Harrods, Knightsbridge

Charles Henry Harrod was an established grocer and tea-merchant before he bought a small store in Knightsbridge in 1849. Harrod and his son ensured the success of their business with an unusually high level of service and meticulous attention to detail. These qualities combined with the increasing affluence of the Knightsbridge area meant that the store was soon able to expand.

Harrods was made a public limited company in 1889. The store now employed more than 200 staff and expanded from selling only groceries- they now sold furniture, perfumes and jewellery.

In 1902 the first section of the famous Brompton Road frontage was completed. Under the guidance of managing director Richard Burbidge Harrods had grown to the largest store in London. There were more than 2000 employees and the store now boasted 91 departments. It was at this time that Harrods adopted its motto ‘Everything for Everybody, Everywhere’ to reflect it’s now massive range of products on offer. Harrod introduced telephone sales and became the most popular department store in the country.

In 1959 Harrods was acquired by House of Fraser. The store continued to grow upwards and outwards, enveloping neighbouring buildings and converting upper floors into retail space.

Today Harrods is still considered one of the best department stores in the world and is considered a national institution by many. Despite its continued growth, Harrods has never compromised its promise for quality goods at the correct prices.