the ackermans story –
history of ackermans in south africa

The Ackermans Success story began in 1916 when Gus Ackerman opened the very first store in Wynberg, Cape Town, setting a benchmark for price competitiveness that few could match.

By 1960 the Ackermans chain had shown promising growth and was sold to Greatermans.

Towards the end of the 70’s Ackermans changed hands once again and was sold to Edgars who maintained its successful price discounter position.

When Pepkor acquired Ackermans in 1984 there were 34 stores across the country. Pepkor were quick to realise that the strategy of adding value to the low price formula would better position Ackermans for growth, and it was at this point that Ackermans began its present period of exceptional growth.

By the turn of the century Ackermans had grown to over 200 stores across Southern Africa, catering to all value conscious consumers. The new millennium heralds even bigger and more exciting plans. By the end of the 2002/2003 financial year our stores numbered 284. It was also the year that yielded the highest turnover ever…. And the new millennium had only just begun.

Today, with more than 450 stores in Southern Africa, including Botswana & Namibia, the business is set to exceed R4billion in turnover.

what do we offer?

Quality Merchandise – Stringent quality measures are permanently in place to ensure our products delivery on our promise of unbeatable value. We have ongoing projects to ensure we consistently deliver quality products. This philosophy extends across our range of clothing, textiles, footwear, homeware, accessories and financial products, which includes our cellular range.

Unbeatable Value – Offering the best products at the best price. We aim to be the first choice from basic items at unbeatable prices to more styled, fashionable and branded products at market leading prices.

Stylish Fashions – We cater for the whole family: from cute, safe quality products for babies and toddlers, to elegant and sporty styles for parents and the latest trends in fashion for teenagers and kids. Our buyers travel far and wide to buy the best products at the best negotiated prices and to deliver them at great speed. Top quality brands includes Disney, Spiderman, Batman, WWE, Bata Shoes, Waverley Blankets, as well as airtime, cellphones and starter packs from leading companies like Vodacom, MTN, Cell C and Telkom.

A Pleasant Shopping Experience – there is no need to shop around. Customers can get everything they want, all under one roof. Friendly staff are always on hand to assist and the shop ambience is bright, cheerful and well laid out. Our in-store radio station, The Sound of Ackermans, plays upbeat easy-listening music and our DJ’s and in-house ads announce special offers and events.

Find affordable family clothing such as women's apparel, men's clothes, children's clothing and toddler clothing at all of our Ackermans branches.