London, UK – Ewan Venters, a name synonymous with British elegance and entrepreneurial flair, has spent the last two decades quietly redefining the world of luxury retail and hospitality. From helming iconic brands like Fortnum & Mason to spearheading artistic hospitality ventures at Artfarm, Venters has proven himself to be both a traditionalist and a trailblazer.
A Legacy of Taste at Fortnum & Mason
Venters’ tenure as CEO of Fortnum & Mason (2012–2020) marked a golden era for the centuries-old luxury department store. Under his leadership, the brand not only shattered records in sales and profitability but also expanded its global footprint. New openings at Heathrow, St Pancras, and even Dubai reflected a modern approach to retail, paired with Fortnum’s time-honoured values of quality, heritage, and experience.
“He understood how to take a brand deeply rooted in British history and turn it into a contemporary, global experience,” commented a former executive at Fortnum & Mason.
Artfarm: Where Hospitality Meets Art
In 2020, Venters joined Artfarm, the creative hospitality arm founded by art world powerhouses Iwan and Manuela Wirth. As CEO, he oversaw the transformation of The Fife Arms in Braemar into one of the UK’s most celebrated boutique hotels, seamlessly blending curated artwork with Highland hospitality. Under his direction, Artfarm also acquired The Groucho Club, London’s legendary Soho members’ club, ushering in a new era of cultural relevance.
Venters’ leadership style? Strategic, emotionally intelligent, and creatively daring.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter Begins
In September 2024, Venters announced his decision to step down as CEO of Artfarm, effective by January 2025. The announcement signals the end of a chapter—but certainly not the closing of the book. With various non-executive roles already under his belt, including positions with Double Dutch Ltd. and Bretton Investment Partnership Limited, industry insiders speculate his next move could span fashion, luxury tech, or even philanthropy.
A Personal Touch
Though known for his business acumen, Venters’ Instagram account (@ewanventers) offers a more personal glimpse into his world: snapshots of culinary delights, elegant interiors, and moments of inspiration that reflect his refined yet approachable taste.
From curating luxury hampers to orchestrating experiences that blur the line between art and hospitality, Ewan Venters continues to be one of the UK’s most quietly influential figures in luxury. And with the road ahead wide open, the best may be yet to come.