The millionaire could end up controlling UK's two best-known luxury retailers
Hong Kong businessman Dickson Poon has emerged as a potential buyer for London luxury retailer Harrods, according to British press reports.
Mr Poon, who privatised his British-listed arm Harvey Nichols six months ago, is regarded as one of the possible buyers for a stake in the famous Knightsbridge department store, the Observer reported.
Harrods owner Mohamed al-Fayed is reportedly sounding out potential purchasers. Seven years ago, it is understood he turned down a #2 billion (HK$25.72 billion) offer. Retail analysts have pegged Harrods' present value in the region of #150 million to #500 million.
The London icon has been hit by falling profits as fewer United States tourists visit following September 11 and the Iraq war.
Harvey Nichols's chief executive Joseph Wan, Mr Poon's right-hand man, has privately expressed an interest in Harrods' availability and price in the past fortnight, according to the Observer.
It said Mr Wan, who recommended Mr Poon buy Harvey Nichols in 1991, made no secret of the aim to go international, but so far this had been limited to building a global name for the high-end British retailer. Mr Poon purchased Harvey Nichols for #53 million.