SAFLEC Supports Made in SA

In light of our recent engagements with SAFLEC, Neptun Boot is on a journey and mission to help our current situation. In fact, prior to the recent unrest and riots, we had identified the need for South Africans to start supporting local. 

“We really want this to become a reality and we need South Africans to stand together united as one to support one another,” 

– Brad Joyce, Marketing Manager of Neptun Boot

SAFLEC understands that internal company growth means more export capacity. The past 18 months, including the recent riots, have impacted the local manufacturing industry, with many trying their best to keep their heads above water until the storm settles. However, the footwear and leather industry is extremely resilient.

Rebuilding the Economy

The most effective way we feel to create jobs would be by supporting the local industry and developing small businesses within the supply chain. As we have seen, SAFLEC is right behind us on this mission and us behind them.

Support Locally Manufactured Products

As a company, Neptun Boot has been able to grow substantially since 1977, with the innovative products that we have been able to design and manufacture here in South Africa. This really does make us proud South Africans to be a part of this. We have had incredible support since we implemented our Support Local initiative alongside other initiatives like our Cradle to Grave recycling project.

We need South Africans to continue to support not only us but all locally manufactured products in South Africa. As we see local industries grow, it creates opportunity for “new” suppliers. We are trying our best as a company to support other local suppliers as well as develop current suppliers to manufacture items that we as a country don’t currently make.

We are confident that South Africans have what it takes to become leading manufactures in most products if we support each other.

Employ More South Africans

Our aim is not to be the biggest and best brand in the world. We want to be able to say we are able to employ more people because you, the people of South Africa, made it possible and while we do that, we will provide you with superior products that are fit for purpose. Safety footwear is important to us. And we strive to bring our wearers products that will keep you safe and protected while in dangerous working conditions.

Buy Local

Right now, the industry requires strong local support. By supporting local, this will grow business and in turn create more employment. The industry needs to stand firm in driving this directive with strong lobbying with local retail. 

“We believe in the ‘together we are stronger’ motto and encourage the industry to stand together and speak with one voice. That’s where we need to start: speaking with one voice to reassess, rebuild, and grow the made in South Africa industry. This means diversifying, innovating, and understanding that being followers is not set in stone. We can become leaders in design and innovation too. Anything is possible with the right mindset and strategies.” 

– Nerisha Jairaj, Executive Director of SAFLEC

We want to see South Africa succeed, for all of us. There is no doubt that this country produces world-class products that have the potential to continue to put South Africa on the map globally.

We urge consumers, suppliers and local competitors to join in and make a difference in South Africa. For every pair of South African shoes that you purchase, you are creating a job and feeding a family!