Sir Dickson Poon, Hong Kong retail billionaire, is exploring a sale of the iconic Harvey Nichols. After 35 years as chair through Dickson Concepts, he has hired FTI Consulting to chart options in the UK, including a possible sale or fresh investment. The move follows his recent retirement as a director.

Poon bought Harvey Nichols in 1991 for £53 million from Burton Group. A revitalisation team, led by Mary Portas, turned the Knightsbridge flagship into a fashion hub, but the chain struggled after the pandemic and the loss of UK tourist tax‑free sales. 2024 results showed a 5 % drop in turnover to £204 m and pre‑tax losses widening to £34 m.

Harvey Nichols now operates stores in Hong Kong, the Gulf, and across Britain, including Edinburgh, Leeds and Manchester, and runs the OXO Tower Restaurant on London’s South Bank. About 1,200 staff report to chief executive Julia Goddard, who joined in 2024. She has overseen a refurbishment of the Knightsbridge site and expanded into designer and fine jewellery.

The sale talks are at a preliminary stage with multiple international parties interested, but Harvey Nichols remains focused on its transformation strategy. The company says progress across the business shows positive early signs of growth, reinforcing confidence in its direction. Investors will weigh the potential for turnaround against the chain’s recent financial losses and market position.