The widespread civil unrest that occurred in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng in July 2021 caused extensive disruption, damage and loss of income – to companies, to the economy at large, and to individuals and communities alike.

The events were a strong reminder for us that our success as a commercial group is deeply interconnected with the rest of society. So, beyond our own operational recovery efforts, we focused on the needs of the communities we operate in and those most vulnerable members of society.

Our security teams, employees and supply chain partners worked tirelessly with local law enforcement, unions, property managers and other relevant parties to minimise damage and losses. We also set about systematically rebuilding, restocking and reopening the vast majority of the 198 stores that were looted during the unrest.

At the same time, the Group worked with our partner, Gift of the Givers, to make donations towards various communities as part of their relief efforts. In addition, a R1,5 million cash donation towards food relief and rebuilding efforts in KwaZulu-Natal was also made.

The concept of “paying it forward” is significant to us. Which is why we are convinced that South Africa’s lethal cocktail of low growth and high unemployment must be solved. We are proud to be a leader in the partnership between the public and private sectors which is making a real difference. We are investing in bringing back to South Africa significant clothing manufacturing capacity.

We are happy to report that TFG spent a record R1,6 billion in capital expenditure in the 2022 financial year and created 7 176 jobs and workplace opportunities in South Africa. The positive impact this investment will have for the country is significant and demonstrates just how strongly we feel about playing our part in realising the potential of our nation and its people.