“River Island has fast become the designer brand of the high street, with stores in more than 18 countries. River Island has and always will be an exciting, innovative, and fun company. You’ll be glad you joined us." Ben Lewis CEO
Our History
We might have seven decades behind us. But at River Island, we don’t feel our age. Our brand is as fresh, exciting and forward-looking as it’s always been. With 300 stores across the world, an award-winning online fashion retail site, one of the biggest in-house design teams on the British high street and a deep commitment to nurturing new talent, we’re one of the most successful fashion retailers in the UK. But watch this space. We’re only just beginning.
Made in Britain
Our Timeline
1948
Bernard Lewis starts selling yarn from a dis-used bomb site in East London
1955
Lewis Separates as it’s become known, grows from 5 stores to 9
1965
The 70 store empire of Lewis Separates is transformed in to Chelsea Girl
1982
The first Menswear store is launched under Concept Man
1991
Chelsea Girl & Concept Man are merged to become RIVER ISLAND
1993
The first International store is launched in ROI
2005
RI sponsors Graduate Fashion Week for six consecutive years
2008
Style Insider blog launches offering news on trends & styles
2010
Ben Lewis becomes CEO
2012
The Design Forum is launched in association with The British Fashion Council
2013
Partner with global super star Rihanna
2015
Launch of RI Kids
2018
Launch of RI Home
2019
Will Kernan joins River Island as CEO
Copyright © River Island 2019