Attention, shoppers! Gold bars in Aisle Three!

LONDON – It’s a gift they’re sure to treasure.

Customers flocking to Britain’s most prestigious department store, Harrods, this holiday season will now be able to add gold bars to their basket while shopping for the perfect present.  

This latest arrival to hit the shelves comes in a range of sizes, from just over two pounds to 27.5 pounds. There’s also a range of coins on offer, from British sovereigns to South African Krugerrands to American gold eagles.

AFP – Getty Images

A selection of gold ingots and coins for sale in Harrods department store.

With new figures out last week showing Britain’s current recession as the longest on record, the strategy could be a successful one as up-market customers look for somewhere safe to put their money.

Chris Hall, head of Harrods’ bullion department, said the store saw a gap in the market.

 ”Up until now, London has had no well recognized name serving this market,” he said. “Harrods saw the opportunity to help individuals buy physical gold in a prudent manner.” 

But the glittery metal probably won’t be flying off the shelves through the festive season. At today’s market prices, 2.2 pounds of Harrods gold will set you back about ,000. And the top-of-the-line bar, which weighs in at 27.5 pounds, will cost you 9,482.

But Hall said sales had been promising, with several pieces of gold having been snapped up in the week or so it has been on sale.

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