Holidaymakers urged to buy local
The Buy Local campaign was launched to provide a platform for the South Coast’s small businesses while encouraging support for entrepreneurs, manufacturers, farmers, and professional services.
With the festive season nearing, South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is encouraging holidaymakers to support local businesses to ensure the region is a thriving tourist destination.
The CEO of SCTIE, Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, said after the recent announcement that the South Coast has once again been awarded the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in KZN, it’s expected to be a bumper holiday season.
Sibiya said to support sustainability and promote local entrepreneurs, they are reminding visitors that now is the time to buy local on the South Coast.
“We want to create a self-sustaining local economy promoted by responsible tourism and more conscious consumer habits. Our Buy Local campaign has continued to gain momentum. With the festive season bringing a number of holidaymakers to the region, we’re calling on them to join the campaign, support our local businesses, and ensure the KZN South Coast remains a thriving tourist destination,” he said.
He explained that the Buy Local campaign was launched to provide a platform for the South Coast’s small businesses while encouraging support for entrepreneurs, manufacturers, farmers, and professional services.
Sibiya said the benefits are not only increased income for local businesses but also the creation of an interconnected, more resilient local economy.
He added that the Buy Local aims to offset the trade deficit and import substitution, which has a far-reaching positive impact.
“As the festive season approaches, the KZN South Coast is looking forward to another bumper season, in large part thanks to our subtropical climate and Blue Flag beaches. We encourage our visitors and residents to consider buying locally manufactured gifts or relying on local services. Our local offerings are not only top quality, but this support ensures that businesses and families will continue to prosper into 2025,” said Sibiya.
He added that the South Coast will also host numerous markets and festive events where visitors will get the chance to buy homemade Christmas gifts.
“I believe this is an opportunity to uncover the natural talent that exists on the KZN South Coast, to support our local economy, and to end the year on a positive note,” he said.
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