West End sales start early for pre-Ramadan shopping spree

West End stores are having to start their summer sales earlier because of the timing of Ramadan.

The Muslim holy month begins on August 11 this year, a fortnight earlier than last year, bringing a major headache for department store bosses.

The weeks leading up to Ramadan see one of the biggest increases in central London trading as wealthy Arab shoppers flock to the West End.

Harrods, Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Liberty are all expected to start their sales by early to mid June so they can get them out of the way before the pre-Ramadan shopping frenzy. However, the sales will clash with the World Cup, when trading is likely to be depressed.

Last year Middle Eastern shoppers spent £200 million in the six-week run-up to Ramadan and some beauty departments said they were as busy as in the build-up to Christmas.

Harrods has confirmed its sale will start on June 19, eight days earlier than last year. Other stores are expected to follow.