From the Desk of Executive
Director, Nerisha Jairaj
Crafted with pride, powered by resilience. South African footwear and leather stride forward with innovation. Together, we walk boldly into a future of global recognition.
March has been a productive and encouraging month across the footwear and leather industry, with strong participation in several practical skills development workshops and trade show delivered by SAFLEC and EFLC.
This month has reinforced the importance of adaptability, resilience, and proactive engagement as global markets navigate heightened uncertainty, including ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflict. These conditions continue to impact trade flows, logistics, and buyer sentiment. Despite this, SAFLEC-supported initiatives continue to secure strong leads, orders, and new opportunities. SAFLEC remains committed to equipping members to navigate these challenges and remain competitive globally.
Our focus remains clear: to provide programmes that deliver practical value and empower both companies and workers across the value chain to adapt and grow in a changing industry environment.
By cultivating a collaborative environment where knowledge is shared, partnerships are strengthened, and excellence is recognised, we position South African craftsmanship to not only compete on the global stage but to stand out. Together, we are driving an industry that is more agile, more competitive, and increasingly connected with every step forward.
Best regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC
Table of Content
- SEDFA Webinar Empowers Brands Through Visual Storytelling
- Micro Export Program Empowers 10 South African Businesses for Global Growth
- Stepping into the Future: 3D Footwear Design Training Empowers Local Brands
- Collaborating for Market Insight: SAFLEC, SACTWU, and the German Chamber Explore Entry into Germany
- Trade Shows – October Highlights
- Join The Movement: Don’t Miss Out
- Calendar & Upcoming Events
- Social Media
The eThekwini Footwear and Leather Cluster Managed by SAFLEC successfully delivered the highly impactful AI Tuesdays programme, equipping members with practical AI skills to drive efficiency, streamline operations, and elevate marketing capability.
With over 50 participants per session, the programme highlighted strong sector demand for digital transformation. Participants reported immediate gains in productivity, improved output quality, and enhanced business performance—without increasing workload.
The sessions encouraged companies to move from experimentation to practical AI implementation, driving efficiency and long-term competitiveness.
Why This Matters for Global Market Readiness
Delegates moved from experimentation to practical AI implementation, driving efficiency and long-term competitiveness. Over the five weeks, participants gained:
- The ability to build stronger online stores that attract international buyers
- Improved marketing capability with content tailored to global audiences
- Cost savings through in-house design and digital development
- A more credible online presence to compete alongside global brands
- Confidence to actively use and harness AI to drive efficiency and creativity
SAFLEC delivered an exceptional performance at APLF Hong Kong 2026. The participation at the show with a delegation of 10 member companies in finished goods a 3 Tanneries made a mark the world will remember. As one of the world’s leading trade platforms for the leather industry, APLF provided a powerful platform to showcase South Africa’s capabilities, with SAFLEC significantly strengthening international visibility and market access for its members.
Participation & Commercial Success
SAFLEC facilitated the participation of 13 member companies at this leading global trade platform, achieving strong engagement with international buyers and stakeholders. This translated into over R3.5 million in confirmed on-site sales, a pipeline exceeding R2 million in potential deals, and approximately 110 qualified leads secured across participating members.
Global Market Positioning
- Strengthened positioning of South African products as high-quality and export-ready
- Established new international buyer relationships
- Gained valuable global market insights
Strategic Outcomes
- Clear return on investment
- Enhanced global visibility and credibility of SAFLEC members
- Strong platform to drive future export growth
The industry faces a key challenge in developing specialized skills that align with market access. The World-Class Manufacturing Program addresses this by providing comprehensive training in lean production, management, legal compliance, processes, and optimization across production, technology, IT, and marketing. International buyers vet suppliers and it is important for us to ensure that our members are ready
- Production Planning & Quality Management Workshops
- Under the World Class Manufacturing Programme, we proudly hosted a highly impactful two-day workshop for footwear and leather manufacturers, setting a new benchmark in operational excellence and product quality.
- Day One: Planning & Production – 12 participants mastered practical strategies to optimize production processes and streamline workflow management.
Day Two: Quality Control – 17 participants gained expert knowledge to uphold the highest standards and ensure flawless product consistency.
Across 10 SMMEs, feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants declaring the sessions exceeded all expectations and expressing eagerness for further engagement. Strengthening quality systems supports both local performance and export readiness across the sector.
Two Day – 2D Design Workshop With Russell Addinall | Studio Verde
The 2-Day 2D Design Workshop was delivered with outstanding success, reflecting strong participant engagement and meaningful skills development outcomes. Six SMMEs from diverse sectors participated, benefiting from a focused and practical training intervention aimed at strengthening design capability and business competitiveness. With the world moving more and more into digitalisation empowering our members becomes our priority.
Skills Development Outcomes
- Improved understanding of 2D design principles
- Enhanced ability to develop branding and marketing materials
- Practical tools to support business growth and market positioning
Participant Feedback
- Overwhelmingly positive across all attendees
- Strong appreciation for the quality, relevance, and practicality of the content
- Participants indicated immediate application of skills within their businesses
Why these matters
The three workshops collectively provided delegates with a well-rounded and practical skillset, equipping them to strengthen their businesses across design, branding, and operational capability. By combining these focus areas, companies are better positioned to improve efficiency, enhance market readiness, and compete more effectively in both local and international markets.
Upcoming Shows
-
Australia
-
Vietnam
-
New York now
-
Who’s Next Paris – open for SSAS applications
-
FW Tokyo
-
Namibia
Upcoming Training
-
Marketing Workshop with Stuart Hopwood 14 April 2026
-
Arsutoria Durban 25 -29 May 2026
-
Arsutoria Cape Town 1 – 2 June 2026
This is your chance to learn, grow, and prepare for the future with confidence. Together, we are shaping an industry that is competitive, sustainable, and proudly South African.
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:
Let’s keep moving forward positively no matter the challenges.
Warm regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC