Liverpool FC has confirmed the opening dates and locations of its first official standalone retail stores in South Africa, marking a significant step in the club’s global retail expansion.
The club’s new Cape Town store, located at Canal Walk Shopping Centre, will officially open on Tuesday, 12 May, while the Johannesburg branch at Mall of Africa will open on Friday, 15 May.
First stores in Africa
The launches mark the first time Liverpool FC has brought its official standalone retail store experience to Africa.
The South African stores will become the 24th and 25th standalone outlets opened by the Premier League giants globally, with Liverpool continuing to boast more standalone retail stores than any other sports team worldwide.
According to the club, South Africa is home to an estimated 12.7 million Liverpool supporters – more than any other football club globally – alongside 37 million cumulative television viewers during last season.
The openings will form part of a wider week-long celebration taking place between 17 and 21 May, with a range of fan engagement activities planned in both cities.
Cultural events planned
Liverpool legend Bruce Grobbelaar, who was born in Durban and made more than 600 appearances for the Reds, is expected to feature in the celebrations.
Fans will also get the chance to see the UEFA Champions League trophy up close, while official club mascot Mighty Red and several cultural and community events are also planned.
Official launch events for supporters will take place in Cape Town on 19 May and in Johannesburg on 21 May.
‘Important moment for the club’
Lee Dwerryhouse, Liverpool’s senior vice-president of merchandising, described the openings as “an important moment” for the club.
“South Africa has a deep and passionate Liverpool fan base, and we’re proud to create new ways for supporters to connect with the club,” he said.
“The launch activity across the week reflects the scale of that support, and we’re looking forward to celebrating with fans in Cape Town and Johannesburg as we continue to grow our global retail presence.”
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