Selfridges named world’s best department store

Selfridges has been named the best department store in the world by its peers for the third consecutive time, beating off competition like John Lewis. The premium department store retailer will retain the title until 2016 after being recognised for an “unprecedented” third time

said the Intercontinental Group of Department Stores (IGDS) at its Global Department Store Summit, held in Singapore.

Selfridges has previously been awarded the top accolade in 2012 and 2010 by the trade organisation that represents more than 35 of the world’s top department store, and it marks the first store ever to win the honour three times in a row.

Selfridges Group managing director Paul Kelly said: "This award is international recognition of the global reach of our brand. Selfridges has gone from strength to strength worldwide, and this prestigious retail award recognizes the status of our brand as a successful retail innovator. Receiving this distinction for a third term is truly exciting."

As well as UK-based John Lewis, the shortlist also included department stores from Germany, New York and Paris including Macy’s, Breuinger, Isetan, Jelmoli, Lane Crawford, Printemps and TSUM. Selfridges along with Macy’s and Germany’s Breuinger were named as finalists and showcased presentations about their latest developments and innovations regarding store openings, omnichannel operations, special events and customer-focused approaches during the summit’s official dinner.

Selfridges wins department store accolade again

Selfridges’ managing director Anne Pitcher added: “We are thrilled that Selfridges has again been recognised as the best department store in the world.

“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. It gives us even greater impetus to continue to exceed our customers’ expectations and deliver to them a unique and extraordinary shopping experience.”

IGDS is the largest association of department stores worldwide and has 37 members from 35 countries on five continents. The summit, which is held every two years, brought together more than 350 top executives and stakeholders involved with department stores across the globe.

Simon Susman, president of IGDS and non executive chairman of Woolworths, South Africa, commented: "We are delighted that Selfridges won the Best Department Store Award 2014. This is the third time the company has won the award. Their commitment and passion to department store retailing, and all that is excellent in our world, is quite remarkable. IGDS is very proud to have Selfridges as a leading and active member of our organisation."