NEWSLETTER ISSUE NO 1 – September 2024

Table of Content

• Topic 1: WORLD NEWS (AS PER WORLD FOOTWEAR NEWS)
• Topic 2: South African Companies Make Their Mark at Birmingham Autumn Fair
• Topic 3: Simac/Linepelle/MICAm and Milan Fashion Week
• Topic 4: Africa: A Key Trade Destination for South African Businesses
• Topic 5: SAFLEC and EFLC Supported Members at Electra Mining
• Topic 6: All Fashion Sourcing Event
• Topic 7: Export Finance and Process Workshop: Empowering Our Members
• IF YOU ARE NOT A SAFLEC MEMBER YOU ARE LOSING OPPORTUNITIES!!!
• SOCIAL MEDIA
• UPCOMING EVENTS

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

France Retail: still a blurred picture for footwear retail

French footwear retailers seem to be at a crossroads trying to figure out what will happen next. Prices are flat, sales are slow, consumer confidence is in general volatile, and stocks are building up (leading to a fall in imports). There was, however, a small improvement in consumer confidence in August, in line with the downward trend in inflation, suggesting that a much-needed relief may be reaching French households. Still, this may not be enough to boost retail sales this year as political uncertainty continues to cloud the horizon.

Latest snapshot from the Confindustria Accessori Moda Research Centre for Assocalzaturifici

The footwear sector saw its turnover, exports and production fall in the first half. “The phase of weak demand, compounded by a lower consumer propensity to purchase, a slowdown in several economies (not only China) and uncertainty resulting from the geopolitical turmoil in different parts of the world, has significantly affected orders, including in the luxury segment”, commented Assocalzaturifici Chair Giovanna Ceolini. “The economic downturn is having a strong impact on the production trends of companies”, she added.

The 22nd edition of the UITIC Congress will be held in Shanghai in August 2025, focusing on the footwear industry’s competitiveness and sustainability in an age of artificial intelligence

The International Union of Shoe Industry Technicians (UITIC) has announced the theme and programme highlights for the 22nd edition of its Congress, which will be held in Shanghai, China, from the 31st of August to the 3rd of September 2025. The competitiveness and sustainability of the footwear industry will be discussed in the context of the emergence of artificial intelligence.

During the first two days (31-1), participants will have the opportunity to visit local footwear factories, research centres and educational institutions and network with members of the China Leather Industry Association over dinner at the end of the 31st. The third and fourth days (2-3) will then feature indoor conferences covering a wide range of topics related to technologies for the footwear industry.

Topic 2:
South African Companies Make Their Mark at Birmingham Autumn Fair

This September, ten South African companies, representing the footwear, handbags, and clothing sectors, were supported by the dtic to exhibit for the first time at the Birmingham Autumn Fair in the UK. This prestigious event provided an exciting opportunity for South African products to enter the UK market, and our exhibitors were warmly welcomed by the fair’s organizers as newcomers.

However, the late approval of our participation delayed crucial pre-marketing efforts, which are key to maximizing the impact of such events. SAFLEC typically begins preparation eight months in advance, but this year, our application, submitted in April, was only approved in July 2024. We are actively working with the dtic to address these delays and remove the barriers that hinder our planning and efforts.

Despite these challenges, we saw promising results. One of our handbag exhibitors secured two small orders during their first showing, and a small leather goods company is making strides into the UK market. We’re optimistic about returning to the show next year, and with the dtic’s support in streamlining the process, we aim to strengthen our pre-event planning for even greater success.

Topic 3:
Simac/Linepelle/MICAm and Milan Fashion Week

This year, the Italian Trade Agency funded and supported South African companies in sourcing new machinery at the prestigious SIMAC Tanning Tech. A key focus of the initiative was to empower women-led and women-owned businesses, ensuring smaller enterprises had equal opportunities to access advanced machinery and technology.

Beyond SIMAC, these companies benefited from exposure to the latest industry trends at MICAM and explored sourcing components at Lineapelle. In an exciting addition, two South African delegates attended Milan Fashion Week, offering a firsthand glimpse into upcoming global trends. Korean designers, in particular, are emerging as trailblazers in the fashion world, providing valuable insights into the future of the industry.

These events are crucial in keeping South African businesses competitive on the global stage, as they provide access to cutting-edge innovations, new market trends, and invaluable networking opportunities.

Topic 4:
Africa: A Key Trade Destination for South African Businesses

Africa continues to be a strong focus for us as a vital trade destination, and our collaboration with TIKZN on outward selling missions to Zambia and Zimbabwe has yielded positive results. Three companies that participated in these missions secured over 2 million rand in business, highlighting the tangible benefits for those who engage in these African opportunities.

EFLC and SAFLEC are dedicated to providing our members with access to platforms within Africa, not just on the global stage. However, we have noticed limited interest in African events, even though our calendar includes more than 15 opportunities across the continent. We strongly encourage more companies to apply and take advantage of these missions, as the success stories from those who do show the immense potential Africa holds for expanding business and market reach.

Topic 5:
SAFLEC and EFLC Supported Members at Electra Mining

SAFLEC and EFLC remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting all our members, regardless of size. This year, we proudly assisted three safety footwear manufacturers at the Electra Mining event, a massive platform that proved highly successful for them. The event’s success was evident, with reports of stands being so busy that companies had to bring in additional staff to manage the demand. All three manufacturers have already signed up for the next show, a testament to the value of their participation.

While we may not have unlimited resources, we make every effort to ensure that all our members feel supported at various points throughout the year. Our aim is to provide equal opportunities across the board, and we work tirelessly to ensure that even with limited funding, we maximize the benefits for all members.

Topic 6:
All Fashion Sourcing Event

The decision not to fully exhibit at All Fashion Sourcing, due to the overwhelming presence of Chinese manufacturers, but to instead take a single stand for networking, proved to be a sound choice. The dtic funded separate stands for clothing, while South African exhibitors, particularly in footwear, were minimal. The most valuable outcome came from the networking opportunities, as buyer attendance was limited, and a very few deals if any, were finalized. SAFLEC is currently in discussions with the event organizers, as we aim to get more “Made in South Africa” products showcased and a stronger presence of buyers at future events to make the event worthy of attendance.

Topic 7:
Export Finance and Process Workshop: Empowering Our Members

At EFLC, our commitment to empowering and educating our members remains at the forefront of what we do. On 26 September, we hosted a highly impactful workshop on export finance and processes, benefiting 22 member companies. This initiative provided participants with essential knowledge to navigate the complexities of international trade, enabling them to better manage finances and streamline export operations.

Workshops like these are vital to our mission of upskilling members, ensuring they are well-prepared for market access and equipped with the tools needed to grow their businesses confidently and successfully in the global arena.

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

SOCIAL MEDIA

UPCOMING EVENTS

Fashion World Tokyo
15 – 17 October 2024

Ivory Coast
October 2024

QIMA compliance for sustainable fashion into UK and Reach Compliance Webinar
October 2024

Dubai Leather World
November 2024

Australia
November 2024