Great British Brands 2025

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Best Of British Q&A: Kalindi Juneja, CEO of PoB Hotels

• Favourite British brand? Such a tough one — Britain is home to so many brands that lead with integrity, creativity, and heritage. But Anya Hindmarch is a personal favourite. I love her blend of craftsmanship, humour, and imagination. She has a way of making everyday objects iconic — who else could turn a Cornflakes box or crisp packet into a handbag and make it look chic? Her evolution as a brand reflects what I value most — purpose, playfulness, and timeless style.

• Hero? There are so many British heroes who have shaped our nation — from those who’ve advanced science, reformed justice, or led with vision and compassion. Each has left a mark on the country we know today. But if I stay within the world of words, which continues to shape so much of how I think and communicate, I have to say William Shakespeare.

  As a former literature student, I’m still in awe of the way his work has not only defined British theatre and poetry, but transformed global literature, storytelling, and language itself. He didn’t just reflect the human condition — he gave it new vocabulary, rhythm, and depth. His characters feel alive centuries later; his themes remain startlingly relevant; and his influence threads through everything from politics to pop culture.

  To create work that is studied, quoted, reinterpreted, and still performed all over the world — 400 years later — is the very definition of timeless impact. Shakespeare didn’t just change Britain. He gave it a voice that still echoes around the world.

• Weekend? There’s nothing quite like a weekend at a British country house hotel. It’s a tradition we’ve perfected — and something I’m incredibly proud to champion through PoB Hotels. My ideal escape would begin with a long walk through the countryside (preferably involving sheep and a stone stile), followed by a spoiling lunch, an English sparkling wine or two, a massage, and curling up with a good book by the fire. It’s the kind of weekend that resets the soul — and nowhere does it better than Britain.

• Shop? It has to be Liberty London. It’s everything a shop should be — layered with history, bursting with colour, and filled with things you don’t need but desperately want. From the creaky wooden floors to the iconic prints, there’s something magical about it. It’s like wandering through a treasure chest — indulgent, eccentric, and deeply British.

• Undiscovered gem? Bruton in Somerset. A sleepy village turned cultural mecca — it’s quietly attracting artists, chefs, and wanderers with good taste. Between Hauser & Wirth, gorgeous gardens, and quietly excellent food, it’s a place that whispers rather than shouts — and I love that.

• British idiosyncrasy? Our love of talking about the weather — not just as a habit, but as a way of life. It’s our social lubricant, our icebreaker, our excuse and our comfort. ‘Bit grey today, isn’t it?’ is essentially British for ‘Hello, I’m here, I’m human.’

• Car? I’m choosing two. The classic Mini: small but mighty. It’s the car that proved size doesn’t matter when it comes to charm, and it’s still making people smile decades later. A true British icon.

  The Aston Martin: because who doesn’t want to feel like James Bond just popping to the shops? Effortless elegance with a thrill under the bonnet — it’s everything we love about being British: tradition, edge, and style.

• Book? Pride and Prejudice. Always. Jane Austen’s wit is sharper than a cheese knife, and her insight into social nuance, ambition, and the absurdities of class remains gloriously relevant. It’s more than a romance — it’s a masterclass in British understatement and the art of the perfectly timed put-down. Mr Darcy may get the headlines, but it’s Elizabeth Bennet’s spirit and independence that truly endure.

• What do we need to bring back to Britain? The great British tradition of disappearing for the summer. The French still do it — whole cities empty in August as everyone heads for the coast or countryside. Imagine if we all embraced that seasonal rhythm again. Shutters down, email off, bags packed for Cornwall or the Cotswolds. With the right mindset (and a very good hotel), August could become our national month of stillness, slowness, and salty air. Let’s bring back the art of the proper summer escape.

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