The quasi quantitative and regioselective bromination of O-(2,3,4,6-te
tra-O-acetyl-beta-D-glucopyranosyl) phenols is described. The orientat
ing effect of the glycoside group is compared with those of other oxyg
enated groups and its usefulness illustrated with examples. These brom
o-glycoslyated aromatics are able to react with alkenes via a Heck rea
ction and could be used for the synthesis of natural products.