05 Mar 2019

Government is committed to improving the ease of doing business in Botswana, says Botswana Investment Trade Center (BITC) chief operating officer, Mr Reginald Selelo.

When opening the Cotton On store in Gaborone on March 1, Mr Selelo said BITC collaborated with RMB Botswana to ensure that the extension of Cotton On Group into Botswana was a seamless operation.

He said where others feared challenges, Botswana offered opportunities because of its renewed mindset and ability to thrive in uncertain economic times.

Mr Selelo pointed out that as the group continued to expand its Africa presence with over 170 stores across South Africa and Namibia as well as employing over 2 000 locals in its Africa business, he hoped more jobs would be created for Batswana.

With the group’s commitment to investing in projects in Botswana through the Cotton On Foundation, Mr Selelo anticipated that the skills transfer that would transpire between Cotton On Group and the locals, as well as the sourcing of products from local suppliers within the SMME space.

He said that would resonate well with Botswana’s focus on citizen economic empowerment as well as developing local industries.

The iconic retail clothing brand grew steadily since the first store opened in Australia. Since then, the group grew its footprint to over 1 500 stores across 18 countries. 

The store’s country manager, Ms Natalie Wills explained that the store presented an opportunity to change the fashion landscape.

In its effort to implement meaningful projects in Botswana, Cotton On would soon establish a foundation in the country. 

Through the purchase of Cotton On brands, 100 per cent of the proceeds would go towards projects meant to empower Batswana through health, education sustainability and infrastructure. ENDS