Harrods of London

   Begun by Charles Henry Harrod in a poor area of London in 1835, Harrods Department Store moved near Knightsbridge London in 1949, and set the stage to become Europe's largest department store. With one million square feet of selling space, and known worldwide for quality and quantity, Harrods has a depth of product from apparel to gourmet foods. The Harrods Group, owner of Harrods, is comprised of H Bank, H Estates, H Casino, H Aviation, and Air Harrods.

   In 1883, a fire destroyed the establishment and the Harrods family rebuilt on a much grander scale. Although the family gave up control of the store in 1889, it was not until 1985 and the purchase of Harrods by the Al-Fayed brothers that significant renovations occurred.

   Due to pressure from animal rights groups in the 1980s, Harrods ceased selling furs and did not resume the sale of furs until 2000. In 2006, addressing the consumer demand for apparel for "furry four-legged" creatures, Harrods held a fashion event showcasing the latest in pet attire.

   See also Retailer.