Columbia Sportswear Company has inked distribution agreements with South Africa-based Foschini Retail Group and Philippines-based Kenrich International Distributor Corporation (KIDC). These new relationships further Columbia's strategy to distribute apparel and footwear to countries in which its products have never been sold, and will commence with Fall 2004 product lines.
“Both southern Africa and the Philippines are regions where Columbia apparel has never been distributed,” said Bill Tung, Director of International Operations for Columbia Sportswear. “These new relationships will allow our products to reach individuals who have not yet had the opportunity to enjoy the quality, value, and performance that represents the Columbia brand.”
Foschini Retail Group, a subsidiary of Foschini Limited, will distribute Columbia products throughout South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland, and Lesotho. Initially, Foschini Retail Group will carry Columbia in “Due South,” its new retail concept opening late 2004 with seven stores located in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Pretoria.
KIDC is a very strong retailer and wholesaler throughout the Philippines. The company plans to sell Columbia in several of their select corporate stores, concept shops, and through key wholesale accounts.
Foschini Limited is an investment holding company whose shares are listed on the JSE Securities Exchange (SA) and whose subsidiaries, including Foschini Retail Group, are one of the foremost independent chain store groups in southern Africa. With 1,188 stores at the end of 2003, in areas of menswear, women's fashion and sportswear, sports apparel, jewelry and housewares, Foschini products serve a broad, middle-income group throughout the region.
KIDC is the trading company of Primer Group. It handles the importation, exportation, licensing, and distribution of the various products and brands under Primer Group. The company was established in February 1995.
