Pepkor, the South African retail group and saviour of Postie, has made its first major change since the purchase of the struggling chain in July.

The retailer will launch two new clothing ranges in the new year – Mango Dance, a new ballet and jazz dance range, and Schoolzone, a generic range of school uniforms.

Mango Dance is designed for three to eight year old girls, with items to be priced between $15 and $17.

Postie’s generic uniform brand, Schoolzone, targets children from five to 16, with prices ranging from $8 to $17.

Richard Binns, CEO Postie, said the new Schoolzone range caters to a real need in the generic uniform market for competition and more choice, especially in the regional areas of New Zealand.

“Families have many demands on their income, so we are very proud to offer through our exclusive clothing lines, Schoolzone and Mango Dance, another option when it comes to good quality affordable clothing,” said Binns.

The new clothing ranges are the first example of Postie leveraging Pepkor’s global buying power and financial resources.

“This year marks Postie’s 105th Christmas. It has been a big year for the business, but with the support of our staff and customers we are ending it on a high note and with the promise of new ranges and choices for customers in 2015,” Binns said.

There are now 64 Postie stores following a cull by administrators eariler this year and the purchase by Pepkor.

Pepkor has retail operations in 15 countries selling predominantly clothing, footwear and textiles. Its main brands include Pep and Ackermans in South Africa, Best & Less and Harris Scarfe in Australia, and Pepco in Poland.