CHAIRPERSON’S MESSAGE: South African Furniture Initiative (SAFI) Annual Report 2024

It is my privilege to present the 2024 Annual Report, which reflects a year of collaboration, innovation and resilience within the South African furniture industry. Over the past year, SAFI has made significant strides by driving key initiatives, forging new partnerships and tackling challenges to position the sector for sustainable growth.

This year we focused on strengthening our organisation internally, stabilising the management team with three strategic appointments and launching an improved website. The new platform now includes a business directory, employment portal, industry tender board and expanded membership support to highlight our commitment to providing value-added services. Despite economic pressures and global competition, SAFI remains dedicated in its mission to empower local manufacturers, build capacity and unlock growth opportunities through collaboration with government, industry stakeholders and members.

Key Milestones in 2024

1. Marketing drive

At the beginning of the year SAFI started a marketing drive to increase its membership and I am pleased to report that with the support of the Bargaining Councils the membership has increased from 200 to 700 furniture manufacturing businesses during the year.

2. Database Reorganisation to Enhance Member Services

We recently commenced the reorganisation of our member database. This effort will improve how we communicate with our members by enabling more efficient, targeted updates and engagement. The revamped database will ensure that members receive relevant information on industry opportunities, exclusive research and tender details.

3. Export Projects and Member-Only Tender Access

SAFI is playing a pivotal role in promoting South African furniture exports by facilitating a technical analysis of export opportunities with an explanatory interpretation for the relevant identified HS 6- digit tariff codes and an industry engagement facilitation process, guided by Trade Advisory, to develop an export strategy for the industry.

To further enhance membership value, we restricted access to tender information exclusively for SAFI members. SAFI is lobbying the dtic to motivate for bargaining council membership to be a prerequisite for tender eligibility.

4. Addressing the Impact of Undervalued Imports with SARS

A recurring challenge for our industry has been the influx of undervalued imports, which undermine local businesses. SAFI has taken decisive action by engaging with SARS (South African Revenue Service) to address this issue. We initiated discussions aimed at strengthening monitoring processes and tightening regulations to protect the integrity of our market. SAFI will continue to advocate for fair trade practices to ensure local manufacturers compete on a level playing field.

5. Laying the Foundation for the 2026 Furniture Manufacturing Trade Show

We have started the groundwork for a potential Furniture Manufacturing Trade Show in 2026. This event will serve as a platform to attract foreign buyers, foster new partnerships and showcase the capabilities of South African furniture design and manufacturing. SAFI is currently actively engaging with stakeholders to ensure that the trade show offers meaningful opportunities for both large and smaller manufacturers, driving exports and raising the global profile of South African furniture.

6. Proudly South African Buy Local Summit – Furniture Pavilion – March 2025

SAFI is in discussions with Proudly South African to include a Furniture Pavilion in its Buy Local Summit & Expo in March 2025, a partnership that aligns with our mission to promote local procurement and domestic manufacturing.

7. Qualifications development

SAFI now has a dedicated resource working on qualifications development. The learning materials for the Design, Upholstery and Furniture Maker qualifications are complete and are currently under review by experts. The Skills Development Facilitation Practitioner qualification, designed to equip learners with the essential skills and knowledge required to effectively manage and implement skills development initiatives within various organizational contexts, is currently being rolled out. This programme will lay the foundation for providing learners with work-place experience, an essential element in achieving the qualifications.

I am grateful to the SAFI Board, management and our members for their unwavering commitment and support. The progress we’ve achieved this year reflects the strength of our collective efforts. Together, we will continue to shape the future of the South African furniture industry by building a sector that is innovative, sustainable and globally competitive.

Thank you for your ongoing support and belief in our shared vision.

Sincerely,

CHAIRPERSON’S MESSAGE: South African Furniture Initiative (SAFI) Annual Report 2024