Football Association of Malawi (FAM)director of commerce Limbani Matola says there is high demand for Flames moto replica jerseys after the Flames qualified for the 2021 Afcon finals in Cameroon.
He said the replicas have sold out.
“In fact the consignment that was ordered is almost sold out. For now we have pressed another order which we are expecting to arrive next week. We are excited and ready to flood the market again,” said Matola.
He also gave credit to FDH Bank for taking it upon themselves to market the Flames jerseys.
Said Matola: “I must highlight that the demand has been boosted by FDH Bank the official sponsors of the Flames who on their own have launched Friday Flames.
“This has seen people putting on Flames jerseys every Friday. This has been a very huge boost to Flames morale and has reflected on the sales of the jerseys.”
The Flames registered back-to-back wins against South Sudan and the Cranes of Uganda to make a historic Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualification after 10 years.
Matola said there is also demand for products such as scarves, caps, T-shirts and shorts.
He said the motto brand is a FAM initiative without partnership with international sportswear.
He said: “We no longer deal with international suppliers like in the past. This is our own initiative. The moto brand is home-grown and should be encouraged and supported.”
The replica shirts are selling at K29 000 each.
Last Friday, Silver Strikers also launched the replica jersey sales with a consignment of 1 000 shirts on the market.
Minister of Sports Ulemu Msungama bought the jersey at K500 000.
In an interview the minister appealed to clubs and football entities in the country to be innovative in fundraising.
“In many countries the sale of football merchandise has proven to be viable and a sure way of making revenue. It’s just a matter of being bold and innovative when undertaking such a venture. Football fans will always want to be associated with their team through wearing of their brands,” said Msungama.
