Table of Content

• Mastering Footwear HS Codes For Global Export Success
• 3D Handbag Design Workshop With Russell Addinal
• Marketing Masterclass With Stuart Hopwood
• Industry Stakeholder Collaboration Meeting
• Global Showcase: Where We’ve Been
• Comrades Expo DTIC
• Join The Movement: Don’t Miss Out
• Calendar & Upcoming Events
• Social Media

Mastering Footwear HS Codes For Global Export Success(2 June 2025)

Our session with Trevor Michael welcomed 25 enthusiastic attendees eager to unravel the intricacies of international product classification. Participants walked away empowered with practical tools to HS-code their products correctly essential for simplifying customs processes and unlocking global export opportunities. Knowledge, when applied, is export gold.

3D Handbag Design Workshop With Russell Addinal(10–12 June 2025)

Russell brought the magic once again. Over three days, creatives learned 3D design principles and watched their handbags come to life, from idea to concept n 3d format. The energy in the room was electric—and the feedback echoed it. Attendees left not only with prototypes, but with renewed design confidence.

Marketing Masterclass With Stuart Hopwood(26 June 2025)

June culminated in a high-impact Marketing Masterclass led by seasoned industry expert Stuart Hopwood. With over 12 participants in attendance—many representing small and emerging businesses—the session offered a deep dive into brand positioning, digital marketing, and consumer engagement.

Stuart’s approach blended decades of experience with fresh, focused strategies tailored to today’s marketplace. Attendees walked away with practical tools and renewed clarity on how to amplify their brands in competitive environments. A session that proved once again: when we invest in insight, we elevate impact.

Industry Stakeholder Collaboration Meeting(24 June 2025)

On 24 June, industry voices came together in one room—and the outcome was clear: collaboration is not optional; it’s essential. The Stakeholder Collaboration Meeting offered a rare moment of alignment across the footwear and leather value chain, with manufacturers, exporters, designers, educational institutions, and development bodies all represented.

We discussed shared priorities, identified overlap in programming, and began mapping paths toward deeper synergy. The message that echoed throughout the session was this: no single organisation can carry the sector forward alone. Progress lies in pooling resources, voices, and strategies.

The invitation remains open at our next session in Cape Town—we build stronger only when we build together.

Global Showcase: Where We’ve Been FSNYE(3–5 June 2025)

South African innovation lit up New York. From bold products to standout show rooms, our delegation made waves and captured solid orders.  Despite the strain caused by late DTIC payments, which hindered our forward planning and limited early marketing efforts, the event turned out to be one of our busiest and most impactful showcases to date.

The timing aligned closely with the South African President’s visit to the U.S. just a week prior—bringing unexpected attention and goodwill to our presence. We were surprisingly warmly welcomed by international buyers and media alike, a gesture that caught us pleasantly off guard. There’s a tangible sense of momentum now—and we’re hopeful that this energy carries through to our next global engagements.

Comrades Expo DTIC(5–7 June 2025)

While the Comrades Marathon drew thousands of athletes, it was our local footwear brands that turned heads among the international crowd. Adolra, FQ Manufacturers, Froggies, and Palm Footwear all reported strong B2C sales at this global platform, organised by the DTIC.

The objective was clear: to showcase South African footwear to an international audience, leveraging the energy of the event to make powerful impressions. Although the short lead time posed challenges for preparation, the exposure proved worthwhile and deeply appreciated by those who participated. This was a reminder that even under tight timelines, South African craftsmanship holds its own on the world stage.

Join The Movement: Don’t Miss Out

Not a SAFLEC member yet? The industry isn’t waiting—and neither should you. Get access to funding, exclusive trade missions, premium training, and more. Email prenisha@saflec.co.za to unlock the benefits.

Stay Connected Let’s keep flying the flag for South African craftsmanship together—follow us and be part of the story:

SOCIAL MEDIA

Calendar & Upcoming Events

Workshops & Training

• Marketing Workshop with Stuart Hopwood – 26 June 2025
• 2-week Handbag Making Course – August 2025

International Trade Shows

• Korea Import Fair – July 2025
• All Fashion Sourcing – July 2025
• Autumn Fair, Birmingham – September 2025
• Who’s Next, Paris – September 2025 (Awaiting Approval)
• Fashion World Tokyo – October 2025(Awaiting Approval)

Africa Missions

• Cameroon – 4 to 11 July 2025
• Nigeria – 12 to 19 July 2025
• Kenya – 5 to 12 September 2025
• Ivory Coast – 3 to 10 October 2025

More dates and details to follow—keep an eye on your inbox!

Let’s keep this rhythm going. With every event, skill and story, we’re shaping an industry worth watching—and worth celebrating.