Harrods set for multi-million pound refurbishment Michael Ward, the managing director of Harrods, said: "When Harrods' owners, Qatar Holding, took over the business in May 2010, they publicly declared their desire to 'upgrade the monument" that is Harrods for all its customers. Harrods will also restore the British-made copper cladding and lighting globes on the listed staircase next to the escalator. The original staircase was built in 1928 and that era has been the inspiration for the revamp. The chandelier, which is being flown in from the US, will hang in the revamped grand hall entrance on the ground floor. Harrods was founded in 1849 by Charles Henry Harrod as a small shop primarily selling tea. It has grown into one of the best-known shops in the world and attracts more than 15m visitors every year. The shop's motto is Omnia Omnibus Ubique, which means All Things for All People Everywhere Luxurious stairs have become a hallmark of the store. In 1898, Harrods installed the first moving staircase in the UK, while previous owner Mohamed Al Fayed is estimated to have spent £30m on building the Egyptian escalator in the middle of the store. Work on the escalator project is due to begin this weekend and will be unveiled in early November. Harrods declined to reveal its estimated cost. Harrods suffered a setback last week when it emerged Marigay McKee, its chief merchant, was leaving to become the new president of Saks Fifth Avenue in New York. Ms McKee was in charge of fashion, beauty and jewellery at Harrods and was seen as pivotal in establishing the store as a location for cutting-edge fashion. Harrods said that Ms McKee had been "instrumental in developing Harrods" exceptional department and brand portfolio."