A series of serious allegations have emerged against former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed.
- The claims were detailed in a BBC documentary and podcast titled ‘Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods’.
- Thirteen women have accused Al Fayed of sexual abuse during his time as owner.
- Harrods has expressed deep remorse and issued a public apology to affected employees.
- Harrods assures it operates under a new management focused on employee welfare.
The recent airing of a BBC documentary titled ‘Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods’ has brought to light allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of the prestigious Harrods department store. The documentary shares the testimonies of thirteen women who allege that they were victims of sexual abuse committed by Al Fayed during his tenure from 1985 to 2010.
Following these revelations, Harrods publicly stated that they are ‘utterly appalled’ by the allegations, emphasizing that these actions were the result of an individual exploiting his position of power. The store took this opportunity to sincerely apologize to former employees who fell victim during this period, acknowledging the failings of the organization under Al Fayed’s ownership.
Additionally, Harrods has launched a webpage as a point of contact for past and present employees who may have been impacted, enabling them to pursue compensation claims promptly and avoid prolonged legal battles. This initiative underlines Harrods’ commitment to addressing these historical grievances efficiently.
In 2010, after Al Fayed sold Harrods to the Qatar Investment Authority, significant structural and managerial changes were implemented. Harrods has highlighted that today’s organization is markedly different, operating with an ethos centered around the welfare and rights of its employees. Harrods assures that the current management is devoted to ensuring that past misconduct is not repeated in the future, guided by present-day values.
Harrods stresses that while the store cannot change what happened under previous ownership, it remains dedicated to doing what is right and just by its standards today. The organization is actively engaging with affected individuals to provide resolutions and uphold the principles it now champions.
Harrods is taking decisive steps to address past allegations, reinforcing its dedication to integrity and employee welfare under new management.
