For more than two decades, Kaual Patel has been serving up much more than everyday essentials at Torridon Convenience Store in Catford.

First bought by his father in 1984, Kaual took over the store in 2000 and has since built on his family’s legacy, making it a much-loved hub for the South East London community. Rooted in local connection, everyday service and community pride, Torridon Convenience Store has become a familiar fixture for customers across the area. 

For Kaual, the shop is also about supporting the wider community around him. Alongside major household brands, he champions independent producers from the surrounding area, giving local businesses a platform on his shelves. His mantra is simple: “If you’re a local producer, there’s a space on my shelf for you.”

It’s that dedication to his customers and community that makes independent business owners like Kaual Local Royalty. 

Kaual has been immortalised by acclaimed London-based portrait artist Nick Bashall, who has previously painted HRH Princess Anne as well as leading military figures during his time travelling to warzones. Nick painted Kaual live in Torridon Convenience Store, capturing him in the heart of the shop and surrounded by the community that has shaped the business.

His portrait joins those of three other independent business owners from across Great Britain, each painted by an artist who has previously received an official commission to paint a member of the Royal Family. 

Together, they form the Local Royalty exhibition at London’s Saatchi Gallery, shining a spotlight on the people behind the pubs, cafés, convenience stores and takeaways that play such an important role in everyday life.

As part of Local Royalty, Kaual will receive his finished portrait to keep and pass down through his family for generations. A donation will also be made to his chosen charity, Corbett Community Library, an independent library at the heart of the local community. 

Local Royalty is the third instalment in our campaign celebrating the impact of independent retail partners on their local communities and economies, following The Bosses and Counter Cultures.