Recent allegations against former Harrods owner, Mohamed Al Fayed, highlight significant concerns of historical sexual misconduct.
- Harrods confirms interaction with over 250 individuals relating to these allegations, clarifying their position.
- A BBC documentary, ‘Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods’, initiated further disclosures from affected women.
- Harrods emphasises that it has evolved from the organisation it was under Al Fayed’s ownership.
- The store has created a dedicated webpage to assist potential claimants in addressing their grievances.
Harrods, the renowned luxury department store, has acknowledged involvement with more than 250 individuals following historical allegations of sexual misconduct against its former owner, Mohamed Al Fayed. The store has made it clear that these interactions do not imply the settlement of claims, as speculated by various media sources.
The issue came to prominence following the release of a BBC documentary titled ‘Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods’, which aired testimonies from thirteen women alleging victimisation by Al Fayed during their time working at Harrods. This documentary painted Al Fayed as a ‘sexual predator’, a depiction that has stirred significant public and media attention.
In response to the allegations and ensuing documentary, Harrods acknowledged past failings towards its employees but highlighted its current status as a vastly different entity, distancing itself from the management style of Al Fayed between 1985 and 2010. The store’s ownership transferred to the Qatari Royal Family in 2010 through the Qatar Investment Authority, marked by a transaction valued around £1.5 billion.
To support those affected, Harrods has launched a webpage dedicated to current and former employees who believe they were subjected to misconduct by Al Fayed. This platform aims to facilitate the process of filing claims for compensation and to provide a channel for affected individuals to come forward.
The situation underscores Harrods’ attempt to rectify past grievances and redefine its organisational ethos.
