Lewis Group’s origins date back to 1934, when the first Lewis store was opened in Woodstock, Cape Town.
Key milestones
2025
Lewis Group has been named Company of the Year in the prestigious News24 Business Awards 2025.
2024
The Group acquired Real Beds a specialist retailer in affordable and quality beds.
2022
Established Bedzone, a specialist retailer of base sets.
2019
Launch of the INspire – omni-channel retailer.
2018
Acquisition of United Furniture Outlets (UFO) (31 stores).
2011
Exceeds R1 billion in operating profit.
2010
My Home launched – Lifestyle Living chain closed and stores converted to My Home.
2008
Best Home & Electric expanded to include furniture lines and rebranded Best Home & Electric.
2004
Listed on the JSE under the General Retailers Sector at R28 per share.
2003
Acquisition of Lifestyle Living (18 stores).
1998
Best Home & Electric chain launched to sell branded electrical merchandise.
1997
130 Dan Hands stores rebranded to Lewis.
1994
Monarch Insurance is established.
1972 – 1969
Opening of stores in Botswana, Namibia and Swaziland.
1957
The group has 55 stores trading under Barons Furnishers, Excelsior Meubels, Lewis and Universal Stores, a credit clothing chain.
1947
UK-based retailer GUS plc acquired controlling interest in Lewis Stores Limited – company subsequently delisted.
1946
Listed on JSE on 30 October as Lewis Stores Limited to raise capital for expanding the business.