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South Africa’s manufacturing industry remains challenged. The challenge of the sector to continue employing at the rate it has historically is underpinned by ongoing pricing and labour issues, competition from international markets, logistical hurdles, energy costs, interest rates, and booming costs around raw material inputs. Battling on all of these fronts is no easy task, but for many who make things in SA, it is business as usual.
Many entrepreneurs and businesses across various industries have been faced with crisis conditions for the best part of a decade, but they have not thrown in the towel. In fact, they have managed to thrive. Manufacturing is perhaps one of the best examples of South African resilience and the never-say-die attitude that epitomises the country as a whole.
In the fashion industry, South Africa is home to so many amazing facilities. We know of many manufacturers that produce prized products in highly specialised facilities that are a credit to their community. Falke is one of them. Manufacturing socks and related products for sports and, soon, medical applications, the company is investing in testing capabilities to prove everything it claims. It is a world-class operation that exports globally.
Similarly, Bidvest Labels – the company that has taken Rotolabel, S&N Labels and Spec Systems under one banner – manufactures labels and packaging products in SA. From its sites in Cape Town and Johannesburg, the company creates some of the best products in the world, aligned with international standards.
Supertec, a leading provider of ceiling and drywall products, manufactures its range in Gauteng. From here, it supports the interiors and construction sector with a range of products that are made specifically for the needs of South Africa. All matching the spec of any imported brand, the company has built a reputation for quality in both product and service.
One of the best-known manufacturers in the country, Sappi, continues to prove its quality by running four world class mills that service all of southern Africa. Paper and packaging products produced here are recognised for their unrivalled excellence, and the company is also working to ensure sustainability at its core – in the forest.
Despite the challenges that are obvious in manufacturing, all of these businesses continue to thrive. How? By seeing challenges as opportunities.
Get in touch and tell us how your business is changing its mindset and seeing what is possible instead of what is hopeless. We’re always online at LinkedIn.