Our History - Where it all started

We opened our doors back in 1989 with our first store in Richmond-upon-Thames. Upturned packing crates and straw were used to display our pieces - we were, after all, merchants and travellers and we wanted to emphasise the idea of a 'pier' with our goods recently unpacked off the boat.

19 years later we've grown, and how! There are now 48 stores in the UK, and we're not stopping there. But our philosophy remains the same. Travelling is what makes us who we are. So whilst we no longer display on crates and straw, our stores are designed to feel like a marketplace, a bazaar somewhere exotic and far away brimming with literally hundreds of gorgeous and colourful products so that each time you shop with us, we share a bit of the romance and inspiration with you.