Woolworths South Africa
Wholly owned South African operating company behind the Woolworths retail business, with roots in Max Sonnenberg’s 1931 Cape Town store.
Published · Last reviewed
Woolworths Proprietary Limited is the wholly owned South African operating company in the WHL group. Its retail origin dates to 1931. [1][2]
History
Max Sonnenberg founded the business in Cape Town. A Durban branch followed three years later, before expansion to other cities. [1][2]
The operating company sits below the listed holding company. This relationship separates the retail stores from the listed parent. [2]
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Woolworths in South Africa?
Woolworths identifies Max Sonnenberg as the founder of its South African retail business in 1931. [1]
Who owns Woolworths South Africa?
Woolworths Proprietary Limited is wholly owned within the Woolworths Holdings group. [2]
Key milestones
Founded / co-founded by
Related people
Related articles
Related institutions
Sources
- Woolworths Holdings, Our history. Original source. Accessed 2026-10-22. ↩
- Woolworths Holdings, Information statement: group history, structure and Woolworths Financial Services arrangements, 2025-11-28. Original source. Accessed 2026-10-22. ↩