Client Success Story
Franklees
Our client Franklees, a South African underwear brand founded in 2015, shares their import success story as they expanded into the UK and Germany. Learn how the Franklees importing journey took them from local production to global sourcing, helping them build strong supplier partnerships while managing customs delays, logistics disruptions, and changing forex rules along the way.
1. Can you please share a bit of background information about your business?
Franklees is an underwear brand founded in 2015. We produce fun, matching, high quality underwear with matching prints for both men and women.
2. What led you to start importing — how did the need or opportunity arise for your business?
Initially we manufactured our underwear locally, which is still our goal. As our business grew and we also opened in the UK and Germany, we realized that we needed a more consistent and professional supply chain. The Franklees importing journey began when we were able to source a world-class factory outside of South Africa that makes some of the world’s best brands. To be honest, we are still seeking out local production for the SA market, as we would love to keep the full supply chain local.
3. Can you share some tips for finding and researching reliable international suppliers? Where did you find your best product opportunities?
There are a variety of ways, and many manufacturers in all product categories out there, whether local or international. In our case, it was a personal introduction that opened a door to a manufacturer that does business with the biggest retailers globally, so we were lucky. Having been in the imported brand business for over 35 years, finding the right supplier is a mix of contacts, research and reaching out to the market. You can quickly see which suppliers are serious and are interested in your success, which leads to their success. In a sense, you want a “partner”, not just a supplier.
4. What was your biggest initial fear or concern about importing, and how did you address it?
Having imported for many years, initially, I had no fear or concerns. Of course, the first time you deal with new suppliers, you should anticipate issues such as delays and make accommodations for them.
5. As part of the Franklees importing journey, did you encounter any unexpected obstacles with customs, logistics, or suppliers, and how did you adapt?
I did, especially with customs and logistics. Customs can delay shipments from both sides. Logistics is dependent on availability and global affairs that can cause delays and significant price fluctuations. Forex rules for payments of goods are continuously changing and creating roadblocks. I would say customs and payments for imports are highly challenging, especially for small businesses.
6. Did you attend trade shows, visit suppliers, or participate in international sourcing programs? If so, can you mention any that were helpful?
I did not for my current business; however, for my previous business, I attended Trade shows and visited suppliers for a 35-year period multiple times per year.
7. Based on the Franklees import success story, what advice do you have for aspiring importers in South Africa?
Firstly, make sure you have all the various processes in place. There is a lot of red tape to go through. Get your ducks in a row up front, or you will face delays and issues all along the supply chain. Even with all my experience, I continue to be surprised by the effects of this. New rules are now commonplace and not only in South Africa. I find the EU to be a highly complex region to do business in, for example. Forex is a major factor. Consider forward cover if you can. Find an efficient shipping agent that can manage issues when they arise. Be prepared for the complexities. Preparation makes it a lot easier.
Conclusion
The Franklees import success story shows how global growth often depends on navigating supply chain realities — from sourcing reliable international suppliers to managing customs delays, logistics bottlenecks, and forex fluctuations. Their experience highlights the value of treating suppliers as long-term partners rather than one-off vendors.
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