Harrods is addressing historical sexual misconduct allegations tied to former owner Mohamed Al Fayed, involving over 250 individuals.
- Recently, the BBC documentary “Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods” brought forward testimonies from women who worked at Harrods during Al Fayed’s tenure.
- Harrods clarified it is not in the process of settling 250 claims, contrary to some media reports.
- Company representatives emphasized Harrods’s transformation since its time under Al Fayed’s ownership, which concluded in 2010.
- A dedicated webpage has been established by Harrods for potential victims to submit claims for compensation.
In a significant development, luxury department store Harrods is engaging with more than 250 individuals following severe allegations of historical sexual misconduct related to Mohamed Al Fayed, their former proprietor. These allegations surfaced prominently after the airing of the BBC documentary titled “Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods”.
This documentary, released in September, featured harrowing testimonies from thirteen women who accused Al Fayed of misconduct during their tenure at the famed store. Al Fayed, who owned the store from 1985 to 2010, was depicted in the program as a “sexual predator,” with suggestions that some Harrods staff may have been complicit in covering up these actions.
In addressing these allegations, Harrods has clarified they are not amidst settling 250 claims against Al Fayed, as suggested by some media outlets like the BBC. Instead, the spokesperson highlighted that “over 250 individuals” are actively engaging with the process outlined by Harrods, aimed at addressing this misconduct.
Reflecting on its past, Harrods acknowledges its failures towards employees but assures a departure from its previous organizational culture under Al Fayed’s control. Harrods insists it is now a “very different organisation” compared to its structure during Al Fayed’s ownership era. This separation is emphasized by its purchase in 2010 by the Qatari Royal Family through the Qatar Investment Authority for approximately £1.5 billion.
In a proactive stance, Harrods has launched an online platform specifically for current and former employees to report any incidents of sexual misconduct attributed to Al Fayed, which can then proceed towards potential compensation claims.
Harrods is taking steps to address past allegations while reaffirming its transformation under new ownership.
