British department store chain Harrods has told its biggest Russian spenders that they can no longer shop – frivolously at least – at its stores.
The Telegraph revealed that the iconic Knightsbridge, UK store has warned its Russian customers that they will no longer be able to purchase ‘luxury goods’ that cost more than £300.
The retailer took the decision in order to comply with sanctions imposed on Russia, following Vladmir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.
Harrods’ decision means that beauty products from La Prairie, Maison Francis Kurkdjian and Crème de La Mer will be off limits to Russian shoppers.
The most expensive beauty sku stocked at Harrods is Lalique’s Soleil Lalique Crystal Edition Extrait de Parfum, which retails at £21,500.
Pure Himalayan’s Cordyceps Gold, containing 30 vials, will also be out of Russian oligarchs’ reach with a price tag of £5,995, as will Floraïku’s Water and Sky Perfume Oil at £5,000.
Dozens of luxury labels will also be beyond their spending cap, from Balmain, Burberry and Self-Portrait.
An email sent by Harrods to one wealthy Russian customer, seen by The Telegraph, read: “As you may be aware, the UK authorities have introduced further regulations as part of their ongoing sanctions against Russia, which specifically target the sale of luxury goods.
“The regulations seek to prohibit the supply of many categories of luxury goods over certain values (generally £300) to individuals who are either currently or ordinarily in Russia.”
It also said that the recipient should review its new customer regulations.
“To comply with these regulations, Harrods has been required to review its customer information to identify those customers who it appears (by reference to the country or phone number information they have provided to us) might currently or usually be resident in Russia,” it continued.
“Based on this information, we have identified you as someone who might currently or ordinarily be resident in Russia.
“If this is correct, this would mean that you are subject to the regulations and we will be unable to supply you with any restricted luxury goods.”
Harrods has refused to reveal how much the sanctions will affect its business.
