Selfridges Officially Best in the World
Selfridges has made history by becoming the first department store to be named best in the world three times. The London landmark beat off competition from US chain Macy’s and German store Breuninger at the Global Department Store Summit in Singapore. The award, presented by the Intercontinental Group of Department Stores (IGDS), will see the 540,000 sq ft space hold the title until 2016. Selfridges previously took home the prize in 2012 and 2010. Speaking after the biennial event, Managing Director of the Selfridges Group, Paul Kelly said: “This prestigious retail award recognises the status of our brand as a successful retail innovator.” He added that winning the distinction for a third term was “truly exciting”. Managing Director of Selfridges & Co, Anne Pitcher spoke on behalf of the premium retailer in a statement: “We have had a terrific couple of years since last winning, and it is a tribute to the commitment of our teams that we have been honoured with the award again this year.” Other UK stores that missed out on the accolade include Harrods and John Lewis, the latter of which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. The IGDS is the largest conglomerate of department stores worldwide with 37 across 35 countries in five continents. More than 350 prominent executives and stakeholders attended the summit. President of the association, Simon Susman, credited Selfridges “commitment and passion to department store retailing” in the final decision. The win comes just after it was announced the company’s Birmingham store is to undergo a £20m refit.
Selfridges Oxford Street
