Graffiti Removal Project | London Borough of Islington

Table of Contents

Project Overview

A Pret a Manger store in Farringdon was targeted with obscene acid etched graffiti across its front facing windows. The damage was immediately visible to customers and passers by, creating both a reputational concern and an unpleasant public environment.

Due to the central location and constant customer access, the removal required a discreet, professional solution that could restore the glass without closing the store or restricting public entry.

Location

  • Area: Farringdon, London
  • Borough: London Borough of Islington
  • Property Type: Commercial
  • Client: Pret a Manger
  • Date Completed: July 2025

The Challenge

The graffiti was created using acid rather than paint, meaning the glass surface itself had been chemically etched. Standard graffiti cleaning products or scraping methods were unsuitable and risked worsening the damage.

The store remained open throughout the day, with continuous public access and customer footfall. All works needed to be completed safely, quietly, and without creating hazards or visual disruption.

Initial Assessment

Our technicians carried out a detailed on site inspection to assess the depth and extent of the acid etching across each window panel. Test areas were completed to confirm that the damage could be reduced and removed through specialist glass restoration rather than full replacement.

Access routes, customer flow, and safety considerations were reviewed to ensure the work could proceed without interfering with store operations.

Our Approach

A professional acid etched graffiti removal and glass polishing system was selected. This technique uses controlled abrasion and progressive refinement to remove etched markings while preserving the strength and clarity of the glass.

Protective measures were installed to shield customers and staff, with work carried out in a controlled manner during trading hours.

The Removal Process

Step 1: Preparation of the work area and protection of surrounding surfaces

Step 2: Precision polishing to reduce and remove etched graffiti

Step 3: Progressive refinement to restore transparency and uniformity

Step 4: Final inspection and quality check across all treated glass

Results

The obscene acid etched graffiti was successfully removed, restoring a clean and professional appearance to the store frontage. The glass retained its original clarity with no visible distortion or shadowing.

The work was completed without the need for window replacement, providing a faster and more cost effective solution for the client.

Before and After

Before: Obscene acid etched graffiti clearly visible across store windows
After: Etching removed and glass clarity fully restored

acid etched graffiti removal 1

Client Outcome

Pret a Manger was able to continue trading as normal while the restoration took place. The rapid response reduced customer exposure to offensive content and ensured the store maintained its professional brand presentation.

Why This Project Matters

This case study demonstrates how specialist acid etched graffiti removal can resolve severe glass damage without resorting to costly and disruptive window replacement, even in high traffic commercial environments.

Speak to a Specialist

If your commercial premises have been affected by acid etched graffiti, our team can assess the damage and deliver a safe, effective restoration solution.

Request a Graffiti Removal Quote