Harrods Seeks to Remove Al Fayed Sculptures

Background

Harrods, the prestigious London department store, has applied for permission from local authorities to remove sculptures of its disgraced former owner Mohamed Al Fayed from its interior. Founded as a grocery store in 1849, the renowned business aims to overhaul its Egyptian-themed hall and a five-floor escalator, which currently features busts of Al Fayed depicted as a pharaoh.

Controversial History

More than 20 female former Harrods employees accused the Egyptian billionaire, who died in 2023 at age 94, of sexually assaulting them. A police investigation into Al Fayed, opened following a documentary, is still ongoing. The alleged assaults took place at various locations, including Al Fayed's luxury apartment building in London, the Ritz hotel in Paris, which he owned, and Villa Windsor, the Parisian mansion that he rented.

Allegations and Investigations

The store has been settling claims by current and former employees and is now hoping to further erase Al Fayed’s mark on the business. The detailed application to the Kensington and Chelsea council in London says “the Egyptian Escalator explicitly celebrates Mr Al Fayed, including sixteen huge sculptures of his face.”

Current Ownership and Actions

Harrods, sold to Qatar Investment Authority in 2010, has distanced itself from its former owner. The application states that Al Fayed, who was born in Alexandria, drew on his Egyptian heritage in renovating the department store he purchased in 1985.

Future Plans

Harrods has invested heavily to return the store to its heritage while balancing the needs of modern retail. A decision on the application is due on October 22, and more than 100 survivors have so far entered the Harrods Redress scheme.