this invention relates to a process for the preparation of acylated aromatic ethers , in particular the acylation of anisole and veratrole for the preparation of corresponding acylated aromatic ether , namely , p - methoxyacetophenone and 3 , 4 - dimethoxyacetophenone respectively , using clay based heterogeneous catalysts , and their lanthanide exchanged forms at moderate temperature and pressure with high selectivity .