RETAIL
SOLOMON Lew, whose Smiggle brand turned kids' stationery on its head, has been inducted into the World Retail Hall Of Fame. 
Mr Lew, the first Australian to receive the accolade since its 2007 launch, joins the architects of household names Ikea, Uniqlo, Marks & Spencer, Zara, Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom in the hall of fame.
He has been named alongside fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger and UK perfume entrepreneur Jo Malone as inductees during next month's World Retail Congress in Dubai.
Mr Lew is chairman of Australian Stock Exchange-listed Premier Investments Limited. It fully owns The Just Group which includes Smiggle, Peter Alexander, Jay Jays, Portmans, Just Jeans, Jacquie E and Dotti.
He said he was honoured to be recognised. "The fact that I am the first Australian to be formally inducted serves to honour not only me, but the Australian retail industry which has developed to become one of the most vibrant and competitive in the world," Mr Lew said.
"A strong retail industry is the lifeblood of a strong economy with an immense economic multiplier effect both before and beyond the point of sale.
"For retail to be my life's vocation, and to have the opportunity to work and engage with so many talented people, continues to be a privilege."The World Retail Hall Of Fame recognises the lifetime achievements of pioneers and entrepreneurs who have changed retail. Mr Lew is in good company, joining some renowned names, with Martha Stewart inducted in 2013, Alibaba founder Jack Ma in 2010 and Ikea founder Ingvar Kamprad in 2007.