By Alec Hogg
Amongst the noisy criticism of the public sector, it’s easy to forget that most of those working for the State are like the rest of us. Normal folk doing their best to make a difference.
My wife and her business partner experienced that reality yesterday. He is in the UK investigating ways to offset the impact of a sluggish SA market. His 80 employee, 8 000 square metre factory produces high quality ceramic products at attractive prices. So exports are an obvious option.
Easier said than done. Breaking into any new geography is tough. So more in frustration than expectation, the two of them approached the DTI office at the SA Embassy in London. To their delight, they not only quickly secured an appointment, but were hosted by an efficient and extremely helpful official.
There’s a way to go before their venture catches alight. But whatever happens, their view of support the SA Government gives entrepreneurs was enhanced. Mine too.
