Cotton On extends footprint to Botswana

Cotton On Foundation commits to investing in local projects

GOSEGO MOTSUMI

Fast fashion retailer Cotton On officially opened its first store in Botswana end of last week, much to the delight of local fashionistas who have been waiting for its arrival in the country. Nestled at the newly refurbished Airport Junction mall, Cotton On is set to change the fashion landscape in Botswana without breaking the bank, according to the Group Commercial Manager Cotton On Africa, Jade Tremeer.

“Cotton On is a brand for people with a passion for life, who aren’t afraid to have fun. We are very excited to launch our first store in Botswana. We believe that everyone should have access to the latest fashions that suit their unique style at affordable prices, without having to compromise on quality,” Tremeer said.

As one of the leading fashion brands the Cotton On Group’s offering comprises a suite of brands, a number of which are represented at their store,including Cotton On clothing for men and women, Rubi shoes and accessories, Cotton On Body active-wear, intimates and and leisure as well as Cotton On Kids clothing for children up to 10 years old.

Group PR and Communications manager RSA, Tara Stretch said the Cotton On Foundation which is the group’s philanthropic arm dedicated to empowering youth globally receives 100% of its proceeds from the store. Through a unique partnership with customers and team members, the foundation has directed more than AUD$80 million in projects globally. As a global retailer, the Group recognizes its responsibility to contribute positively to people, communities and the planet.

“This is what sets us apart from other stores and this means that all the proceeds made in Botswana will remain here to develop meaningful programs for people in this country. Our store here is currently standing at 1:5 ratio, which means that every 5th person’s purchase proceeds go towards the foundation and I would like to see it moving to a 1:3,” she added.

For his part, Reginald Selelo from the Ministry of Trade and Industry said in their quest to continue improving the ease of doing business in Botswana, it was a great achievement to have successfully brought the Cotton On brand to Botswana as the group continues to expand its Africa presence. He reiterated that Botswana remains open for business and where others see challenges, they see opportunities because of a renewed mindset and ability to thrive in uncertain economic times.

“I am very excited at the skills transfer that will transpire between Cotton On Group and our people here in Botswana, as well as the sourcing of products from our local suppliers within the SMME space. This resonates well with our focus on citizen economic empowerment as well as developing our local industries. This occasion also marks the extension of the Group’s African portfolio to 3 countries and we are happy to have our very own Botswana, our pride, your destination among the few countries you have trusted with your investments,” he concluded.

The Cotton On Group has grown steadily since the first store opened in Australia in 1991. The Cotton On Group is Australia’s largest global retailer, with seven brands, operating 1,500 stores in 18 countries and employing 22,000 team members.