Floris London: The Historic Perfumer of 89 Jermyn Street

Origins and Founding Legacy

Floris London was founded in 1730 by Juan Famenias Floris, a Spanish immigrant from Menorca who settled in London’s fashionable St James’s quarter. Initially starting as a barber shop and maker of combs and shaving products, Floris soon began crafting perfumes inspired by the Mediterranean aromas of Juan’s youth. The flagship store at 89 Jermyn Street remains the original location and heart of the business, where the Floris family has continuously operated for nearly three centuries. This enduring legacy makes Floris the oldest independent family-run perfumer in the United Kingdom.

Royal Connections and Distinguished Clientele

Throughout its history, Floris has maintained close ties to British royalty and notable figures. The company holds multiple royal warrants, including those from Queen Elizabeth II and the Prince of Wales, reflecting its status as an official supplier of fragrances and toiletries to the royal household. Historic clients include Queen Victoria, Winston Churchill, Ian Fleming, Oscar Wilde, Florence Nightingale, and Marilyn Monroe, who famously purchased the signature Rose Geranium scent. These connections underscore Floris’s reputation for quality and prestige.

Historic Boutique and Timeless Craftsmanship

The boutique at 89 Jermyn Street features exquisite Spanish mahogany cabinets and glasswork acquired at the 1851 Great Exhibition, which remain a central feature of the store’s elegant interior. Until 1989, perfumes were produced on-site before production moved to a factory in Devon, opened by Princess Diana. The shop also houses a bespoke perfumery at its rear, where customers can create personalized fragrances with expert guidance, continuing a tradition of craftsmanship and innovation.

Fragrance Heritage and Signature Scents

Floris’s fragrance portfolio includes historic classics such as Limes, created in the 18th century, and contemporary favorites like Bergamotto di Positano, which inspired Meghan Markle’s bespoke wedding scent. The company’s archive contains leather-bound books documenting formulas and orders dating back centuries, preserving the art and science of perfumery through generations. Floris offers a range of unisex and gender-specific fragrances, maintaining a balance between tradition and modernity.

Visitor Experience and Cultural Significance

Visiting Floris London is stepping into a living museum of British perfumery. The boutique’s historic ambiance, combined with its rich collection of antique bottles, family portraits, and archival documents, offers an immersive journey through fragrance history. The Floris London Heritage Walk, starting at the shop, connects visitors to London’s iconic landmarks while exploring the scents that capture the essence of the city’s heritage.

Continuity and Innovation in a Family Business

Now managed by the 8th and 9th generations of the Floris family, the company exemplifies continuity and dedication to quality. While embracing modern production techniques, Floris remains committed to traditional methods, including hand-wrapping soaps and crafting bespoke fragrances. This blend of heritage and innovation ensures Floris London remains a distinguished name in luxury perfumery worldwide.