CLOTHING retailer Edgars Stores is working on empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the clothing sector through its Express Chain, which targets low-income clients.
As part of efforts to cater for the low-end market and boost business volumes, the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX)-listed clothing retail chain is re-introduced its “Express Chain” unit that is meant to deal with less expensive products.
The move comes against the backdrop of an influx of cheap imported clothing and second-hand garments across cities and towns, which are piling pressure on domestic sales for established clothing industries.
Popularly known as “koKhothama,” the cheap second-hand clothing dealers are a common phenomenon across the country and often a hive of activity due to their giveaway prices.
Vendors normally display their products on streets and pavements where they largely cater for the low-income market with products ranging from as low as US$1.
Responding to written questions, Edgars group chief executive officer, Mr Sevious Mushosho, said the larger share of Zimbabwe’s clothing market was now serviced by the informal sector through flea markets, runners, car boot dealers and various boutiques.
These largely trade imported products from places like China, Tanzania, the UK and Bangladesh.
Mr Mushosho said Edgars had moved into the space to try and bridge the shortcomings faced by players in the low-end market through local production of good quality products, meeting proper size curves, and meeting local market specifications.
“The Express model is about affordable new high-quality clothes at prices averaging US$4 per item with the lowest prices at US$1 per item,” said Mr Mushosho.
“This competes very well with prices for second-hand clothes. We are targeting SMEs and medium-sized clothing manufacturers to supply this chain, providing a huge opportunity for formalisation and growth of SMEs who will now be supplying huge quantities each month.
“These stores will be countrywide, contributing to the growth of local economies and creating much-needed employment.”
Express Chain stores are also a strategic revenue growth opportunity for the group.
Meanwhile, Edgars opened its first Express Chain in Bulawayo recently, which Mr Mushosho said was a success. – Herald
