100 Pall Mall

100 Pall Mall Entrance (click to enlarge)
Image from NBS SourceIn London, the Agency operated using the cover identity of AnaCord Electronics, located at 100 Pall Mall, Fourth Floor, St. James’s, Westminster, London SW1. AnaCord Electronics specialized in the import and export of electrical and electronic components.

This building, which is near London’s well-known Athenaeum Club, was constructed in the 1950s and has been renovated several times. Historic England has designated it as Grade II listed due to its history and architectural interest. It is within walking distance of St. James’s Square and the Piccadilly Circus station.

100 Pall Mall Building (click to enlarge)
Image from LoopNetAs befits a small international import/export firm, the AnaCord Electronics offices on the fourth floor are small, though not mean. The premises contain a lobby/reception area, a break area with a kitchenette, and three offices, one of which has been repurposed as a small conference room. There are shared restrooms in the building’s internal hallway.

AnaCord Electronics Lobby (click to enlarge). Image generated by ChatGPT.The office is maintained so that casual visitors have little reason to suspect that AnaCord Electronics is anything other than the modest London office of the U.S.-based international trading company. While extensive security measures are in place, they have been carefully disguised so as not to draw any attention. Since the few people staffing the office are often out in the field, ostensibly doing outside sales, the entire office suite is frequently kept locked.

AnaCord Director’s Office (click to enlarge). Image generated by ChatGPT.Unlike the significantly larger International Federal Film operation in Washington, AnaCord Electronics serves as a relatively small overseas bureau. Its limited size reflects its purpose: providing the Agency with a secure base of operations in London without requiring the extensive facilities maintained at headquarters.

This location, officially (but securely) known as the Agency London Bureau, is headed by a Bureau Director who is also a senior field agent. Two or three other field agents are also usually assigned, but there is no need for a full-time support staff. When administrative support is needed, the Agency temporarily assigns an agent to the role, requests assistance from the Embassy, or in cases where security compartmentalization can be maintained, hires a short-term worker from a local London staffing agency.