Bob Stewart Pty Ltd: A Century of Uniform Excellence in Mentone

In a suburb where the salty tang of Port Phillip Bay mingles with the chatter of schoolchildren hurrying to class, stands a bastion of tradition and reliability: Bob Stewart Pty Ltd. For nearly a hundred years, this third-generation family business has been more than just a retailer of school uniforms—it’s a cornerstone of community life, outfitting generations of students with pride and precision. As families across Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs prepare for the new academic year, Bob Stewart’s Mentone store remains a go-to destination, blending timeless values with modern service to ensure every child steps out in style and comfort.

Founded in 1925 by Robert Joseph Stewart, a passionate sports enthusiast and secretary of the Hawthorn district football club, the company began humbly as Bob Stewart of Kew. Robert’s untimely death in 1931 left the fledgling enterprise in dire straits, burdened by debt amid the looming shadow of the Great Depression. Yet, in an era when women rarely ventured into the cutthroat world of business, his widow Anne Stewart rose to the challenge. With unyielding determination, she steered the company through economic turmoil and the fabric shortages of World War II, transforming it from a near-collapse into a thriving concern. Her son, Robert Francis, joined in 1948, ushering in an era of expansion. By the 1960s, the business had pivoted to school uniforms—a prescient move that would define its legacy—and relocated to larger premises in 1969.

The torch passed seamlessly to the next generation in the 1990s, with Robert Matthew and Francis Stewart bringing fresh energy and expertise. Under their stewardship, Bob Stewart Pty Ltd experienced explosive growth, forging partnerships with over 40 independent schools and cultivating a loyal customer base that spans multiple family generations. Major milestones followed: a comprehensive store refurbishment in 2000/01, the integration of cutting-edge IT systems in 2002/03 to streamline customer service, and ongoing enhancements in logistics and warehousing by 2004/05. Today, as the company eyes its centenary in 2025, it continues to evolve, balancing heritage with innovation to meet the demands of a fast-changing world.

At its heart, Bob Stewart Pty Ltd is guided by a philosophy that places people before profits—a mantra encapsulated in their unwavering commitment to integrity. “We master the small things so we can better serve our customers,” the company states on its website, emphasising a deep understanding of the simple yet profound needs of families: reliable stock, friendly advice, and a seamless shopping experience. This ethos extends beyond transactions; Bob Stewart views itself as an integral part of the school community, where the first impression of a uniform purchase can shape a child’s attitude towards their education. Staff are trained not just to sell, but to listen—offering custom fittings for students of all shapes and sizes, ensuring no one feels out of place.

The Mentone store, located at 93 Balcombe Road, exemplifies this dedication. Nestled in the heart of the suburb, it serves local institutions like Mentone Girls’ Secondary College and Mentone Girls’ Grammar, stocking everything from crisp blazers and pleated dresses to practical trackpants and puffers. Open six days a week, the store buzzes with activity during peak seasons, yet maintains an atmosphere of calm professionalism. Here, parents can browse an extensive range of high-quality, school-approved garments, all designed with durability and comfort in mind. The team’s expertise shines through in personalised recommendations, helping families navigate sizing charts and seasonal essentials.

What sets Bob Stewart apart is its comprehensive suite of services, tailored to the unique rhythms of school life. In-house design capabilities allow the company to collaborate with schools or external designers, crafting uniforms that reflect institutional identity while remaining cost-effective and consistent in colour, cut, and style. For those special moments—like awards ceremonies—the embroidery service adds a touch of prestige. Using state-of-the-art computerised technology, skilled artisans affix school-approved insignias to blazers, with turnaround times of around 15 business days (though peaks may extend this). Costs are transparent: $16–$18 per individual insignia, plus $37 to reattach the pocket, ensuring families receive value without compromise.

Beyond the stitches and seams, Bob Stewart Pty Ltd is a quiet force for good in its communities. Longstanding partnerships with organisations such as MacKillop Family Services and the Jesuit-run Friday Night School underscore a tradition of philanthropy that dates back decades. Many customers speak of the company not as a vendor, but as a trusted friend—one where grandparents once shopped, and now their grandchildren do the same. This generational continuity fosters a sense of belonging, turning routine uniform fittings into cherished rituals.

As Melbourne’s educational landscape grows ever more diverse, Bob Stewart Pty Ltd stands resolute, adapting to online shopping trends while preserving the personal touch that has defined it for a century. Whether you’re a first-time parent daunted by the uniform maze or a returning family seeking tried-and-true favourites, the Mentone store offers a welcoming haven. In an age of fleeting trends, Bob Stewart reminds us of the enduring power of quality, community, and family.

For more information or to visit, contact Bob Stewart Pty Ltd’s Mentone store at:

• Address: 93 Balcombe Road, Mentone, VIC 3194, Australia
• Phone: (03) 9036 7367
• Email: mentone@bobstewart.com.au
• Website: www.bobstewart.com.au
• Trading Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM (closed Sundays and public holidays)

Step inside, and you’ll see why, for so many, Bob Stewart isn’t just about uniforms—it’s about starting each school year on the right foot.