The Grenadier pub in Belgravia is where Sir Jim Ratcliffe first came up with the idea
The Grenadier pub in Belgravia has been officially recognised as the birthplace of the Ineos Grenadier after receiving World Origin Site status.
The London pub is where Sir Jim Ratcliffe first came up with the idea for a purpose-built 4x4 while meeting friends over drinks, with the original concept reportedly sketched onto a £5 note and pinned to the ceiling.
The World Origin Site organisation awards commemorative plaques to locations linked to significant products, inventions and cultural milestones. Other recognised sites include the birthplace of the Supermarine Spitfire and Brooklands motor racing circuit.
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Ineos said the Grenadier is the first vehicle to receive the organisation’s distinctive green plaque.
Since entering production three years ago, the Grenadier has grown into a global off-road brand, with more than 36,000 vehicles delivered across over 50 international markets including Europe, North America, Australia and the Middle East.
Lynn Calder, chief executive of Ineos Automotive, said the recognition reflected the unusual origins of the vehicle.
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“What started as an idea among 4X4 enthusiasts in their favourite London pub has become a global phenomenon for those who seek adventure and the road less travelled,” she said.
Ineos Automotive has also appointed Sanka De Silva as regional director for the UK and Ireland.
De Silva joins from Kia UK and will oversee commercial operations, retail network expansion and fleet growth for the Grenadier brand in its home market. Ineos said the appointment comes as the business records its strongest-ever quarter, with sales rising 20% year-on-year during Q1 2026.
