Thomas Goode’s new chapter: British luxury finds an Indian custodian

As global luxury giants set their sights on India, a striking reversal is unfolding. Delhi-based businessman Shashank Bhagat has acquired Thomas Goode—a nearly 200-year-old symbol of British opulence—signalling a new era where heritage luxury finds fresh momentum under Indian stewardship.

British luxury tableware brand Thomas Goode, which was established in 1827 in London, has, for nearly two centuries, stood as the true symbol of luxury, sophistication, and craftsmanship. Synonymous with opulence and exclusivity, gracing the tables of royalty, dignitaries, and connoisseurs of fine living across the globe, the brand has been bought for an undisclosed sum by Bhagat who is  the chairman of BI Group.

Thomas Goode’s relationship with India began prior to the pandemic, with an early presence at The Oberoi Mumbai, a setting aligned with the brand’s longstanding association with hospitality, ceremony, and cultural patronage.

As the global environment shifted, the brand entered a phase of transition, presenting a rare opportunity for renewed custodianship. Bhagat and Angelique Dhama assumed responsibility for the India business. Recognising the enduring relevance of the house, Bhagat subsequently led the acquisition of the global brand, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Thomas Goode.

Throughout its storied history, Thomas Goode has served some of the most prestigious households in the world. Its creations have graced the tables of British royalty and aristocracy, bearing witness to countless moments of grandeur and celebration. According to the brand, this rich heritage is imbued in every piece it offers, making each item a piece of history.

However, the impact of Covid and the subsequent shutting down of stores is going to be the prime focus for Bhagat after he acquired the brand. “Historically there has only been one iconic store in Mayfair, London, which had to be shut during the pandemic. Now we are looking into opening in the U.K. first and then perhaps the US from where we’ve been receiving few enquiries.”

A brand holding two Royal Warrants—an exclusive distinction granted by a British monarch or senior royal to companies that have reliably supplied goods or services to the royal household for at least five of the past seven years—Thomas Goode has been the perfect choice for Buckingham Palace for many years. “With our first Royal Warrant granted by Queen Victoria in 1878, Thomas Goode has long been part of moments of real historical significance. When the Tsar of Russia visited Queen Victoria, and when Prince Charles married Lady Diana, it was Thomas Goode that was invited to create the dinner service. That’s the level of prestige the brand holds,” says Bhagat. “It’s a matter of prestige for us and we have also supplied to all the maharajas including the Maharaja of Baroda and Kota. And now the younger generation of the royalty is also showing growing interest in this brand.”

Thomas Goode opened its doors officially at The Oberoi New Delhi last year and Bhagat says the plan is to further consolidate its operations in this region. “North India accounts for a very large portion of the India business as many people from the North, including interior designers and architects, come to Delhi to shop,” says Bhagat. “Our business consists of three categories. Everything from the tabletop—porcelain, glassware and China—second, gifting and third, home décor. For home décor, Delhi is the largest market in the country, second would be Mumbai and then Hyderabad. We will reopen in Mumbai at some point and then go to South.” 

Bhagat says customisation accounts for 30% of the brands overall business and compared to other similar brands, Thomas Goode’s price points, provenance, and brand profile are much higher. “Our porcelain and bone China are made in England and glassware at the Czech Republic. This brand comes under BI Luxury in our portfolio of brands. And under BI Luxury we also have the Trident Residences... both complement each other,” he says. “As for the months ahead, in due course of time we will also introduce Thomas Goode hotels and branded residences as the brand and resonates well with ultra-high-end living and luxury interiors. I already have a UK firm developing this further. The brand has 200 years of archives for us to draw inspiration from, some of the finest curated things in the world!”

With this acquisition, Shashank Bhagat is not just preserving a legacy; he is reimagining it for a global audience through innovative approaches. From London’s historic Mayfair to the luxury corridors of Delhi, Thomas Goode is set to blend timeless craftsmanship with contemporary vision. With the brand now planning to extend its signature elegance and design ethos into Thomas Goode Hotels & Residences, offering curated ultra-luxury living experiences that echo its heritage, it is all set to take the luxury experience to a different level!