Economics
South African Retailers Turn From China to Source Local Clothes
- Global lockdowns caused major supply-chain disruptions
- Government eager to find ways to revive economy, jobs
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South African retailers including The Foschini Group Ltd. and Woolworths Holdings Ltd. are increasing investment in local clothing manufacturers -- both to reduce a dependency on Chinese imports and secure a supply chain thrown into disarray by Covid-19 restrictions.
The companies have signed up to an industry plan that includes a target to source 65% of their goods from local manufacturers within the next decade. While progress toward the goal varies per chain, the spread of the coronavirus has sharpened their collective focus.