SABBEX talks to Brand SA’s Jimmy Ranamane, acting head of Global Markets
SABBEX: What does this invitation actually mean? Do we get to be THE guest exhibitor and thereby enjoy good visibility at the Show?
JR: As Brand South Africa we see the invitation as an indication that South Africa, particularly the boat building industry, is recognised by international stakeholders, and this can be as a result of our spectacular boat designs and manufacturing capabilities. We also see this as an opportunity to promote our exports i.e. boats, components and parts as well as accessories.
As a Guest Country of Honour, we will enjoy greater visibility in all promotional elements related to the Grand Pavois International Boat show 2023. This includes a 750sqm exhibition space and marquee, street pole advertising, two page spread advertising space in the official show publication. We will also get to brand the VIP and Media area for the duration of the show, which means brand visibility to key industry media and buyers.
SABBEX: Did this invite come about as a result of efforts by our industry association to draw attention to SA boatbuilding?
JR: Indeed, the invitation came about from the efforts of our industry association and the quality of products produced by the industry and our manufacturing standards. The efforts or strategic relations established by the South African Embassy in Paris, France also contributed to South Africa being invited to exhibit as a Guest Country of Honour.
SABBEX: What does it mean for Brand SA? And would it mean getting financial assistance from DTIC ?
JR: For us at Brand South Africa, this is an opportunity to position our boating and tourism industries positively in France, including showcasing our heritage, culture and wines at the show.
In order for South Africa to put its best foot forward in promotion of the boating and tourism industries at the Grand Pavois 2023, we need to collaborate with entities such as the dtic, SA Tourism, DIRCO as well as the private sector within the boat building and tourism sectors.
With the Rugby World Cup taking place at the same time as the Grand Pavois, we have an opportunity to also collaborate with the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture and SA Rugby to showcase our sporting prowess at the Grand Pavois through platforms provided by the show organisers. Now this ultimately means South Africa has an opportunity to position itself positively through products designed and manufactured by the boating industry, there’s also an opportunity to contribute to the recovery of the South African tourism sector through showcasing what we have to offer in relation to tourism and also to use sports to showcase the resilience we are known for as a country.