sector focus:holloware
SUPPLY CHAIN GAINS MEAN IT’S HOLLOWARE’S TIME TO SHINE Can the Epidemic lead to growth in the local Holloware Industry? When South Africa’s 58-million strong population commemorated Heritage Day this year, for the most part it was celebrated around a shared meal with family and friends while under COVID19’s Lockdown Level 1 protocols. Yet, despite a current market demand for cookware, South Africa’s stainless steel holloware (pots and pans) and flatware sectors (cutlery, trays and serving dishes) are facing an undetermined future; with local manufacturers compelled to import their stainless steel to benefit from
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competitive pricing; and local retailers preferring to source, stock and sell imported products from the East. With the sudden shifts in global trade regulations and health restrictions brought about by the epidemic, the traditional supply chains, import and export controls, and manufacturing models have been disrupted. The question now lies as to how the future can be transformed through localisation, government and regional policy, and robust business growth strategy for growing the potential for local production, distribution, and extended export markets into Africa?
POSITIVE MOVES According to Sassda Market Intelligence and Exports Specialist, Lesley Squires, the local holloware manufacturers will be feeling the market effects of the epidemic, but this will be dependent on the market demand for the range of products which the manufacturer supplies to market.“We are, however seeing some positive moves in the development of the local sector, for example, AMC Holloware has remained consistent as their products have a solid heritage within the local market and are therefore a popular family and wedding gift item. “Another local producer
NOVEMBER