Food Inc.

The restyle of department store Whiteley’s in Bayswater, west London continues with the opening of a new destination food hall on the ground floor. A cross between a premium supermarket and a farmers’ market , Food Inc. consists of 16 ’stalls’ including a glittering fresh fish counter, a cabinet of iced cupcakes, a patisserie and charcuterie.

Described as ‘Borough Market without the muddy wellies’, the design and branding of Food Inc. is clean and vibrant, with each stall generously spaced to allow a relaxed stroll between zones. This is the kind of customer experience that ‘i-am’ champions. The branding is clear and coherent, and the arrangement of stalls allows easy navigation. And then there’s the food. Sourced by a Head Chef as opposed to a Retail Manager, Food Inc.’s point of difference is in it’s restaurant approach to food retail. Visit www.food-inc.com. Food Inc. Whiteley’s Department Store, Queensway, London W2

The Hoxton Pony

Within stumbling distance of the ‘i-am’ studio, new hotspot The Hoxton Pony has opened. Despite East London’s Hoxton needing another trendy hangout like a hole in the head, the points of difference here include a cocktail list using organic, seasonal British produce, and a bar menu featuring suitably east-end grub (pie ‘n’ mash and jellied eels). The ‘i-am’ team also applaud the owners’ commitment to protecting the environment; you’ll notice several innovations including waterless urinals and no bottled water, making this an innovative aswell as ethical bar experience. Design-wise, we’re talking smoked mirrors alongside stainless steel and high-gloss lacquer surfaces. Nice. Visit www.thehoxtonpony.com