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The Legacy of Margaret Hirsch: Building a Billion-Rand Business Empire

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In the vibrant world of retail, Margaret Hirsch’s journey stands out as an inspiring testament to success. Over 45 years ago, Margaret and her husband, Allan, embarked on an entrepreneurial path with only R900 in savings.

What began as a humble appliance repair and sales business in a small showroom in Durban has transformed into Hirsch’s Homestores, South Africa’s largest independently owned appliance and electronics retail chain. This is not just the story of a business empire—it’s the chronicle of a woman whose indomitable spirit has reshaped industries, empowered communities, and inspired countless others.

In 1979, the Hirschs found themselves at a crossroads when both Margaret and Allan lost their jobs. With two young children and no income, the couple pooled their meager resources and rented a tiny showroom on Umhlanga Rocks Drive. Allan, a skilled appliance repairman, and Margaret, a former secretary, began repairing and selling appliances.

The duo’s initial focus was simple: offer quality products and exceptional service. Their hands-on approach to the business laid the foundation for a customer-centric ethos that would later become the hallmark of Hirsch’s Homestores. The company now boasts 19 branches and concept stores spread throughout South Africa.

Expansion and Innovation: From a Small Showroom to a Retail Giant

What set Hirsch’s apart was its adaptability and forward-thinking approach. By the late 1980s, the Hirschs had expanded into home furnishings and electronics, tapping into South Africa’s growing consumer market. The company’s growth was fueled by Margaret’s relentless pursuit of innovation.

“We have built Hirsch’s from a tiny little ‘mom and pop’s’ store to a billion-rand company, and I hope that I will be an inspiration to others to know that they can live their dreams as well,” she says.

Under her leadership, Hirsch’s pioneered experiential retailing in South Africa, introducing in-store cooking demonstrations, personalized shopping experiences, and virtual shopping options long before these became industry standards.

“The retail landscape is constantly evolving, and we can either evolve with it or be left behind. At Hirsch’s Homestore, we’ve always stayed ahead by not being afraid to try new things. From virtual experiences to in-store cooking demonstrations, we found ways to create memorable experiences that cater to our customers’ changing needs. And that’s the key: adapting quickly, listening to your customers, and meeting them where they are, whether that’s online or in-store.”

Margaret’s philosophy is simple but revolutionary: “Customers don’t just want to buy; they want to connect and feel valued.” This approach transformed Hirsch’s stores into community hubs, where shopping became an immersive experience rather than just a transaction.

Beyond the boardroom, Margaret’s influence also resonates globally. As an international realtor with the US-based Alexandria Realty Group, she has seamlessly transitioned her passion for property into helping clients find dream homes and investment opportunities in the far west. Her work reflects her belief in empowering others, particularly women, to achieve their own aspirations.

At 74, Margaret’s journey exemplifies lifelong learning and adaptability. Choosing to work under a 27-year-old boss to fulfill legal requirements as a realtor in Florida, she embraced mentorship from the younger generation, proving that age is no barrier to innovation or collaboration. Her belief in multi-generational teams as catalysts for creativity and growth underscores her forward-thinking approach.

“Each generation brings its own set of skills, experiences, and viewpoints, creating a rich tapestry of knowledge and ideas,” she says.

Margaret’s leadership style blends empathy with determination. Her belief in multigenerational workforces exemplifies her commitment to inclusivity and innovation. At Hirsch’s, employees span five generations, creating a dynamic environment where diverse perspectives fuel creativity and growth.

Empowering Women and Youth

Beyond business, Margaret Hirsch has dedicated her life to empowering women and youth. Through initiatives like the Women in Business Networking Clubs at Hirsch’s branches, she provides mentorship, resources, and a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs. Her ethos of giving back is rooted in her personal experiences. From spearheading community upliftment projects to championing women’s empowerment, she embodies the principle that success is measured not by wealth but by the ability to inspire and uplift others.

“I believe that success isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about how you help others grow,” says Margaret.

Her passion for education has driven her involvement in programs like the Girls with Dignity project, which distributes reusable sanitary packs to schoolgirls in disadvantaged communities. Recently, she launched the Safe Houses for Girls initiative in Gauteng, with plans to expand nationwide.

A staunch advocate of goal-setting, Margaret credits her success to her unwavering focus on clear, actionable objectives. She encourages others to write down their goals and place them where they can see them daily.

“Without visible targets, even the most intense efforts miss the mark,” she explains. “Goals give you direction, eliminate distractions, and fuel your motivation.”

This mindset has not only driven Margaret’s business success but also inspired countless individuals who attend her motivational talks.

A Trailblazer Recognized

Widely regarded as a jack of all trades, Margaret’s contributions to business and society have earned her numerous accolades, including:

  • Business Woman of the Year (Entrepreneur) by the Business Women’s Association of South Africa (2012).
  • Lifetime Achiever in the Wholesale and Retail Sector (2015).
  • Induction into the Global Women Leaders Hall of Fame (2014).

These honors, among countless others, reflect her impact not only as an entrepreneur but also as a social innovator and philanthropist.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity: A Lasting Legacy

As the Executive Director of Hirsch’s Homestores, Margaret oversees day-to-day operations while championing new ventures, such as Samsung concept stores. Despite its growth, Hirsch’s remains a family business, with Margaret and Allan’s children, Richard (CEO) and Luci (Brand Manager), playing pivotal roles.

This blend of family values and corporate innovation has enabled Hirsch’s to weather economic challenges and maintain its competitive edge.

Margaret Hirsch’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship. From navigating personal hardships to building a billion-rand empire, she has proven that success is not just about profits but also about making a difference.

As Margaret often says, “Success isn’t about how much you have; it’s about how much you’re willing to give, grow, and inspire others along the way.”

Her story is more than a business case study—it’s a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs, a testament to the power of vision, and a reminder that with determination and heart, anything is possible.

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