Steinhoff opts out

Varsity Cup latest casualty of beleaguered retailer

Beleaguered global retailer Steinhoff International has pulled the plug on its sponsorship of the Varsity Cup rugby tournament following the collapse of its share price late last year.

Steinhoff reported accounting irregularities last month‚ which resulted in its market value collapsing by about 85%‚ or R187-billion, prompting the company’s chief executive Marcus Jooste to resign.

The company sponsored Varsity Cup and is also the headline sponsor of the SA Sevens team‚ the Blitzboks.

Varsity Cup chief executive Duitser Bosman confirmed Steinhoff ’s decision yesterday.

“Varsity Cup management can confirm that Steinhoff International has withdrawn as a second tier sponsor of the annual FNB Varsity Cup tournament‚” Bosman said.

“Subsequently‚ we have begun a process of exploring alternative sponsorship opportunities to sustain the spotlight on talent development.

“We would like to assure spectators that preparations for the 2018 tournament are at an advanced stage and we are working with all our partners to ensure the success of this year’s competition‚ which kicks off January 29.

“The 11th edition of SA’s premier inter-varsity rugby competition features 16 of SA’s best university teams in a challenge for top honours on the rugby field.”

SA Rugby is yet to confirm whether Steinhoff had cut its sponsorship of the Blitzboks as their offices are still closed until Monday. –