Another Carlow-based company Hot Irishman Ltd recently took part in a trade mission to South Africa, led by the Taoiseach, and facilitated by Enterprise Ireland.
South Africa, with a population of just under 50 million, and with direct access to the 185 million bordering African markets, has seen a dramatic and extraordinary transformation in its fortunes since democracy in 1994. The present economic indicators show a very positive position and business in South Africa is booming. With the resultant raised demand throughout the economy, this in turn has created many new business opportunities for a broad spectrum of Irish businesses.
While there, the company’s MD Bernard Walsh successfully concluded a deal with Liquor City, the largest retail store in South Africa, with 130 premises in South Africa. Liquor City has listed both Hot Irishman Irish Coffee and The Irishman Whiskey, providing the potential for a significant boost to sales.
The mission included Irish companies active in this market and those who have included South Africa in their business development strategy for 2008. The business mission was an ideal opportunity to get government level endorsement and strengthen relationships with existing partners and clients. |
