Harry Gordon Selfridge Blue Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Harry Gordon Selfridge (1858-1947) was an American entrepreneur who revolutionized the British retail industry in the early 20th century. Born in Ripon, Wisconsin, Selfridge began his career at Marshall Field’s department store in Chicago, where he worked his way up to become a junior partner. In 1906, he traveled to London and was struck by the lack of modern, customer-focused shopping experiences in the city.

Determined to bring American-style retailing to Britain, Selfridge opened his eponymous department store, Selfridges, on Oxford Street in 1909. The store was an instant success, attracting shoppers with its innovative window displays, extensive product range, and exceptional customer service. Selfridge introduced many novel concepts to the British retail landscape, such as the “bargain basement” and the notion of shopping as a leisure activity.

Selfridge’s influence extended beyond his store. He played a significant role in the development of Oxford Street as a premier shopping destination and was a prominent figure in London society. From 1921 to 1929, he resided at 9 Fitzmaurice Place in Westminster, now marked by a Blue Plaque. Despite his success, Selfridge faced financial difficulties in his later years due to his extravagant lifestyle and the economic challenges of the Great Depression. He passed away in 1947, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of retail and a name synonymous with luxury shopping in London.