Harrods is now aiming at upping the global standing of its brand by opening a chain of upscale hotels over the world. Plans are to open hotels in London, Kuala Lumpur, Sardinia, Paris and New York. The campaign will result in a string of luxury, Harrods-branded hotels in cities around the world.

The planned Harrods hotel in Kuala Lumpur will have about 300 rooms and will be the group’s first in Asia. The company also plans to open in China.

Qatar Holding bought Harrods from businessman Mohamed Al Fayed in 2010. The internationally renowned Knightsbridge department store already operates an upmarket estate agents and a charter aircraft service under its name. Qatar Holding now says it wants to develop the Harrods brand further in prime tourist locations.