A London-listed property company that owns and manages shops, restaurants, homes and offices across Covent Garden, Carnaby, Soho and Chinatown in the West End.
Shaftesbury Capital owns and looks after a large part of London's West End: more than 600 buildings across Covent Garden, Carnaby, Soho and Chinatown, with about 2.7 million square feet of lettable space. The mix includes shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, apartments and offices. The company describes itself as the leading central London mixed-use REIT, which means a listed property company that owns a mix of building types and passes most of its rental income to shareholders. Its role is much like that of a landlord of a whole neighbourhood, which means choosing and supporting the businesses that give each street its character.
The company was formed in March 2023, when two long-standing West End landlords, Shaftesbury and Capital & Counties (known as Capco), merged. Capco had Covent Garden; Shaftesbury had much of Carnaby, Soho and Chinatown. Together they brought most of that area under one owner. The company states its purpose as investing to create thriving destinations in London's West End where people enjoy visiting, working and living. Its values, as listed on its news page, are integrity, creativity, collaboration, a responsible long-term outlook and making a difference. Ian Hawksworth is named as chief executive.
Everything Shaftesbury Capital does is in central London. Its streets include Covent Garden's Piazza and James Street, Carnaby Street, Soho's restaurants and theatres, and Chinatown. A company news item describes what it does day to day: it signs new shops and restaurants, such as Charlotte Tilbury, ALOHAS, Miffy, Cold Culture and Sheep Inc, and hospitality names including The Shaston Arms, Heard and ALTA. Its leasing director William Oliver spoke of demand from brands that offer an experience as well as products. That is the company's own account.
We did not read a people or culture page, so we cannot describe working life beyond the company's stated values. The same news release shows the creative side of the work: Soho is described as synonymous with culture, creativity and innovation and the centre of London's dining scene, and the team works with independent restaurateurs, chefs and fashion and beauty brands. A trade report from 2025 also says the company has a long-term partnership with a Norwegian investor for its Covent Garden estate, but we have left financial detail out.
The company employs property and asset managers, leasing and retail and restaurant specialists, development and project managers, marketing and events staff, finance and legal teams and people who work on the neighbourhood itself, such as street management and sustainability. If you enjoy fashion, food, retail, design or running events, there is a property career that uses those interests. Check the company's website for current vacancies.
Website: www.shaftesburycapital.com
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