Gap Adds Stores in South Africa

San Francisco-based Gap Inc. has opened two locations in South Africa under its strategic alliances channel.

“South Africa is the natural next step for expanding our presence on the continent. The country has a thriving economy and high Gap brand awareness, so we believe there is tremendous opportunity for us in the market,” says Stefan Laban, managing director of strategic alliances for Gap Inc.

Expanding its wholesale relationship with Stuttafords department stores, Gap and Stuttafords will open two stores under its existing wholesale agreement. The first opens in Sandton City Mall in Johannesburg, while a second location will open in Cape Town’s Tyger Valley Centre. Both locations will carry Gap, GapKids and babyGap collections.

Furthering its international reach, Gap also announced plans to open stores in Lebanon, Georgia and Azerbaijan.

Working with Azadea group, one of the largest retailers in the Middle East, Gap plans to open its first store in Lebanon later this year. Retail partner Al Hokair will bring the first Gap and Banana Republic stores in Georgia this April followed by the first Gap store in Azerbaijan this August.

“Extending our presence in Africa, the Middle East and CIS demonstrates the effectiveness of our international formula and the continued flexibility of our franchise model, which allows us to reach new customers quickly around the world,” says Laban.

Over the last six years, Gap has grown its franchise store base to over 200 locations in 34 countries throughout Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, Australia and Africa.