The South African Furniture Initiative (SAFI) is launching the Industry Catalogue Pilot Project, a dynamic platform showcasing locally manufactured furniture. This initiative connects manufacturers with key market players, including public buyers and sales professionals, fostering business growth and industry collaboration. Participating manufacturers will gain exposure, market access, and a streamlined approach to engaging with sales professionals who specialise in furniture sales and project specifications.
Why Participate?
- Increased Visibility: Showcase your products to both public and corporate buyers.
- Direct Sales Channel: Connect with a network of experienced sales professionals who actively promote your products.
- Market Expansion: Position your brand within the domestic and corporate sectors.
- Industry Growth: Contribute to a unified, professional platform supporting local manufacturing.
- Seamless Engagement: The catalogue serves as an interactive tool for product exploration, pricing inquiries, and direct connections with sales professionals.
The Catalogue’s Two Key Audiences
Public Guests access the catalogue as end-users, corporate buyers, or procurement managers, seeking locally manufactured furniture for various applications.
Domestic Buyers (End Users)
- Homeowners and individuals purchasing furniture for personal use.
- Explore and connect directly with retailers and sales professionals.
- View product specifications, finishes, and available configurations.
Corporate Buyers, Government Buyers, and Facility Managers
- Businesses, organisations, and institutions procuring furniture for offices, projects, public spaces, and operational environments.
- Facility managers responsible for furniture procurement, maintenance, and workspace planning.
- Government buyers sourcing compliant, locally manufactured furniture in support of industry regulations.
How Manufacturers Benefit from Sales Professional Engagement
- Expanded Market Reach: Sales professionals introduce your products to new clients and sectors.
- Dedicated Representation: Gain a presence in corporate and project-based sales environments.
- Industry Expertise: Engage with professionals who understand market needs, specifications, and procurement trends.
Sales Professionals (Associate Members)
Sales professionals utilise the catalogue as a resource to engage with manufacturers and facilitate product sales in various sectors.
Domestic Sales Professionals
Independent agents and sales representatives specialising in residential furniture sales.
Act as intermediaries between manufacturers and end-users.
Corporate Sales Professionals
Sales representatives targeting businesses, government entities, and large-scale projects.
Work with procurement teams, corporate buyers, and decision-makers to facilitate bulk orders.
Architects, Specifiers, and Space Planners
Industry professionals sourcing furniture for office fit-outs, hospitality projects, retail environments, and institutional spaces.
Require access to product dimensions, material specifications, and design flexibility.
Associate Industries
Related sectors such as interior design firms, property developers, and workplace consultants.
Integrate local furniture products into broader project scopes, supporting South African manufacturing.
How Manufacturers Benefit from Sales Professional Engagement
- Expanded Market Reach: Sales professionals introduce your products to new clients and sectors.
- Dedicated Representation: Gain a presence in corporate and project-based sales environments.
- Industry Expertise: Engage with professionals who understand market needs, specifications, and procurement trends.
- Increased Sales Potential: Leveraging a network of skilled sales professionals enhances lead generation and conversion rates.
