$3.97 billion (US) in net worth
Age: 78
DOB: 3rd March 1945
Birthplace: Brunswick, Melbourne
About Solomon Lew
Solomon Lew is a prominent Australian businessman whose name is synonymous with success and influence in the world of retail and fashion. Born in Melbourne, Lew has carved a remarkable legacy as a visionary entrepreneur and retail magnate during his impressive career.
Lew’s entrepreneurial journey began with his family’s retail business, where he learned the ropes of the industry. He later founded his own company – Premier Investments Limited – which has grown into a retail powerhouse with a diverse portfolio of brands, including Smiggle, Just Group and Peter Alexander.
Known for his astute business acumen and strategic investments, Solomon Lew has been a key player in shaping the Australian retail landscape. His knack for identifying market trends and a relentless pursuit of excellence has made him a formidable force in the retail sector.
Beyond his business ventures, Lew is recognised for his philanthropic efforts, supporting various charitable causes and organisations. With a career spanning decades, Solomon Lew’s influence and contributions to the Australian business landscape remain enduring and inspiring.
Early Life and Education
Lew was born to Polish Jewish parents who moved to Australia from Częstochowa in Poland during the Interwar period.
His father quickly established himself within the Jewish community in Melbourne, becoming VP of a landsmanshaft for Częstochowa Jews. He also set up a textile business in Flinders Lane, but unfortunately passed away when Solomon was only 12.
After attending Mount Scopus Memorial College, Lew established Voyager Solo, his first business, at the age of 18. Around the same time, he also studied commerce and accounting at night school.
How Did Solomon Lew Accrue His Wealth?
Solomon Lew accrued his wealth through a combination of strategic entrepreneurship, astute investments and a deep understanding of the retail industry.
He began his career by joining his family’s retail business, which provided him with valuable insights
into the sector. However, it was his visionary move to establish Premier Investments Limited that became the cornerstone of his financial success. Under his leadership, Premier Investments expanded its brand portfolio, capitalising on emerging market trends and consumer preferences. Lew’s ability to identify and acquire businesses with growth potential, such as the popular Smiggle brand, played a pivotal role in his wealth accumulation.
His flair for transforming struggling companies into profitable ventures and his long-term commitment to building and nurturing successful brands have solidified his reputation as a retail magnate and contributed significantly to his substantial wealth over the years.
Honours and achievements
in 2016 Lew became the first Australian to be inducted into the World Retail Hall of Fame – a body which recognises the significant achievements of iconic and legendary retail executives.
Personal Life
Lew was married for 40 years to Rose until they separated in 2014. They have three children together – Peter, Steven and Jacqueline – who all work in his business empire and nine grandchildren.
Solomon is a practising jew who is a member of Malvern’s Chabad House synagogue in Malvern. He was also active in the 1960s in the United Israel Appeal and was instrumental in founding the Action for Israel division in the early 1980s.
Lew is noted for his philanthropy, especially to the arts. He donated $450,000 in 1986, to the National Gallery of Victoria to help them secure a Eugene von Guerard painting called Glenara.