http://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/

Article regarding Qatar 2022

By Denis D Quille

Published in the Irish Times.

An honours degree in sales will be on offer at Harrods from this month, it has been announced.

But the qualification will not be able to the general public. The retailer has revealed it is to offer the degree to its staff as part of a plan to boost career prospects.

The two-year BA honours course will teach students "the art of selling", with modules on human behaviour, psychology and business enterprise.

Harrods, which is believed to be the first retailer to offer a complete degree, said the course has been developed in connection with academics at Anglia Ruskin University.

Harrods staff who are employed in sales roles at the department store and have at least two years relevant work experience are being encouraged to apply for the degree, which they can study for alongside their work.

Arkin Salih, Harrods learning and development manager, said: "As a business, we are wholly committed to investing in our sales force and by creating a degree tailored to the needs of the luxury retail environment, we are proud to be setting new standards in our sector.

"This will be the qualification for retail employees wishing to bolster their sales professionalism whilst investing for their long-term career planning."

It was announced last month that Mohamed al Fayed, now honorary chairman of Harrods, has decided to sell the store and retire.

The Qatari royal family is buying Harrods for a reported £1.5 billion through Qatar Holdings, the investment arm of the Qatar Investment Authority, which trades on behalf of the state.