Harrods Apologizes for Ex-Owner's Alleged Sexual Abuse Spanning Decades
Harrods issues apology following sexual abuse allegations against former owner Mohamed Al Fayed. Lawyers represent 37 women, with claims spanning 25 years. Store acknowledges past failures and offers compensation.
Mohamed Al Fayed, the late Egyptian billionaire and former owner of Harrods, has been accused of sexual abuse by numerous former female employees. The allegations, spanning a 25-year period, have prompted the iconic London department store to issue an apology and acknowledge past failures in addressing these claims.
Lawyers representing 37 women have come forward with allegations against Al Fayed, including accusations of rape, attempted rape, and sexual abuse of minors. The number of accusers is expected to increase as more women feel empowered to share their experiences.
Harrods, founded in 1849 by Charles Henry Harrod, has long been a symbol of luxury and prestige in London. However, these allegations have cast a dark shadow over its glittering facade. The store, which occupies a 5-acre site and boasts over 330 departments, is now grappling with a troubling legacy from its former owner's tenure.
"Seeing his obituary just over a year ago triggered such a huge emotion. I could not believe that this monster had gotten away with his crime."
The allegations paint a disturbing picture of the work environment at Harrods during Al Fayed's ownership from 1985 to 2010. Women were reportedly subjected to inappropriate medical examinations and faced threats if they attempted to complain about the abuse.
In response to these revelations, Harrods has expressed its shock and offered a sincere apology. The store, now owned by the Qatar royal family's investment vehicle since 2010, emphasizes that it is a "very different organization" today. A compensation process has been established for current and former employees affected by these events.
It's worth noting that Harrods has a rich history beyond these troubling allegations. It was the first store in England to install an escalator in 1898 and the first UK store to sell televisions in 1938. The store's food halls, covering 4,000 square meters, are world-renowned.
As the legal process unfolds, victims' lawyers are calling for accountability and justice. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing workplace abuse and the long-lasting impact it can have on individuals and institutions alike.
