South African tool, hardware and building supply companies will have access to thousands of buyers from over 70 countries at this year’s THABS show (Tools, Hardware and Building Supplies), a component of SAITEX, the renowned Southern African International Trade Exhibition.

“For over 20 years, SAITEX has been the most effective business networking platform for local and international companies to explore African markets and expand customer networks,” says show organizer Christine Davidson, Vice President of dmg EMS Africa.

SAITEX 2016 takes place from 19 to 21 June at Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand, South Africa. Since its introduction into the SAITEX mix five years ago, THABS has become the most popular and best-supported component of the show. More than 13,500 people visited SAITEX last year, and post-show data reveals that light building and construction products ranked 4th on visitors’ priority lists, followed by hardware and tools in 8th spot, and DIY products and garden equipment in 12th spot.

“Successful companies maintain their marketing activities especially when trading conditions are tough, and trade shows are an effective way of speaking to international customers all at the same place and time,” adds Davidson.

“SAITEX has been bringing local and international companies together for over two decades, and has earned a solid reputation as Africa’s biggest business opportunities expo. It’s a wonderful blend of exotic and exciting products, ambitious business owners, entrepreneurs, buyers and sellers, all eager to do business in Africa.”

Metal roof tile manufacturer Metrotile will be back at SAITEX 2016 after a highly successful participation in last year’s show.

“We had a very good show with a lot of enquiries from South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Botswana,” says Sales Director Patrick Nkolisa.  “It was our first time exhibiting at the show and we are back this year”

“The visitor demographic for SAITEX reflects an interesting mix of entrepreneurs, distributors, manufacturers, retailers, agents, importers, wholesalers and exporters,” says Davidson.

“Over 55% of visitors to last year’s show were owners, directors or managing directors, with a further 12% in management positions, and 58% were authorised to make purchases.”

Article published in Home Good Retailer, March 2016