By: Philippa Larkin - IOL

Retailer West Pack Lifestyle plans to open three more outlets before the end of the year, it said as it announced it has emerged from business rescue. 

The group went into business rescue in May 2024 amid several challenges such as the economic aftermath of Covid-19 and an accelerated expansion strategy that stretched the business too thin.

At the time, the group owed more than R100 million to different financial institutions such as Access Bank, Absa, and Preference Capital.

West Pack Lifestyle Corporate was sold during the business rescue.

The private sale of West Pack Lifestyle saw more than 1000 jobs being saved. West Pack Lifestyle currently employs 1000.

The retailer's strategy is now centred on franchising, ensuring the group is positioned for stability and growth in a tough economic climate.

“Retail is not for sissies,” says Chris Da Silva, a director of West Pack Lifestyle. “We grew too fast, too quickly, and we’ve learnt from that. By moving to a franchise model, we’re giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to own and run their stores while keeping the brand strong, resilient and agile.”

Today, more than 40 West Pack Lifestyle stores across the country are operational and trading under the franchised model. Each franchise is capped at a maximum of five stores per owner, a decision designed to keep businesses manageable and closely aligned with the group’s ethos of personal, owner-driven retail.

“By going back to basics, we’ve secured a sustainable future for the brand,” said Da Silva. “We have to slow down to grow again, and this model ensures that if one store experiences difficulty, it doesn’t compromise the entire business.”

Da Silva said the main focus for now after business rescue. was to grow the brand and look after the franchises. They also aimed to give the best value to customers. 

West Pack Lifestyle said that only its franchised and fully stocked outlets remain part of the group. While some stores trading under the West Pack name are no longer affiliated to the brand, customers can trust that those within the franchise network remain aligned with the company’s standards and are ready to serve.

West Pack Lifestyle said as a proudly South African business,  itsupports local employment and sourcing wherever possible, with around 70% of its product ranges supplied by South African companies. Even when importing, the group works through local suppliers to ensure benefits flow into the domestic economy.

Looking ahead, Da Silva says the brand is excited to welcome new franchisees and continue supporting the South Africans who have remained loyal through difficult times. “Our stores are stocked and ready for you. We’re alive and well, and this next chapter is about building a stronger, more sustainable business for our franchisees, our staff, and our customers.”

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