The usual story of a woman deciding to embark on the ferocious fashion industry starts off something like this... "a shortage of cute children's clothing for her children". Actually there are tons of children's clothing around, too much to choose in fact! This was not in fact the reason for a company to go ahead and call themselves "Hooligans". What would hold true rather is that Adri Jeffers found herself watching a pair of raucous twins cause mayhem in her once quiet life. Children bring out the fun in us, our mad sides. Whilst we are not sure whether this is purely for a lack of sleep and our sanity, it is nevertheless a good idea to embrace it. "If you can't beat em , join em" With wild animals on the corner of every town habitating game reserves and protected areas, the inspiration on our doorstep proved irresistible.
In those early days Adri, her husband Wayne and her very talented mom, Nina, put their heads down and got involved in everything from silk screen printing to packing orders. We have grown (along with Wayne's waistline) to expand to Worldwide representation. Our goods have landed up In Harrods, John Lewis, Tesco and Disney's Busch gardens to name but a few prestigious outlets. We continue on our creative exploration of animals around the world.
Our fabulous funny faces of the African animals combined with fine fabrics, has become our trademark. The smile evident on our faces as the animal grows into a character is priceless! The passion in our team is energetic and we share a unique sense of humour. We often jump in our cars, go to one of the many reserves around South Africa with sketch pads in hand. We return, not only refreshed from the rest, but armed with loads of sketches of our Big 5. Nothing beats the real thing!
Social Conscience
We have a huge problem with the tons of children's clothing manufactured in China, BY CHILDREN! While costs might be much lower, we simply will not succumb to the lure of cheap stuff to raise our profit margins. All production is made by our co-operative in Durban.
► No person under 18 years of age is employed by Hooligans. ► Single Household heads are given preference for employment. ► Counseling programs and medical assistance for HIV positive staff. ► Preferential procurement for BEE accredited suppliers. ► Cotton Single Jersey is sourced from South African mills.
► All poppers are Nickle & Lead free, tested for safety and certified safe to used in children's clothing. CPSC approved (USA)
► Cords are kept short to avoid strangulation and tiny fingers getting tangled up.
► No loose buttons or other choking hazard materials on Infant items. Studs on Infant items applied with a Pneumatic machine.
► Our Handmade Dolls have CE approval - tested for flammability and toxicity.
► The soles of "Booties" have a non-slip print to ensure new walkers have a good grip on every surface they venture onto
► Extra poppers and leg openings so baby stays snug and warm
► Little "Taggies" on embroideries keep baby fingers entertained for hours
We are frequently asked about the use of flame retardants in the fabrics that we use but we are unable to find a source that proves these chemicals to be safe for use in children’s clothing items.
The Wildlife Co-operative
We have over the years learnt that working with people from previously disadvantaged communities means much more than the bottom line of profit. For workers to clock in, day after day, on time, often means pulling themselves away from a home in which they are single female household providers. Which means that their children are left to their own devices while mothers work. With this very "close to our heart" fact in mind, we have embarked on a course of action to help these woman gain the respect they deserve. After all, the passion that goes into making the wonderful clothing we design comes only from a special person, which is each and every one of the Hooligans 'helpers".
They have a say in the Selling price to wholesalers and retailers.
Small groups of people make our trims from home, which allows them to be there for their children.
Environmental Conscience
► Recycled materials are used to stuff our soft animal toys
► Carbon Footprint - Printing and Embroidery work is allocated to Durban's local companies, in a 20km radius.
► Recycled cartons are used to pack clothing in.
Our suppliers facilities are regularly inspected to ensure their claims of Fair Trade are substantiated.
Currently we are investigating wind driven electricity sources. Watch this space...
