JD Sports Launches in South Africa with Stores in Joburg and Cape Town

South African shoppers can now experience the global sports fashion phenomenon as JD Sports officially enters the market. Partnering with The Foschini Group (TFG), the UK-based retailer opened its first South African stores at Canal Walk Mall in Cape Town on 15 November and Eastgate Mall in Johannesburg on 10 December.

This marks a significant milestone for both TFG and JD Sports, aligning with the latter’s international expansion strategy.

A Global Leader Lands Locally

JD Sports, known for its exclusive collections and global brand partnerships with Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and The North Face, is a dominant force in fashion sportswear. The retailer operates over 4,500 stores in 36 countries, bringing its distinctive offerings to markets like the USA, Australia, Singapore, and now South Africa.

TFG CEO Anthony Thunström expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting how it will amplify TFG’s already strong presence in the sports retail sector, which includes brands like Sportscene.

“We are determined to put our customers first with a superior shopping experience, offering the best products available in SA,” said Thunström.

JD Sports’ Chris Rowan, International Franchise Director, added:

“This is a milestone in our global strategy, and we’re thrilled to collaborate with TFG to bring JD’s distinctive offering to South African customers.”

Expansion Plans

TFG has ambitious plans to expand JD Sports’ footprint in South Africa, with 50-60 new stores planned over the next five years.

Challenges in the Footwear Market

JD Sports’ arrival comes as local players in the footwear market face significant challenges. Recently, Drip Footwear and Frame Leisure Trading (operator of The Cross Trainer) entered liquidation due to financial struggles exacerbated by the pandemic, unrest, and a weak economic environment.

Despite these setbacks in the industry, JD Sports and TFG are optimistic about the brand’s potential in the South African market.

A Retail Revolution

The new stores promise an elevated shopping experience with exclusive products, global styles, and limited releases from leading brands. With South Africa’s retail landscape evolving, JD Sports is poised to make a lasting impact, offering consumers more choices and raising the bar for sports and lifestyle retail.

Whether you’re in Cape Town or Joburg, JD Sports is now a destination for fashion-forward sports enthusiasts looking for premium quality and style.