The Union representing catering staff at Harrods is planning to protest over allegations that the luxury store keeps up to 75% of the service charge paid by diners.

The UVW (The United Voices of the World) claims that Harrods has refused to disclose precisely what percentage of the service charge is retained by the management.

Calling for the store to stop this practice and agree to greater transparency a demonstration has been organised for Saturday outside Harrods. It is hoping that members of the public who support the workers will go along and support them.

Famous worldwide Harrods, owned by the Qatari Holding, an investment vehicle of the Qatari Royal family, had record profits in 2016 of £168m.

Mr Petros Elia, UVW general secretary, says “Harrods is showing complete disdain for its low paid staff while profiting off their backs.”

“Staff are rightly angry that, despite the fact that the store has registered massive, record-breaking profits and its owners, the Qatari royal family, have paid themselves a whopping £100 million dividend, they’ve seen their share of the service charge go down.”

Elia also points out that most diners assume their tips are a reward for good service. “Harrods is also exploiting the good will of its customers, most of whom will logically assume that their tips go to waiters and kitchen staff.”

“Taking away any percentage of the service charge, which customers think is going to the waiters, is unacceptable. Taking up to 75% is an utter disgrace. “

Saturday January 7th, Outside Harrods 2-6pm.