Ms Alli says that SEIFSA’s decision to launch
the digital campaign was in response to current
trends in the market: “We decided to supplement
our traditional marketing methods with a digital
marketing campaign, using platforms such as
Facebook and LinkedIn to advertise our products
and services. Although it has taken a bit of time,
we are now beginning to see a link between
digital marketing and an increased uptake on
the products and services advertised on digital
media platforms.”
Ms Alli believes that it made sense for the
Federation to embark on a digital campaign, given
the fact that the age range of a Procurement
Manager in the metals and engineering sector is
between 25-40, which is the age range of people
who are active on social media networks.
Helping Small Businesses
Grow
Another intervention being put in place by the
Marketing and Sales teams in the interest of
small businesses in the sector is a partnership
between the Federation’s Small Business Hub
and Pavlo Phitidis’s Aurik Business Facilitator, a
company which provides specialist advice to
small businesses.
“The
Government
has
identified
the
manufacturing sector as one of the strategic
sectors of the South African economy with
the potential to fuel economic growth. There
is, therefore, no doubt that the fortunes of
our sector will change for the better as the
re-industrialisation of our economy starts to
take shape. Industrialisation will provide our
members, both big and small, with a significant
role to play as far as supplying materials required,
for instance, to build infrastructure is concerned.
“We are very pleased to partner with a reputable
and well-respected company such as Aurik,
which will add significant value to our clients’
businesses through offering sound business
advice,” Mr Lotter said.
SEIFSA Training Centre
In conclusion, Mr Lotter says that the Marketing,
Sales and Communications Division is also
playing a role in changing perceptions about
artisans, through a marketing campaign aimed at
encouraging young people to consider Technical
and Vocational Education and Training colleges.
SEIFSA AT 75 - SPECIAL COMMEMORATIVE MAGAZINE
61