From the Desk of Executive
Director, Nerisha Jairaj
September Reflections: Strengthening Connections, Driving Global Growth
As we continue to build global visibility and competitiveness for the South African footwear, leather goods, and handbag industry, September was an active month filled with training, networking, and international trade engagement. SAFLEC remains committed to providing members with platforms, knowledge, and connections that ensure sustainable growth and strong industry representation abroad.
Best regards,
Nerisha Jairaj Executive Director, SAFLEC
Working Together for a Stronger Industry
Working Together for a Stronger Industry
On 16 September 2025, SAFLEC, in collaboration with ILO and Productivity SA, hosted a dynamic networking session aimed at strengthening the South African footwear and leather industry. All key industry stakeholders were invited, and the event was well attended by representatives from unions, the bargaining council, Wesgro, City of Cape Town, CDI, ILO, Productivity SA, and SAFLEC.
The session provided a platform for participants to engage in interactive discussions, exchange insights, and explore collaborative solutions to address challenges facing the sector. From compliance to market access, every discussion underscored the importance of partnerships in driving meaningful industry progress.
Participants left the session inspired by the spirit of collaboration and the tangible opportunities for joint action. The event reinforced SAFLEC’s commitment to creating platforms where stakeholders can connect, share expertise, and work together toward a stronger, more competitive industry.
By bringing all parties to the table, this networking session demonstrated that progress in the footwear and leather sector is strongest when industry players unite and share knowledge, paving the way for sustainable growth and innovation.
Bringing Global Insights to South African Brands: Global Panel Discussion
Bringing Global Insights to South Africa Brands: Global Panel Discussion
On 18 September 2025, SAFLEC and EFLC hosted an engaging panel discussion designed to give South African footwear, leather goods, and handbag companies direct access to international market knowledge and consumer insights. The session was attended by over 30 companies, providing practical guidance on trends, sustainability, and export strategies.
Speakers included:
- Cecilia Park – With over 29 years in the Korean fashion industry, a merchandising expert with a distinguished career introducing and establishing international fashion brands in Korea. She shared insights on brand positioning, market entry strategy, and buyer-brand matchmaking, helping members navigate complex global markets while maintaining cultural relevance.
- Orietta – A recognized industry global expert active in Milan and Korean Fashion Weeks who has worked with Dior, Valentino and host of other international brands Orietta provided concise, actionable insights on global trends, retail strategy, consumer behaviour and opportunities for emerging brands
- Robyn Kwan – A globally experienced brand strategist, Robyn has worked with major fashion houses including Hermès, LVMH, Kering Group, Chanel, DFS, and Loro Piana, leading initiatives in luxury brand management, market entry, and retail transformation.
- Alessandra Guffanti – Founder and Managing Director of Guffanti Concept Showroom, Alessandra oversees the distribution of Italian and international fashion brands across multiple sectors, fashion with showrooms in Milan, Naples, Rome, Palermo, Padua, and Bari, Alessandra shared insights on strategic distribution, brand scouting, and business development for global expansion.
The discussion provided members with actionable strategies to enhance market reach and competitiveness, positioning South African brands for global growth and international success. There is power in knowledge
Trade Shows – September Highlights
Trade Shows – September Highlights
- Who’s Next, Paris – 06 to 08 September 2025
This was SAFLEC members’ first participation at the Who’s Next event. The show is known for attracting frequent buyers and key international contacts. Despite challenges due to late approval and delayed DTIC funding—which resulted in a less-than-optimal stand position—exhibitors still achieved excellent outcomes. Members reported generating valuable leads and securing initial orders, demonstrating resilience and the growing demand for South African products in European markets. We are hoping for sectorial positioning next year and we confident of an even better result. We glad we moved from Leather world Paris to this event, as buyers had shifted attendance and the event was decreasing in ROI. The choice to WHO’S Next was indeed a welcomed decision.
- Autumn Fair, Birmingham – 07 to 10 September 2025
Similar logistical challenges were faced for Birmingham, yet the show yielded notable successes. SAFLEC members celebrated the confirmation of a footwear order on-site, as well as two handbag orders from a new exhibitor. While the show overall was quieter than anticipated, it provided key insights, and SAFLEC is actively exploring more suitable platforms in the UK to better showcase South African products in future editions. This show demonstrated the changing dynamic of tradeshows and shifts of buyers over the past year.
Global Showcase: Where We Are Going To
Global Showcase: Where We Are Going To
Upcoming Trade Shows – October
- Fashion World Tokyo – 01 to 03 October 2025
Members attending this leading Asian trade fair will have the opportunity to present products to Japanese and international buyers, strengthening South African brand visibility in a critical global market.
- Export Symposium, Midrand – 14 to 16 October 2025
This symposium will provide members with workshops, training sessions, and networking opportunities to enhance export readiness, market access strategies, and overall competitiveness.
Join The Movement: Don’t Miss Out
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:
@SAFOOTWEAREXPORT
@saflec_team
@SAFLECEXPORT
SAFLEC
Calendar & Upcoming Events
Calendar & Upcoming Events
Workshops & Training
- 3D Footwear Design – October
- Trade Agreements – October
- Sales and Marketing – October
- Market Access Funding application workshop – October
- 3-Day Kaizen, lean and export workshop
- Germany Market Access Informational Workshop
Africa Missions
- Ivory Coast – 3 to 10 October 2025
More dates and details to follow—keep an eye on your inbox!
September has highlighted the importance of adaptability, proactive engagement, and resilience in global markets. Despite challenges such as logistical delays, SAFLEC-supported exhibitors achieved valuable leads, confirmed orders, and new business connections. Moving forward, we remain committed to providing members with training, exposure, and networking opportunities that enable sustainable growth. Together, we can continue to position South African footwear, leather goods, and handbags as competitive and sought-after products in global markets.
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