Drip Footwear Bounces to Launch a New Brand Launch

Drip is set to launch a new brand. (Lekau Sehoana/via Facebook)

by Kelebogile Matlou

This time last year Drip Footwear faced a significant difficulty when the company was liquidated, resulting in the closure of over 25 retail stores and the loss of hundreds of jobs. Founder Lekau Sehoana noted that while the liquidation was difficult, it did not come as a complete surprise. For two years, the executives had done everything they could to maintain liquidity, negotiating financial pressures and market challenges. 

Following the liquidation, Sehoana paused and reflected. He participated in several commissions of inquiry which provided him with insights on decision-making, accountability, and strategic planning. He shares that he focused on absorbing the lessons acquired and carefully planning his next moves. The break provided him with clarity, allowing him to consider his next steps without rushing into new endeavors. 

Sehoana became CEO of a grocery startup, which was later successfully acquired by former PnP franchisees. This milestone became a source of pride for him, demonstrating his ability to apply expertise and navigate corporate growth in the face of previous setbacks. It also bolstered his confidence and strategic leadership approach, demonstrating that learning from obstacles can lead to real-world success.

He has announced the launch of a new brand this month around September 23. Sehoana emphasized that this launch was the result of careful planning, deliberation, and accountability. Rather than rushing into something new immediately following the liquidation, the approach has been cautious, systematic, and deliberate. This ensures that the new brand is based on a solid foundation while promoting creativity, excitement, and innovation.

Sehoana also emphasized the larger meaning underlying his journey. The emphasis is on tenacity, resilience, and learning from hardship. He said, “sometimes what you think is an end is actually a beginning.”