Selfridges named best department store in the world for third consecutive time

London-based retailer Selfridges been named as the best department store in the world for an unprecedented third consecutive time by the Intercontinental Group of Department Stores (IGDS).

The award was made at the association’s fourth annual Global Department Store Summit held in Singapore from May 7 to May 9.

Selfridges was in competition with two other world-renowned department stores: Macy’s in the US and Breuninger in Germany. During the GDSS’ Summit, the three finalists gave presentations about their latest developments and innovations regarding store openings, omnichannel operations, special events and customer-focused approaches. The award ceremony marked the culmination of the Summit.

Selfridges & Co managing director Anne Pitcher represented the company at the awards ceremony. She said: “We’re 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.” Selfridges will retain the title until 2016.

IGDS is the largest association of department stores worldwide and has 37 members from 35 countries on five continents. The Global Department Store Summit, held every two years, is the world’s largest event for department stores.

IGDS president Simon Susman (who is also non executive chairman of Woolworths in South Africa) said: “We’re delighted that Selfridges won the Best Department Store Award 2014. Their commitment and passion to department store retailing is quite remarkable. IGDS is very proud to have Selfridges as a leading and active member of our organisation.”

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