Showcasing Ethical and Sustainable Pan-African Design in a Unique Boutique Retail Experience Across South Africa
Capitec, South Africa's leading digital bank, has partnered with handmadeAFRICA to introduce an innovative boutique retail experience that celebrates the finest in pan-African design. This collaboration aims to bring ethically and sustainably produced craftsmanship to South African shoppers, enhancing the cultural and creative landscape of the country.
Asha Patel, Head of Brand and Communications at Capitec, emphasizes the bank's commitment to supporting African ingenuity and entrepreneurship. "Capitec believes in the power of African creativity. By partnering with handmadeAFRICA, we can showcase the incredible talent across our continent, support small businesses, and celebrate our rich cultural heritage," says Patel.
The Capitec handmadeAFRICA initiative disrupts the traditional model of hosting fairs in fixed venues by traveling to various cities and towns. This approach brings contemporary design directly to the people, making it accessible and engaging. Garreth van Niekerk, Creative Director of handmadeAFRICA, highlights the diverse range of products that will be available, from fashion and accessories to home décor and beauty items. "This experience eliminates the hassles of online shopping, allowing customers to enjoy a tactile, first-hand shopping experience," he explains.
The first event, in partnership with Good Neighbours, will take place on October 13th at the NIROX Sculpture Park. This annual program features music, poetry, and food from across the African continent. Shoppers can look forward to products from some of Africa's most innovative designers, including LRNCE, Dye Lab, Adele Dejak, and many others.
Van Niekerk underscores the importance of establishing direct relationships with makers and building a network of designers across Africa. "Our goal is to sustain Africa's creative wealth by removing barriers to market entry for small enterprises. Capitec's support helps us achieve this by handling administrative challenges and reducing financial burdens for creators," he adds.
Patel reiterates Capitec's dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses. "Capitec handmadeAFRICA is a significant step in our mission to empower SMMEs, the backbone of our economy. By offering innovative banking solutions and celebrating African creativity, we aim to help these businesses grow and thrive," she says.
For more information about the Capitec handmadeAFRICA Good Neighbours event and to purchase tickets, visit the NIROX website. To learn more about handmadeAFRICA, visit their official website.
This partnership between Capitec and handmadeAFRICA not only provides a unique shopping experience but also contributes to the growth and sustainability of African creativity and commerce.
