Orlando Pirates T-Shirt Quality Issue

I am extremely disappointed with the way my complaint regarding an Orlando Pirates T-shirt has been handled.

I purchased an Orlando Pirates T-shirt from the Mall of the South in January 2026. After only a few months of normal use, the printed design on the front of the T-shirt began peeling and deteriorating significantly. I reported the matter to the retailer and provided photographs showing the condition of the garment.

Instead of properly addressing the quality and durability concern, I was advised that Section 56(2) of the Consumer Protection Act refers to a six-month period and that this period has passed.

While I acknowledge the wording of Section 56(2), I find the response concerning because my complaint is about the quality and reasonable durability of the product. The T-shirt has deteriorated considerably after a relatively short period, and I expected a branded garment of this nature to last substantially longer than this.

The response also raises a very concerning question:

Does this mean that the retailer considers the expected lifespan of the T-shirt’s print to be less than six months?

If so, this is extremely concerning to me as a consumer. If a customer purchases an Adidas-branded Orlando Pirates shirt, there is a reasonable expectation that the product will be manufactured to an appropriate standard and will be reasonably durable.

I would also like to know whether Adidas is aware that one of its branded products is deteriorating in this manner after only a few months, and whether Orlando Pirates, as the club whose branding is featured on the product, is aware of the quality concerns being raised by customers.

I am not asking for special treatment. I am asking for a reasonable resolution to a product that I believe has failed to meet the quality and durability I would reasonably expect.

I am therefore requesting that the matter be properly investigated and that I be offered either a full refund or a replacement T-shirt.

I would also appreciate clarity on whether this is considered normal wear and tear and, if so, what the expected lifespan of the printed design is according to the manufacturer.

I have photographs of the T-shirt and correspondence regarding my complaint available as supporting evidence.

I hope the matter can be escalated and resolved fairly rather than simply being dismissed based on the six-month provision.

I would appreciate a proper response addressing the quality of the product, rather than only referring to the six-month period.