The name Harrod's is known throughout Europe and around the world for its dedication to service, and the highest possible quality. This is embodied in the store's motto, “Everything for Everyone Everywhere.” While the retailer has shops in fashionable districts and airports around the globe, the epicenter of this empire is the flagship store in Knightsbridge. It is here that shoppers flock every Christmas to marvel as the splendors available, then again descend on the great halls weeks later to pick through its world-famous annual sale. So how does a single store become this famous? It started with Charles Henry Harrod, who in 1849 opened a small shop in Knightsbrige. Harrod was already established as a successful grocer when he struck out on his own. He had the fortune of opening up shop in an area that was just becoming a haunt of the rich and famous. His new neighbors with their newly minted money learned of his store and his willingness to seek out the most incredible objects to fulfill their desires. Harrod had experience in tea imports, so this was a natural extension of his existing talents. Over time the grocery line expanded into glassware, linens, and objects d'art. As the business grew, so did the store, taking over adjacent properties as necessary until it took over the entire block and became the biggest store in London. The key to Harrod's success is simple, but it is a formula that has escaped other retailers -- high quality, consistant over time.

Photograph © London Tourist Board