Entrepreneur Lekau Sehoana has officially re-entered the retail space with a strategic partnership between Drip Footwear and TAPE stores. This move marks a significant turnaround for the local footwear brand following a turbulent five-month period that saw the company face liquidation, legal battles, and financial difficulties.
Sehoana, the founder of Drip Footwear, took to social media to reflect on his experiences and announce the brand’s revival.
Overcoming Five Months of Turmoil
In his candid post, Sehoana detailed the challenges he endured following the liquidation of Drip Footwear.
“The past five months were very challenging. After our liquidation, I had to attend commission of enquiries, my bank accounts were frozen, and my assets were attached. Accountants, lawyers, auditors, and staff were subpoenaed. I refused to let the crisis take over my life, thus I refused interviews about that process,” he wrote.
He explained that despite the financial and legal turmoil, he remained resilient and focused on finding solutions rather than dwelling on the crisis.
“Refusing to be the face of a crisis and giving it more voice… The experience I gained can never be taught in any university. I went through it first-hand and learned a lot of lessons,” he continued.
A New Retail Strategy for Drip Footwear
Instead of reopening standalone Drip stores, Sehoana has opted for a fresh retail approach, making Drip Footwear available at TAPE stores, including a presence at Mall of Africa.
This strategic decision allows Drip Footwear to compete directly with international footwear giants by placing the brand in high-traffic retail spaces rather than operating in exclusive standalone stores.
Lekau Sehoana
“And as part of the plan, today I cut a ribbon at @officiallytape Store at Mall of Africa, which marks the launch of our relationship,” Sehoana announced.
This move represents a significant shift in the business model. Previously, Drip Sportif operated through 25 DRIP stores and six Sneaker Outlet Stores, catering primarily to customers seeking the brand specifically.
Now, through TAPE’s retail network, Drip Footwear will be more accessible to a wider audience, reaching shoppers who frequent mainstream retail outlets where global brands dominate.
Lekau Sehoana
Competing with International Brands
Sehoana acknowledged that this new chapter presents both opportunities and challenges. Entering a highly competitive retail environment means Drip Footwear will stand alongside global footwear giants, a position that requires strong marketing, innovation, and customer engagement.
“Now we exist in a world where we directly compete with international brands. A new challenge we’ll take head-on, and obviously with more lessons added,” he said.
Despite the challenges, he expressed optimism and confidence in the brand’s ability to adapt and thrive in this new retail landscape.
“Sometimes there’s nothing wrong with the aim, you just got to change the target. It feels good to say, we’re BACK!!!!” Sehoana declared.
Lekau Sehoana
A Resilient Comeback
Drip Footwear’s resurgence through this strategic retail partnership is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit. Sehoana’s ability to bounce back from setbacks and reposition the brand for success showcases his leadership and business acumen.
The move to TAPE stores not only reintroduces Drip Footwear into the market but also elevates its status, positioning it alongside established international competitors.
As Sehoana embarks on this new chapter, the brand’s loyal customer base and new retail presence could pave the way for an even stronger comeback in the South African footwear industry.