Whether it is art, fashion, design or music, Africa has always proudly flaunted her creativity and culture. The new wave of concept stores illustrates the growing trend of the continent’s rich heritage and artistic expression. Here are five exceptional concept stores to visit across Africa.
Brand: WAFFLESNCREAM
Where: Trocadero Square Unit 5 The Rock Drive, Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria
Why they are awesome: As Nigeria’s first skateboarding and apparel brand, the brand also serves as the first-ever concrete skate park and hub for skate culture in the West African region. The brand focuses on supporting, uplifting, and energising the local skate scene.
Brand: The LOTTE
Where: 33 C Josif Broz Tito Avenue, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana
Why they are awesome: This luxury concept store brings together a selection of high-end fashion and lifestyle products from Africa and its diaspora. Through pop-ups, installations and unique events, LOTTE acts as a dynamic platform for creativity and engagement in the heart of Accra.
Brand: The Manor
Where: 44 Stanley Ave, Braamfontein Werf, Johannesburg, South Africa
Why they are awesome: From fashion and design to photography and film, The Manor allows creatives and visitors alike to express themselves and their diversity.
Brand: Shelflife
Where: Shop 5, The Barracks, 50 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000
Why they are awesome: Shelflife first opened its flagship store in Cape Town in 2006 and holds the highest tier of sneaker accounts in Africa, with a growing in-house apparel line strengthened by collaborations with various cult brands. Shelflife also owns the rights to Montana Colours spray paint imported from Barcelona and is the official Montana paint stockist for South Africa.
Brand: CHIMI
Where: 69 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town, South Africa
Why they are awesome: Housed in Cape Town’s creative hub, CHIMI’s goal is to redefine the typical retail experience. As a space where products are part of a narrative, this store transcends the transactional nature of shopping and welcomes a spirit of collaboration and a meeting of creative minds.
