free not to do so.
Another British luxury department store, Selfridges, has already closed its doors as soon as the news broke. Stores remained closed today, but would open again this weekend. Leather goods brand Mulberry also closed its shops today. There is, however, no obligation to close: according to the meticulously worked out script of the royal family, it is up to the companies themselves to choose what to do after the death of the head of state. For example, British supermarkets are currently staying open.
London Fashion Week goes ahead
For the British fashion industry, the passing of the Queen comes at an unfortunate time, with London Fashion Week planned for next week. Despite the ten days of mourning that have now been announced across the country and the large crowds that are expected to flock to London in the coming days – to pay their last respects to the Queen and certainly for the state funeral – the British Fashion Council is allowing the event to go ahead.
“London Fashion Week is a business-to-business event, and an important moment for designers to show their collections at a specific moment in the fashion calendar”, the organisation responded in a statement. In recognition of the work that goes into preparations, the fashion week will go ahead. However, the BFC advises against opening parties and receptions. Burberry has already cancelled its own fashion show out of respect for the Queen; other brands may follow suit.
