Wage disputes create difficult climate

Recent wage disputes and ongoing strike action in the agriculture sector do not bode well for the Western Cape – a province that is heavily reliant on the export of wine and fruit. “The Western Cape has been driven primarily by agriculture, with wine and spirits making up a substantial volume of the exports along with fruit,” said Michael Henning, general manager of freight systems provider Easyclear. “The recent wage disputes and strike action have not been good for the industry.” Increased prices are the likely outcome, and this will have an adverse effect on consumers, he says. “Couple that with the exchange rate and the cost of exports leads one to believe that the Western Cape is in for a rough season. “ Henning however says there is no denying the important role the province plays – and while it may be facing some tough months, it will remain an exporting hub. He therefore advises the local industry to take the time to ensure their systems are up to date in order to simplify operational aspects, making a major difference when the going gets tough. That’s the focus at Easyclear, says Henning, simplifying the operational aspects of logistics, international trade, clearing, forwarding and warehousing. He believes that having the right system in place can ease the pressure. “The success of a company’s operations lies not in the province they are based in,” he said. “It lies in the team that drives the operation and the systems that are in place to maximise efficiencies and reduce cost.” CAPTION Michael Henning … ‘maximising efficiencies.’