NEWSLETTER ISSUE NO 1 – June 2024

10 July 2024
Newsletters

From the Desk of Executive
Director, Nerisha Jairaj

June Inspiration: Embrace Your Potential!

Reflecting on the past month of June, we continue to focus on unlocking our true potential as we  journey into July. Every day brings a new chance to excel and reach new heights. Embrace challenges as stepping stones to success and let determination be your guiding force.

As leaders in our industry, we have the power to inspire and uplift. Let’s push beyond our limits, innovate fearlessly, and make impactful strides. This month let’s harness our strengths and achieve greatness together. Believe in your capabilities and let’s make June a month of extraordinary accomplishments. ARE YOU READY TO UNLEASH YOUR FULL POTENTIAL?

Best regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC

Table of Content

Topic 1:
WORLD NEWS (AS PER WORLD FOOTWEAR NEWS)


UK Retail: Are the winds starting to blow in retailers’ favour?

Taxes have moved up one position in this list since the last survey edition, but only 13% of the respondents mention them as a source of concern. Human resources related problems, on the contrary, are now, apparently, a less significant cause of concern, mentioned by 12% of respondents (in comparison to 21% in the previous edition). Finally, issues such as the lack of adequate equipment or other technological problems, legal or administrative obstacles to international trade, climate concerns, and regulatory or administrative requirements, do not surpass 10% of responses.

Source: UK Retail: Are the winds starting to blow in retailers’ favour? – 1 July 2024

Topic 2:
Nerisha Jairaj Keynote Speaker at eThekwini EDGE Export Opportunities Seminar

Nerisha Jairaj, Executive Director of SAFLEC and Manager of the eThekwini Footwear Cluster, was an honoured keynote speaker at the eThekwini EDGE Export Opportunities Seminar on June 24, 2024. Held at Nedbank Umhlanga, the seminar also featured Shannon Tulsiram, Head of Economic Development Unit at eThekwini Municipality, Palesa Phili, CEO of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Martin Cameron, Trade Advisory, who provided valuable market access insights. The event highlighted strategic export opportunities and growth avenues, with SAFLEC’s insights reinforcing their ability to lead strategic market entrance for the sector. Nerisha mentioned the trade landscape was everchanging and that to stay ahead, we need to adapt to change at a rapid pace to remain relevant.  We can’t really make predictions right now, but we need to be open to unlearn and re -learn.

Panel Discussion with Trade Advisory, Turner’s Shipping, Nedbank, TIKZN and Niice Foods.

Topic 3:
SAFLEC/EFLC Empowers Members with Export Orientation Workshop

On June 25, SAFLEC/EFLC hosted an export orientation workshop at our office, dedicated to upskilling our members in the nuances of international trade. The course covered essential topics such as export documentation, international market research, trade regulations, effective logistics management, financial planning, drawing up an export strategy, and product development specific to export markets. This initiative underscores SAFLEC/EFLC’s commitment to empowering its members, enhancing their expertise, and driving growth in exports. By providing essential training and resources, we continue to focus on expanding opportunities and fostering success in the global market. SAFLEC remains steadfast in its mission to support and elevate the South African footwear and leather industry.

Topic 4:
IF YOU ARE NOT A SAFLEC MEMBER YOU ARE LOSING OPPORTUNITIES!!!

Join SAFLEC and unlock a world of opportunities in the South African footwear and leather industry. As a member, gain access to vital resources, exclusive events, and networking platforms. With SAFLEC, seize the chance to expand into global markets through funding and support initiatives. Experience the thrill of collaborating with industry leaders, staying ahead of trends, and shaping the future of our craft. Do not just witness the excitement—be a vital part of it. Elevate your career and impact by becoming a member of SAFLEC today! Contact prenisha@saflec.co.za

Topic 5:
SOCIAL MEDIA

Our social media platforms have been hitting record breaking hits. Our last post obtained over 160 000 likes, boosted to followers in the rest of Africa, Europe, Middle East, and North America. We encourage you to take advantage of our efforts to promote you.

Send us content to push your company and brands. Also like, follow, and forward our links to your contact lists. Let’s build the following globally, so that we can show the world our capability.

Twitter: @SAFLECEXPORT
Facebook: @SAFOOTWEAREXPORT
Instagram: @saflec_team
Youtube: SAFLEC 

Topic 6:
UPCOMING EVENTS

Atlanta Shoe Market
10 – 12 August 2024

Autumn Fair Birmingham
01 – 04 September 2024

Fashion World Tokyo
15 – 17 October 2024

As we move forward, we recognize the importance of re-learning and adapting to global needs, demands, and challenges while embracing new strategies to thrive in the post-covid era. 

Best regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC