Harrods to launch Westfield outlet to clear excess stock

Harrods has signed for an 80,000 sq ft outlet at Westfield London, W12, to sell a backlog of unsold goods. The luxury retailer said its two-storey outlet will also ease pressure on its Knightsbridge store, which will reopen on 15 June. The retailer did not disclose the precise lease length for the store but described it as “temporary”, with flexibility on timings “based on the need for social distancing”. Michael Ward, managing director of Harrods, said: “In the new world in which we find ourselves, the economy needs businesses willing to look at its business model and current operations and think differently to enable growth, while protecting its customers and employees.” “Harrods Outlet allows us to enable better social distancing across a larger footprint, move towards the new season decisively and confidently, and retail in a responsible way. Harrods has always sought to find creative solutions and has never been afraid to take the unexpected route.” Keith Mabbett, director of leasing for the UK and Italy at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, said: “While we redesign the flow and layout of our centres to adapt to new guidelines for their reopening on 15 June, creating a two story luxury store that responds specifically to the changes we face is a very exciting concept for us. “Harrods Outlet at Westfield London will be a huge draw for our existing customers while attracting new visitors too.” At the Knightsbridge store, the retailer is installing footfall monitoring technology to limit capacity. It will also establish clear signage, specific doors for entry and exit points, and enhanced cleaning and hygiene. Over the past year, Harrods has outlined a number of initiatives that has taken the core business out of Knightsbridge, including its first H Beauty concept store at intu Lakeside. To send feedback, e-mail pui-guan.man@egi.co.uk or tweet @PuiGuanM or @estatesgazette