The history of Cape Union Mart dates back to 1933 when the late Philip Krawitz, grandfather of the current Chief Executive, founded the business on the corner of Corporation and Mostert Street in Cape Town. Cape Union Mart originated as an "Army and Navy Store" and became famous for its "everything from an anchor to a toothpick" product range.

Sandwiched between two of South Africa 's largest retailers, Woolworths and OK Bazaars, Cape Union Mart realised that it had to offer something different. Apart from an extensive range of merchandise, the store became known as "the friendly store" and focused on building unique relationships with its customers.

During the war years, Cape Union Mart supplied visiting troops with some of the luxuries and necessities associated with the military. Passing whaling ships and foreign fishermen were also catered for with a unique array of merchandise from around the world.

In the post-war years, the company grew and prospered under Arthur Krawitz who took over the business from his father in the late 1940's. The company became famous for non-seasonal merchandise and specialised in selling summer clothing to people touring overseas in winter. and vice versa. Cape Union Mart was the first importer of many famous products such as Levi Jeans, Hong Kong anoraks, Norwegian socks and Gore-Tex foul weather clothing.

In 1970 the current Chief Executive, Philip Krawitz joined the business as a third generation family member. The Company began a cautious expansion trail, and have since reached a position where the number of stores almost equals that of our age - 75. All the stores are located in prestigious, high traffic shopping centres.

The Company also acquired the well-known uniforms business "Sparks & Ellis" and ventured into manufacturing through the K-Way Manufacturing operation, which is located in Ottery in Cape Town and produces a range of technical foul weather and waterproof adventure clothing.

If you are in town, and would like to pay us a visit, please don't hesitate to give us a call.

The Cape Union Mart Team