The Daily Telegraph, June 21, 2013
Harrods may be regarded as the quintessential London department store but following the opening of a Harrods in Italy committed customers have the opportunity to explore the company’s offerings in a completely new environment.
For the first time the brand will have a presence in Sardinia’s Prestige Village, a temporary luxury-shopping development located in Porto Cervo on the Costa Smeralda. Harrods will act as a host to a range of high-end concessions, with brands such as Chopard, Hublot, Bugatti, Maserati and Valentino all represented. Most of those present have a presence within the original Harrods; a small number of local Italian brands not widely available outside of the country will also be available.
Although Harrods operates outlets in various airports and shopping centres around the world, in locations such as Japan and Malaysia, this is the first time the brand has operated as a flagship presence for a new development. Harrods Group is now part of the Qatar Holding group of companies which also claims ownership of the Porto Cervo marina, where Prestige Village is located. Qatar Holding has said the development is the “first step” in its long-term commitment to the region and its residents. Harrods will remain as part of the Prestige Village until its closure on September 6 and should the endeavour prove a success it may be repeated next year.
Harrods at Porto Cervo. Image: Harrods
