Words: Zena le Roux Images: Supplied
A Brand Called you! in Arcadia was conceptualised to promote identity and swag culture, taking pride in who you are and invigorating social cohesion as a lifestyle. Co-owner, Tshilidzi Nelwalani tells us more.
How did your business start?
The love of clothes and good things led to the birth of this clothing brand. My business partner and I, Mushavhi Peter Mbelengwa, used to buy clothes and resell them. We took a taxi almost every day to and from Joburg to collect stock. We made use of free Wi-Fi from the restaurants at Sunnypark mall to connect to the internet and social media. We promoted and marketed our business through social media where we connected with clients here in South Africa and abroad. The business is three years old this year.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
We operated our business from the streets of Pretoria until we decided to work from my flat close to Sunnypark Mall in Sunnyside. This area was ideal since we could not afford to pay my flat’s rent as well as rent for the shop at the same time. As the business grew, we decided to get a place to set up a shop. We now have three shops: Design studio and shop in Arcadia Pretoria: we chose this area as most of our clients are based in Arcadia; Curio shop at Khoroni hotel in Thohoyandou: we used to courier clothes every day to Thohoyandou; and Maboneng Precinct, which gives us more exposure to both local and international clients who visit the Maboneng Precinct.
How did you find your premises?
We moved around doing our own research visiting these areas, until we found the perfect spots.
Why are they ideally suited to your business?
Any area is ideally suited to our business, as we know that we’re making an impact – wherever we are situated. Our clients enjoy the convenience of walking into the shop and taking their measurements for garments.
Who are your neighbours?
Pretoria Heart Hospital on Park Street Arcadia.
What are the shop rental/sales prices like in this area?
They range from R7,500 to R10,000.
What is your shop footprint?
Last month we received orders for up to 200 garments.
Do you have any expansion plans?
Yes, we want to open shops in all the provinces of South Africa and even beyond our borders.
Do you operate online as well?
Yes, we are on Facebook (@AbrandCalledYou1) and Instagram (@abrandcalledyou).
What’s your most popular item?
Definitely jumpsuits. Traditional wear is also getting more and more popular. We have also ventured into uniforms, formal wear and tracksuits.
A Brand Called you!
076 572 1390
info@abrandcalledyou.co.za
