A new clothing and textile cluster initiated by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development is set to provide much-needed support for the province’s struggling textile industry. The initiative, involving 16 participating firms, aims to make companies more competitive in global markets through a public–private partnership model.
The cluster focuses on four key areas: manufacturing upgrading, human resource development, government interface, and labour market improvement. Together, these pillars are designed to elevate firms to world-class standards.
Partnership and Benchmarking
The initiative is being driven in collaboration with the eThekwini Municipality, provincial government, and private enterprise. Companies have undergone a detailed benchmarking exercise by consultancy B&M Analysts, assessing their strengths, weaknesses, and competitiveness while encouraging cost and resource sharing.
As part of the pilot study, firms engaged in activities such as training programmes, manufacturing upgrades, workforce development, and improved engagement with government structures.
“We’ve undertaken an intensive set of firm-level activities, including benchmarking and workshops. Firms were then asked to develop a regional business plan for the clothing and textile industry to address critical areas of growth,” explained Justin Barnes, Director of B&M Analysts.
Positive Early Signs
According to Keith Robson, Director of Corporate Affairs for SA Clothing Industries, initial outcomes are encouraging.
“Initial results show that the participating companies are in a more competitive position going forward, although it is too early to judge the financial impact,” he said.
The programme is targeting the Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Ladysmith, and Newcastle areas, which are home to many of the province’s textile and apparel firms. With funding from local and provincial government, officials hope the cluster will serve as a life raft for the sector, fostering innovation, collaboration, and long-term competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
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