CAPE TOWN – SA Rugby has paid tribute to supporters, sponsors and players for helping the Springbok brand attain Superbrand level – giving it iconic commercial value status among its peers around the world.

Marketing Manager Khutso Mathekgana said behind the hard work done by the marketing team at SA Rugby was the enormous support and faith shown by the broader rugby community.

“To build a brand you need strong support and buy-in from key stakeholders,” said Mathekgana. “Against all odds, particularly with the boardroom challenges we have faced over the past few months, we still emerge as worthy of such an honour. We are proud of the achievement, and we will work hard to maintain our new status.”

Last week SA Rugby was recognised by an independent body, the SA Superbrands Council, as a deserving member of the prestigious club.

“This further enhances the value of this global brand,” adds Mathekgana. “The awareness levels locally and worldwide are incredible. Share-of-voice, market share and penetration levels have improved incredibly – hence the international brand recognition. We are truly a global brand, something every South African should be proud of.

“The challenge for us now is to work even harder, and not rest on our laurels. We need to consolidate our achievement and plot the way forward to achieve even more. We are currently embarking on some serious research work to help us craft informed strategies on how we take all our brands forward, including Women’s Rugby.”

Superbrands Project Director Simon Goddard said they were looking forward to handing over the award to SA Rugby, “giving the Springbok fans another reason to stand proud for their national team”.

“From our perspective, it is a true Superbrand that’s a part of the lives of all South Africans.”

Independent Superbrands Councils in 46 countries around the world grade each country’s premier brands according to the strictest criteria. Only the most highly graded brands qualify for Superbrands status.

SA Rugby will appear in the Superbrands large-format publication with around 100 of South Africa’s leading brands. The Superbrands will be honoured at a tribute event, described in some countries as “The Oscars of Branding,” to be held later this year. The event will be hosted by media personality Jeremy Maggs and broadcast by the SABC.

ISSUED BY                                                    SA Rugby
ENQUIRIES                                                    Vusi Kama( 082 990 6937)