The Straits Times / The Business Times News on OSIM

OSIM scores a first with London store - in Harrods

(SINGAPORE) OSIM announced yesterday that it has set up shop in the hallowed halls of Harrods - the first Singaporean retailer to do so.

Harrods, located in Knightsbridge in London, and one of the world's most prestigious department stores, caters to royalty, celebrities and the well-heeled from all parts of the globe, as well as to humbler shoppers.

In good company: OSIM's store, on level 3 of Harrods, opens in time for the Christmas shopping season.

'Harrods is highly regarded as the world's finest department store,' said OSIM chief executive Ron Sim. 'They built their fame on a reputation for excellence and in finding the finest-quality merchandise for their customers. OSIM identifies with that.'

The 770 sq ft OSIM store - located on level three of Harrods, between the piano and lighting departments - opens in time for the traditional Christmas shopping season at Harrods.

At this time of year, Harrods and its seasonal Christmas department and food hall attract thousands of local and international shoppers, said OSIM.

'They say the world shops at Harrods - it's true,' an OSIM statement said. 'On the first day of operation, OSIM staff in Harrods spotted a Hong Kong tycoon as well as a well known European entertainer.' These and other high net worth shoppers will now have another outlet in which to buy OSIM's massage chairs and fitness equipment, the company hopes.

OSIM also said that as part of its development in new markets, it has also signed up a new franchisee in Bahrain. The first store will open in March. OSIM's shares fell one cent to close at $1.71 yesterday.