Bata SA joins global Founder’s Day commemoration

Throughout September, Bata’s global workforce came together in a remarkable display of unity and service.

Bata South Africa was honoured to be joined by Monica Pignal, chairman of the Bata Children's Programme (BCP), during the company’s Founder’s Day celebrations in Durban.

Pignal, an active owner in the footwear business founded by her grandfather, Tomáš, in 1894, was welcomed by traditional dancers in the true spirit of Africa. She shared that the Bata story is one for all employees to be proud of. “It’s a story about a family who shares the same values and the same ethics – a family who believes in the pride of employing people to make good shoes.”

Today, Bata operates in over 70 countries and employs more than 30,000 people worldwide.

Pignal concluded: “I’m so proud to be standing here today with all of you who have been so loyal to us. Our family appreciates you. The family is with you, we believe in our shoes and we believe in our values.”

Lorraine Dyer, Bata South Africa's country manager, added: "As we commemorate our 130th anniversary on Founder's Day, we are filled with a deep sense of pride and gratitude to our employees, customers, and communities.”

Special awards for Bata SA employees

As part of its Founders Day activities, Bata South Africa held a special Long Service Awards event to acknowledge and appreciate the loyalty and contributions of team members who have been with the company for significant periods of time, continually driving Bata’s success.

Pignal stood alongside the Bata SA team to raise a toast to 62 employees who celebrated 20 years, 30 years, 35 years, 40 years, as well as a Lifetime Service Award presented to Rajeshkumar Jogi, accounts clerk – ABU, for his remarkable 46 years at Bata.

Additionally, Bata SA celebrated the exceptional contributions of its most active Bata Children’s Programme (BCP) volunteers, acknowledging their passion and efforts in driving BCP initiatives in their communities.