South Africa’s most loved sneaker brand, Bathu has plenty of reasons to celebrate as it is takes the lead among 2021’s most admired African brands in Brand Africa 100’s latest ranking just weeks following the launch of its 25th store in Secunda Mall in Mpumalanga.
A brainchild of South African branding guru Thebe Ikalafeng, Brand Africa 100: Africa’s Best Brands is the first and most comprehensive Pan-African study and ranking of brands in Africa.
The survey was conducted between March and April 2021 and yielded over 80,000 brand mentions and over 3,500 unique brands.
Theo Baloyi, CEO and founder of Bathu welcomed the news, stating: “Recognition is always appreciated but when your company is being honoured and celebrated for its devotion in bringing about change and bettering the lives of Africans through the organisations you represent and the work you do on the continent, that honour comes with even greater gravitas and gratitude.”
As a brand that represents modern African culture and ambition, Bathu – meaning shoes in the South African township slang – understands that consumers wants to associate with brands that are authentic and those which they can proudly affiliate with.
Likewise, Baloyi attributes Bathu’s vast success not only to its dedication to offering its consumers an authentic African story, but to its ability to personify and humanise their customer’s values, establishing real and lasting relationships with them in the process. One such an example is the company’s fruitful partnership with their brand ambassador, South Africa’s showbiz personality Somizi Mhlongo.
“We value our customers because they understand that ‘motho ke motho ka Bathu’ and we constantly strive to create a brand that they can easily resonate with in their life’s journey.” Baloyi added.
For a full list of 2021’s most admired African brands, click here.
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