Billionaire Profile

Global Rank

#2457

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Bernard Lewis & family

CEO, River Island

Real-Time Net Worth

$1.5B

As of December 2025

Age

Source

Fashion retailer

Industry

fashion-retail

Citizenship

Biography

Bernard Lewis, the founder of the River Island fashion brand, has significantly influenced the UK fashion industry since the post-World War II era. Born on February 10, 1926, Lewis, now 99, began his career with a fruit and vegetable shop before venturing into clothing retail. Through his entrepreneurial vision, he established the River Island chain, which has become a global success. With a net worth estimated at $1.5 billion, he ranks among the wealthiest individuals in the UK. His career highlights include founding Chelsea Girl and Lewis Separates, contributing to the evolution of the British high street. The Lewis family also invests in property, hotels, and private equity, providing funds for their philanthropy through the Bernard Lewis Family Charitable Trust.

Wealth Over Time

Portfolio Holdings

River Island

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Bernard Lewis, born Bernard Pokrasse on February 10, 1926, in London, England, showed an early interest in languages and history. He helped in his parents' greengrocer as a child, learning valuable skills like pricing stock and understanding customer preferences. He served in the RAF from 1944 to 1945.

Rise to Success

Lewis opened his first fruit and vegetable shop at 20, then began selling clothing. His first shop was in Mare Street, Hackney. During the 1970s, he launched the Chelsea Girl chain. He founded Lewis Separates and the Lewis Trust Group with his brothers. Today, River Island, the globally recognized brand, is run by his nephew, Ben Lewis.

Key Business Strategies

Lewis focused on innovation and detail. He was one of the first British retailers to visit Hong Kong to see manufacturing facilities. Lewis Separates was superseded by Chelsea Girl, a boutique concept that made the older chain look dated. The company has around 230 stores, employs about 5,500 staff, and ships globally, remaining privately held by the Lewis family. His enduring involvement and strategic vision have made him one of the most influential figures on the British high street.

Philanthropy

The Bernard Lewis Family Charitable Trust, established in 2008, grants over £16 million since 2020, focusing on organizations that deliver sustained impact. The Trust supports mental health, youth programs, community charities, disability services, and marginalized communities. The family also donates to Zionist causes.

Career Milestones

1948

Founded River Island

Opened his first shop selling womenswear, eventually evolving into the River Island chain.

1970s

Launched Chelsea Girl

Established a chain of clothing stores, later known as Chelsea Girl.

1980s

Rebranded Chelsea Girl to River Island

Rebranded the chain to River Island.

2008

Founded Bernard Lewis Family Charitable Trust

Established a charitable trust for philanthropic endeavors.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Charitable Giving

Bernard Lewis Family Charitable Trust

$16M+

Grants to organizations delivering sustained impact focusing on mental health, youth programs, community charities, and disability services since 2020.