World's oldest department stores you didn't know about

By Afiur
December 31, 2025

El Palacio de Hierro, Mexico (Founded 1888)

This historic Mexican department store introduced European style luxury retail to Latin America and remains a cultural landmark known for fashion, beauty, and refined interiors.Source: unsplash

Fortnum & Mason, London (Founded 1707)

Originally a grocery store supplying Queen Anne’s court, Fortnum & Mason evolved into a grand department store famous for teas, preserves, and refined British luxury retail.Source: unsplash

Galeries Lafayette, Paris (Founded 1893)

With its iconic glass cupola and theatrical layout, Galeries Lafayette transformed shopping into spectacle and continues to attract visitors as both a retail and architectural destination.Source: unsp

Harrods, London (Founded 1849)

What began as a small grocery shop grew into one of the most iconic luxury department stores in the world, known for its opulent interiors and vast range of goods under one roof.Source: unsplash

KaDeWe, Berlin (Founded 1907)

Kaufhaus des Westens (KaDeWe) became a symbol of modern European retail, renowned for its massive gourmet food hall and its role in shaping Berlin’s shopping culture.Source: unsplash

Le Bon Marché, Paris (Founded 1838)

Often considered the world’s first modern department store, Le Bon Marché revolutionised retail with fixed prices, seasonal sales, and beautifully curated displays, setting the blueprint for shopping

Mitsukoshi, Japan (Founded 1673)

One of the oldest retail establishments in the world, Mitsukoshi began as a kimono shop during Japan’s Edo period before transforming into a department store while preserving traditional service value

Printemps, Paris (Founded 1865)

Famous for its Art Nouveau dome and stained glass, Printemps played a key role in turning Paris into a global fashion capital by blending architecture, fashion, and commerce.Source: unsplash

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