Harrods 'float' plan an April Fool hoax
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Mohamed Al-Fayed, the owner of Harrods, the London department store, yesterday appeared to be behind a bizarre April Fool hoax based on a suggestion he was about to "float" Harrods.
Newspapers received a fax purporting to be written on Harrods notepaper. Under the headline "Al Fayed reveals plan to 'float' Harrods", the fax said:
"Harrods Chairman, Mohamed Al Fayed, will tomorrow make an important announcement about his future plans for the world-famous store. The announcement is featured on the new version of alfayed.com which launches tomorrow, Monday 1 April 2002 at 00:01. It will include a first-come-first-served share option offer.
"The information may help those journalists who have speculated during the last few months as to the future direction of Harrods. The announcement will only be posted on the website until 12 noon on 1 April."
Journalists are asked to contact Loof Lirpa on the Harrods press office phone number. Callers hear a recorded message which points out Loof Lirpa has been spelt backwards – it spells April Fool.
While Mr Al Fayed is noted for his outlandish sense of humour, it was being suggested last night the hoax may be part of a sales stunt. His website is a platform for Mr Al Fayed's conspiracy theories.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments