Sports Trader January 2015

Southern Africa’s business-to-business magazine for the sport, outdoor and leisure industries • Vol 36 No 1 • January 2015

New outdoor cooking developments Is team kit or replica more profitable?

Growth in netball translates into sales

Vol 36 Nr 1 January 2015 www.sportstrader.co.za

Industry

On the cover Everlast, undoubtably the biggest name in boxing, have finally brought their footwear to South Africa! They are offering a full range, from casual sneakers to cross-trainers, all with a boxing influence.

Whether man, woman or child, there is a shoe for everyone.

For more information, contact Crown Footwear on Tel: 031 700 1601 or email: brands@natalsa.co.za.

EVERLAST™, the Econ device™ and GREATNESS IS WITHIN™ are trade marks of Everlast World’s Boxing Headquarters Corporation and used under licence by Vexivert.

Publisher: Nicol du Toit Editor: Carin Hardisty Managing editor: Trudi du Toit Proofreader: Liz Milburn Features: Carin Hardisty, Johann du Toit, Rhianah Fredericks, Trudi du Toit, Yamkela Mkebe Design: Carin Hardisty Photography: Nicol du Toit Advertising: Nicol du Toit Subscriptions: Carin Hardisty Printing: Paarl Media Paarl Distribution: Tunleys Sports Trader is published bi-monthly

by Rocklands Communications cc.

Reg. No: 1997/057165/23.

Members: N. J. & G. C. du Toit

Contact details:

PO Box 12197 Mill Street 8010 22 Rocklands Avenue, Vredehoek, Cape Town 8001 Tel: 021 461 2544 Fax: 021 461 2549 Website: www.sportstrader.co.za Facebook: SportsTraderMagazine Twitter: @SASportsTrader Blog: sasportsindustry.blogspot.com Advertising: nicol@sportstrader.co.za Editorial: trudi@sportstrader.co.za Subscribe: carin@sportstrader.co.za Publication information: The title and contents of Sports Trader are protected by copyright. It is a business to business publication compiled to inform, entertain and educate retailers, distributors and manufacturers of sports and outdoor equipment, footwear and clothing. It is available only to members of the sport, outdoor and activewear industries and is published bi-monthly. © Rocklands Communications.

2 6 8 9 14 16 26 28

Brands on the move News about brand activity in the industry

Companies on the move

News about companies in the industry

Company results

Understanding softshells

People on the move

How to fit kids’ shoes

News about people in the industry

Tekkie Town

New partner opens new opportunities

Jordan & Co

Bolton Footwear and Beier Safety Footwear have bought the Jordan & Co footwear divisions

K-Way

The turnaround and success of the local factory

Impahla Clothing

The manufacturer is the new BLK distributor

Sport

46 48 50

Netball

A growing interst has led to increased sales

Selling tips: Triathlon

Tips on how to sell triathlon products

Mouthguards

What happens when a wearer is injured?

Footwear news

Footwear brands introduce their latest collections

Kids shoes

Why it’s so important to fit kids shoes correctly

Product knowledge: Softshells How softshells work

ISPO Textrends

ISPO Textrends reveal new textile trends

Team wear vs replica shirts Which is more profitable to stock?

Rugby & soccer boot soles How to recommend the right boot soles

Outdoor

53 54

Team sport highlighted: teamwear and replica, rugby and soccer boots, and the netball market

Local and international financial results

Clothing & footwear

10 18 23 25 30 39

Highlights:

Cape diving industry threatened Open letter to minister on threats to Cape diving and fishing industry

Outdoor cooking New developments should appeal to consumers

Teamwear or replica? What is more profitable to stock p30

It’s important to fit children’s shoes properly and from a young age p18

Trade shows and events

56 IBC

ISPO BrandNew Awards

Innovative new products awarded

Trade show news News about local and international trade and industry-related shows

How do softshells protect the wearer against the elements? p23

Brands on the move

p2 :: Industry

BRT Sports Performance launches 2014/15 Winter Sports Catalogue

THE BLACKHEATH, Brutal and Sevenn sports brands, under the BRT Sports Performance range distributed by Kevro, took centre stage at the BRT Sports Performance 2014/2015 Winter Sports Catalogue launch held in Cape Town at the end of November.

The Cape Town launch event was the fifth in a series of country wide launches: Nelspruit (4 November), Johannesburg (11 November), Bloemfontein (12 November), Pretoria (18 November), Durban (27 November), Port Elizabeth (2 December) and East London (3 December).

What started off as a slow evening at the

Second Skins can compete with world

SOUTH AFRICAN manufacturer Second Skins is producing world class swimwear right here in the South, reports Second Skins’ swimwear specialist Brad Gale (left in the photo) after he and director Brian Keegan visited the China Sourcing Fair in Hong Kong and the Canton Fair in Guangzhou. They realised that Second Skins is keeping up with the latest international fabric and technology developments shown on the swimming oriented stands at these major sourcing trade shows.

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

Kevro office in Cape Town turned into a funfilled and jolly gathering of sports buyers. The company showroom was renovated to show off the best of their sporting and other brands.

Guests could mingle at the tables and on chairs that were conveniently located around the showroom. They could also touch and feel the products, which were displayed in a retail store format.

The intimate informal gathering was opened

by Kevro’s regional executive, Manuel de Andrade, who explained the progress their brands have made in the market. “This morn-

ing we smashed our best ever figures in several spaces — the best ever gifting sales, apparel, sports in the Cape,” he said, thanking everyone for playing a part in making it possible.

“We have tried to create some sort of exclusivity and invited only sports guys tonight,” explained Martin Ferreira, Kevro’s Director: Sport. The company is creating a sport specialist club in order to provide some exclusivity in terms of price, promotions, pre-season specials, etc. they have set up a page on the BRT Sports Performance Facebook page, which their sports specialist clients can Like to join.

Guests were entertained with a short video presentation that showed some of the products available in the newest Winter sports catalogue. Thereafter Ferreira explained some of the services the company is offering and products that their clients will have access to. The rest of the evening was all about networking and fun.

The hosts had set up a mini photo booth area where guests could have their pictures taken while wearing BRT Sports Performance products and other paraphernalia.

At the end of the evening all the guests received a BRT Winter Sports Collection catalogue, which has 81 pages of brand related information for retailers to peruse and choose from. They also received a flyer on summer launch items that are available, as well as a gift of a mug with the BRT Sports Performance and Barron logos on it.

TomTom watch for golfers

Gilbert now sponsors JRFU

TOMTOM RECENTLY launched the TomTom Golfer, a GPS watch intended to help golfers improve their game.

It features course graphics that show accurate distances to hazards and layups, as well as the best approach to the greens the user is playing on.

The Golfer’s graphics allows the user to view the course data of more than 34 000 golf courses in the world and offers the most recent course updates, which are sent wirelessly through a smartphone app.

The Golfer has a lightweight and slim design and uses GPS technology that can find nearby courses as well as the next hole.

The user can also track their score, distance and time of rounds on it.

GILBERT, LOCALLY distributed by Leisure Holdings, have partnered with the Japanese Rugby Football Union (JRFU) to be their official ball supplier.

Gilbert balls will be used by all Japan’s national teams and for all their main competitions, such as the JRFU Top league and Championship, as well as in university and technical college tournaments.

Our aim is to support rugby in Japan at all levels and to assist the JRFU as they build towards hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2019,” says Richard Gray, sales and marketing director for Gilbert.

Industry :: p3

Speedo launches fins SPEEDO, LOCALLY distributed

by Brand ID, has launched two BioFuse Fin training aids that are designed to improve swimmers’ performance and core fitness.

The BioFUSE Training Fin (red) helps increase propulsion, strengthen leg muscles and improves swim strokes.

These fins have a soft and comfortable foot pocket and are ideal for improving the user’s overall swim technique and increase ankle flexibility.

The BioFUSE Fitness Fins (above) are short, dual density fins that have stiff blades and easy-fit back straps to offer good water

resistance. They help strengthen leg muscles, and also improve endurance, increase workout speed, develop ankle mobility and boost lower body fitness.

Both fins are made of 100% silicone.

Speedo sponsors Cape Mile swim

Hi-Tec launches Walkumentary Series WALKING CAN lead to extraordinary things, and Hi-Tec inspires people to walk, is the message conveyed in the The Walkumentary Series, an online documentary film project developed as a teaser to the launch of Hi-Tec’s new walking products in 2015.

The three documentaries feature unsung heroes that have done extraordinary things. For example, in Happy camera operator Jon Beattie tells how he walked backwards — 10 miles a day for 11 days, strapped to a 100-pound camera — through the crowded streets of Los Angeles while filming the 24 Hours of Happy pop music video by Pharrell Williams.

Tokyo artist Yassan walked across Japan for six months to create the world’s biggest marriage proposal using GPS art (Yassan’s proposal).

Sonia and Alexandre Poussin, who

previously walked across Africa, took their children on a two year adventure in Madagascar, searching for a mythical pirate burial plot (Pirates).

“Walking is the most democratic sport,” says Hi-Tec CEO Ed van Wezel. “Anyone can do it, anywhere, always. Whether you walk the Chinese wall to meet an old friend for the last time or just take your dog for a stroll, the act of ambulation has always inspired great stories. Our aim is to capture those unique stories with The Walkumentary Series.”

New developments for Reebok International REEBOK INTERNATIONAL has acquired the UK-based Luta boxing brand and has announced a long term partnership deal with the leading mixed martial arts organisation, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), to be their exclusive global outfitter.

The brand will be creating UFC Fight Week Gear and a Fight Night kit for all athletes for the first time and provide apparel for fans.

Luta, created in 2011 by former amateur boxer Luke Dowdney, offers boxing and martial arts products like hoodies, sweatshirts,

performance t-shirts, base layers, shorts, pants, jackets and boxing gloves. The brand has a long-term agreement with Fight for Peace, a non-profit organisation that combines boxing and martial arts with education and personal development, founded by Dowdney in 2000.

2015 January :: Sports Trader

SPEEDO HAS been appointed the technical swim and naming partner of the new Sanlam Cape Mile that will be held on 14 February 2015 in the Boland town of Grabouw.

The open water swim event, which offers participants a 500m or 1mile swim option, has a prize purse of R50 300, says Michael Meyer from Stillwater Sports.

“We believe that the Sanlam Cape Mile has the potential to grow into one of SA’s premier open water swims,” says Stuart

Hopwood, Speedo SA Brand President. “It offers the whole family the opportunity to participate in a fun swimming event while attracting some of the country’s top swimmers in what promises to be a thrilling race.”

He hopes that the experience will inspire and encourage more people to choose swimming as their sport of choice and as a means to get fit.

“In this regard we’ve launched a global campaign called #GetSpeedoFit,” says Hopwood.

p4 :: Industry

Brands on PUMA launches new rugby kits

Puma extends partnerships PUMA HAS extended their partnerships with the Côte d’Ivoire Football Federation as technical supplier and with the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One team as their official technical clothing and footwear supplier, as well as the official licensee of their footwear, apparel and accessories.

They will continue supplying team kits, training apparel and equipment for all teams associated with the Côte d’Ivoire Football Federation. The brand will also continue their production of licensed replica kits, fanwear and merchandise.

Under the Petronas agreement, the PUMAowned sports company Brandon, will also gain extended licensed rights for Mercedes AMG Petronas replica and fan products. Team drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg will continue wearing the brand’s lightweight race Photo: Jean-Francois Galeron/WRI2 suits and footwear, and technical pit personnel will also be kitted out in their performance race wear.

Sevenn sponsors NSA Fast5 team SEVENN NETBALL, locally distributed by Kevro, was the kit sponsor of the South African national Fast5 netball team, which clinched the fifth position in the Fast5 World Netball Series in Auckland, New Zealand.

The Fast5 version of the game is a fast paced, high-intensity, and quick thinking form of netball, which can be compared to T20 in cricket.

“Their goal of participating in the Fast5 Netball World Series in New Zealand opened the doors for Netball South Africa to broaden their base of quality players,” says Krystle Hastings from Kevro. “The Fast5 Team continuously demonstrates enormous drive and persistence to come back better and better after each match.”

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

PUMA HAS launched the new Vodacom Bulls and Toyota Cheetahs Super Rugby 2015 kits, with one paying tribute to the team’s loyal fans and the other featuring two distinct colours.

The new Bulls kit features a bull’s head that wraps around the body in a 360 degree effect (left), which will give the impression of a herd of bulls when the team unites on field, explains Puma. The design brings together tradition and modern design trends.

“We firmly believe that this new design will also bring our fans closer to the team, enhancing them as part of the Bulls family and reenforcing them as part of the greater unified Bulls herd,” says Barend van Graan, CEO of the Blue Bulls Company.

The bull head design is placed in different areas of the men’s, lady’s and children’s replica jerseys’ so that when a family walks side by side, the entire bull head can be seen.

Blue and orange for Cheetahs THE NEW CHEETAHS kit is in orange and ‘pou blou’ turquoise colours (left), rounded off with purple numbers and trimmings. The home jersey (below) will be orange and the turquoise will be the away jersey.

“The latest PUMA kit for the Toyota Cheetahs is something of a landmark,” says PUMA South Africa’s Marketing Director Brett Bellinger.

“Traditionally, the home kit has been marked by a largely white-based treatment with the away kit being orange.

PUMA and the management at the Toyota Cheetahs decided that we should start to introduce orange as the base colour for the home kits and we have done so in a gradual manner — this being represented by the fading from white to orange in the home kit.”

The Cheetahs will play in both jerseys throughout the competition, even though the orange jersey will be labelled as Home and the turquoise jersey as Away.

“This means our home fans will see us in both jerseys in Bloemfontein and we will also use both jerseys on tour,” says Kobus le Roux, Sales and Marketing Executive for the Toyota Cheetahs.

The new slick faded design makes for maximum brand exposure to our sponsors and maximum supporter loyalty to our fans,” says.

the move

Industry :: p5

Adidas SA sponsors Football4All ADIDAS SA, the technical sponsor of the Football4All initiative, participated in the official launch of the Football4All Johannesburg branch. The initiative is a grassroots football programme, developed by former South African international football players, to help coach novice primary school children to play football.

The programme, which is active in Gauteng, Mitchell’s Plain and Khayelitsha, aims to promote a healthy and active lifestyle for primary school girls and boys. “Since our launch earlier this year we have seen an overwhelming demand for the programme amongst scholars of all ages. The lack of development of football particularly at grassroots level explains the great interest in the Football4All project”, says George Dearnaley, former Bafana striker and Director of Football4All. “Together with formidable former international players and coaches, we are determined to ensure that the game is accessible to all young girls and boys in South Africa, and that the proper basics are taught to them.”

Adidas will support the programme as a technical sponsor for the next three years by providing kit and equipment. “We are excited to see the programme grow so rapidly in a short space of time,” says Adrian de Souza, Sports Marketing Team Manager of adidas SA. “We look forward to this project growing even further, across the country.”

Among the many the former South African international play-

ers that are involved with the programme are Gerald Stober, Andrew Tucker, Duncan Crowie, Brian Baloyi, Desiree Elis, David Nyathi, Matthew Booth (pictured above with kids) and Jabulani Mendu.

REEF FANNING SANDAL

ENQUIRIES@REEFSA.CO.ZA

JUST PASSI NG TH ROU GH

p6 :: Industry

Leisure Holdings buys Speed n Power

LEISURE HOLDINGS has bought the manufacturing side of Speed Power Sports, producing Speed ‘n Power skills training equipment.

The factory — including the manufacturing staff — moved into the Leisure Holdings warehouse on November 10th.

Speed Power Sport will be concentrating on educating and training in the use of the products that will now be produced by Leisure Holdings, says Syd Rappoport (above). He will continue with the Kinetix programmes in preand primary schools, and Speed School programme in high schools.

Rappoport will also remain involved in the production of existing, as well as new products.

“I have taken this decision as the running of the manufacturing plant and facilitating the education and training, became too onerous for one person,” he says.

The Outdoorsman changes owner THE OUTDOORSMAN in Benoni has a new owner, Lizelle Cloete. Former owner, Deon Joubert, remains involved during the transition period and all contact details remain the same. Joubert is now pursuing his passion for building maintenance and workmanship.

New Coltri brands distributor THE 360 WETSUITS, Nardi Compressor and Molten Sporting Equipment brands are no longer distributed by Coltri. They will now be distributed by Armi Wholesaling.

One of Coltri’s sales representative, Steve Moller, recently acquired Coltri division shares, which has sparked this separation of brands. Plantfocus will distribute Coltri under Marco Folli and Steve Moller.

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

Companies Changes for Ram Mountaineering RAM MOUNTAINEERING has acquired their own warehouse and made some exciting changes to the ranges they offer retailers.

They have acquired a premises of their own in the warehousing park where their head office has been, and are busy relocating from units 13 and 14 to unit 7 in Old Mill Park, Ndabeni.

“Unfortunately, things have been complicated by municipal planning permission and fire regulations,” says Simon Larsen (right).

“At the same time, we are aware that we are in the middle of our busy season — and our priority is to keep up our normal standards of efficiency and service.”

They will also be introducing the Vango brand from Scotland to the market. The brand has been creating gear that can withstand the harsh Scottish Highland conditions for nearly 50 years. Their extensive range of hiking and camping gear is endorsed by the Scouts Association in the UK and has won the Duke of Edinburgh Award because their products are reliable and “will not break the bank,” says Larsen.

The first Vango range Ram Mountaineering will be introducing are trekking tents, which will arrive in December.

These tents will replace Ram Mountaineering’s own e3Gear tent range. “The decision to discontinue with e3Gear tents has been very difficult for me personally as it was my baby,” says Larsen. “We established the range from nothing and it made a very good name for itself in the SA market.”

Minimum order requirements from the Chinese manufacturers resulted in it no longer being economically viable to continue with the range. “We will continue to offer back up service — in repairs and in parts — for as long as our stock of spares lasts,” he says.

They have also discontinued the Baladeo knife range due to strong competition in the knife market.

But, they can finally introduce the Black Dia-

mond apparel range into South Africa, after the very high international demand delayed the launch locally.

Their four collections of men’s and women’s apparel, offer products designed and engineered by athlete-employees. The Flow State Hoody in the women’s range is stretchy, windproof and uses a breathable Windstopper softshell fabric. It is a versatile jacket that can double as an athletic windproof shell and insulating midlayer. It can be worn on its own or under a waterproof jacket.

The Alpine Start Hoody in the men’s range uses a Schoeller stretch-woven fabric that I lightweight, breathable, weather-resistant and has a top gusseted construction that allows freedom of movement.

"Jackets need to move with you and protect against the elements — especially cold, wind and rain. This range does just that," says Larsen.

Black Diamond headlamps have also been upgraded and new models have been launched and the brand’s new gloves have arrived.

The Jetboil Joule, the fast and efficient expedition stove, has also arrived, and webcore harnesses from Beal as well as lightweight Opera ropes have been introduced.

Awesome Tools distributes Benchmade AWESOME TOOLS are now distributing the Benchmade range of knives. Benchmade have been designing and manufacturing sports cutlery and edged tools since 1988. They offer quality products that range from basic cutting tools to professional-grade rescue hooks.

The Benchmade range of knives use a variety of materials that are specially selected for their performance characteristics to match the form and enhance the knife’s function.

Different blade finishes and methods are used to complete Benchmade knives. These include a satin finish, which gives the knife’s blade steel surface a low-lustre sheen. The polished finish adds a reflective gloss, smoothes the surface of the knife and improves protection

against corrosion. The bead blast finish is nonreflective and applied using a bead- or sand blasting machine with various media. It offers a rough surface that is commonly referred to as the military finish.

Benchmade uses quality grades of blade steel and have their own proprietary custom heat treat process, which maximises steel edge toughness and cutting performance.

on the move

Industry :: p7

Camelbak bottles outgrow hydration packs CAMELBAK REPORTS an increased demand for bottles during the third quarter of 2014 compared to the same quarter in 2013, but a global drop in demand for hydration systems, accessories and gloves.

Sales of hydration systems and bottles represent about 86% of the gross sales for the period, compared to 84% for the third quarter in 2013.

There was an increased demand for bottles across all their brands: the Podium insulated bottle range, the ergonomic high-flow

Chute water bottle, the new filtered pitcher Relay, and the eddy range.

While bottle sales grew $1.4-m in the quarter, overall Camelbak sales declined 3.4% to $33.5-m due to declines in hydration systems ($2-m), accessories ($0.3-m) and gloves ($0.5-m).

Military sales represented about 26% of sales for the period, compared to 30% in 2013. Income from operations for the quarter decreased $0.7-m to about $2.8-m compared to the third quarter of 2013.

Sevens Sprinbok players Frankie Horne, Paul Delport and Kyle Brown with Stefan Heinrich (second from left), Head of Emerging Markets for Asics International, and Sarah Mundy and Brian Kerby of Asics SA.

Adidas tops sports awards shortlists ADIDAS HAS been shortlisted in six of the 13 categories of the 2015 Discovery Sport Industry Awards for PR, marketing and advertising — sharing the top spot with Cell C for the brand shortlisted in most categories. Winners will be announced on 12 February.

Adidas is this year on the shortlist to win the coveted Sports brand of the year title, with competition from EFC Worldwide, MTN Qhubeka and The Sharks.

The are also shortlisted for: • Best sponsorship of an event or competition (Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon) • Best use of PR (Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon) • TV Sport commercial of the year (Orland Pirates Mantra) • Best sponsorship of a sports team or individual (Orlando Pirates jersey launch) • Best integrated sports marketing campaign (2014 FIFA World

Cup Brazil campaign) Garmin has also been nominated in the Best integrated sports marketing campaign for Garmin Vivofit.

The Otter African Trail Run, sponsored by Salomon and GU, and organised by Magnetic South, has been shortlisted in three categories: The best live experience, Best use of PR and the Sport participation event of the year.

The Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon, sponsored by adidas, was also shortlisted as a Sport participation event of the year, along with Absa Cape Epic, Hyundai Rock the Run, Ironman South Africa, The Jeep Warrior Race and Vodacom Bulletjies Rugby.

Asics Head of Emerging Markets Stefan Heinrich.

Barry Selby (The Athlete’s Foot) with Toni Haarburger (Moresport).

New Asics office shows new brand focus THE MESSAGE was loud and clear at the opening of the new ASICS SA offices in Observatory, Cape Town: the brand is now about much more than just running. The wide spectrum of invited guests attested to that: sevens rugby players and youth lifestyle trendsetters rubbed shoulders with retailers and other industry people in showrooms filled with rugby jerseys, training t-shirts, tennis, hockey and lifestyle footwear, running apparel … and, of course, the running shoes that have made ASICS famous in South Africa.

The eco-friendly and health-

orientated business park suits the brand, GM Brian Kerby told the guests. Apart from monitoring the sustainability of the tenants, the business park also has a cycling path, CrossFit box and running track, a soccer field and golf course close by. The modern mechandising stands are in the global ASICS designs, featured in offices around the world, and had to be put together like Meccano sets says Kerby.

“I think we have the best team in the industry,” Kerby said, thanking the Japanese board and European directors for their support and confidence in the team.

Massmart challenges lease exclusivity MASSMART HAS lodged a complaint with the Competition Commission against Pick n Pay, Shoprite and Spar, claiming that these companies’ exclusive lease agreements are anticompetitive and prevents them from competing with the national retail chains that are entrenched in shopping malls.

The group wishes to end lease exclusivity clauses that benefit entrenched anchor retailers by preventing direct competitors from trading in the same mall. These agreements can be extended for long periods and “these clauses have the effect of enabling an entrenched clutch of anchor retailers to decide who they will compete against in

malls.

Sadly, the traditional reliance placed on exclusivity clauses, by anchor retailers, appears to have created a form of contractual entitlement — it’s an easy option that enables the entrenched anchor retailers to contract out of competition with new entrants,” Massmart said in a statement.

According to Massmart, the introduction of fresh food in Game has been well received, but the restrictions on leasing has decreased the threat that Game stores pose to anchor retailers such as Pick n Pay, Shoprite and Spar, says Massmart.

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p8 :: Industry

Company news

Adidas sales grow 9% ADIDAS REPORTED a 9% currency-neutral sales growth in the third quarter, but profits decreased 11% due to negative currency effects and a continuing decline of its golf division.

Adidas sales grew 12% on a currency-neutral basis, with double-digit sales growth in the Performance football and running, as well as the adidas Originals and Sport Style segments.

Reebok sales grew 7%, but sales declined 36% at TaylorMade-adidas golf.

The Group’s growth was driven by high-single-digit revenue growth in wholesale and a double-digit sales increase in retail.

Income grew in all regions, except North America. Currency-neutral incomes grew 19% in European Emerging Markets as a result of double-digit increase in Russia/CIS. In Western Europe sales grew 10% as countries like Germany, France, Spain and the UK recorded strong sales. Group sales declined 1% in North America on a currency-neutral basis.

Financial income decreased 5% to €14-m in the first nine months of 2014 and group operating profit decreased 20% to €927-m in the same period, compared to 2013.

Asics’ sales grow in Q2 and Q3 ASICS REPORTED sales growth in both the second and third quarters: in Europe sales grew 12% in the third quarter, based on strong sales of especially running apparel across all major European countries.

The brand also reported 72.4% sales growth from the previous year to ¥265.1-bn in the second quarter, ended September 30, 2014.

Net sales grew 12% in the EMEA region between January and September 2014. The increase was a result of strong growth in apparel and footwear in the running and tennis categories. Running footwear grew 13% and running apparel increased 31% with the women’s segment demonstrating strong growth.

Sales in Asics own retail outlets increased 39% in the third quarter.

In the second quarter net income reached ¥24,534-m, compared to ¥7.922-m last year and operating income was ¥33,073-m. Turnover amounted to ¥82,544-m. In Europe sales grew 106.9% to ¥82,544. Sales of other business were ¥9,116-m, compared to ¥4.037-m the previous year.

Black Diamond sales grow 24% BLACK DIAMOND’s third quarter sales grew 24% to $54.9-m with growth reported across all brands and countries. This is in line with market expectations. The sales growth was boosted by the launch of the first Black Diamond women’s apparel collection and the POC road cycling range.

The sale of the Gregory Mountain Products brand for $84.1-m to Samsonite was conclud-

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

ed in July this year.

The US brand expect sales in the second half of 2014 to grow 15-20% compared to the period in 2013 to $113-$118-m. Full year sales are expected to grow 14-17% to $192-$197-m.

Columbia sales grow 29% COLUMBIA SPORTSWEAR COMPANY grew their third quarter net sales 29% to a record amount of $675.3-m, $152.2-m more than in the same period in 2013.

Third quarter operating income grew by 28% to $98.3-m and net income increased by 20% to $65.6-m. Organic growth of about $73.3-m (14%) was reported in the quarter.

The growth is the result of strong performance by Columbia and Sorel brands in North American wholesale and direct to consumer channels. Their new fitness brand, prAna, contributed around $28.2-m to this growth.

Footwear nets sales grew 33% to $125.9-m, while apparel, accessories and equipment net sales increased 28% to $549.4-m. Net sales grew 1% to $78.8-m in the EMEA region and increased 26% to $406.3-m in the U.S.

Low Mizuno sales growth MIZUNO CORP. reported sales of ¥90.0-bn for the six months of 2014, a 1.9% increase compared to last year. Their operating income also increased 3.9% to ¥2.7-bn.

Product sales in footwear grew 6.2% to ¥28.8-m, apparel dropped 0.1% to ¥26.725-m and equipment remained the same as last year at ¥21.6-m. The company’s other services such as constructing sports facilities, operation of sport facilities, etc. also grew 0.3% to ¥12.8-m since last year.

The company’s net income before tax increased 24.1% to ¥2.8-bn and their quarterly net income after tax grew 31.4% to ¥1.7-bn.

In Europe net sales increased 18.7% to ¥7.7m due to strong sales in running footwear and indoor sports-related product categories. Golf products, however, suffered as a result of the impact from difficulties in the global golf market.

Asia also remained strong with their net sales increasing 80% to ¥9.0-m. Running and lifestyle sports categories also showed improvement in this region while business restructuring in China improved the company’s profitability.

Puma sales grow 6.4% PUMA GREW sales 6.4% to €843-m in the third quarter, with all segments, including footwear, reporting growth. Earnings, however, dropped 45% in the third quarter as a result of marketing investments to support the Forever Faster global marketing campaign and currency fluctuations.

In the EMEA regions sales grew 4.4% (currency adjusted) to €388-m. In Western Europe the brand also performed positively as the

new Borussia Dortmund jersey, Teamsport and Lifestyle products were well received.

Footwear, apparel and accessories performed well in the third quarter, with footwear sales growing 2% (currency adjusted) to €374-m as the evoSPEED boot sales continued to improve. Apparel sales grew 11.4% currency adjusted to €323-m, mainly as a result of strong demand for teamsports products, especially Arsenal jerseys and kit. Accessories sales also increased 7.5% (currency adjusted) to €147-m due to a continued demand for socks and bodywear. Golf equipment sales dropped in the quarter as a result of the golfing environment remaining very weak.

“In a good third quarter, Puma achieved sales that were slightly better than expected,” says CEO Bjørn Gulden. “Footwear sales were up for the first time in seven quarters, and operating profits met our expectations.

The launch of the Forever Faster marketing campaign was well received by both consumers and retailers. We told our consumers that Puma is back and showed our retail partners that we deliver on our promises by investing in media campaigns.”

In the first nine months of the year sales grew 2.4% to €2.22-bn (currency adjusted), with sales in the EMEA region growing 1.4%.

The 9-monthly EBIT (Earnings Before Tax) was €117-m.

Shimano cycle and fishing sales grow SHIMANO GREW overall cycling and fishing sales 21% to 241,012-m yen in the third quarter, despite concerns about the impact of the sanctions in Russia on business. Fishing sales, which grew 11% compared to 2013, were affected by challenging market conditions at home (Japan) due to rising prices, bad weather and declining consumer spending. Overseas business is robust, the brand reported, and it expects continued growth for the rest of the year, especially with European economies recovering.

VF Corp sales grow in Q3 VF CORP’s outdoor brands, Timberland, Vans, The North Face, etc. grew income 7% to $3.5bn in the third quarter ended in September.

Their operating income growth of 9% to $633-m is less than $580-m reported in the same period of 2013.

The North Face reported a 9% growth in income globally, with a low single digit growth in Europe. Vans income grew 12% as the brand continued with its strong performance in all regions. Timberland income increased 15%.

For its full year 2014 results, the company is expecting an income growth of 8% to $12.3-m.

The company is expecting its Outdoor & Action Sports income to increase 13% and the Timberland brand is also expected to grow by the same percentage.

People on the move

Industry :: p9

PUMA and Marco Reus (left) teamed up to produce a limited edition evoSPEED 1.3 MR boot that launched globally on 9 December 2014. South Africa received ten pairs.

The offensive midfielder, Reus, identified ‘hope‘ and its impact on children around the world as a personal motivating factor. The resulting Tricks execution features two hands formed by words such as Hope and Believe in English and German. The colours are those of his current club, Borussia Dortmund. Proceeds from sales will support Marco’s charity of choice, which supports patients at the Children’s Hospital in Dortmund who have leukaemia and cancerous tumours.

Team MTN-Qhubeka have received their 2015 team kit from Castelli, locally distributed by Paragon Technologies. The new kits feature a black and white striped top, a grey and black shorts, as well as white sock and shoes. The various sponsors’ branding add a mix of yellow, red and blue colours.

Photo: mtbcrosscountry.com/Gameplan Media.

Swedish champ joins SA MTB team South Africa’s first UCI trade team, Kargo Pro MTB, believes they are closer to competing with the world’s best after multiple Swedish national champion Emil Lindgren joined the team for the 2015 season.

His new South African Momsen VIPA bike, from team sponsor Momsen Bikes, is on its way to Sweden. “I have known about the Kargo team for a couple of years now as they have had riders out there and a very good looking bike, something that always caught my eye!” says world #9 cross country rider Lindgren.

“Working with top elite riders throughout product development has always been part of our brand's success and the opportunity to work with one of the world's top ten riders is an exciting opportunity for us,” says Victor Momsen.

He attributes part of his brand's local success to the leading South African bicycle manufacturer’s association with the Kargo Pro MTB team. The addition of Lindgren will play an important role in the broadening of the brand’s horizons internationally.

The ‘Proudly South African’ Kargo Pro team aims to have a local operation that achieves global success, but they needed to bring in someone to help mentor the young riders and provide the necessary expertise that will help them achieve their goals, says team manager Shaun Peschl. “We’re still very much a local team with strong South African roots. Homegrown brands such as Kargo and Momsen still lead the way in backing what we’re doing while our focus remains on developing local talent,” he adds.

“When we launched the Kargo Pro MTB team we set ourselves a goal of becoming a UCI elite trade team and we took the first step in our journey towards achieving that in January this year when we became a UCI trade team,” explains Peschl.

Both winners of the New York City (NYC) marathon, Wilson Kipsang (right) and Mary Keitany, ran in adizero Adios Boost 2 shoes.

These were the 21st and 22nd wins for runners wearing adidas’ Adios Boost. Kipsang, who was in South Africa as guest at the 2014 Two Oceans marathon in Cape Town, ran the NYC marathon for the first time. It was his eighth marathon victory and Keitany’s third.

Russel Athletic, locally distributed by Bertuzzi, has appointed Western Province and Stormers fullback Cheslin Kolbe and TV presenter and model Liesl van der Westhuizen as their South African off-field brand ambassadors. Van der Westhuizen especially reflects the lifestyle and philosophy of women’s style and fitness that is synonymous with the Russel Athletic brand. Kolbe is photographed with Rudolph Reynecke (left) of Bertuzzi.

Kenny The Magician Belaey, Belgian mountain bike trials champion and Laureus Ambassador, spent time with youth at the Laureus-funded Indigo Youth Movement project in Kleinvlei, Cape Town. “It is amazing to see the passion these kids have for skating.

It’s the same passion and focus that I’ve had for biking for the last 23 years,” said Belaey.

2015 January :: Sports Trader

Jordan & Co offers variety p10 :: Apparel & Footwear

E

arlier this year, Jordan & Co reported a three tier approach as to how they will service the market in winter 2015. Jordan will still cover the casual sneaker market, Renegade rugged fashion, while Supernatural’s and Solemates cater for the core replenishment market.

This approach allows them to develop three different, yet focused ranges, as many of their retailers have diverse consumer bases. “This approach allows us to offer the retailer variety without the risk of duplication of product,” says Jody Henry, brand manager for Jordan & Co. They are pleased with the amount of new customers that came on board during the second half of 2014, some of whom have not bought a Jordan shoe for the past 15 years. It has provided them with a platform for future ranges.

For winter 2015, Jordan has put together a range of casuals and sneakers that includes the iconic hi-tops that the brand is known for.

This includes styles like Navada 3, a third generation cow suede mid-cut boot that is trendy and great with a pair of jeans. The Woodstock in two colours, grey and tan, is a mid-cut with an authentic looking PU, and adds value to any retailer’s display. The Ramone offers a casual look on a sporty outsole and its pin punch detail on the vamp, a blue upper and tan trims combination is a must, says Henry.

The range of casuals focuses on earth tone colours of brown, tan and blues.

“Our sneakers have that wow factor and are very relevant with today’s trends among young adults,” says Henry. Their Kevin is a high-top with elongated facing and a narrow throat, which is a great item with a pair of skinny jeans. The range comes in three colours, including a pure all-white option.

The Wayne is a mid-cut with a unique angled double zip, a clever design that makes the shoe fit like a glove. This range is available in sizes 5-12.

Renegade offers that rugged yet fashionable product that trades well for twelve months of the year. With five different outsoles and last shapes, it is still able to provide a focused enough range that will suit any retailer. This approach prevents it from looking one dimensional.

Recycle is a biker boot launched five years ago, but is still relevant in today’s market. On an aggres-

sive sole, this double zip boot has a generous fit. The Ridge has a wood sole finish and comes in a 5-12 size curve. It’s a lace up boot with a functional zip. The Temp is a mid-cut two tone boot that is available in up to a size 13. “This Dawie-inspired look is a must-have this winter,” says Henry.

At this stage they have not made any additions to the Supernatural range. The lace up, slip-on and sandal shoe is still iconic and retailers are happy to replenish the current styles. The introduction of Solemates as a comfort brand to tackle the entry level price points has been very well received. “We have retained the comfort sock in this range as we believe in adding value at a price.”

Anton Fabi’s taste of winter In june 2014, Anton Fabi, locally distributed

by Jordan & Co, introduced its new approach to footwear supply into the South African market. “We would like to thank those retailers who supported our vision. Due to the current tough trading conditions, we expected some resistance to the new price points, but we quickly realised that the industry needed this type of value-added product, to lift sales. This positive feedback encourages us to improve on what is already a winning formula,” says Jody Henry, Anton Fabi brand manager.

The company introduced a taste of winter in October, due to the demand from retailers to place repeat orders. The range complimented their current summer range and gave them the opportunity to gauge what winter sales will be like.

The products were in-store in November and due to high demand for the November deliveries they had to re-shuffle production lines to accommodate more orders.

One of the key challenges to having 80% of their range made locally, is getting early commitments from retailers, future selling, says Henry. He does however believe that the only option open to them is to improve their delivery efficiency because they have seen a steady increase from retailers opting to place early orders to be one of the first to have new lines in-store. “Unlike imports, our local manufactured lines are made to order so no surplus stock is available. Our agents have strict deadlines to meet before the production capacity window expires,” he says. Jordan & Co is currently offering

To p12 Sports Trader :: 2015 January

Lovren (left) and Navada 3

p12 :: Apparel & Footwear

Jordan & Co cont from p10

March as the next available delivery time.

Anton Fabi held its winter 2015 range launch throughout the country during September and October, where retailers were introduced to groups, like Lovren, a follow-on to the successful Pinto range. Lovren forms part of the winter range and features the Pinto pin punch uppers. Instead of suede, however, it has an oily pull up that is ideal for winter.

The Almos is a full grain buffalo boot with a shimmer look and texture. “The unique double zip boot is a must have this winter,” says Henry.

The Debuchy is Anton Fabi’s boot version of Filani, explains Henry. It is unlined and the style is in line with current fashion trends.

Combining both formal and casual, the Valencia shoe comes with a brush off hi-shine vamp with oily pull up quarters. The range has great shelf-appeal and no doubt will bring that wow factor to any store’s display, he says.

Their imported range also offers cow suede products such as Fiano, in choc and charcoal distress suede. A good semi-formal in lace-up and slip-on.

The Resino has a non-slip resin sole with an EVA through for that extra bit of comfort, says Henry. It offers a 5-12 size range.

Their PU range offers styles such as the Ramos, a lightweight unit with laser detailing on the toe cap.

Biola is a double-zip boot with tramline vamp detail, available in sizes 5-12.

Anton Fabi has a focused approach to what they offer the market. Their agents are fullyequipped with a range of samples, says Henry.

Footwear news

New adidas Supernova Glide Boost ADIDAS HAS launched their new Supernova Glide Boost, which has been designed especially for women.

It can be used for leisurely jogging or racing as it offers a neutral ride, which makes it ideal for any runner. The shoe’s Boost cushioning offers a high energy return and will remain responsive in varying weather conditions and temperatures. The Supernova Glide Boost’s adaptive upper accommodates various foot shapes and gives it a sleek, slimmed and stylish look. The shoe’s Continental rubber out-sole ensures grip while its Torsion System offers the wearer optimum transitioning.

These shoes still offer the same performance as the Supernova and its technical features have been reconstructed to offer a smoother

shape suited to the physical and aesthetic needs of women. “This new approach to Supernova design allows us to fully celebrate the beauty of women’s running with style-driven performance,” says Adrian Leek, senior vicePresident of adidas running.

The men’s Supernova Glide Boost has also been updated to offer more versatility and performance. It now has a lightweight midfoot and forefoot overlay that offers a more secure fit.

“We’re excited to apply the same gender specific treatment of Supernova Glide Boost to the complete range of adidas Supernova,” said Leek.

“Whether you’re a male or female, beginner or pro, neutral or stable, the Supernova franchise will have exactly what you need,” adds Leek.

New additions to Puma Faas PUMA HAS added two new Faas shoes to their collection.

The Faas 500 v4 (below) offers an improved fit that is ideal for runners that want a minimal and lightweight training shoe. It features a FaasFoam+ midsole compound and full EverTrack+ outsole that offers a cushioned ride.

The new EverFit 2.0 system with Weave Mesh technology gives it lightweight support while a 4mm heel-to-toe drop allows a more natural transition and ride.

The Faas 300 v4 has a lightweight technical platform and a minimal upper. The Airmesh upper offers breathability and comfort while reflective overlays offer 360 degree reflectivity. It also offers

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

a comfortable fit due to its internal bonded suede upper.

A FaasFoam+ midsole gives it a springy and 25% lighter feel than previous FaasFoam models. The shoe’s flex notches are aligned with the forefoot flex grooves to offer more flexibility and a smoother toe-off.

The Everride+ outsole also improves its durability and cushioning to give a smoother toe-off while the Evertrack high abrasion resistant rubber placed in high wear areas gives it more durability.

p14 :: Apparel & Footwear

Tekkie Town finds a suitor

Braam van Huyssteen (left) and Bernard Mostert completed the 2014 Two Oceans half marathon.

A cash injection of R720-m from the new Tekkie Town partner opens up exciting opportunities for the retail chain

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he next business race could be into Africa for Tekkie Town executive chairman Braam van Huyssteen. A substantial investment of $65-m (R720-m) by UK private equity firm Actis for a 42.5% stake in his sport and lifestyle footwear retail chain, could just be the impetus needed to head north.

The investment — of which Van Huyssteen will receive a portion — values the business at R1.7-bn.

But, nothing much will change at Tekkie Town, says Van Huyssteen. “Our team will continue to run the business as usual.”

He will remain the majority shareholder and executive chairman and Bernard Mostert will be CEO. Van Huyssteen and Mostert will be joined by an Actis representative on the threeman board of directors.

He does, however, not rule out the possibility of a listing ... when the time is right.

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

the World Economic Forum selected Tekkie Town as one of the 16 African global growth companies with a clear potential to become global economic leaders The Actis investment will give them the capital and expertise needed to expand broadly in Southern, and possibly West and East Africa.

Tekkie Town currently have ten stores in Namibia and one in Lesotho.

But, as Van Huyssteen has often said, they will proceed with caution and careful planning as “the African market is still in its baby shoes.”

They have been considering many suitors

over the past five years, says Van Huyssteen, and found the right partner in Actis. He was attracted by the fact that the UK firm has experience of doing business in Africa, including running shopping malls, and therefore know the challenges faced by companies who want to expand further into the continent. Actis has many investments in emerging markets, including $1.6-bn in businesses across Africa.

The fact that Tekkie Town targets the emerging consumer, has a strong management team and is a cash retailer that shows good growth in a challenging environment, attracted Actis to invest in the retailer, director David Cooke told UK media.

For many years Tekkie Town was a strictly cash retailer, but a couple of years ago they entered into an agreement with RCS bank to issue a Tekkie Town card. This is, however, a low-risk arrangement for the retailer as the bank does the credit vetting and carry all the

Apparel & Footwear :: p15

Above, right and left: The Tekkie Town stores were redesigned to look attractive and promise customers a pleasant shopping experience. They started with footwear only, but clothing comprises about 15% of stock.

Below: Braam and Charmaine van Huyssteen at the World Entrepreneur Awards in Monaco.

Tekkie Town milestones • 1999: first Sport City store • 2001: first Tekkie Town store opens in Somerset West • 2003: 22 Tekkie Town stores • 2008: 100th Tekkie Town store opens in Mossel Bay • 2009: After 10 years 125 Tekkie Town stores • 2011: CEO Bernard Mostert joins Tekkie Town • 2012: 192 Tekkie Town stores • 2014: 265Tekkie Town stores • 2015: 275 stores projected by early in year

risk as they pay the stores at the end of the month for goods bought with the card.

To say that Tekkie Town had shown good growth is a bit like saying that Usain Bolt can run. An understatement.

Over the past five years they have been opening between two and six stores per month. In the past two years they have grown their number of stores by 38% while the recession closed other stores at about the same rate. As they like to say: We don’t understand the recession. We are trading right through it.

Despite growing so fast, they only funded the new stores from within the company. Most of the growth had been in the north, although they had also expanded in KwaZulu-Natal.

By early next year they’ll probably have 275 stores, as they are continually negotiating with landlords and looking at new retail opportunities in rural towns. This is an art that Van Huyssteen has perfected over the past decade.

They are, however, not comfortable with opening more than 25-30 stores per year, he told Alec Hogg on the CNBC Power Lunch Show.

Van Huyssteen and his team had built the 265-store Tekkie Town chain in 15 years, but his retail roots date back to his childhood, when his mother owned a ladies boutique.

After completing his compulsory military

service as an accountant at the training college for women in George, he and his brother opened the Tropica store in Mossel Bay in 1989. They had R20 000 to buy stock. This was followed ten years later by the first Sport City store in George, which developed into a small chain. These stores were later renamed and merged with the Tekkie Town stores he started opening in 2001, to form a new chain.

His business model resulted in growth at a gallop. He had large warehouse space, footwear brands had over-runs and returns: he made them an offer they could just live with, sweetening the deal with forward-orders for their latest ranges, which he sold at prices consumers liked.

They also realised that consumers are drawn by low prices, but not by cheap-looking stores, and redesigned their stores to create a pleasant shopping experience.

Accolades won This business model won Van Huyssteen the Ernst & Young South African Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2011. Early last year the World Economic Forum selected Tekkie Town as one of the 16 African global growth companies with a clear potential to become global economic leaders.

The new CEO, Mostert, has been job-shad-

owing Van Huyssteen for the past three years, but they have known each other for nearly two decades. Mostert’s mother was Van Huyssteen’s daughter’s teacher in the Mossel Bay school where his father was principal.

“He is extremely very well qualified, and has a good understanding of finance — he was one of the top MBA students of his year,” Van Huyssteen says about Mostert, who was CEO of golf course developers Golf Data before joining Tekkie Town, where “he adapted to the company culture like a fish to water.”

The rest of the seasoned Tekkie Town team will continue running the business as they always have, says Van Huyssteen. “We have a great team”.

Most of them share a long history with Van Huyssteen. Gert Claassen, responsible for projects and marketing, joined the Van Huyssteen brothers as early as 1996 to manage their Tropika store in Mossel Bay. Michael Brown, responsible for procurement, joined the company in 2001 when the Sport City stores became Tekkie Town. Danie van Niekerk, operations manager, joined the following year and will be back again this year after a period away.

The transaction still has to be approved by the Competition Commission, but because Actis has no other retail interests in South Africa, Van Huyssteen does not foresee problems.

2015 January :: Sports Trader

Major new SA footwear company gets the go-ahead

p16 :: Apparel & Footwear

In an unique transaction approved by the Competition Commission, familyowned Bolton Footwear and Beier Safety Footwear bought the Jordan & Co footwear divisions from listed company KAP Manufacturing. The two companies formed from the deal — one for fashion and comfort shoes, the other a new safety footwear company — will be major players in the South African footwear manufacturing and distributing market

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he Competition Commission has approved one of the most unique deals of recent times in which two family-owned companies bought a former family-owned company from a listed company.

“Usually it is the other way round,” says Noel Whitehead, CEO of Jordan & Co, whose four divisions became part of Bolton Footwear and a new safety footwear company on October 1 last year. “I find the transaction unique because I don’t know of any other transaction where private money had been used to buy business from a listed company. Usually it is the listed company that buys the small family business.”

Two families — the Beiers and Boltons — used their private money to buy the four divisions out of the listed company, KAP Manufacturing, because they are passionate about local manufacturing and passionate about doing business in South Africa, he says.

Split of 4 Jordan & Co divisions Bolton Footwear Jordan & Co comfort & fashion brands PLUS Watson Shoes Barker Footwear

Thunderflex 102 United Fram Footwear Wayne Plastics PLUS Bagshaw Beier Safety Footwear

Mossop Western Leathers Sports Trader :: 2015 January

While it is not possible to compete against China with cheap synthetic imports, they can compete on the manufacturing of good quality leather shoes Jordan & Co, founded by the Jordan family in Wellington 115 years ago, can identify with that philosophy and company culture.

To add spice, SKN Corporation, the safety footwear division of the multinational Rahman Group of India, also became part of the group, which will consist of two separate companies — Bolton Footwear consisting of Civilian fashion and comfort footwear, as well as a safety footwear company, which is provisionally named Thunderflex 102.

The four former Jordan & Co divisions are now split between the new companies: Anton Fabi, Bronx, Jordan, Olympic and Renegade fashion and comfort shoe brands became part of Bolton Footwear. Bronx safety footwear will in time be incorporated into the safety footwear company.

Safety shoe supplier United Fram Footwearand gumboot supplier Wayne Plastics, based in Johannesburg, have joined Bagshaw (formerly part of Bolton Footwear) and Beier Safety Footwear in the new Thunderflex 102 company, of which the Bolton and Beier families, as well as the Rahman group, are the shareholders.

The Rahman Group became the majority shareholder of the fourth Jordan division, Mossop Western Leathers in Wellington, with Bolton and Beier Safety Footwear as the other shareholders.

Jordan & Co joins Watson Shoes and Barker Footwear in the fashion and comfort shoes Bolton Footwear group.

Fashion and comfort shoes Watson Shoes, owned by the Bolton family, has been operating out of Great Brak River for the past 128 years and is known for brands like Grasshoppers, Franco Gemelli, Step-onAirs, Watson, Young Klinik, Dr Hart, etc. They manufacture about 10 000 pairs of shoes per day at their four factories in Great Brak, Oudtshoorn and Cape Town. The original factory in Oudtshoorn, where their ladies footwear is manufactured, is now owned and managed by ex-employees from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.

Barker Footwear, which has been manufacturing Barker men’s leather shoes for more than 80 years and Crockett & Jones shoes for more than 60 years, was bought by Bolton Footwear about 18 months ago.

Whitehead, who became CEO of the KAP Manufacturing Footwear Division in January 2014 and took over as MD of Jordan & Co when Brian Pollock retired in August, will be the CEO of Jordan & Co. In the interim he will still be involved with Bronx Safety and Mossop Western Leathers, which is a major supplier to the footwear industry, but is withdrawing from the safety divisions as their integration into the new company progresses.

He and Johan Kriel, CEO of Bolton Civilian Footwear (formerly Watsons) and Barker Footwear, will report to MD Alan Fleetwood, who is in the process of relocating to the Jordan head office in Cape Town.

With companies operating across the country — in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Great

Apparel & Footwear :: p17

Brak and Oudtshoorn — it is logically much easier for him to be based at the Jordan offices in Cape Town than in Great Brak River. It will also give him an opportunity to learn more about the Jordan & Co operation.

But, stresses Whitehead, structures may change in time, as they have barely had time to discuss them, because their first priority was to establish and get the new safety company up and running.

One thing that will not change in the forseeable future is the identity, marketing and distribution of the brands — except where they have gaps to fill. Jordan will, for example, be appointing a brand manager for Bronx, temporarily managed by Brian Pollock, and finding a new manager for Olympic when Miles O’Brien retires in February. Apart from that, brand management will continue uninterrupted.

“We have a stable of very strong brands and it is important that they all maintain their identities,” says Whitehead. They will therefore not be amalgamating the brands in one division as “the look feel and touch of the brands may become the same. You want the brands to be totally different, because people want choice.”

While there might be some overlap, they will ensure that each brand maintains the unique features that attract followers ... for example, while there might be some similarities between some Bronx or Grasshopper styles, a customer buys a Bronx or Grasshopper shoe because he loves that particular brand, says Whitehead.

Share resources But, they will optimise resources because “there are a few things we’d like to do from here (Cape Town),” he explains.

They might, for example, utilise their wellmanned office in China and imports department in Cape Town to manage the imported ranges for

Watsons. It will also simplify logistics to distribute all the imported ranges out of Cape Town, rather than transporting them to the offices in Great Brak first.

They might also optimise production capacity.

For example, if one factory has spare capacity on the welted side, and another is over extended, they will try and balance the loads.

He again emphasises that they have not had time to discuss and plan all future strategies and that many decisions still need to be taken.

“The last few months have been hectic!” says Whitehead. “It was the sale of a business, not just a company, which meant that all the bank accounts and customer accounts had to be changed and updated.”

Local manufacturing Another thing that will not change, is Bolton Footwear’s commitment to local manufacturing — if anything, it will become stronger, assures Whitehead. “In future, there will be a big emphasis on local manufacturing.”

While Watsons mainly manufactures locally, with some imports, and Barker fully manufactures locally, Jordan imports about 80% of their footwear and manufacture about 20%. They currently manufacture about 2 400 pairs per day, about a quarter of the output achieved by the other factories.

While it is not possible to compete against China with cheap synthetic imports, they can compete on the manufacturing of good quality leather shoes — for which there is a growing demand because South Africans are growing tired of cheap imports, says Whitehead.

Other factors like a quick response time, a short time to market — days instead of months — the ability to make small orders and increase or reduce orders, contribute to the appeal of local manufacturers.

CEO of Jordan & Co, Noel Whitehead (above) is a chartered accountant who loves business more than finances. After completing his articles at Price Waterhouse in Paarl, he worked at SFW in Stellenbosch, which subsequently became Distell. In 2008 he embraced the opportunity to become Financial Director of Jordan & Co and was appointed CEO of KAP Manufacturing Footwear in January 2014. He became MD of Jordan & Co in August.

Alan Fleetwood became group MD of Bolton Footwear — Watson Shoes and Bagshaw Safety — in July 2012. He is also a chartered accountant with a bigger affinity for business. A former Financial Director at Bolton Footwear, he is now managing director and an executive director of the new Bolton Footwear.

Johan Kriel, CEO of Civilian Footwear and Barker Footwear and an executive director of Bolton Footwear, has been working for the company since 1989. He operates from the group’s head office in great Brak River.

2015 January :: Sports Trader

Fitting children’s footwear correctly

p18 :: Apparel & Footwear

Children’s feet are constantly growing and developing. They are differently shaped and more delicate than adult feet. These are just some of the reasons why it is so important to fit kids shoes correctly. RHIANAH FREDERICKS gathered tips from children’s footwear suppliers

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hildren’s feet are different to adults’ in many ways, but the reason for the special care necessary when fitting their shoes is the fact that they are not yet developed.

Children’s feet consist of soft and flexible cartilage, rather than bone, which will fuse and eventually turn into bone. These bones only become fully hardened around the age of 18, therefore during the younger years children’s feet are more susceptible to injury and deformities.

“Growing feet are developing feet. It is crucial to have good shoes early on, as this allows the bones in the foot to develop naturally,” says Keith Bushby, Vans brand manager at local distributor Chappers Sports Direct. “It is essential that the correct shoes are chosen by the parent, with the assistance of the shoe sales staff.”

There are many foot problems associated with wearing the wrong, or ill-fitting, shoes at a young age. These include common deformities such as ingrown toe nails, hammer toes, calluses, bunions, etc.

“The notion of simply shrinking an adult size shoe to fit a child does not accommodate for the growing needs of children’s little feet and requires a completely unique design rationale,” says Casey Watermeyer, kids performance merchandise specialist at adidas SA. Feet form the basis of support for the entire body and have numerous muscles, ligaments, tendons, etc. that affect other parts of the body. If they are not properly looked after, it could lead to more serious issues affecting your young customers’ postures, walking style, etc. as they get older.

Children’s feet have special requirements that need to be catered for in order to prevent irregular growth, say suppliers.

Their footwear should not hinder the natural

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

development of their feet, says Watermeyer.

For this reason it is important that the shoes they wear are not constricting or restricting.

When walking barefoot, the foot naturally flexes at the toe joints and “to support the natural movement, this is also where our footwear must flex first,” she says.

Babies naturally have a flat valgus foot, which means they walk on the inner part of their feet. This is because during the first years, the bones in their feet have not yet hardened, says Watermeyer.

As the child’s bones and tendons get naturally stronger, they will become more stable, but during this time “no arch support or orthotics are needed, they can even hinder the natural foot development of the child,” she explains.

Kids footwear should offer similar, but also different elements to adult footwear, as they are not as heavy and their activity levels differ from that of adults, says Dawid Visser, training and promotions specialist for Asics SA. The construction of kids shoes should also be different to adult footwear. “The edges of the footwear in some models are rounded to accommodate a shorter gait/stride than in adult shoes,” he says. Even similar model shoes will be slightly down specked for kids as they do not need as much cushioning as adults, he adds.

Children’s feet are naturally more sweaty than adults’ , therefore their shoes should be breathable. “Synthetic materials that prohibit breathability should be avoided,” explains Watermeyer. The shoes’ heel spring — the height difference between the forefoot and heel — should not be more than 6mm as it can have a negative impact on their Achilles tendon, she explains.

Fitting for comfort Adults may look at colour, style and many other things when choosing shoes, but for chil-

dren “the correct fit of the shoe is essential,” says Watermeyer.

“Children’s shoes should never be broken in, they should fit perfectly from the start, adds Daniela Panzeri, PR coordinator for Skye Distribution.

When fitting the shoes the customer should be measured while standing with equal weight on both feet, says Skechers brand manager Yusuf Vadi, from local distributor Footwear Trading. The retailer should make sure that the heel is properly located against the back of the cup and toes are flat against the base of the measuring instrument in order to read the toe length. After measuring, he recommends that you give the child one size bigger than that measured to allow for growth.

On the other hand, when fitting a child’s shoe without a measuring device there are some areas of the shoe that retailers should pay attention to, say suppliers.

“It is advisable to fit shoes on in the afternoon due to feet swelling throughout the day, especially in the summer months,” says Panzeri. A shoe should be approximately 12-16mm longer than the child’s longest toe to allow for growth and natural elongation when walking.

“Generally speaking, all footwear should have some space in front of the longest toe to accommodate for movement during activity,” says Visser. “In adults, we normally say you need about a thumb’s width in front of the big toe to allow for movement during activity, but kids do not have such long stride lengths or exert so much force on their feet during activity, so they will not need as much space,” he explains.

“Generally, you judge about 1-1.5cm from the toe, which is like a fingertip space, anything more than that is too big,” says Cindy Clarke, footwear merchandise manager for Puma.

Apparel & Footwear :: p19

Photo by Messe Duesseldorf

“There should be at least a finger space between the edge of the shoe and your child’s toe to avoid ingrown toe nails and calluses from forming,” adds Panzeri.

There should also be an allowance for the adult finger to fit snugly in the rear of the shoe, says Bushby. Once the shoe is on the foot, press down in order to make sure that there is space for movement and it is not tight across the top of the foot.

The width of the foot should not be bulging over the sides of the shoe, because shoes that are too tight can cause friction that leads to blistering. Shoes that are too tight may also hinder the way the child walks or runs, which could result in injury.

Kids’ shoes should have enough depth to avoid pressure that could cause bruising on their toes and toe nails. To ensure this does not happen, one should be able to pull some material at the top of the shoe to make sure that the shoes are not too tight around the top of the foot.

“The vamp (front of the shoe) should not be tight over the top of the foot. E.g. if the child has a high arched bridge they may need more elasticity if not a lace up shoe,” says Panzeri.

Also, the heel of the shoes should rest firmly, but not tightly, around the back of the child's

heel in order to avoid heel blisters. Also let the child walk in the shoes, to ensure that they fit correctly, she adds.

Buying for growth Children’s feet are constantly growing and one should keep this in mind, check and ensure that shoes are always well fitting. Retailers can advise parents to check their children’s shoes every couple of weeks to avoid their children wearing shoes that they may have outgrown.

Infants cannot really tell if the shoe fits, and given that their feet can grow up to three sizes in one year, one should regularly check that the size of children’s shoes are still appropriate, says Watermeyer.

They usually recommend buying one size up and many parents opt for this due to the fact that it allows room for growth in the shoe, says Bushby. “Parents will normally end up buying new shoes for the toddlers/children every 8-10 months.”

While some adults may be tempted to buy kids footwear more than one size too big to accommodate the fact that they are growing very fast, retailers should advise parents that if footwear is too big, the child may not get maximum benefit out of it, says Visser. The shoe’s technology will not align with the foot,

for example, “flex grooves in the shoes would present themselves in the wrong place.”

Functional designs Lace and buckle designs help prevent children’s feet slipping inside the shoe and prevent them having to grip to keep shoes on their feet, which could result in claw feet.

Many kids shoes have laces, but retailers should advise customers that “shoe eyelets on kids footwear are designed to be pulled tight by the child inward toward him, not by the parent who will pull toward themselves — many eyelets break as parents pull from the incorrect angle and a retailer should be aware of this when tying kids’ laces,” says Chris de Bruyn, tech trainer and merchandiser for Hi-Tec. You also want a supportive upper for stability, breathability, a tongue that fits snugly and sometimes velcro straps on takkies make it easier for fastening, while rubberized strap-end pulls offer better grip for little fingers, he says.

Children’s shoe soles should ideally have straight lasts, which will conform to the child’s foot, rather than the foot conforming to a curved last. Pointed and curved fashion toe boxes will result in the child’s foot being squeezed into an unnatural shape, which can cause bunions and other deformities.

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p20 :: Apparel & Footwear

Kids’ shoes range information adidas The adidas LK Trainer 6 CF I and K models feature synthetic uppers with different textures, soft mesh collars and their classic non-marking rubber cup sole. The CF I model has clear three stripe branding and a traditional Velcro closing system. The K model, on the other hand, uses their classic branding, a traditional lace closure system and features reflective detailing that enhances security in low light conditions.

Both styles feature adiFit, adidas’ removable sockliner, which can be used to determine if the child’s shoe still fits properly.

Ortholite foams feature a patented biocide that protects against fungus, bacteria and odour and also have breathability and wicking properties.

They can be machine washed and dried without losing durability.

Asics Asics offers kids shoes for various forms of running, as well as court shoes that have gel in their heels for shock absorption and EVA midsoles for comfort.

Their Gel-Nimbus 16 GS and Gel-Galaxy 8 GS shoes are recommended for neutral and road running. The Gel-Nimbus 16 GS is their top end kids running model that also features gel in the forefoot, bright colours for safety and fun as well as a guidance trusstic for a smooth transition from heel to toe.

The air mesh upper of the Gel-Galaxy 8 GS improves breathability, while its rubberised trusstic offers midfoot stability.

The Gel-Xalion 2 GS, in boys and girls colourways, features an air mesh upper for breathability and has a flexible outersole that allows non-restrictive movement of the feet.

The Gel-Fujitrabuco 3 GS and Gel-Venture 4 GS models have trail-specific outersoles that provide traction during off-road use. The Gel-Fujitrabuco 3 GS also features a DUOMAX block on its medial side for mid-foot stability.

The Gel-Game 5 GS uses synthetic overlays for a stable upper fit, has a court-specific outersole with pivot points for grip during sideway movements, as well as a non-marking outersole that is ideal for court use.

Hi-Tec Hi-Tec offers a range of kids’ footwear from casuals, to sandals and back to school takkies. Their Big-Fit System allows kids’ shoes to “grow with them,” as they are fitted with two insoles — one that provides cushioning, and the other that can be removed as the wearer’s feet grow.

“Kids’ feet are fragile, but Hi-Tec doesn’t compromise on footwear support, whether for adults or kids,” says Chris de Bruyn, Hi-Tec’s tech trainer and merchandiser.

Both their adult and junior R156 shoes are lightweight, have a supportive upper, use a combination of air mesh and PU overlays, and have removable EVA sockliners for underfoot cushioning. TPU shanks provide cushioning and they have rubber outsoles.

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

In their sandal ranges, the adult and junior styles feature toggle or adjustable hook and loop fastenings. Their junior sandals also have rubberised strapend pulls that allow better grip for little fingers.

The Eel Junior is a two strap hook and loop strap closure sandal for boys. It features rubberised strap ends and a contoured CMEVA midsole and outsole that offers good grip on slippery surfaces.

The Dean is a great everyday shoe in two colourways that can be worn with jeans, has a PU upper, EVA footbed and TPR outsole.

Levi’s The kids range from Levi’s, locally distributed by Footwear Trading, comprises of direct takedowns from their men’s and ladies’ winning core styles, says Jonathan Chaimowitz from Footwear Trading.

These include their Dunk Hi 2 Canvas, Pitch Lo and Hi Canvas Monochrome, Pitch Lo and Hi Nylon Monochrome models, all of which are available in UK youth sizes 2-5, kids sizes 10-2 and infant sizes 4-9.

Their canvas and nylon ranges have competitive price points for an aspirational international brand, he says.

The nylon fabric used in some ranges is easy to clean, durable, breathable and water resistant, but not waterproof.

New Balance New Balance offers a range of kids’ shoes in categories such as court, cricket, trail running, etc.

Their 750 and 513 kids performance running shoes are lightweight and have IMEVA midsoles that offer cushioning and flexibility and rubber outsoles. The 750 has a synthetic/mesh upper while the 513 has a leather/mesh upper and features Abzorb technology that provides shock absorption.

The KJ610 boys trail running shoe also features Abzorb technology in the midfoot while an IMEVA midsole gives it firm and flexible cushioning. It has a leather mesh upper and rugged lugged outsole, ideal for running through the garden.

The JL-2 last has a wider forefoot fit and is only used in children’s models, like the KJ610 and 996 tennis shoe.

The KC996 model features an Ndurance rubber outsole and a C-Cap midsole that provides cushioning and support. The shoe has a synthetic mesh upper and welded caged vamp that gives added support and durability.

The KXT625 and KVT625 cross trainers feature leather uppers, Abzorb technology, C-Cap midsoles and non-marking rubber outsoles. The KXT625 has a lace and the KVT625 a velcro closure system.

The KC 4020 cricket shoe has a synthetic/mesh upper, Acteva Lite midsole that is 24% lighter than standard foam, and a multi-purpose rubber outsole that is ideal for hard wicket surfaces. The toe tip uses material durable enough to stand up to dragging.

The KG574 is a boys lifestyle shoe that has a sporty hook and loop closure system, EVA foam footbed that gives it cushioning, and a non-marking rubber outsole. Its durable TPU uppers come in a variety of colour combos.

Puma Puma offers the Suede Camo Jr. that features a Camo print and closure options like velcro and laces.

Their Kinder-Fit system enables a parent to judge the correct size for his or her child by removing the in-sock and placing the child's foot in the allocated area on the sockliner, which has a footprint indicating the correct size, says Cindy Clarke, footwear merchandise manager for Puma SA. This system is used in all their kids footwear ranges.

Skechers Among the many ranges from Skechers that have kids styles are Twinkle Toes and GOwalk.

The Twinkle Toes Shuffles Rosey Girl Light-Up, Heart N Sole Light-Up and Glitter Dayz Light-Up shoes all feature soft fabric shoe linings, cushioned insoles, shock absorbing midsoles and flexible rubber traction outsoles.

The Twinkle Toes Shuffles Rosey Girl has bright lights on the toe cap that light up and blink with every step. It also has a soft woven canvas fabric upper, an all over polka dot print design and adjustable side hook and loop closure for a precise fit.

The Twinkle Toes Shuffles Heart N Sole has a fun streetwise style and lovely detail, says Yusuf Vadi from local distributor Footwear Trading. It is a lace up casual high top sneaker with colourful lights on the toe cap that light up when the wearer walks.

It uses a smooth leather-textured metallic fabric upper, has side and heel overlay accents and features a unique lace-side single zipper that shows off a pleated animal print fabric dart. A padded collar and tongue, vulcanized rubber midsole with contrast stripes and lace up front with metal eyelets, and textured toe bumper are some other features.

The Twinkle Toes Shuffles Glitter Dayz is a casual lace up light-up shoe that features embroidered floral print detail, stitching and overlay accents. It has a soft woven canvas upper with a glittery finish and a textured toe bumper that features the Twinkle Toes logo. This model also has a vulcanized midsole with a contrast stripe.

Easy walking comfort and sporty style describe the Skechers GOwalk Interval shoe, says Vadi. It features a soft woven heathered finish fabric upper, colourful pull on heel loop and a shock absorbing lightweight supportive midsole with a colour accent. The shoe has a half inch heel and its outsole is flexible with a circular sensor-inspired design.

Vans Vans, locally distributed by Chappers Sports Direct, offers a complete range of todds and kids’ shoes in various colours.

“We focus on a lot more canvas styling with the Vans trademarked waffle sole, as it is durable and affordable to a wider market,” says Keith Bushby, brand manager for Chappers Sports Direct.

They also offer alternative closure options for kids, like velcro straps as opposed to laces, as well as slip on options in their Star Wars collaboration, he says.

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23

Visit Sports Trader’s website for more product knowledge: www.sportstrader.co.za

How softshells breathe and protect

H

umans produce more moisture when they are more active. A trail runner would, for example, produce double the volume of sweat than someone taking a leisurely stroll.

As outdoor activities like trail running, mountain biking, adventure racing, etc. became more popular, a growing demand developed for a lightweight, non-bulky outdoor garment that is water-resistant as well as breathable.

Softshells became the optimum garment.

Softshells are lightweight enough to allow you freedom of movement during any activity — whether running, rowing, cycling, climbing or hiking briskly — yet provide protection against wind and rain.

Softshells combine qualities offered by fleece and water repellent garments to keep the wearer warm and dry in damp and cold conditions, and offer the breathability necessary to maintain a natural body temperature while active.

Creating a softshell is, however, not as easy as combining a string vest, which is highly breathable, with a black refuse bag, which is highly waterproof.

While the black bag may protect you from moisture/rain, it will cause you to perspire and get as wet on the inside as on the outside, because it is not breathable. The breathability of the vest will offer no benefit if the moisture cannot escape through the outer layer.

Softshell describes a woven material used to manufacture a garment that offers breathability, water- and wind resistance.

Softshell manufacturers also use coatings, membrane laminates, fabric treatments, etc. in order to create a garment that offers breathability as well as waterproofness.

How does a softshell work In order to keep the wearer dry and comfortable, softshells are made from fabrics with a special weave, coating or membrane that have pores that are too small for water to penetrate from the outside, but are large enough

Our cut-out-and-keep series to assist retailers with product knowledge Words: RHIANAH FREDERICKS. Compiled with the help of Morne Strydom of Adventure Inc, Ryan Weideman of Cape Union Mart, Clair-Louise Mortimer of Slam Industries distributor of The North Face, Simon Larsen of Ram Mountaineering, www.sasmira.org, www.tex.tuiasi.ro, www.ukclimbing.com, www.evo.com, www.backcountry.com, www.outdoors. org and www.outdoorresearch.com.

a coating and vice versa may be more beneficial to the activity they are performing.

Woven Fabrics Softshells made of densely woven fabrics use long staple cottons with small spaced fibres.

• The fibres are processed into combed thread that is woven with an Oxford weave, where two threads form a warped shape.

• When the fabric’s surface comes into contact with liquid, the cotton fibres swell and reduce the pore size of the fabric, effectively blocking liquid from entering the garment.

• Densely woven fabrics can also be made from synthetic microfilament yarns, like polyamide or polyester, that have a diameter of less than 10mm, which allow fabrics to have tiny pores. Softshells made with these fabrics are windproof, but not waterproof, as pores do not minimise when they come into contact with water. Their water penetration resistance can be improved by the use of a silicone or fluorocarbon finish.

• Tightly woven fabrics have a very dense construction that creates pores, which are approximately six times smaller than conventional non-waterproof or windproof fabrics’.

DWR

for water vapour — from sweat — to escape from inside.

• The level of breathability, waterproofness or windproofness it will offer depends on combinations used in the manufacturing process and the wearer must determine their needs based on the activity they will be used for.

• The same can be said of the design of the softshell; the wearer will decide the optimum design for themselves based on the activity as the use of a membrane instead of

Softshells’ face fabric can be treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR), which prevents water droplets from soaking into the garment, by causing it to bead and roll off. A DWR is usually applied towards the end of the fabric production process.

• The DWR can repel moisture from light rain and keep the wearer dry, but it will not withstand a heavy downpour.

• The DWR’s performance can be reduced by grime build up, cuts, or if cleaned with unsuitable detergents. Therefore garments should be treated with technical cleaning products specifically To p24 made for this purpose.

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p24 :: Outdoor

Softshell fabrics cont from p23 • If a garment does not have the DWR application, its outer surface will become soaked and cause the wearer to feel cold, or make the garment feel as if it is leaking.

• To ensure the DWR remains in working condition, it needs regular cleaning and care, such as using spray-on or wash-in products. It can also be reapplied to the garment.

•

Membranes The use of a membrane can improve a softshell’s breathability.

• Membranes can be microporous or hydrophilic — moisture-attracting — and moves vapour from inside, to outside, the softshell, while preventing liquid from entering the garment.

• Membranes are thin films of polymeric material, such as expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) polymer or Polyurethane (PU) that are approximately 10mm thick.

These membranes are fragile and therefore have to be laminated to face fabric.

• Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) polymer membranes are microporous and have microscopic holes (estimated at 1.4-bn per m2) that are too small for liquid water to penetrate, but large enough for water vapour molecules (in the form of sweat) to pass through. o Due to its porous nature, a PTFE membrane, can become soiled by dirt, oil, salt, etc. o If a membrane is soiled it may be penetrated by water or if the force of liquid is great, it may be penetrated. Therefore, although softshells can be worn in light rain, these membranes will not withstand a downpour. o The use of microporous membranes are not recommended for activities where the wearer will come into contact with salt sprayed air — as with sea-related activities

•

•

•

— because salt can penetrate its pores.

Salt crystals’ sharp-edged construction could cause grazing and enlarge pores, hindering them over time and may cause them to allow water to enter the garment.

Membranes may also be hydrophilic and are made from polyester or polyurethane, which have no pores. o Moisture vapour is moved from inside to outside the softshell (by diffusion) where the temperature is lower. o If conditions are hot and humid and this temperature gradient does not exist, a softshell’s breathability may be compromised. o The hydrophilic membranes’ no-pore nature means it can resist water and wind penetration.

The bonding of the fabric to the membrane is a crucial part of ensuring that the garment maintains its breathability, as well as windproofing and waterproofing capabilities. Membranes are bonded to the softshell’s fabric by means of lamination.

Membranes are kept in place by dots of glue to avoid negatively affecting the garment’s breathability. Glue is not a breathable substance and therefore it is used strategically to keep the membrane attached. Approximately 15-20% of the membrane is covered by glue, as less or more glue may compromise the garment’s overall breathability.

When membranes are laminated to the softshells’ outer fabric, it offers good wind resistance and waterproofing properties.

When using a liner, the holes created by stitching the garment, have to be seamsealed in order to prevent leaks within the softshell.

Coatings A coating can also be microporous or hydro-

philic liquid solutions, such as polyurethane that are thinly sprayed onto the face of the fabric with micro-jets.

• Microporous coatings have a channel structure that is smaller than water droplets, but large enough for water vapour to enter.

• It can also be monolithic and have a solid nonporous surface that attracts vapour from the skin and transfers it through the fabric’s outer surface, where it can evaporate.

• Its solid nature also prevents wind penetration or dirt clogging.

Coating applications requires skill as it cannot be thicker than 30 microns. If it is any thicker, it may impede the shoftshell’s ability to allow water vapour to escape — or if it is too thin, it may cause the garment to leak.

Water- and wind protection Softshells are designed to be water resistant, rather than waterproof, as they keep water out to a certain degree, or pressure point.

Softshells are, however, designed to withstand light water pressure, while still maintaining a level of breathability.

Softshells are also designed to protect the wearer from windy and chilly conditions and the weaves, coatings and membranes used to waterproof them, also improve their windproofness.

• An air-trapping weave is often used to reduce air flow into the garment, which causes heat to remain inside the garment for longer. It has a tight, compact weave structure that has no pores and does not allow air to penetrate.

• Some outer materials may be made from polyamide or polyester microfilaments, which are windproof.

• The use of an ePTFE or PU hydrophilic membrane or coating helps improve the garments’ waterproof capabilities, as well as improve its ability to block wind and insulate the wearer. These type of coatings and membranes have no pores and therefore cannot be penetrated by wind.

Smelly smart fabric offers branding opportunities A NEW smart fabric, with a whisky smell that won’t wash out, was developed for Johnnie Walker Black Label and Harris Tweed Hebrides by Heriot Watt University’s School of Textiles and Design in Edinburgh and Galashiels. This type of development opens up many opportunities for the sport, outdoor and leisure industry, such as using scents that suit individual brands’ personalities to create a direct link in consumers’ minds with a smell and the brand, for example.

The Aqua Alba scent used smells of rich malt, golden vanilla, red fruit and

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

dark chocolate tones that are layered into the fabric throughout the finishing process and therefore infuses the fabric permanently, as opposed to only being able to last up to one dry clean or wash. The fabric also has the colours of ingredients used to produce Johnnie Walker Black Label.

Developing products with this micro-encapsulated fragrance technology would allow manufacturers to create fabrics with fragrances that they feel represent their brands.

Any brand could be more unique by adding a signature smell, which would cause people to associate a certain brand with a certain smell.

This technology could also be used to their advantage by using fragrances that evoke certain associations, such as happy, energised, etc., which could increase favour toward products even more.

Brands have already successfully introduced smells into other areas to work with their branding, for example smells developed for certain brands’ stores. Consumers start to associate a brand with a smell and when they smell that particular scent, they think of the brand.

Apparel & Footwear :: p25

Textile trends at Textrends For the third year running, textile manufacturers were able to enter their products for the ISPO Textrends awards. While we have to wait until February to hear who the winners in the different categories are, there are already certain highlights that jury members say stand out in each category, reports CARIN HARDISTY

E

ntries to this year’s ISPO Textrends, which takes place 5-8 February during ISPO Munich, reveal textile trends that we can expect to see for winter 2017.

The ISPO Textrends awards take place annually and are judged by a panel of international experts who decide on winners: Base Layer, Second Layer, Outer Layer, Trims, Insultation, Membrane and Coating, Accessories, and Soft Equipment.

Jury members were tasked with selecting the top ten materials as well as up to 50 additional materials, the latter which will receive the Selection status. Depending on the status bestowed by the jury, manufacturers will receive benefits designed to help and to promote them.

Layered trends Base layer textile manufacturers are working hard to find the perfect balance between natural and synthetic fibres to create a super light touch. Multi-blends offer the best of both worlds, from jersey through to double knit, with polypropylene a key component to enhance lighter materials and to include an eco-element. Materials featured pique structures as well as mélange fabric faces with a bonded mesh back.

In the Second Layer category, materials featured volume with brushed and sponge-like surfaces, contrasting textures and tones as well as several technical elements such as printing, bonding and brushing to create more flexibility in garment design.

The Outer Layer category saw a selection of different material entries: wovens made from ultra-light flat ripstop materials feature tonal or contrasting colour prints; plain weaves make use of contrasting yarns to create special effects; classic satins come in high tenacity to lightreacting changeant materials; there is no need for lining with threelayer contrasting bonded materials; and reflective prints update basic lightweight twills.

Jury members were especially drawn to the lighter weight outer materials (54-90gm) that, despite the light weight, also incorporate technical function and protection.

High tenacity and reflective elements stood out in the Soft Equipment category.

Reflective elements on heat transfers, rainbow-coloured stretch and rigid drawstrings, and anti-slip and gripper textured effects drew the jury’s eyes in the Trims category.

Manufacturers competed to create the most impressive elements for the Accessories category, with illuminated and reflective zipper pullers, lacquered coloured and printed zipper tape, waterproof and holographic applications and heat transfer applications with embedded RFID chips in the reflective transfers.

Synthetic and natural fibres featured in the Insulation category. Lightweight materials made from natural fibres such as wool, camel hair and cashmere offer another insulation option to the traditional polyester and down. Some created hybrid blends such as duck down and polyester. Traditional synthetics are enhanced with mineral-embedded polymers for lightweight insulation with a greater degree of warmth.

Milky lamination and multi-function membranes, such as relective and new coatings on jersey bases, are among the highlights in the Membranes and Coatings category.

Trending groups Textrends have grouped upcoming textile trends into five groups: • The Activation trend focuses on technical qualities in materials: thermal regulation, insulation, moisture management, compression, increased circulation and rapid recovery.

• The Duality trend focuses on natural touch and textures, recycled fibres, eco-friendly chemicals, eliminating processes in the textile chain to save water and energy, and interpreting natural colours and textures into textiles.

• The Hardcore trend focuses on: lightweight and comfortable tough fabrics; lighter and flexible applications; abrasion resistance; shockresistant flexible smart fabrics that harden on impact for enhanced protection; cut resistance; high performance membranes; new tones and finishes (not dominated by black).

• The Dexterity trend focuses on aesthetics: prints (Intense3D optical, illusive), bi- and multi-coloured abstract to geometric graphics, high lustre transparent and coloured membranes, traditional multifunctional bases updated with graphic details, from sublimated to hyper-realistic transfer prints, and low energy processes in the dye and print sector.

• The Circuit trend has a modern focus: safety, connectivity, high-tech second skin comfort, lightweight performance, wovens with a crisp and modern touch, and gleaming modernity.

Colour palettes for winter 2017

The Dark Side

Active Instinct Black Black

15-1263 TPX

18-5642 TPX

18-4051 TPX

12-0736 TPX

18-4005 TPX

White

18-1661 TPX

19-1333 TPX

Silver 14-5002 TPX

17-5641 TPX

18-2140 TPX

15-0545 TPX

13-2807 TPX

19-5406 TPX

18-4214 TPX

18-1148 TPX

11-0605 TPX

17-6333 TPX

16-1149 TPX

Frosted

19-1535 TPX

15-1218 TPX

17-1609 TPX

Synthesized

Artificial Intelligence

14-4812 TPX

19-3910 TPX

17-3628 TPX

13-0756 TPX

18-3628 TPX

18-4434 TPX

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p26 :: Apparel & Footwear

The K-Way factory in Cape Town can barely keep up with the demand for the technical softshell jackets they make for Cape Union Mart stores. They improved productivity when they adopted the 5S workplace organization. Photos: Carin Hardisty

“Yes we can!”

And they did

Two South African sportswear and outdoor clothing manufacturers have shown that our factories can compete successfully with the rest of the world. The manager and owner of the K-Way factory and Impahla Clothing in Cape Town share remarkably similar recipes for success, namely switching to manufacturing top quality garments, incentivising workers, and introducing values like transparency, open communication and learning from others

A

never-say-no attitude, a commitment to transparency and sharing of ideas, holding management, not workers, responsible for problems and investing in cutting-edge new machines … these are just a few of the ingredients that have contributed to the turnaround, and success, of the K-Way factory in Ottery.

Eight years ago, before the current manager Bobby Fairlamb said “Yes we can!” to the challenge of competing profitably against high-end technical garments manufactured internationally, the Cape Union Mart factory was facing the same crisis as the rest of the South African clothing industry: uneven competition against cheap imports from Asia, resulting in massive

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

job losses and factory closures.

But, Cape Union Mart chairman, Philip Krawitz said: “We’ll make it work — as a beacon of hope for local manufacturers.” And they did, under the guidance of Fairlamb, who is “a person who does not take no for an answer, he always believes you can do anything,” explains Cape Union Mart Marketing Director Evan Torrance. “This factory is an investment in the clothing industry, it shows that we can make local manufacturing work.”

It wasn’t an option to try and compete with China by lowering wages and introducing other morally indefensible labour practices — instead, they decided to compete by upping their standards and producing higher quality garments than

what came out of China. “We did it by importing cutting edge technology on the same level with European brands,” says Torrance.

Going hi-tech The K-Way factory transformed from a bespoke tailoring manufacturer into a developer of top quality technical garments, worn by, among others, record-breaking ultra trail runner AJ Calitz, mountain runner Lucky Miya, adventurer Kingsley Holgate and the many staff members who regularly summit Mount Kilimanjaro.

Because the average Cape Town worker does more technologically advanced work than the average Chinese, the lower labour component

Apparel & Footwear :: p27

By investing in equipment that makes the latest sew-free technology possible (middle), K-Way can compete with top end international brands.

Bobby Fairlamb, factory manager, does not shy away from any challenge

and higher value of the cost per garment enable them to compete profitability with China.

This was also made possible by increasing efficiency through introducing lean manufacturing principles.

With the result that over the past five years, when other employers in the South African clothing industry counted worker numbers in losses, they could honour the chairman’s pledge that no worker would be retrenched.

On the contrary, they have been growing worker numbers by 8% and currently employ more than 200 people. While others were closing doors, K-Way was expanding floor space and investing millions in new equipment.

Fairlamb is clearly proud of the factory, which includes a design centre where they research, design and develop new products.

These are often initiated by Cape Union Mart head office staff members who come across innovative new global technologies during their travels — like laser cutting, sew-free pockets, etc.

“The problem is that the East catches up fast and has a quick response to what sells — and then devise ways of making the unit cheaper,” says Fairlamb. “You therefore constantly have to be looking out for the next new thing.”

African clothing and textile manufacturing sector can become world class.

K-Way also participated in the CCTC programme, a Public Private Partnership (PPP) between the Western Cape government and the clothing and textile industry, to improve efficiency and standards in local factories. As part of the CCTC, consultants closely work with management and staff to suggest improvements.

They, for example, pointed out that excessive motion and high work-in-progress inventory levels impacted productivity on the sewfree line — which was rectified by changing the floor layout and reducing bundle sizes to achieve single unit flow.

They implemented the 5S workplace organization method based on five Japanese words starting with “S” that can roughly be translated into sort, straighten, shine, standardize, and sustain — for example, by improving demarcation of work areas, providing equipment next to machines to promote cleanliness, etc.

Supervisors and managers are encouraged to do regular audits to ensure that the work flows at an optimal level.

Since adopting this lean manufacturing programme in 2011, their rates of returns for repairs and rejects had dropped significantly, absenteeism had fallen and efficiency levels had shot up. The result was that their employment opportunities grew by 8%.

Over the past six years Cape clothing manufacturers began recognising that they can only benefit from communicating with each other and sharing ideas. The industry is therefore upping their standards and gearing up to compete with the rest of the world. On their own terms.

Planning well His productivity philosophy is that workers are ready to work, as long as management provide them with work to do. “Planning is management’s responsibility and it is management’s job to make sure the workers stay busy,” he says. He therefore holds the managers responsible for ensuring that there are no costly delays during the manufacturing process because one sector sits idly waiting for fabric or gar-

Since adopting this lean manufacturing programme in 2011, their rates of returns for repairs and rejects had dropped significantly, absenteeism had fallen and efficiency levels had shot up. ment parts to work on.

The planning department maps out the fabric, trims, workflow, etc. required for each garment on a planning board, which has to be updated regularly. By consulting the board, supervisors and store clerks can, for example, see when a specific trim is getting low and remedy it before it becomes a problem.

They believe in paying workers incentives, instead of using the whip. “Our workers feel safe in their working environment and the result is amazing productivity,” he adds.

To make sure that everybody shares the same work ethic and values, their entire management team and supervisors have undergone World Class Manufacturing training.

“Each employee at K-Way understands the philosophy of Continuous Improvement and the associated impact of making small improvements every day.”

Lean manufacturing Fairlamb is chairman of the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster (CCTC), which has the aim to assist companies in the sector to improve and change the way they do things. He believes that through Look and Learn the whole South

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p28 :: Apparel & Footwear

Impahla Clothing:

you have to learn to walk before you can run 2014 was a remarkable year for Impahla Clothing. They celebrated a decade in business and made a transition from manufacturing to also become the sub-Saharan Africa distributor of an international brand, and sponsor of one of our most popular teams. But they know that in order to grow a business, it first needs a solid base, reports CARIN HARDISTY

D

espite starting their manufacturing business when many were closing their doors, Impahla (clothing in Xhosa) celebrated their 10th operating year last year. They started the business in April 2004 with 40 employees, when they took over a Tshirt factory in Lansdowne. Today they employ 452 people, 22 of whom have been with the company since day one.

“When we bought the business, the South African clothing industry was at a very low point, with people losing their jobs in droves,” says William Hughes, Impahla Clothing MD. “We realised very quickly that we had to find a niche for ourselves and do something different to everybody else.”

They decided to aim higher and approach brands to manufacture for them. Within the first year they were manufacturing for Puma, adidas, New Balance, Levi’s and Cape Union Mart. More recently, they were approached by Asics to manufacture Springbok apparel and they have been manufacturing Sharks’ replica for BLK since February 2014.

Impahla Clothing offers brands a quality product, made to the highest manufacturing standards, says Hughes — and not only in terms of manufacturing, but also social and environmental compliances. “We adopted a strategy of sustainability.”

In 2014, they celebrated their sixth year as a carbon neutral business.

Because of his farming background in Zimbabwe, where he worked closely with the labourers and their families who lived on the farm, Hughes has a lot of experience of managing many people. “You have to know how to treat people. You have to treat them with respect, which is fundamental to our management style.

“Our people are very crucial to us. Without them we are nothing, so we have to make sure we’re all one team with one goal. We’re la-

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

We’re not going to do things for window dressing — it has to add value to the business bour intensive, so you have to make sure your people are on your team.”

He is also a strong believer in transparency, with all aspects of the business open for scrutiny.

Growing business In the beginning, Impahla focused on manufacturing clothing, but in 2012 the opportunity to expand arose. Millennium Socks was liquidated and Impahla bought the assets and started manufacturing socks as well. “We’re not making a profit yet, but we’re growing the business slowly,” says Hughes.

Their fabric side is also an expansion of their business. Tomotex merged with Impahla in 2012 to become their fabric division where they mainly produce cotton based fabric, but also make polyester fabrics that are used in their replica manufacturing.

Impahla recently also branched out into footwear, focusing on basics such as sandals for BLK and Sharks supporters. They even have a range of footwear for babies.

They now have three manufacturing locations in the Western Cape: Maitland (head office, clothing and branding), Epping (textiles) and Elsies River (socks, apparel and branding).

From manufacturing to distributing In October 2014 Impahla Clothing became the new BLK licensee for sub-Saharan Africa.

“Manufacturing is very different to distribution and we considered this move very carefully,” says Hughes. “We saw this as a good opportunity to grow and improve our business. We really want to build a solid foundation and then grow the business from there: not try and run before

we can walk and then end up in a heap.”

BLK, known worldwide for its rugby products, also offers clothing and accessories for a variety of other sports, such as netball, cricket, hockey and soccer. In fact, the Sharks Academy’s soccer division uses BLK’s soccer clothing.

“Soccer is something we’re very good at, at Impahla Clothing. We already manufacture a lot of soccer kit for Puma,” Hughes points out.

But BLK won’t be competition for Puma, currently one of their main customers, he assures.

BLK is much smaller than Puma and the brands operate on different levels. “Puma is a very well-established brand in Africa,” says Hughes.

“With BLK, we’re starting from grass roots.”

In Australia, where BLK’s owning company WRS (World Rugby Specialists) Group is situated, team wear is about 70% of the brand’s business.

Over the past year or so, Impahla Clothing has manufactured kit for teams playing at school to national level; participating in local, Currie Cup, Super Rugby, Premier Soccer League of South Africa, 2013 CAN African Cup of Nations and 2014 FIFA World Cup competitions.

“Rugby is also taking off in the rest of Africa,” says Hughes. They’ve already received rugby enquiries from countries such as Zimbabwe, Namibia and Kenya.

BLK has been the Sharks’ kit sponsor since the beginning of 2014, which is a wonderful partnership for the international brand trying to find its feet in the highly competitive South African market.

“The Sharks is a fantastic brand and popular, and it’s an opportunity for us to leverage the BLK brand and make it well known in Southern Africa,” says Hughes. “From our side, we must now make sure that we deliver so that people can be exposed to the quality and in turn expose it to others.”

Most of the Sharks replica will be made by Impahla Clothing in South Africa and a very small percentage will be imported. Imported goods will be items such as BLK’s accessories

Apparel & Footwear :: p29

William Hughes, Impahla Clothing MD, in their Maitland factory. The company is very proud of their South African roots.

and technical items.

Sustainability

Made in South Africa

When Puma commissioned an international report on sustainability a few years ago, ‘Transparency in the Supply Chain’, Impahla Clothing was one of the South African companies that was invited to take part in the project.

Of the South African companies involved, they are the only one to have made sustainability a permanent part of their business and since 2008 they became the first African manufacturer to receive “World Cat Strategic Supplier” status from Puma.

“Sustainability has always fitted in with our thinking. We don’t do this to please somebody else — we do it because it’s the right thing to do. A lot of the things Puma asked actually made sense for us,” says Hughes. “We’re not going to do things for window dressing — it has to add value to the business, which it does.”

The Cape Town manufacturer and the South African Puma subsidiary have a long history of working very closely together. When they heard that Ronald Rink was retiring as MD of Puma SA at the end of 2013, Hughes approached Rink and asked him to join the Impahla Clothing board as chairman. “He offers us invaluable guidance,” says Hughes.

Impahla Clothing is also a member of the 110% Green project, a Western Cape Government initiative that was launched by premier Helen Zille on World Environmental Day in 2012. The project is a “call to people to commit to the Green Economy, to act on their commitment and to make an impact. Together our actions will lead to greater change,” states the Western Cape Government’s website.

Zille was also at Impahla Clothing’s Maitland premises to open their new solar panels in 2012. The 131 solar panels can generate approximately 50 MWh per year, which is roughly 5% of their annual electricity usage across their entire business.

“The Sharks should also leverage the fact that their kit is manufactured in South Africa. It’s very important for consumers to know the product is being made locally,” reminds Hughes.

Local manufacturers offer several benefits such as shorter lead times for replenishment of stock and contributing to the economy through job creation. Compared to when they first started, there have definitely been marked improvements in the local manufacturing market, says Hughes.

He lists certain improvements such as government starting to take a more active approach in the clothing industry through the Department of Trade and Industry and the IDC, the weakened Rand meant that eyes turned to within our borders for manufacturing options, and there has been a big push to stop illegal and unregistered importers that try to avoid paying duties on apparel. Manufacturing could again become a big industry and a big employer in South Africa, Hughes points out.

“We’ve found that several of the larger retailers have started looking at local manufacturing options, and we do business with a few already — even sports lifestyle chains.”

At times it can be difficult to get hold of the necessary raw materials — especially in the textile industry. On the very technical side they have to import, but these days there is an ever increasing number of local companies to use.

When importing, it’s very important for them not to opt for cheaper material that might not be suitable for human wear, for example material that might contain hazardous chemicals or buttons that have too high a lead content, because they are very concerned about manufacturing sustainably and being environmentally responsible.

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) also awarded Impahla first place in the Job Creation category and first place for Sustainability at the 2013 Business Partner Awards.

Expanding horizons In the past, Impahla Clothing has exported throughout the world, and this is something they will be looking at again now that they are licensees for the BLK brand — especially into sub-Saharan Africa.

“We also have opportunities to export into Europe and the US, because of the preferential trade agreements,” Hughes adds.

Because they manufacture 100% locallymade products from African cotton, and can therefore export to those markets duty-free because they comply with the trade agreements’ regulations, other distributors of BLK are now considering working with Impahla Clothing to manufacture their products in South Africa and export to their respective countries.

Outside of Africa, BLK is also currently distributed in Australia, France, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, United Arab Emirates, the UK and the US. “We’re also getting a lot of enquiries on the Design Your Own portal on our website,” says Hughes. Through this area, you can design your team kit with easy-to-follow instructions.

The process takes about six weeks from accepting the quote to receiving the kit.

The Hughes family, all involved in the business, have indeed come a long way from the Zimbabwean farm they were evicted from ten years ago by threatening land invaders. They will be entering their second decade in business with much more optimism and confidence that the many possibilities they created will be successful.

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p30 :: Apparel & Footwear

Team kits vs replicas:

Which is the most profitable?

While international retailers make millions from selling replica shirts, most South African retailers find that it is more beneficial to sell team kit than replica shirts. JOHANN DU TOIT looks at the pros and cons of stocking team kit vs replica

D

eciding what amount of shelf space needs to be dedicated to a product category is often a difficult decision that a retailer needs to make. The deciding factor is often which product will generate the most profit per space occupied. In the case of team kit clothing or replica clothing, it is often difficult to decide which product will give the highest income per centimetre shelf space.

Team kits are usually sold to an entire team in one go. In the case of rugby teams, full kits for 15 players, plus reserves, often need to be purchased. Therefore, a retailer can sell much more team kit at one time than replica jerseys, which are purchased individually.

Team kit can therefore be more lucrative to give shelf space to, even though individual replica jerseys are much more expensive per item.

It is therefore no surprise that 61.5% of the retailers responding to our snap survey say that selling team kit is more profitable for them, even though replica jerseys are much more expensive than individual team jerseys.

A locally manufactured full kit set for a soccer team would sell for about R1 600, while a team set from a recognised brand could cost as much as R6 000 per team set. Compared to that, a replica jersey for a local soccer team would sell for between R499-599, but international replica jerseys (e.g. Manchester United, Chelsea, etc.) would sell for between

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

Because a replica jersey is something you can wear as an everyday piece of clothing, the look and style of it also plays an important role for a customer deciding to buy it or not.

R750-900. A retailer therefore has to sell two to three replica shirts for the price of one team set sold to a local team.

There might, however, be a limited number of amateur teams playing in the area, while a very popular pro team may generate many replica jersey sales. Therefore, close to 40% of the retailers contacted said that they find it more profitable to sell replica.

Biggest kit sales Our retail respondents indicated that a store focusing more on sports fashion will sell more replicas, while independent sports stores will be more likely to sell more team kits.

Nearly two-thirds (60%) of the retailers responding to our snap survey say that they sell more team kit than replica. The demand for team kit is relatively constant, especially when you sell to schools, as growing athletes will regularly require new team kit, especially as they progress to the top teams that wear different jerseys. It is therefore relatively easy to predict what kind of sales figures one

can expect when selling to the teams in your area.

There are about 10 000-68 000 grassroots soccer clubs in South Africa, each one needing at least one team kit. Excluding school teams and unregistered clubs, there are at the very least 150 000-1 000 000 players playing at club level. It is therefore again no surprise that 60% of the retailers say that they sell the most team kit to soccer teams.

For rugby, IRB figures show there are just under half a million registered rugby players in South Africa — all requiring team kits.

More than 300 000 of these players are still at school and nearly 18 000 are women. This represents nearly 31 000 registered amateur rugby teams, all needing team jerseys, shorts and socks.

Yet, only 30% of the retailers we contacted say that rugby is the sport that they sell the most kit for.

Even though netball is the most popular sport among women of all age and race groups (see p46), with around 1.95 million adult and junior players in South Africa, representing about 195 000 teams, retailers did not indicate that they sell many netball team kits. Although 80% of the respondents do sell netball team kit, the demand for soccer, rugby and even cricket is higher.

Locally manufactured Among local manufacturers of team kits, however, netball kits are selling well. Manufacturers such as American Man Sportswear, Kevro

Apparel & Footwear :: p31

Orlando Pirates’ supporters’ wear is popular among supporters.

and Mike Sport all indicate that netball is one of their top two sellers, with soccer kit sales in the lead.

Most local manufacturers of team wear make kits for soccer, netball, rugby, hockey and cricket — and sell the most kits in the same order. More than half of the retailers (56%) indicated that they don’t actually stock team kit, but that they sell team kits ordered from a catalogue supplied by local manufac-

turers.

Kevro supplies such a catalogue to their retail customers twice a year, featuring their various sports brands under the BRT label (see p2). “We are a trade only supplier,” says Martin Ferreira, “but the demand is mainly from school and clubs ordering from our retail customers via our catalogue.”

The biggest demand is for their soccer (Acelli) and netball (Sevenn) team kit, followed by

rugby (Brutal), and then BRT teamwear for cricket, hockey and athletics.

Most local manufacturers say they mainly sell team kits in standard colours and styles, ordered from catalogues, and retailers can also order imported ranges from brands like adidas, Nike, Kappa and Puma in standard colours and sizes from their catalogues.

This is the fastest and least expensive way to manufacture kits because or- To p32

p32 :: Apparel & Footwear The four national rugby captains (from left): Handré Pollard (Junior Springboks), Kyle Brown (Springbok Sevens), Zenay Jordaan (Springbok Women Sevens) and Jean de Villiers (Springboks).

Credit: Derick Myburg for SARU.

61.5% of the retailers responding to our snap survey say that selling team kit is more profitable for them, even though replica jerseys are much more expensive than individual team jerseys.

Team kits vs replicas cont from p31 ders are done in bulk, explains Shahin Lalla of American Man Sportswear, who specializes in soccer and netball kit under the Premier label.

They have a very large customer base, who enjoy the fast lead times and good prices they can offer by having stock in standard colours and styles available.

This doesn’t mean that personalised sales

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

consulting is not important to customers wanting to purchase team kits, though. “A key element of our team kit business is the walkin or telesale client, who gets personalized service from our skilled sales consultants,” says Imtiaz Karodia from Solly M Sports, a major supplier of soccer kit.

Their popular imported in-house Fury range is supplied in standard colours and sizes from

their catalogue, and they also have a locally manufactured Fury range, which they can customise. “We can offer sizes and styles as per our clients’ request in quick turnaround time,” he says.

There is also a big demand for wholesale stock from other retailers and service providers. “Due to us carrying large amounts of stock, we can supply tenders for even 200 sets of kit overnight with complete branding of logos and numbers printed.”

The highest demand for team kits comes

Apparel & Footwear :: p33 from schools and local teams.

This is due to the large number of players in younger age groups.

Schools and clubs often want individual designs, says Eijvind Vlok from Hawk Sportswear, who find that most of the school and local club teams that order kit from him, want individual designs.

His customers want a combination of individual designs, as well as standard styles and colours from a catalogue, says Mike Augostides of Mikes Sports.

They supply team kit for soccer, netball, rugby and cricket from stock, says Gary Baker of LGB Distributors, but make hockey kit to order, as the demand is not so high. They mainly supply exstock, “but we also make bespoke for certain clubs and schools, depending on units required.”

rugby supporter is more likely to be able to afford a replica jersey, while the average soccer supporter might not. A replica jersey can cost between R500 and R700, making them a significant purchase for most South Africans.

Even though netball is such a popular sport in South Africa, netball replica sales are practically non-existent. This is most likely due to it not being a big spectator sport.

A few retailers indicated that cricket replica shirts are also very popular, while cricket team kits are not in very high demand.

The issue of fake replicas is also of big concern, as a supporter might be more inclined to purchase a cheaper rip-off than the much more expensive official branded one. In order to combat this, several brands offer takedown supporters jerseys, caps, T-shirts and other accessories at a price that most fans who want to show their support can afford.

Musgrave Agencies, for example, supply Springbok supporters wear and accessories under license, as well as supporters gear for Super 15 teams like the Stormers, Sharks, Li- To p36

Our anonymous retail respondents to our snap survey were mainly from sport independent stores (40%), as well as sport specialist stores, fashion independents and fashion chain stores.

Most of the stores are in the CBD of a main city (60%), with rest spread across big shopping malls, smaller neighbourhood centres or rural towns (10%). Most (7080%) sell team kit for soccer, rugby, netball and cricket).

Kit from brands The level of the team that orders kit also plays a major role in how team wear will be ordered. A sponsored team, like the Stormers or Sharks, will have their special designs custom made, explains Paul Corbelarri from Genuine Connection, who makes the rugby team kit for some of these high level teams.

They do, however, also manufacture rugby shirts with individual designs for school and club teams, he adds.

But, even some well-known international brands known for their replica, sell more team kit than replica jerseys — for example, Canterbury, which nowadays supplies more team kit to clubs and schools than replica jerseys, says Evert Ferreira of local supplier Brand ID. Kappa offers soccer clubs and schools the online Kappa4Team service, from where they can order kit and off-field clothing by clicking on the styles, colours and sizes they want. Although Kappa SA “sell a good mixture of replica and kit, our core, or main business, is general team kit sales,” says local distributor Ricky Joseph.

Replicas sales An equal number of retailers (40%) report that they sell rugby as well as soccer replica, even though there are many more soccer supporters in South Africa than rugby supporters. This is most likely due to the cost of replica jerseys, as your typical

2015 January :: Sports Trader

The Nature of rugby is Brutal.

South African rugby is tough, physical and unforgiving. Brutal has that character in a full range of rugby gear already used by four provincial teams.

Hockey range for men and woman, includes apparel and equipment. This range is elevated by vibrant colours and design in keeping with hockey’s identity.

Sevenn brings it’s own pure netball clothing and equipment, specifically developed for this high intensity sport.

Contact Details 7 Branches nationwide and in Namibia (Head Office (Johannesburg) , Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Nelspruit, Bloemfontein, Windhoek) Email: info@brtsports.co.za National Tel: 0861 1 53876 Windhoek Tel: 00264 61 250 02700 Website: www.kevro.co.za

Soccer is the Nation’s biggest sport. Inspired by the Italian’s flair for design, but developed for the South African environment. Acelli football wear, even in kiddies ranges, is a fusion of unique style, quality and modernism - all the elements demanded by today’s player.

Javelin, shotput, discus, hurdles to high-jump equipment, and more. IAAF approved products are part of the Garrett athletics complete range. Garrett serves the need in the market with these products.

Off-field apparel and equipment for sports teams of all sporting codes. This team-wear range is primarily a sport lifestyle collection and was designed to maximise how sportsmen and sports - women look off the field.

p36 :: Apparel & Footwear

SA Rugby available from Musgrave Agencies MUSGRAVE AGENCIES is excited to let retailers know that they now distribute the SA Rugby range of supporters’ and casual wear.

The SA Rugby range features items for the Springboks, as well as for the Sharks/Natal Sharks, Bulls/Blue Bulls, Stormers/Western Province, Central Cheetahs/Free State Cheetahs and Lions/Golden Lions Super 15/Currie Cup teams.

SA Rugby offers accessories and clothing, which provide great options for the supporter.

They have also just developed a brand new SA Rugby clothing range, which arrives in the first quarter of 2015. They do have stock of other items, for example their accessories range. The accessories range includes headwear, bags, flags, bottles. etc.

SA Rugby clothing caters

for the whole family from men’s and ladies down to girls, boys, pregirls, preboys and infant sizes.

“It’s also not just supporters’ wear,” Shane Balcomb, SA Rugby brand manager for Musgrave Agencies, points out. “Within the clothing ranges, we’ve also developed more lifestyle, so it’s not just something for the consumer to wear to a game,” says Balcomb. “If you want a nice check shirt to go to work in or something to wear around the braai that doesn’t have huge team branding, we also offer this. The branding is nice and subtle — not in your face.”

Balcomb has a firsthand knowledge of retail, having worked at Mr Price Sport in their outdoor clothing and accessories department before joining Musgrave Agencies.

Team kits vs replicas cont from p33

ons, Cheetahs and Bulls.

Replica success While a retailer roughly knows how many schools and clubs will order team kit from him per season, replica sales are largely dependent on the performance of the team. A successful team usually translates into a successful brand.

For example, in the lead up to the final when the Springboks won the 2007 IRB World Cup, retailers were fast running out of Springbok jersey stock — while retailers in France, where the World Cup was played, could hardly give their All-Black jerseys away after New Zealand was knocked out of the tournament.

This makes predicting replica sales figures, and ordering stock, very tough.

“Springbok rugby is one of the biggest sporting brands in South Africa,” says Sarah Mundy, marketing manager for ASICS SA. “The iconic 1995 RWC win during such an emotional time in South Africa left a massive emotional imprint on all South Africans.” The brand will therefore always have strong appeal — from fans worldwide.

Retailers report a marked increase in Spring-

Apparel & Footwear :: p37 bok replica sales after the team had won. It is as if fans then want to show their support, even after the game.

Although results are the most important factor for generating large fan bases, a team can also become popular if it plays in an appealing way. For example, the Johannesburg based Lions rugby team are gaining popularity due to their aggressive attacking style and success in recent Currie Cup matches. “It’s all about the teams’ results and brand of rugby they play”, says Ferreira from Brand ID, manufacturers of Lions rugby replica shirts.

Because a replica jersey is something you can wear as an everyday piece of clothing, the look and style of it also plays an important role for a customer deciding to buy it or not.

Part of the reason why the Bulls rugby team replica shirts sell so well is because they look so good, says James Mullen, Head of Performance for their kit supplier Puma SA. “It's a combination of great stylish kit design as well as the fact that the Bulls are one of the most successful and well supported teams in SA,” she says.

Shirts from the Super 15 teams like the Sharks (from BLK), Stormers (adidas) and Bulls (Puma) sell well countrywide, report retailers, while other teams such as the Cheetahs (Puma) and Lions (Canterbury) will have a much more locally based appeal.

The level of the team that orders kit also plays a major role in how team wear will be ordered.

Soccer replica When it comes to sales, the highest demand from South African customers is for replica shirts for local soccer teams (according to 33% of retailers), followed by the demand for local rugby teams and Springbok shirts (22% of retailers). Few retailers (11%) reported a high demand for cricket franchise replica, while none did well from netball replica, despite the introduction of the netball league.

In soccer, replica shirts for PSL teams like Kaizer Chiefs (Nike) and Orlando Pirates (adidas) with huge supporter bases are by far the most popular sellers. Chiefs reportedly have more than 14-m supporters, belonging to 300 supporters' branches. It is estimated that they are supported by about a third of South Africans, followed by Orlando Pirates, supported by about a quarter of the population.

Most South African PSL teams nowadays have sponsors that provide replica shirts for fans.

Bloemfontein Celtic replica shirts sell well because “they are an extremely well supported club with a large fan base,” says Joseph.

Kappa SA also supplies replica shirts for Telkom Knockout champions Supersport United, as well as Amazulu and Bidvest Wits.

Nike also supplies Mamelodi Sundowns and adidas Ajax Cape Town supporters wear. Puma provides Moroka Swallows replica, while Umbro is the technical supplier for Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ama Tuks and Maritzburg United.

Local brand Acelli, available from Kevro, is the technical sponsor for Platinum Stars and Polokwane City.

International soccer clubs, especially teams based in England, also sell many replicas in South Africa, even though they are generally more expensive — around R800, as opposed to the R500-600 that a local jersey would cost.

The biggest demand for replica shirts in his store are Liverpool, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Arsenal and Chelsea, reported a retail respondent, although shirts of most of the popular international teams are sold locally.

Many retailers stock both replica shirts as well as team kits, as the markets for these two products are somewhat different. Deciding how much store space to devote to these two products will depend on a variety of factors, such as the type of store you are operating, the type of sport you are focusing on, how many sports teams are in your area and how successful some sports teams are in a season.

Ultimately the decision will be different for each individual retailer.

p38 :: Advertorial

adidas launch mirosar10 boots in honour of Leo Messi’s childhood city New Messi boots inspired by Rosario upbringing

a

didas has revealed a new pair of boots to celebrate the childhood of Leo Messi. The all new adidas Messi mirosar10 boots, are inspired by Leo’s upbringing in Rosario, Argentina, where he learned the game and scored his first goals, before taking the road to glory.

The name mirosar10 translates from Spanish to my Rosario with the number 10 given prominence in the naming, in the same way Leo has himself given prominence to this number for both club and country.

Uniquely designed and truly inspired by Leo’s childhood, the boot reflects the roots of his legend. The orange of the boot signifies his first ever club, with the green representing

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

their fiercest rivals, who Leo scored 4 goals against in his first significant 11-a-side game as a young child. The boot insoles are printed with a map of Rosario, Messi’s home town in his beloved Argentina, which is highlighted throughout along with the Batallón pitch — an abandoned military base field that Leo used to sneak onto through a hole in the fence to play football with his friends when he was a small child.

Four-time Ballon d’Or winner Leo Messi has torn up the history books in recent years, breaking many records in the process and his incredible goal haul at the age of just 27 confirms his place as one of the best players to ever play the game. Having eclipsed Gerd

Muller´s 85 goals in a single year in 2012, Messi has gone on to score over 400 career goals, and these unique boots are testament to where it all began in Rosario, Argentina.

The Messi mirosar10 boot forms part of a wider adidas campaign which aims to tell the story of Messi’s legend through retail, online, digital and via social media. As part of the integrated experience, fans will be encouraged to create their own personalised insole of their home town for their chance to win it.

Join Team Messi at facebook.com/teammessi or join the conversation on Twitter @teammessi.

For more information contact adidas SA on Tel: 021 442 6200.

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Team boot soles explained Visit Sports Trader’s website for more product knowledge: www.sportstrader.co.za

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hoosing suitable gear is crucial for any athlete who wants to perform at his best, and prevent injuries. Identifying the right boots for the sport, terrain and position of the player is no different. Playing in uncomfortable and unsuitable boots can lead to under-performance and injuries, amongst other things.

Players in the different positions in a soccer or rugby team will also have different requirements for their boots. Rugby backs and hockey players often buy soccer boots to play in — but there are very good reasons to recommend that they rather choose a boot specifically designed for the sport, conditions of play, or position.

It is important for retailers to be able to recommend certain stud configurations based on the use of the boot.

Our cut-out-and-keep series to assist retailers with product knowledge Words: YAMKELA MKEBE. Compiled with the help of Grant Stephen of Legacy Sport and Leisure, Ricky Joseph of Kappa SA and http://irbplayerwelfare.com; www.asics. co.za/rugby/knowledge/rugby-bootsfor-different-positions); www.sportspodiatrists.com.au; www.soccer-academy. net/soccer-shoes; www.soccercleats101. com; www.si.com/more-sports/cleat-design-technology

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Soccer soles The first question a retailer will ask a soccer boot buyer is whether he will be playing on firm ground (FG), soft ground (SG), hard ground (HG) or artificial ground or turf (AG) as this will determine the type of stud and the configuration he will need.

Firm ground refers to a natural grass field, which is not too hard, and not too soft. This type of surface provides good traction, but it is not muddy or slippery. Boots with fairly shallow moulded conical studs or blades that provide traction, but do not dig too deep, are usually worn. If the studs dig in too deep, the foot can get stuck, and the player can get a hamstring strain or other injury when he pushes off fast, or if he falls when another player bumps against him.

Soft ground boots are suitable for play on a soft, natural, playing surface, that could be a little wet or muddy. The studs usually have a lot of depth so that they can dig in and prevent slipping, and are often replaceable. SG studs are usually longer, made of metal and can be screw-in. Fewer studs are used on SG — the traditional SG soccer boot has four big metal studs in the forefoot and two big studs in the heel.

There are new variations on the market, with the traditional configuration combined with extra plastic studs or blades for a little more traction.

SG studs are not recommended for FG, even if the metal studs are replaced with plastic, because each screw-in area is a pressure point that will be uncomfortable on FG. Hard ground (HG) or multi-ground (MG) stud configurations are suitable for hard sun-baked grassless surfaces, or hard, artificial turf. They usually have many short studs that are evenly distributed across the entire outsole.

Artificial grass (AG) provides good traction because it is usually very abrasive and FG or SG studs can therefore dig in too deep and grip too hard, not allowing the player mobility. This can

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the IRB Specification set out in IRB Regulation 12. Moulded rubber multi-studded soles are acceptable provided they have no sharp edges or ridges.

Law 4(4) further specifies that a player must not wear any item that is sharp or abrasive and a player must not wear a single stud at the toe of the boot.

IRB Regulation 12 further stipulates that studs must be made of a material that will not deteriorate due to abrasion, impact, or wear that can cause a hazard – nylon is therefore not recommended because it can cause burring.

The stud or cleat may not be longer than 21 mm, and the minimum width must be 10mm.

Although the IRB does not ban the use of blades, it will be uncommon to find a 10mm wide blade that will be legal on a rugby boot.

All edges of a cleat must be smooth.

Studs for rugby positions

cause injuries. It is not recommended to use any boot other than a specific AG stud configuration on artificial grass. The AG studs are small rubber blades or studs with a special design that will not grip too much on artificial grass.

Soccer or hockey boots worn on artificial fields usually have many small, rubber blades or rubber studs. These soles are highly durable for use on the abrasive surface and the small studs offer a good grip on the surface, ensuring more speed and agility. AG boots sometimes have hundreds of small blades, instead of round moulded studs.

Indoor boots are also worn on dry artificial surfaces. It will traditionally have a gum rubber flat outsole with many small zigzag grooves. This type of sole, also called flats, is made of a single moulded gum rubber with the grooves providing a better grip. The soles are light and allow the player good side-to-side movement.

Rugby soles The main concern for rugby authorities is whether a stud or blade will cause injury to another player.

• The IRB Laws of the Game specify in Law 4(3) that studs of players’ boots must conform to

• Screw-in studs are preferred by rugby forwards.

Players in these positions need more power and stability, which the screw-in studs provide. This allows for more grip needed when contesting the scrums. In some cases moulded studs with metal tips are also recommended for the same positions.

• Six studs are recommended for rugby players playing in back positions. Four studs are traditionally placed on the forefoot and two studs right at the back under the heel.

• Eight studs are suitable for players playing in front positions, usually with six placed in the forefoot and two studs on the heel of the boot.

Rugby forwards are big players that need a lot of traction, grip and stability for scrumming.

• Shorter moulded studs are preferred for the backs. These allow for the speed and agility needed in the back positions. Players in the back positions are most likely to be making more runs in the attack and stability and better grip is also needed.

Stud numbers and patterns The more studs used, the more balance is provided, especially for players in the positions that do not require much running and attacking. More studs provide better grip because they cover a larger area of the playing surface Multiple studs work better on dry, hard fields, because they don’t give good traction in wet, muddy conditions. These can be found in different materials, including screw-in metal, screw-in plastic and moulded.

Boots with fewer studs, like 6 or 8 studs, are more suitable for running and speed. Fewer studs provide less grip on the surface, compared to boots with more studs. An attacking player or To p40 a wing is best suited to playing

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p40 :: Sport

Boot stud placement cont from p39 in six studs because is it all about speed, lightweight and touch. Eight studs provide more traction.

The configuration plays an important role in determining the number of studs a player in a specific position should use, depending on the particular surface conditions. The consequences of playing in boots with the wrong stud pattern can lead to injury and the player not enjoying the game.

Forefoot placement: Studs placed in the forefoot provides better traction. The studs placed under the tip of the toe are specifically designed for immediate penetration of the surface.

Midfoot placement: The studs placed in the middle of the forefoot hardly dig into the ground when the player is running. They provide extra traction when the studs on the sides of the forefoot penetrate the ground at the beginning of the player’s run, allowing faster acceleration.

Backfoot placement: The studs placed in the back of the sole provide balance, keep the feet stable on the ground and support the heel.

For defenders, a boot sole providing benefits like consistency, traction and touch, amongst others, is ideal. Due to a lot of activities on the left or right back it is essential for the players to wear a boot with a sole that ensures consistent performance. Screw-in studs are ideal for defenders and the number of studs vary.

Moulded studs Moulded studs are permanently attached to the boot’s sole and cannot be replaced or removed.

Moulded studs are made of different materials, including rubber and plastic.

• A boot is most likely to feature 10–20, or 12–16 round moulded studs, depending on the brand as each will have a different pattern.

• They also come in different shapes, including rounded and bladed. However, blades are also available as screw-in studs.

• Moulded studs minimise the risk of blisters, because a larger number of studs are usually used, which distributes the weight more equally across a player’s foot.

• They are suitable for a hard and dry pitch.

• They are low maintenance and last longer than detachable studs that need to be replaced more often.

• With moulded studs a player will need to buy a new pair of boots when they are worn out, damaged, or broken. With screw-in studs, only the studs need to be replaced.

• Moulded studs cannot grip well or provide good traction on surfaces with long grass. This gets worse in wet and muddy conditions. Unlike detachable studs, moulded studs do not allow a player the flexibility of changing studs to suit different surfaces.

Screw-in/detachable studs: Screw-in studs, also known as detachable studs, are changeable and can be removed and replaced with a stud type that best suits particular field condition or position.

• Longer screw-in studs are advisable in muddy and wet pitch conditions, as they minimise the chances of a player slipping. They will also prevent the boot becoming bogged down in

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

the mud, which might affect performance.

• The most common number of screw-in studs most likely to be found in a boot is seven — two studs are placed on the heel, four are placed around the ball of the foot and one stud is placed in the far front under the toes.

• Some boots will have more than ten studs.

However, just like with moulded studs, the pattern will differ from one brand to another.

• Detachable studs are available in different sizes and lengths and can therefore be sold to comply with a sport’s rules and requirements.

Longer detachable studs are more likely found in rugby than soccer boots.

• They are versatile, as they allow a player to change studs to suit the playing surface. They therefore allow a player to have a better grip and traction as studs can be replaced to meet particular condition of the pitch.

• A player suffering from blisters on hard ground can replace longer screw-in studs with shorter ones, designed for such playing conditions.

• Screw-in studs are not recommended for young players with growing feet. It would be better for a young player to buy a new pair of moulded stud boots than having to change and remove screw-in studs until he is older.

Blades The shape of a blade is completely different from the traditional rounded studs. Blades are flexible as they are mostly moulded in one piece, but they can also be replaced, just like screw-in studs. The depth of blades will vary from brand to brand.

• Blades are more suitable for use on soft fields.

• They are designed for speed, with the result that attackers in a soccer team, or rugby backs, might select blades rather than studs.

• The number of blades featured in the boot’s outsole is normally less than the number of moulded studs featured in a boot. There are usually 8–15 of the narrow blades in a soccer boot, whereas moulded studs usually exceed that number.

• Blades are designed to provide grip while providing better turning ability at the same time.

• Blades are designed for speed. They penetrate and exit the surface quicker than the rounded studs enabling a player to run faster than one using rounded studs.

• Blades are especially suited for strikers in soccer, as they allow fast acceleration, for example, when wanting to beat a defender.

• Some designs allow for the blades to be changeable to adapt to the conditions of the field or surface.

• Blades do not provide the same amount of stability as the traditional rounded studs.

• On wet and muddy surface conditions they tend to be slippery, especially the plastic blades.

• Blades are viewed by some soccer players as dangerous. There was the incident in the English Premier League involving Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney, who was cut so badly by a blade during a tackle that he was out of action for some time. This resulted in calls by some professionals for the blades to be banned.

Apparel & Footwear :: p41

Team boot News

PUMA evoSpeed in new colours

The Predator Crazylight (left) and f50 Supernatural (above) are new adidas boots.

Celebrating Predator’s 20th anniversary with lights and fright To celebraTe the 20th anniversary of their Predator boot, adidas launched the Predator Crazylight and Predator Supernatural, two of the 14 special edition Predator Instinct boots introduced during 2014 as part of the anniversary.

The Predator Crazylight offers the control of the Predator Instinct and the light weight (140g) of the adidas Crazylight range. It features the lethal zone, control and pass pad technology of all the Predator Instinct boots, but has the added benefit of new Sprintframe technology, which reduces weight, without reducing control.

The new Predator boot forms part of the adidas Crazylight Pack that includes new versions of the Predator, f50, 11pro and Nitrocharge boots.

Adidas also introduced the new special edition

20th anniversary Predator Instinct Supernatural, as well as the adizero f50 Supernatural, in “frightening” luminous colours and patterns in time for Halloween on 31 October.

The skin of the Predator boot adapts so that the bright, shiny colours can scare off defenders even on the darkest nights.

It has all the usual Predator Instinct performance technologies.

The adizero f50 Supernatural has a special light weight new-generation skin with a Halloween theme, which reduces the weight on the uppers, without affecting their quality and performance. This lightweight skin is also available on the adidas 11pro boots.

The latest addition to the adidas range is the Messi Mirosar10 boot (see p38), which commemorates Lionel Messi’s home town Rosario, in Argentina, and his first game.

The classic PUMA evoSpeed 1.3 is now available in new black, white and green colourways.

The lightweight boot is ideal for quick strikers and midfielders as it allows control and touch of the ball, while keeping high pace on the pitch. Lightweight materials allow more efficient movement, while a thin microfibre increased its control and grip. An external midfoot cage that wraps around the outside of the boot and an improved footbed, offers comfort and stability. Players like Sergio Agüero, Radamel Falcao and Antoine Griezmann are wearing this boot.

Puma has also launched a limited edition evoSPEED 1.3 MR boot (see p9 and image below) that represent the values that inspire midfielder Marco Reus. The words hope, love, believe and dream in English and German on two clasping hands are part of the design. Ten pairs of these boots will be available in South Africa from Rashid Cassim Sports.

p42 :: Sport

adidas Marhaba

New for winter team balls CARIN HARDISTY asked brands to reveal what is available in their winter team ball ranges

E

ven in team balls, manufacturers are constantly striving to introduce innovations. Two new balls on the market, for example, combine the durability of laminated balls with the performance of stitched balls. And team balls are becoming eco-friendly as balls made from recycled tyres, are now also on the market.

The technology in the Acelli Thermo soccer ball (distributed by Kevro) as well as the hyperseam technology in Mitre balls (distributed

by Legacy Sport and Leisure) combine the durability of laminated balls with the performance of stitched balls.

A stitched ball traditionally offers the following benefits: • Accuracy: the increased seam depth means greater mid-air stability and a truer flight.

The stitches and tension in the panels also reduce the resonance when striking, which translates into more accuracy during flight.

• Speed and power: the thicker outer panels are under pressure because of the stitching,

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

which increases speed off the foot as well as more efficiency — that results in greater ball power.

A laminated ball, on the other hand, has its own set of benefits: • Control: the deep foam backing increases the contact time on impact, which improves control.

• Air retention: the Butyl bladder offers improved air retention compared to a latex bladder, which means less frequent ball inflation and maintenance.

• Consistency: the deep foam backing also means a soft feel and touch and the Butyl bladder means a consistent rebound in all temperatures and conditions.

• Water repellent: the seam is sealed, which means there is virtually no water uptake.

Hyperseam technology enables Mitre to thermally bond the panels — eliminating the need to stitch them together! It combines the positive qualities of the two types of balls into one versatile ball.

The Acelli Thermo combines the features of two types of balls into one. “Normally the casing is laminated to the outer, but with Thermo the bladder itself is laminated,” explains Martin Ferreira of Kevro. The ball features individually laminated 4mm foam panels that are thermally bonded — no hand-stitching is used.

The result is a durable ball, with an extremely soft feel and improved aerodynamics.

Because the bladder, instead of the casing, is laminated, Thermo retains its feel and response. The ball will also keep its shape very well, because it is held together from the inside, Ferreira points out. Thermo is also almost fully waterproof, is manufactured to FIFA approved standards and is developed for all international levels of play.

Eco-friendly Team balls are also following the eco-trend.

“We are currently looking into a new technology that is emerging in the market called recycled tyre balls,” says Lauren McCleland of

Sport :: p43 Orbit Sports Manufacturers, distribuwith a stylish blue stripe pattern. The “The Delta V12S soccer ball is the top of the ball is available in sizes 3, 4 and 5. range ball in the Mitre range,” says Grant Stetor of Stormforce. “This is the The nylon wound rubber Jazz phen of Legacy Sport and Leisure. most eco-friendly form of ball netball ball is available in sizes produced on the planet.”

It is the official ball for the 4 and 5 and features updated English 1st-4th Divisions, Both their rugby and netcosmetics in vibrant neon Scottish Professional ball balls make use of the recolours: the two new excit- Football cycled tyre technology. The League, ing colour options are yellow/ the Welsh Premier recycled rubber compound is green and magenta/cyan. calendered — a series of hard League as well pressure rollers used to form or as the National Kevro smooth a sheet of material with Premier Soccer heavy layers of fabric — before it Acelli Vision Thermo Kevro’s newly-launched team sport League in the USA. catalogues offer a handy guide to goes in to a hot press for baking (aka The 12 panels and make it easier to select the right ball for the textured grain survulcanisation).

The dimples on the outer are also created right play (or player). The reader can refer- face work together to Mitre Delta V12S during the calender process, when the mould ence the right Brutal rugby, Acelli soccer or keep the ball stable, even is placed over engraving plates. After vul- Sevenn netball ball based on the age group for when travelling at over 70mph. It features a canisation, the rubber sheet is cut into panels size and match and training level of play, as hand stitched soft-touch Clarino microfibre, (four for rugby, 18 for netball), which are hand well as based on the conditions (hard or soft and retains its shape and performance weight ground) for soccer balls. sewn together. no matter what the weather.

Brutal’s MV5 rugby ball is recommended for Several other ball manufacturers have also professional matches. The Bc7 is for 19+ year Opal Sports introduced innovations in their ranges. old players who will be using the ball in a pro- Summit, locally distributed by Opal Sports, adidas fessional training environment and at an ad- has several options for keen soccer, netball The new adidas tournament match soccer ball vanced senior level of match. Bc5 can be used and rugby players. for 2015 is conext15, which will replace Bra- by 19+ year olds for training and 16-18 year Summit’s Club Trainer is a quality hand zuca. It will be used in competitions such as olds in matches. Bc3 can be used by ages 6 and stitched 30 panel soccer ball with a threethe 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada, as up: by 16-18 year olds for training and by 6-15 ply PVC outer. It’s available in sizes 3, 4 and well as various league and cup competitions year olds in matches. Brutal’s S001 rugby ball 5. The ball is available in three colour ways: is for use in training by ages 6-15. worldwide. white, bright pink and yellow.

Sevenn’s Miya Trainer is ideal for training by The conext15 ball design is inspired by eleThe Classic soccer ball is ideal for everyday ments from nature (earth, wind and fire). The 6-18 year old netball players, the Miya Clas- use, with its 30 panel gloss coated PVC maflowing green, red and blue design reflects the sic is for use in training by ages 16+ and in chine stitched outer. It’s available in sizes 3, matches by ages 6-18, and the Miya League is 4 and 5. balance of these three natural forces.

Marhaba is adidas’ official match ball for the used for training at professional level and in Summit’s Liz Ellis Evolution Attacker and Orange Africa Cup of Nations, which will take matches by 19+ year olds and in professional Advance Defender netball balls are new 12 place in Equatorial Guinea in 2015. Its design level matches. Miya Signature is recpanel balls that offer better response was inspired by the intricate history of the ommended for professional level and grip. The Evolution Attacker tournament, its passionate fans and the land- matches. is made to match spec with a While all of Acelli’s socscapes of the African continent: the gold and superior quality outer grip. blue colours on the ball represents the various cer balls are great on soft The Advance Defender is contrasts in landscapes, from the Sahara de- ground, their Vision T45, ideal for intensive training, Vision M9 and Vision Internasert to the bright blue sky. with its hi-spec outer, and Both Marhaba and conext15 feature the same tional as well as their Arrow dynamic all-weather grip. technology as Brazuca (the official match ball M90 and Arrow Premier balls The Classic Shooter netball are also great for hard ground for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil). ball is a classic training ball The adidas miCoach Smart Ball — a Bluetooth play. with a synthetic outer. It also feaThe Acelli Arrow Premier and ViSmart and app-enabled soccer ball with intetures the new 12 panel design.

Summit Liz Ellis grated sensor technology for dead-ball kick- sion International are for use in profes- Evolution Attacker As the name suggests, the Adv 5 ing training — received the Best of Innovation sional level matches. Arrow Premier netball ball is designed specifically Honoree award in the Fitness Sports and Bio- can also be used by 19+ year olds in matches. for the new 5-a-side format of the netball tech product category at the 2015 CES Innova- Sigma League and Vision M90 are ideal for pro- game. It features 18 hand stitched panels in fessional level of training and by 19+ year olds tion Awards. power ply rubber and explosive graphics to The ball relays data such as how hard it was in matches. Vision M90 can also be used by 16- match the intensity of the game. It’s available hit, visual flight trajectories, ball spin, and 18 year olds in matches. Arrow M90 is ideal in two colour ways: white and pink/blue impact points via the adidas miCoach Smart for use by 19+ year olds for training as well The Evolution International is Summit’s most as by 12-18 year olds in matches. Sigma M90 Ball app. advanced rugby ball. The ball can go even furcan be used by 16-18 year olds in training and ther due to the combination of improved rubDe Wet Sport 12-15 year olds in matches. Sigma T45, Arrow ber compounds, linings, adhesives, balance T45 and Vision T45 can be used by 6-15 year The Medalist range of rugby and mass centralisation. Their four-layer polyolds for training (Sigma), 12-18 year olds and netball balls, availaester cotton lining helps with shape retention for training (Arrow), and 16-19+ year ble from De Wet Sports, and energy return and makes the ball more reolds for training and 6-11 year olds in feature eye catching sponsive when kicked. Its unique blend of rubmatches (Vision). new colour ways. ber, synthetics and silicone as well as a unique Kevro also offers the option to cusFor 2015, the Medalpimple pattern creates excellent grip in all tom brand their netball, rugby or ist Super Grip training conditions. The use of high tensile polyester soccer balls, for teams or promotionrugby ball has been thread provides maximum strength for better al use, with logos and colours. given updated cosmetshape retention. The use of Titanium means ics — it is now available increased visibility, and protection To p44 Legacy Sport and Leisure Medalist Jazz

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p44 :: Sport

Winter team balls cont from p43 against aging and yellowing.

Their Pathway Advance senior rugby ball is ideal for intensive training. It’s hand stitched, and features a synthetic outer with Evo grip.

Orbit Sports Manufacturers Stormforce now offers customers the option to design their own customised rugby balls. Customers can choose from a variety of grips and can also have their own personalised branding printed on the balls.

Their rugby balls are Stormforce match balls available in three ranges (practice, match, promotional) in three sizes (3,4, 5).

“Our rugby balls are made of a blend of synthetic and natural rubber that can come in either a two, three or four layer system.

The rubber used creates a durable all weather conditions ball,” explains McCleland.

The Stormforce practice balls weigh 410gm while the match balls weigh between 440450gm. Practice balls are ideal for club, school and junior daily practices. The match ball can be used by club, school and provincial teams.

The Stormforce soccer balls (available in size 5) are made from a polyurethane (PU) compound, which means the balls are both more durable and performance-orientated. “We use the best quality Korean Polyurethane with micro fibre,“ says McCleland.

The PU is hand laminated with four layers of polyester viscose fabric, which helps to maintain the shape of the ball over long periods of time and increase durability. The fabric itself is also laminated with natural liquid rubber, reinforced with chemicals to enhance strength and bounce.

The laminated sheet is cut into panels, which are printed with Japanese inks. After this, the ball is hand stitched and fitted with either a hi-tech latex or Butyl bladder. Hi-tech latex bladder is used when bounce is more important than air retention, and a Butyl bladder is used when air retention is more important than bounce.

The balls are available in three-four ply balls.

Stormforce netball balls are available as match and practice versions in sizes 4 and 5.

Pat Wiltshire Sports “The Mikasa S5 Turbo hard ground soccer ball continues to dominate the entry level of the moulded/ laminated segment of the market,” says Nick Wiltshire of local distributor Pat Wiltshire Sports. Turbo is a traditional 32 panel moulded ball, available in five colour variations that appeals not only to the players, but to the spectators too.

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

polyester lining to ensure the shape and circumference stay intact, and the PAL and PBT work together with the rubber bladder to enTurbo is manufactured under strict quality hance air retention, as well as the flight and control measures. shooting characteristics of the ball.

Mikasa is known for their wound ball techThe 22-panel configuration means fewer nology. “Mikasa balls utilise flawless scuff- seams and larger panels for a surer touch and resistant, waterproof top grained Mikasa Hyde softer feel. man-made materials for the outer cover and Puma’s 32-panel FIFA Inspected evoPower 3 all Mikasa balls utilise a Mikasa made floating Tournament match ball is ideal for all condiButyl bladder and a Mikasa made one-piece tions. The multi-layered polyester, viscose and valve core for superior air retention,” ex- blended backing provide enhanced stability. plains Wiltshire. Nylon cord “The Dimple III configured PU on the evoPowis wound in various deer 2 Match and evoPower 3 Tournament balls niers and amounts, improves the flight characteristics, and also depending on the increases the shooting speed,“ says Benjamin. type and use of the As the name suggests, Puma’s evoPower 5 ball, under controlled Hardground is a durable hardground training conditions. ball. The moulded construction provides added “Mikasa understands the pasdurability and reduced water absorption, while sion and inspiration it takes to be an athlete, the multi-layered backings aid stability, shape no matter what level. Mikasa feels the same retention and provide good flight dynamics. way about their athletic game balls and thereThe Elite range of hand-stitched match fore put that same passion and inspiration, balls (FIFA Approved Elite 1 and FIFA Inspeced coupled with the best technology, into every Elite 2) are constructed from 32 panels with ball made,” says Wiltshire. equal surface areas for reduced seam stress and near perfect round shape. The Puma PU outer offers a soft touch and Puma’s evoPower range of soccer high abrasion resistance and the balls offers a variety of solutions panels are strengthened with for players — from training to multi-layered polyester, vistournament. “Our evoPower cose and blended backing for range of soccer balls have enhanced stability. The seams various professional tiers, from allow an even flow of air for a FIFA-approved to hand-stitched perfect aerodynamic performance to machine-stitched,” says Gavin and the balls each feature a six-wing Benjamin of Puma SA. Puma evoPower 1 Statement latex bladder for superior touch.

“The High Frequency Moulded construction used in the evoPower range provides excellent form retention, durability and a decrease in water uptake,” says Benjamin.

All in the range, with the exception of the evoPower1 Futsal ball, feature the Puma Air Lock (PAL) valve.

Their 22 panel FIFA Approved evoPower 1 Statement competition soccer ball will be used by national clubs and premier leagues around the world, including Puma’s Italy, Uruguay, Switzerland, Austria, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Arsenal, Newcastle, Borossia Dortmund, and Moroka Swallows.

The unique twin outer abrasion-resistant PU surfaces feature Puma-developed stress-free dimple technology for improved aerodynamics during flight, and two large textured PU 'dead ball' target areas for added accuracy. The newly developed duo-density foam beneath the surface provides a soft touch, improved rebound consistency and explosive power. “The high quality rubber bladder and Perimeter Balance Technology (PBT), combined with the PAL valve, further enhances the ball’s superb flight characteristics,” adds Benjamin.

The 22-panel FIFA Approved evoPower 2 Match is built for better flight and speed. The ball has been reinforced with a special multi-layered anti-stretch

Mikasa S5 Turbo

W.E.T. Sports Importers The Matrix match quality soccer ball has enjoyed a facelift and features three new colourways. The new Matrix range is available with a yellow ball for night games and two white variations. “This ball has been our best selling soccer ball for the past two seasons and we're excited about the new look,” says Patrick Franck of local distributor W.E.T. Sports Importers.

The Munchen has stood the test of time, says Franck, and is an affordable nylon wound soccer ball in size 4 and 5 — ideal for all hard grounds.

Their Munchen soccer ball is also available in three colourways.

The new three-ply Club rugby ball has a new pronounced dimple finish to help with superior grip in wet and dry conditions. This has, however, not compromised its shape retention.

“The ever-popular three- W.E.T. Sports Importers ply Tournament netball ball Club is an ideal match ball for schools and clubs and now comes in a high visibility pink and white or blue and white cosmetics,“ says Franck.

“This ball has also proven very popular with indoor/action netball venues.”

p46 :: Sport

Is netball losing its Cinderella status?

The growth in netball participation numbers, an increase in competition types and styles, and growing interest from the public, has led to a growth in netball product sales, report RHIANAH FREDERICKS and YAMKELA MKEBE

N

etball has always been by far the biggest participation sport for South African women — but it has been a Cinderella when it came to media coverage, fan support and product sales. Unappreciated and unacknowledged.

The indications are that this is now starting to change.

According to figures from BMI, more than 1.9-m people in South Africa took part in netball in 2012. That is a growth of about 100 000 participants since 2007, when BMI estimated that netball had 846 600 junior and 991 000 adult participants.* In 2007 netball, with 1.8-m participants, was the second biggest participation sport in South Africa after soccer, with 3.5-m participants — and there is no indication that this has changed. Far more South Africans therefore play netball than the 941 400 cricket or 689 500 rugby players. The sport also ranked as the most popular sport among females of all races, much more popular than other sporting activities like aerobics and tennis.

Strong schools association structures in the country have made a big difference in improving participation interests, says Martin Ferreira of Kevro, local distributor of Sevenn netball.

In many schools — from primary level to high school — netball or hockey participation is compulsory, points out Wessel Oliviers from De Jagers in Stellenbosch. The renewed efforts by the department of Sport and Recreation SA (SRSA) to introduce sport in schools that did not offer it previously, have made a big difference to netball participation numbers, especially when players become involved at a young age in primary school.

As can be expected, the growth in participation numbers contributed to sales growth of netball products over the past three years,

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

The introduction of new leagues and formats of the game have also reinvigorated the public and media interest report some retailers.

Some of them believe that more coverage from the media have contributed to their sales increasing. Netball sales at Kloppers in Bloemfontein had grown about 15% year on year, says Dirk Klopper. “I think the reason for this is more national netball shown on the television and coverage of Varsity Cup netball,” he explains.

The increased television exposure and a lot of new players from all spheres have contributed to the growth of netball product sales at Mass Discounters, says George Sarris.

The growth is, however, not universal across all areas. In places where netball products have always been sold, some retailers have found that their product sales have either remained stable, or dropped. They attribute this to a lack of new product introductions, more companies entering the netball market, and competition from sports like hockey that are growing in popularity.

In recent years netball has managed to attract big sports brand sponsorships, which is another indication of growing public interest in the sport. Sponsorships and partnerships have been driving factors in sales increases as well as creating interest in their brand, report the sponsors.

“Partnering with the National SA team has most definitely contributed to increased awareness in our products,” says Janine Stokes from Asics SA, clothing and footwear sponsor of the Protea netball team.

Being the official ball sponsor for Namibian netball and sponsor of the national team in new Fast5 format competitions, have created a demand for the Sevenn brand, says Martin Ferreira from distributor Kevro.

The fact that Gilbert first supplied the official netball ball, then Mitre, and now Gilbert again, has caused confusion and opened the market up to other brands, he believes. Their Sevenn brand, a specialised netball brand, has enjoyed big sales growth.

Media coverage Media coverage is, however, a prerequisite for keeping sponsors happy — who in turn provide the funding to the sport to grow participation, which results in more product sales.

Netball nowadays gets much more exposure and the more exposure it gets, the more demand will be created, explains Ferreira. As the popularity, television coverage, etc. increases, the product demand will increase as well, he says.

Retailers agree and feel that due to new developments in terms of leagues and format changes, the sport will attract more attention by next year. “I think there will be special interest now that there is a professional league,” says Tumelo Mokobane from New Balance South Africa.

Recent tournaments like the Brutal Fruit Netball Cup finals, Commonwealth Games and the Fast5 World Series, etc. were broadcasted

by SuperSport, SABC, etc. while radio and television shows like kykNET, Thobela FM, Five FM, etc. have interviewed prominent players from the national team.

Netball is therefore receiving more media exposure than in previous years. Like any other sport, netball will “get most of its coverage during competition time”, says Trevor Neethling, of Netball South Africa (NSA).

He is therefore optimistic that the Interna-

Sport :: p47 Photo: Barry Lamprecht / Image SA

tional Netball Federation (INF) Netball World Cup held in Sydney 7-16 August 2015 will generate media interest, due to the recently improved TV coverage “netball has been able to build good relations with Johannesburg-based media, which is providing us with the bulk of our coverage,” he says.

The projected hype and TV involvement will also increase interest in netball products and kit locally, says Sarris.

But, netball matches often coincide with rugby, soccer or cricket matches and clashes in the broadcast times of TV programmes compromise viewers‘ interest in watching the sport, says Singatwa Magida, chairperson of Eastern Cape Schools Netball.

She does not expect much interest from journalists in covering the Netball World Cup “as media has not covered many of our events in the past years,” she explains.

It is not necessarily that media companies are resistant to publish or broadcast news about the sport, but there is rather a general lack of media interest in netball, agrees Sonet van Rensburg from SASN. “Invitations are sent out to about 30 different media/television bodies prior to big national tournaments or events. Unfortunately, we experience reaction and attendance from only about seven to eight of them.” she explains.

There are some retailers who share their skepticism that the interest in netball products and kit will increase come the INF Netball

World next year. Poor marketing has contributed to the lack of interest in the sport, says Ashley Appleby from Excodor sports. The lack of, or the wrong advertising mediums, has also contributed to the lack of interest in the World Cup, agrees Oliviers.

Leagues and newer formats The introduction of new leagues and formats of the game have also reinvigorated the public and media interest, say South African netball association members.

The NSA’s social media platforms’ user base has nearly doubled to 100 000 unique users since the introduction of the Netball Premier League (NPL), says Peter Boshoff, social media partner of NSA. More than 20 national media representatives attended the launch of the NPL, says Neethling. It was the first time netball attracted that many media houses to a single event and the competition gained more than R11-m in media coverage (based on exposure value), he says.

The Fast5 format - which is a fast paced, high-intensity, and quick thinking form of the game that can be compared to T20 in cricket and Sevens rugby — has been played internationally since 2009. South Africa played their first Fast5 World Series in New Zealand in 2012.

It was a first for the general public and NSA stimulated interest by publishing the game rules on Facebook. The broadcasting of the

particular format helped increase interest in netball, says Van Rensburg.

At school level, students are still playing the “normal” format of netball, but the newer Fast5 format has been introduced in other tournaments like the TUKS series - which is hosted by the sports department of the University of Pretoria in Gauteng - and she believes it is enjoyed by many spectators.

“There will be more interest, the more this format of the game is played and marketed and broadcast in South Africa,” says Boshoff.

The Fast5 competitions that were held to date have been played internationally and had therefore been broadcast at times when the South African public were sleeping.

“If this tournament were to be played in Western Australasia, Africa or England it will definitely have a larger following,” he believes.

“If there was a domestic Fast5 competition as well, I’m sure the fans and media would take to it,” agrees Scott Robhof of NSA. A local Fast5 competition would also allow more sponsors to become involved, he adds.

Popular products While netball footwear, balls, teamwear and equipment sell well for suppliers and bibs and nets are also popular for retailers, there is not yet any demand for league replica.

There is also a great demand for netball skorts (a combination skirt and short), but kits are just bought every other To p52

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p48 :: Sport

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Dave Harrington, right, has been in g tips f the industry for 20 years — the last few years as owner of a triathlon store, Tribe Multisport. He is a 11 good salesman in the multisport retail environment because he partakes in multisport events, from triathlons — he’s completed numerous full and half Ironman events — to multi-stage mountainbike events, to Xterras and Duathlons. He therefore understands what it takes to prepare for the event, what you’re mentally going through during the event up until recovery afterwards. “He can relay this information back to you, whether you’re an elite, intermediate, or beginner in the sport,” says Christo Snyman, sales director at Ultimo in Gauteng. “Dave also has the ability to sell you exactly what you need — he won’t under or oversell you”.

Selling more... triathlon gear

eing a successful salesperson takes a bit more than a love and passion for the sport for which you are selling products, explains David Harrington of Tribe Multisports in Johannesburg.

The way you greet and approach customers definitely influences whether they will make a

purchase or not. You should have a warm and friendly approach, he says.

“Good sales people become part of the environment of the products they sell,” says Harrington. If you use the products and are actively involved in the sport you will be good at your job, he says. His own experiences with triathlons have definitely contributed to his

knowledge bank when it comes to giving triathlon advice.

Product knowledge can also contribute towards making a sale, he says. You can gain product knowledge by using the equipment you stock, as he does, by reading about the products and how they work and through the training sessions that suppliers give.

More about David Harrington DaviD Harrington and his partner Steve Pettitt opened Tribe Multisports, a triathlon-specific store, in Bryanston, Johannesburg, three years ago, because they could find very few stores that catered for the multi-sport discipline that includes swimming, cycling and running.

“We opened the store, after seeing a gap in the market,” he explains.

They saw it as a service to improve triathlon and mainly wanted to assist women in the sport as participation was moving from male-dominated to a 50/50 split between males and females.

“We wanted to help female participants in a professional manner” says Harrington, who found that some stores treated women differently to men taking part in the sport.

He also wanted to improve service to first-time participants who are Sports Trader :: 2015 January

nervous and apprehensive about the sport.

“We listen to them and give advice to help improve their enjoyment and experience of the sport,” he says.

Harrington has worked in other retail environments for 20 years and still does importing and distributing of international brands.

His involvement in selling triathlon products came “out of a pure passion for the sport,” he says. He has a great interest in the sport and follows, as well as participates in, many competitions because “I love the sport and have a passion for it,” he explains.

He has participated in events like several Iron Mans, Xterras, road races, and many more.

He believes his passion and interest in sports like running, having worked in different retail environments with cycling products, etc. these all help him to offer his customers useful advice.

Sport :: p49 Managers and store owners should be encouraging sales reps to train staff, he says.

Brands come and train his staff, which he believes has only been beneficial for them.

He also notes that gaining knowledge about the products you sell should be seen as continuous education, as you can never know too much about anything in your store.

Although the above contribute to being a successful salesman, you should always listen to the customer, he emphasises.

Forcing customers to buy what you want them to buy is definitely not the way to go.

“Ask questions, listen to what their needs and wants are, so that you can pitch your sale to that,” he explains.

Once you have found out what they want, you move on to the stock your store offers that suit those needs. At the end of the day, you’ll win or lose some, but that’s a fact of how the retail environment works, he explains.

A passion for what you are selling, and the environment you are working in, are important. He has found this to be 100% true for himself.

When selling triathlon equipment, some of the main questions to ask customers shopping for triathlon equipment are whether they are new to the sport, or growing in it, says Harrington.

Once you know the level they are on “you can guide them to the equipment they re-

quire,” he explains.

Another important question to ask is what type of triathlon events they are considering entering - for example, is it an ultra-distance or standard distance, as this will give you an indication as to what they may need.

The different triathlon categories, such as swimming, cycling and running, means that customers require products suited for their specific style and needs in every section. This may be one of the hardest parts about selling triathlon products, Harrington feels, because every customer that walks in may open a world of possibilities, that are totally different to the next customer.

Tips for selling triathlon gear There are some products that customers will have to have in order to compete in any triathlon – and these items may be different to the equipment and clothing you will sell for competing in swimming, cycling and running as individual sports.

The main difference between selling equipment for a triathlon and the individual sporting codes is the fact that a fast transition is needed in triathlon.

• Triathlon-specific clothing like a triathlon suit, which is a body hugging all in one, offers a fit that allows the wearer to perform optimally throughout all the stages of a triathlon. It is an investment and cuts down on a wearer’s transition time as they won’t need to change in between stages. These ‘tri suits’ are more often used by advanced triathletes who know what they need in order to be most efficient in each leg of a triathlon.

• Specific triathlon shoes, which are easy to pull on or off, will improve transition times between the cycling and swimming stages.

A customer who is new to triathlon might, however, not be inclined to buy triathlon-specific gear until he or she is sure that they will participate often.

There are, however, certain factors to keep in mind when selling individual swimming, cycling and running equipment to a customer who will be participating in triathlons.

Swim stage: Finding the right equipment for the swim leg of the triathlon means more than just goggles and a suit, it’s about how well they fit the wearer.

• When swimming in the sea, goggles have to fit well so that the waves don’t cause them to move around. When fitting goggles, advise customers to try on as many as possible in order to ensure they get the fit that is most comfortable for them. If it is comfortable when fitting in store, it will be just as comfortable in the water.

• Tinted lenses are ideal for use during triathlon races as participants are most likely to encounter more sunlight than when swimming in a pool indoors, where clear lenses would be fine.

• Advise customers to invest in chlorineresistant swimsuits that will not wear out from training in chlorinated pools and can be used for competition as well.

• It is also advisable to select a training swimsuit made of more durable materials like polyester, which would last longer than nylon that thins and stretches easily.

• When swimming in low temperature water, a wetsuit is strongly recommended to keep the wearer warm and because it gives buoyancy in the waves, but advise customers that it may slow down their transition rate as it will take longer to remove a wetsuit.

• It is important that a wetsuit doesn’t bulge in are as as it will collect water and slow the wearer down. The wetsuit should also have enough stretch to allow necessary shoulder movements. You can ask customers to mime swimming movements to check.

• To keep a swim- or wetsuit in its best shape for longer, customers should always rinse them after use. It is not recommendable to wring them because they will stretch.

• When selecting a swimming cap, latex is the most affordable, but silicone caps are more durable. Lycra, on the other hand, is the most durable, but will cause the most drag while swimming.

for the last leg of the race. If the cycle takes place on a trail, however, a mountain bike would be ideal.

• Cycling shoes that clip into bicycle pedals provides pedalling strength, but if a customer knows pedalling is their strength, they may benefit more from a stiff-soled cycling shoe that can also be used for the running stage.

• When fitting a customer’s helmet, make sure it is compatible with the sunglasses they will be using and recommend that they use sunglasses with photochromic lenses, which will automatically change to their surrounding conditions, ideal for the changing light conditions one may encounter during a triathlon.

• Advise customers to also carry a mini repair tool kit in case of a flat tyre or other problems they may encounter.

Running stage:

At the end of the race, it’s all down to shoes, therefore advise customers to look for support, cushioning and comfort, based on the specific race length and terrain.

• Toggles and stretch laces are recommendable time-savers that allow the wearer to easily pull shoes off or on.

•Using socks is a personal choice, but if your customer finds his feet often blister during his run, socks made of moisturewicking material would be advisable, even though it will take more transition time to put them on.

Cycle stage: • A hat or visor may be useful for keeping sun or rain out of the eyes.

When selecting a bicycle for the cycle stage, knowing the type of terrain customers are com- • Remind customers that they should take peting on helps determine the gear they need. care of themselves on race day by staying nourished, applying sunscreen and having • For varying terrain a road bike may be first aid supplies on hand in case of minor beneficial as it offers the necessary speed accidents, especially anti-chafe products. for triathlon racing, as well as a large variety of styles and price points. On the other Wearing any new items on race day is hand, if a customer wants speed and cost not recommended as it could cause many is not a factor, a triathlon-specific bicycle problems. Therefore, advise customers to is more aerodynamic and exercises the stick to what they know and have used hamstrings more, which will prepare them during practice sessions.

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p50 :: Sport

England’s Manu Tugliagi will be remembered for being fined £4 800 (R87 000) during the 2011 IRB World Cup because he wore branded mouthguards.

Mouthguards: What is Plan B when things go wrong?

Several mouthguard manufacturers offer warranties that include compensation for customers who get injured when wearing their products correctly. But, there are very strict conditions to these warranties to prevent fraudulent claims, reports JOHANN DU TOIT

A

mouthguard is a compulsory piece of equipment when participating in many contact sports, because it acts as a shock absorber to disperse the energy resulting from a blow to the jaw or mouth. The aim of the mouthguard is to prevent painful injuries to the teeth and jaw that can result in expensive medical and dental procedures.

An athlete can, however, become injured even though he is wearing a mouthguard.

Although no mouthguard manufacturer offers a guarantee that their product will prevent injuries, only that it will minimise the impact, customers might consider that a product worn to provide protection failed if they do get injured.

Warranties offered In today’s increasingly “sue first, talk later” society this could result in the retailer who sold the mouthguard, or the manufacturer, being held responsible for the injury. Several mouthguard brands therefore provide warranties on upper-end products.

Opro, manufacturer of the “custom self-fit” mouthguards, for example, offer what is con-

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

It will always be better to ensure that your teeth are adequately protected, rather than assume your medical costs will be covered by the warranty sidered to be the most comprehensive dental warranty for self-fit mouthguards. Fox40 also guarantees that they will, under certain circumstances, compensate customers should they get injured while wearing their mouthguard.

Opro provides a limited one year warranty allowing the user to claim for costs of remedial dental treatment of up to ₤1 000 (R17 693), depending on the type of mouthguard the customer bought (see below).

Fox 40 also has a limited one year mouthguard warranty to cover the cost of professional dental services, up to $3,200 (R36 700), incurred when using the mouthguard. The warranty guarantees that the product has no defects in materials or workmanship, which could cause injury to natural teeth while

wearing the mouthguard properly in an athletic contest (see Example of the Opro warranty).

Some other mouthguard brands offer also offer a warranty that their products are free of defects and that they will be replaced if any product with a defect is returned.

This, however, does not mean that a customer can claim thousands if any injury occurs while wearing the mouthguard.

It is important that customers realise that there are strict conditions to warranties before purchasing. It would be a mistake for customers to be tempted by a cheaper lower quality mouthguard just because it has a higher limit on warranty claims.

No get rich scheme While a warranty of R50 000, as some brands are offering, may sound great, it is important to consider the fine print. It will always be better to ensure that your teeth are adequately protected, rather than assume your medical costs will be covered by the warranty. A severe mouth injury also has many non-monetary impacts such as time off of work or school, and To p52 of course the excruciating pain.

p52 :: Sport

How the Fox40 warranty works Fox 40 also has a limited one-year mouthguard warranty from the date of purchase, guaranteeing that the product has “no defects in materials or workmanship, which could cause injury to natural teeth while wearing the mouthguard properly in an athletic contest”.

The monetary limit of the claim is $3,200 (R36 700), and Fox40 will pay $100 (R1 150) per injured tooth – provided that the injury is not covered by any other insurance policy.

The claimant must also provide independent medical evidence, from a licensed dentist, of the injury he sustained, as well as provide written verification from the athletic official present when the injury occurred. This verification and evidence must be returned to Fox40 within 30 days, together with the mouthguard that was worn.

The warranty will not be valid in cases where the wearer had received orthodontic treatment, the injured tooth had been used as an anchor for a bridge, or the injury resulted from professional athletics.

The warranty is also not valid if the injury was incurred in a hockey competition, or practice, unless worn in combination with an approved face mask and helmet.

Example of the Opro warranty OpRO says that they offer the most comprehensive warranty to compensate in case of injuries. But, the brand also clearly states that they “make no guarantee that the mouthguard will prevent any particular injury, or limit the impact of any trauma or other impact to the teeth, mouth or head.“ They do, however, tell customers that “in the unlikely event of an accidental tooth loss or injury notwithstanding your wearing your Opro, you may submit a claim toward the cost of remedial dental treatment.”

They have different warranties – mainly pertaining to the amount that may be claimed - for their platinum and Fangz, Gold, silver and Bronze mouthguards. The warranty for the platinum mouthguard would, for example, cover a much higher amount than the Bronze warranty, because the higher end mouthguard was made to offer more protection.

They will, however, only pay for treatment that is not covered by any other insurance policies. The warranty will also only be valid when the mouthguard had been moulded and used strictly according to the instructions provided with the product – and the claimant should send the mouthguard worn with the claim. The warranty also only applies to newer products, not a mouthguard that is older than a year.

They also stipulate that the injury must have occurred during a supervised and official school or club sporting activity and a supervising teacher or official, like the coach, must verify the injury. Therefore, no chance of claiming for teeth knocked out in a playground fist fight.

Opro will also not pay any compensation when disease, natural conditions like ageing, intentional self-injury, or a gradual condition (like gum disease) contributed to the damages incurred. They will also not pay for the treatment of teeth that received root canal treatment before the event, had been crowned, or filled. authorisation must be obtained before undergoing any dental treatment that will cost more than R150 (R2 653).

Warranties from p50

Netball growing cont from p47

The warranties usually only cover injuries resulting directly from mouthguard defects themselves, and not from normal sports related injuries. Another common condition is that a payment won’t be made if the cost of the medical or dental procedure that is needed to fix an injury is covered by an insurance policy.

It also does not apply to any orthodontic treatments, injuries resulting from professional athletics, or injuries from participating in a sport while not wearing an approved mask or helmet. The mouthguard must also be properly fitted in order to qualify for claims. Even if an injury occurs in this event, many warranties only cover injuries resulting from manufacturing defects, and they don’t guarantee that a mouthguard will prevent an injury.

The warranties usually only cover the exact costs of medical and dental procedures, so any kind of negligence claims will not fall under the warranty. Proving negligence in court will be the only way to be compensated for non-medical costs. We could not find any case in which a manufacturer of mouthguards was accused of negligence after an injury.

Most warranties are also limited by a per-tooth cost. For example, a warranty of up to $5 000 (R56 787), is really limited to $156.25 (R1 775) per tooth. Losing all 32 teeth is the only time the manufacturer would have to pay a customer nearly R57 000, which is very unlikely.

Most warranties offer monetary compensations for injuries, but these compensations are unlikely to cover the lifetime costs of a severely injured mouth. Some American dentists have estimated that the lifetime cost of fixing a serious injury of a single tooth can be as much as $10 000 (R113 575) to $15 000 (R170 363).

Ultimately, it is up to the wearer to insure the mouthguard is fitted properly, that they use the required protective sporting equipment and that the injury occurs while playing an official sport in an official supervised sporting event.

season, say retailers. Netball-specific shoes are also a request that many retailers get from customers. A good name, quality and lateral movement support, a durable outsole that provides grip and a non-slip sole, are some of the key features customers want when purchasing their netball shoes, say retailers. Other features like extra ankle support and cushioning are also things they look for when purchasing shoes.

As part of their sponsorship agreement with NSA, ASICS SA are conducting workshops with players to educate them why it is important to wear proper netball shoes, and not play in tennis shoes or trainers. “Netball shoes have non-marking outsoles that are created for court use and they are also harder-wearing than running shoes,” says Dawid Visser of Asics.

Netball shoes have a higher midsole density, which make them more stable and sturdy than running shoes, he adds. They also feature more overlays, such as leather and synthetics, which give the wearer increased stability, and do not have as much mesh in their uppers.

“The entire shoe is constructed to offer players more stability and to make it less possible for a player to twist an ankle during a game. Netball shoes pivot points and grip is specific for netball use in so as to give adequate grip especially in sideways and forward/backwards movements, where running shoes grip is only made for forward movement,” adds Visser.

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

Customer profile Most suppliers and retailers agree that mainly school teams are buying netball products and because there are more netball players in schools than in adult teams, most sales are to school players.

Kevro has experienced a great increase in team sales because they have offered and brought something else to the market, says Ferreira. Their products are specifically developed for the netball market and wasn’t just an afterthought, he says.

While retailers mainly sell to schools, some have found that there has been a growing demand from businesses that sponsor local teams with netball apparel or team kit, or companies that buy kit for staff teams.

Other retailers don’t, for instance, keep netball stock for adult teams, due to time constraints. The team members must all come to the store, the retailer must get the right colours and style, give them a quote and make up a sample — it is an extensive process and customers aren’t always willing to wait. These teams are therefore more likely to order directly from manufacturers (see Teamwear vs Replica article p30). * 2007 BMI figures collected from A case for Sport and Recreation: An active and winning nation.

Outdoor :: p53

Open letter to fisheries minister:

Cape diving industry under threat

Cary Steele-Boe, chairperson of Recreational Fishing Services, has written an Open Letter to the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), Senzeni Zokwana, on behalf of the organisation, which represents South Africans who participate in recreational fishing, and directly or indirectly benefit from it. At last count this sector was worth R18-bn, he says

“I

would under normal circumstances not resort to approaching the media, but it has become difficult to effectively consult and communicate with the relevant officials at fisheries,” he writes. “We have made written requests and have not received any feedback, and as the recreational fishing season has started, we have no alternative but to approach the minister via the media.

“I am specifically concerned about the West Coast rock lobster recreational season. For at least the last 10 years I have attended scientific work groups, management work groups and consulted with DAFF with regards to the West Coast rock lobster. About two years ago a study was done by Ryan Bax of Mthethe Consulting, commissioned by the former Chief Director: Marine Resource Management at DAFF, dr Johann Augustyn, about the socio-economic impact of the recreational West Coast rock lobster season on the coastal regions of the Northern and Western Cape. Desmond Stevens (the controversial senior DAFF official currently under investigation – ed.) compared the importance of the study to a parking problem within the DAFF building.

“It was never made available for public scrutiny.

I twice followed the request for access to information procedure, but was denied access. As this study is pivotal to the cause of the recreational fishing sector, I ask that this study be made public.

“In the light of the economic importance of the recreational West Coast rock lobster season, especially to small coastal town businesses, I would like point out that the total allowable catch for the recreational lobster sector was reduced by 51% in the 2012/13 season, from 183 to 81 tons. Because of this, the current season, which was decreased by another 16% to 69,3 tons, equates to 21 days fishing. We were unhappy with the allocated 69,3 tons, but in the light of the recovery target of 35% by 2021, and the fair spread of reductions in all the sectors, we agreed to the reduction.

“We did, however, ask that the 21 days be spread out over the duration of the season and not in a two week block in December, where the weather in the form of the southeaster wind could scuttle the season in one blow (see Economy challenges diving industry, Sports Trader November 2014, for effect on industry).

“Furthermore, we requested that if the weather is of such a nature that no effort could be made to capture lobster, alternate days should be allocated.

Thus far, your officials at DAFF have not responded to any of our requests. Over 90% of the feedback we received from the public indicated that they wanted the catching days spread over the duration of the season.

“By denying that spread, the quiet winter business season has effectively been extended by three months. What must the small coastal businesses do in January, February and March?

“The commercial sectors (off- and near–shore commercial, and small scale) have six months to fish every day to fill their quotes. This is seen as unfair by the recreational sector, who only have 21 days, and may only fish from 08h00-16h00 on the days allocated.

It troubles the recreational sector that DAFF accommodate the commercial sector at every turn “In the past, my organisation submitted catch returns, with the associated data. These catch returns and data were viewed as anecdotal. A DAFF official, Dennis Fredericks, recently suggested that the recreational sector be held responsible for supplying data to the scientific workgroup, in order to enjoy the right to use the marine resource recreationally.

He also stated that proper surveys should be done by the recreational sector to determine the recreational take.

“I would like to remind Mr Fredericks that it is his responsibility, by the very mandate of his job description, to make sure that these systems are in place and are functioning as they should, and not suggest that another entity, outside the gambit of Fisheries, do his job. If he does want the recreational sector to do his job, we are more than willing to take over his responsibilities, even though we are taxpayers.

“Furthermore, stop making promises: put a smart card system in place, or a system that gives catch returns. Stop talking about it, just do it.

“The recreational sector is more than willing to help with data collection, as we have indicated on many occasions in the past. Officials must stop using the recreational sector as a political scapegoat.

People from all the ethnic groups use marine resources recreationally.

“It troubles the recreational sector that DAFF ac-

commodate the commercial sector at every turn.

For example, the carapace size limit for the lobster was reduced to 75mm for commercial catches.

Surely the alarm bells should have started ringing when scientists realised that the average carapace length has decrease over the years? The size limit for the recreational sector remains 80mm.

“Super Area 7, a West Coast lobster fishing area, has reached what the scientists call exceptional circumstances — it has collapsed and been shut down by the scientific work group as it is totally overfished.

First it was suggested that the commercials receive a 20 ton research quota in that area, but the commercial sector negotiated a 80 ton research quota for the 2013/14 season. This season (2014/15), the quota was set at 72 tons.

“However, when the recreational sector requested a small allocation (2 or 3 tons) in that area, it was turned down. Considering that the research quota for the area is 72 tons, the denying of the request for a few tons to sustain the socio-economics viability of that specific small area for businesses dependent on recreational fishing, seems grossly unfair.

“The recreational sector receives the smallest slice of the pie, namely 3-4 %. It is therefore of little threat to fishing resources, and has an extremely positive effect on the socio-economics of the affected communities.

“In America the recreational fishing sector generates 200% more revenue than the commercial fishing sector. When is our government going to realise the importance of this industry, stop using the recreational sector as a political bargaining tool, and help develop what we already have?

“Recreational fishing is not a rich, white, elitist sport. Take a closer look and you will see. We are now 20 years into our new dispensation, yet, some officials at fisheries still believe that recreational fishing is a white, elitist, activity. What nonsense!

It’s time to move forward.”

2015 January :: Sports Trader

p54 :: Outdoor

The latest outdoor cooking products are introduced at the OutDoor Show in Friedrichshafen.

Photo: Messe Friedrichshafen

New developments in outdoor cooking Retailers can be on the look out for innovative and improved technologies in outdoor cookware that should appeal to their customers who’ll be making the best of the summer weather to cook outdoors, or will be away from home during the Easter holiday season. YAMKELA MKEBE finds out from suppliers what new developments they introduced in the outdoor cooking market.

D

uring the good summer weather your customers will be enjoying the outdoors – and will most likely be searching for new and innovative cooking and braaing

equipment.

In summertime South Africans love to cook outside, whether braaing at home, or looking for new gear to take on a camping or hiking trip.

We offer a glimpse of what is new and inter-

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

esting in the outdoor cooking market.

These include products retailers can keep in mind when planning stock for the Easter holidays, when families enjoy the last good weather before the winter, or go away during the school break.

New braais from Campingaz Campingaz, available in South Africa from Jarden SA, introduced a selection of new burner system technologies for their gas

braais. The new systems offer various benefits, like healthier cooking, better heat distribution, less smoke and fewer flare ups, amongst others.

The new cast iron burner system holds heat longer and distributes it more equally than other systems. It is ideal for preparing steaks, ribs or skewers as it provides powerful heat that spreads to the entire cooking surface.

The integrated burner tent ensures good heat distribution, and a longer lifetime.

Outdoor :: p55

Their Radiant burner system technology snow and ice. The proprietary regulator techprovides healthy cooking with less smoke and nology enables the stove to offer consistent fewer flare-ups. It also supplies equal heat heat output down to 10°F/-12°C. The fuel is sold separately. distribution for longer use of the cooking surThe Jetboil MiniMo is a cooking system with face compared to traditional burner systems: about 97% of the system’s cooking surface a small frame of 127x152mm, weighing only heats up equally at 250°C, which is a suitable 415gm, that does much more than just boil water. temperature for direct grilling.

The system consists of a canister stove and It also features two separate, adjustable, ceramic burners, a central reflector that re- a litre pot that is shorter and wider than predistributes the heat equally across the cook- vious Jetboil models, which makes it easier ing surface and InstaClean — a brand new to eat from. MinoMo’s pot occupies the same cleaning system that ensures that grease space as the Jetboil Sumo pot and offers the drips into removable collectors. A user can same capacity as the Jetboil Flash (1litre).

A needle on the valve offers the user more simply remove all dishwasher—safe parts and control and flexibility over the intensity of the wash them in a dishwasher.

The Campingaz stainless steel burner sys- flame and it is therefore easier to maintain tem is especially designed to grill all types of a simmer. The system is regulated, meaning foods, whether you need powerful heat for that the flame doesn’t lose power when the gas starts running grilling and searing, or low. It will work adjustable heat at a low New and interesting prodconstitently all temperature for indirect the way down to cooking. The burner’s ucts retailers can keep 6°C. tube can be adjusted to in mind when planning MiniMo’s new create smaller flames stock for the Easter holimetal handles that are perfect for keepdays in the outdoor cookfold away for ing low heat for extensive ing market. easy storage and indirect grilling. makes the pot The brand introduced easier to grip. various accessories to The entire cookcomplement the use of their braai burner systems. The new 3-Fish ing system packs away nicely into the pot.

It will be available in South Africa early Grid is an accessory that keeps three fishes intact when turning from the heat, their grill- from April. ing gloves provide total hand mobility and are able to withstanding heat up to 350°C, while Sea to Summit collapsible pot a vegetable grilling basket and a roast basket The X-Pot from Sea to Summit is a collapsible enable better vegetable grilling and provides cooking pot that will appeal to space-conan oven-roasted flavour during the braai. An scious hikers or campers, which combines the additoional smoking box gives a smoky fla- heat-distribution qualities of an aluminum vour to the grilled meat.They also supply a base with the light weight and flexibility of stainless steel barbecue utensil kit that in- silicone sides.

It will land in South Africa in March, says clude tongs, a fork, brass brush and stainless Morne Strydom from local distributor Advensteel spatula. ture Inc. — in time for the Easter holiday peJetboil’s latest riod.

“The aluminum is nicer to cook in than The new outdoor cooking system for backpackers and campers travelling light that steel.This is because of its uniform distribuJetboil introduced at the 2014 OutDoor show tion of heat - and it is much lighter too,” he in Friedrichshafen, is now available in South says. It also has a very fast boil time.

The hard anodising of the base surface Africa from Ram Mountaineering.

The Jetboil Joule is a cooking system that solves problems like food sticking or burning, performs strong even in extreme cold weath- which can occur when softer aluminums are er. The system includes a stove burner, pot, used.

The tall silicone walls, which are excellent fuel canister with Liquid Feed regulator and a see-through lid with built-in strainer. The sys- for stirring, can withstand temperatures of tem is fuel efficient, portable, easy to setup many hundreds degrees, even the flames of a camp stove – although it is not recommended and reliable.

It has a 10 000 BTU (short for British Ther- to expose the sides to open flames.

The strong, polycarbonate lid is translusmal Unit, a basic measure of thermal energy) burner that provides the raw power for rapid cent to show what’s cooking and has strainer boil times of two minutes 40 seconds per litre holes to assist with draining pasta or rice, or — while still offering better simmer control to allow steam to escape, says Strydom.

The X-pot collapses from a 2.8L to a 200mm for cooking.

Joule features a 2.5L insulated FluxRing x 27mm disc for easy storage in a backpack, pot. It is quick to setup and does not take etc. There is also enough space to store othlong for a user to prepare hot beverages, to er X-series kitchenware inside the collapsed cook meals for a number of people or to melt pot.

2015 January :: Sports Trader

PIEZO IGNITER WEIGHT SERVING SIZE

PIEZO IGNITER WEIGHT SERVING SIZE

COMING SOON

PIEZO IGNITER WEIGHT SERVING SIZE

Distributed by:

021 532 0549 www.rammountain.co.za

p56 :: Trade shows

Innovation at ISPO BrandNew A TEFLON-COATED jacket was the overall winner of the 2015 ISPO BrandNew award. Among the other category winners are tents that can be pitched between trees (Hardware Summer winner), a drone that records aerial footage (Accessories winner), and a flexible wall mount to store surfboards, skateboards, etc. (Style award).

The winners of the eight categories in the 2015 BrandNew competition held in cojunction with ISPO Munich were chosen from 431 entries. Only products or companies that are new to the market may enter this competition.

The top 50 products will be exhibited at ISPO Munich (5-8 February). The entries were judged by an independent jury of former winners and new winners will receive assistance from ISPO BrandNew in entering the market successfully.

The Overall winner was the teflon-coated Loden jacket from Onoo (right) that combine style and functionality for urban people. The smart jackets in the range look modern and relaxed and feel like any other woollen jacket, but the materials used offer functional features like breathability, and protection against wind and cold. A teflon coating on the fine felted wool ensures protection against wind and bad weather.

The Tentsile Tree Tents can be pitched like a hammock between trees or on the ground as any traditional tent.It was the Hardware Summer Award winner. The spacious Tentsile Stingray is a three-person tent with floor hatch and front door access, a removable flysheet, and a full insect mesh roof for maximum ventilation.

The Antelope fitness range from Wearable Life Science has its own training session built in: the sportswear range features integrated electrodes, sensors, and a control unit. It won the ISPO BrandNew Sportswear Award. Based on EMS (electro muscle stimulation) technology, the clothing provides additional muscle stimulus during activities.

The range include products for running and biking. The manufacturer promises that the clothing will ensure faster progress in a shorter period of time for a reasonable price.

Sports Trader :: 2015 January

The HEXO+ drone, an autonomous flying system that shoots aerial footage, won the Accessories Award. The judges believe that it will change the way action sports are filmed. Using the GPS function of a smart phone, the drone follows and films the athlete in the most remote places. It was developed by the French pro snowboarder Xavier de Le Rue, who filmed his own daring freerides.

The stylish Harper flexible wall mount storage system for sports equipment from Ulrich & Kraft won the Style Award. It consists of a plywood base with an oak finish, sticks that fit into the base plate, various hooks, metal shelves, wooden boxes and a fabric loop for the storage of sports equipment and accessories.

The Dash from Bragi, an unique cordless in-ear stereo headphone with smart fitness tracking functions, won the Digital Award. Its biosensors track pace, steps, cadence, heart rate, calories, and oxygen saturation during the workout and provides real-time audio feedback. The Dash also plays music from a mp3 player with a Bluetooth connection.

Trade show news

Trade shows :: IBC

Asia Bike A RECORD number of 487 exhibitors from 21 countries participated in the 2014 Asia Bike trade show held in Nanjing, China. A total of 15 796 visitors attended — 8 812 industry visitors and 6 984 bike enthusiasts. The floor space increased by 36% to 38 000m2 as exhibitors grew by 24% compared to last year.

The fifth edition of the show will be held from 9-12 October (Demo Day on 8 October).

Bread & Butter BREAD & BUTTER has announced that their January show is cancelled.

Organisers have not been able to “motivate a sufficient number of exhibitors to participate this season,” says managing director Karl-Heinz Müller.

“I am convinced of the fact that our success concept cannot be continued by repeating the past. Maybe something great has to end so that something new can arise. Our whole fashion industry is at a point of radical change.

This is why challenges of the future have to be met with new solutions.”

“For now, I would like to express my gratitude to all those who have supported and accompanied us in the last 14 years, above all to my numerous long-term employees and business partners. I owe special thanks to those in charge in the cities of Berlin and Barcelona.”

COA at Asia Outdoor THE OUTDOOR China Summit will take place 21-22 July, just ahead of the 10th Asia Outdoor trade show, which takes place 23-26 July in Nanjing.

The Summit will be hosted by the China Outdoor Association (COA) that joins Asia Outdoor for the first time. The decision to have the association at the event follows American and European models to take part in outdoorfocused fairs. The conference segment of Outdoor Asia will then form part of the COA where experts will discuss the future of the outdoor market.

EFTTEX THE REGISTRATION process for EFTTEX 2015 is moving at a fast pace. Exhibitors are urged

ATF trade exhibition

IFSEC and OSH rebranded

THE 16TH international Apparel, Textile and Footwear Trade Exhibition had a slow day one when it opened on 19 November, when the Sports Trader team had a peak.

The show, held in Hall1 at the CTICC in Cape Town, showcased products and services from more than ten countries, including African countries such as Zambia, Ethiopia, Madagascar, etc. But, it was dominated by Chinese exhibitors, who made up approximately 54% of the exhibitors list and took up almost half of the exhibition space.

A variety of fashion and lifestyle women’s, men’s and children’s garments were on display, but very few in the technical sporting and outdoor categories.

J.M.V Textiles, manufacturers of sport apparel fabrics, introduced some of their latest textiles, for example new jacket fabrics, said Ajit Valjee.

Approximately 12% of the exhibitors were from South Africa and offered imported and locally made products, as well as services such as couriering, and next year’s Source Africa exhibition.

TWO WELL-KNOWN expo’s will be rebranded in 2015.

The security and safety show IFSEC South Africa will be reintroduced under the Securex brand, which will be the largest show in Africa aimed toward business and personal security, protection and safety.

The OSH Expo Africa will become the A-OSH (African Occupational Safety and Health) Expo and will focus on environmental issues affecting health and safety professionals in the African market.

Both shows will take place 12-14 May at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

to register immediately as exhibition space is filling up quickly. EFTTEX takes place 11-15 June in Warsaw, Poland.

GDS and tag it!

GDS, THE international exhibition for shoes and accessories, and tag it! the private label purchasing show, will run concurrently from 4-6 February 2015 in Düsseldorf, Germany.

Innocentia Ndimande, the Messe Düsseldorf representative at the Southern African-German Chamber of Commerce can assist South Africans to visit the show. Contact Ndimande on indimande@germanchamber.co.za.

ISPO Shanghai THE EUROPEAN Outdoor Group (EOG) and ISPO have extended their partnership. The EOG will be the exclusive supporter of the new summer exhibition and multi-sport show, ISPO Shanghai, which will be launched 2-4 July 2015. Well known exhibitors have already confirmed their attendance.

Huntex Cape Game Fair THE HUNTEX Cape Game Fair, held 26-28 September at the Nelson Wine Estate in Cape Town, attracted 6 620 visitors — 35% more visitors than last year, when it was held over two days.

The next show will take place 24-27 September 2015 and cover categories such as accessories and optics, archery, knives, etc.

ISPO Textrends APPROXIMATELY 65% more companies have registered for the 2015 ISPO Textrends show, which will run during ISPO Munich, ISPO Beijing and ISPO Shanghai.

240 selected products will be shown at Textrends. Additional focus will be given to sustainability, safety and innovation. Online tickets for ISPO Munich (5-8 February 2015) can be purchased online.

Medica Medicine and Sports Conference THE SECOND Medica Medicine and Sports Conference (12-13 November in Düsseldorf, Germany) will feature the latest products, therapy and recovery methods.

More than 30 experts will cover topics such as injury prevention, rehabilitation and regeneration. The conference also offers the opportunity to network with more than 200 high-level international participants.

Advertisers index Acelli 34, 35 adidas 38 American Man Sportswear 32 Anton Fabi 13 Blackheath 34, 35 Brand ID 51, OBC BRT 34, 35 Brutal 34, 35 Crown Footwear OFC

Everlast Fury Garrett Athletics Gelvenor Textiles Hi-Tec Sports Jetboil Jordan Jordan & Co Kappa

OFC 31 34, 35 3 22 55 11 10, 11, 12, 13, 41 33

Kevro Legacy Sport and Leisure Mitre Musgrave Agencies New Balance Olympic Opal Sports Opro Premier

34, 35 40 40 36, 37 1 41 45 51 32

Ram Mountaineering Reef Brazil Renegade 10, SA Rugby Sevenn Skye Distribution Solly M Sports Summit

55 5 12 37 34, 35 21 31 45

2015 January :: Sports Trader