What is John Lewis?
John Lewis is a chain of department stores in the United Kingdom known for quality goods and customer service. It is part of the John Lewis Partnership, which is owned by its employees, called partners.
John Lewis opened his first shop on Oxford Street in London in 1864, selling fabrics and haberdashery.
His son, John Spedan Lewis, created the partnership model in the 1920s, giving employees a share in the profits and a say in the business. In 1950, he transferred ownership to a trust for the employees.
The Christmas advert
John Lewis is famous for its Christmas television adverts, which tell emotional stories and feature cover versions of popular songs. The release of the advert has become an annual event in Britain.
The company's slogan, Never knowingly undersold, was used for decades to promise competitive prices.
The John Lewis Partnership also owns Waitrose, a supermarket chain.
Employees receive a share of profits as a bonus when the business performs well. John Lewis stores are found in major cities and towns across the UK.