Aron Sharpe first began his career in fashion as a buyer and area manager, before opening his first store at the age of 21.
In 1989, Aron founded Options – an all encompassing distribution company with an ethos of distributing high quality, well respected brands, all of which complement each other in their sector and within the showroom. Over the years he positioned and developed Replay, founded AG Jeans alongside Adriano Goldschneider as well as his own highly respected brand Hands with partner Piero Turk.
In recent years the business has developed to a European license and distribution model alongside e-commerce stores alongside children Joe who is director of sales and Bella who runs PR and marketing. Representing historical brands including Pendleton, Quoddy, Reyn Spooner, Dubbleware and others .
Aron is also the chairman of a London football club and sits on the FA Council.
We caught up with Aron Sharpe for the latest edition of our ‘My London’ interview series.
Favourite neighbourhood:
Islington. It has the right balance of London people: wealthy, less advantaged. Stores: artisanal and luxury.
Favourite place for brunch:
Sunday’s in Roman Way, Islington. Simply sensational, healthy and an eclectic crowd.
Best coffee in London:
Climpson & Sons Cafe, Broadway Market.
Favourite gallery or museum:
The Tate – an experience for its architecture as well as its ever changing exhibitions.
Tell us a secret:
I set up a charity with the aims of getting children back into sport and fitness. Building a sports and educational facility.
Favourite place to shop:
Liberty London. The only department store that keeps to its origin and still sells unique and individual artisanal products.
Favourite place to find inspiration:
As London becomes more gentrified and I become older its harder to find inspiration, however people watching in Shoreditch and London Fields is still interesting.
Best London destination for a date:
Scotts Mayfair – it’s opulent and the best seafood in London.
Favourite park:
Regents Park and Alexandra Palace. Parks should have boating lakes, games areas and be full of interesting people.
Favourite food market:
Borough Market, although a little pricey. Street Feast for pop ups.
Your sanctuary in the city:
My home with my wife and dogs.
What inspires you?
Life, we are here for a good time not a long time!
This season I’m loving…
Being able to socialise with my family and friends and wearing something (anything) smart – its been too long!
