This year, iStore blows out 20 candles – two decades of bringing South Africans closer to the world of Apple as the country’s go-to Premium Partner.
Since 2005, iStore has been more than ‘just’ a tech retailer – it’s been South Africa’s front-row seat to the Apple metaverse. From day one, the mission has been simple: deliver the same magic you’d find in any Apple space worldwide, right here at home.
For two decades – marked by the inaugural store opening at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town – iStore set out to do something bigger than sell Apple products. It embarked on a journey that’s made technology more accessible, affordable, and impactful for South Africans, steering the helm of premier retail quality. This milestone, along with the many stores that followed, has brought South Africans closer to innovative tools that can inspire creativity, learning, and communication.
“At iStore, we believe that technology should do more than function, that it should enrich lives. For 20 years, our purpose has been to make the Apple experience accessible, meaningful and personal for every customer who walks through our doors,” says Chris Dodd, CEO of iStore.
“Being the home of Apple in South Africa means we’re not just here to sell technology, we’re here to bring Apple’s spirit of innovation and service to life, every day. This milestone is not just about our past, but a renewed promise to continue delivering the best of Apple to our customers for years to come.”
Reaching for Rewards and Community Upliftment
Marking a notable emphasis on community upliftment and empowerment, iStore has positively impacted communities and customers through iSchoolAfrica, a partnership founded in 2009 that brings Apple technology and products to underserved schools. Similar initiatives followed, including iPhoneography, which encouraged creativity through mobile photography, and school projects co-initiated by Springbok players Siya Kolisi and Cheslin Kolbe.
In addition, iStore has launched career development programmes, aimed at training young professionals who only have a matric certificate. Through these supported outlets, aspiring professionals can gain practical experience in areas such as technical support, customer service, and digital literacy. The result is a confidence-led approach to skills pertinent in today’s tech-driven economy.
Spearheading the Circular Economy
At the centre of iStore’s circular economy is its world-class Trade-in Programme, which gives customers real value when they upgrade to the latest Apple technology. By extending the life of devices through its Pre-Owned range, iStore invites even more South Africans to join the Apple family – whether shopping online or in-store. It’s innovation with a second life, and access made possible to those who cannot afford out-of-the-box prices.
Beyond its retail footprint, iStore has built careers, fostered innovation, and supported entrepreneurs with the tools they need to thrive. Whether enabling a student with their first Mac or helping a small business streamline their operations, iStore has always been about more than just devices – it’s about delivering what matters most to people.
Own Your Apple, Your Way with LayUp
And now, celebrating 20 years comes with even more accessibility: iStore products are available on LayUp, giving you the chance to own your Apple essentials through flexible, interest-free instalments. Whether it’s the latest iPhone, a Mac for work, or an iPad for learning, LayUp makes it possible to secure your device today and pay it off over time – no credit checks, no hidden fees, just debt-free ownership. It’s another way iStore continues to bring Apple closer to every household, every community, and every dream.
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