In order for South Africa’s small and medium tourism industry to revive itself and return to a sense of normalcy, businesses are encouraged to collaborate.
This was according to the panel discussion hosted by Bryanston-based data management company Jurni on March 3.
The panel consisted of industry heavyweights Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, CEO of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa; Septi Bukula, founder of the Seeza Tourism Growth Network; Tshepo Matlou, head of marketing and communications at Jurni; and Jerry Mabena, CEO of Motsamayi Tourism Group.
According to Tshivhengwa, the small and medium tourism industries were among the hardest hit during the peak of the pandemic. He added that two years later, the local industry is only just starting to see some recovery, especially from the domestic point of view, which, in turn, directly benefits the small and medium tourism businesses.
“Some of our numbers that we have seen in December, we [the industry] were able to achieve 65% of what we did in 2019 and the January numbers also are showing us an indication that we might be at about 50-55% of what we were able to achieve in 2019.”
Mabena noted that for the industry to revive itself, especially with small and medium businesses, it must consider the power in collaboration.
“They [the businesses] need to work together. For example, if you have a high-quality guest house in your area, you should work with the markets, shops, experiences and restaurants in the area.
“Not only does it enhance the traveller’s experience but it also benefits everyone in the community.”
Mabena said that small and medium businesses play a pivotal role in the growth of the local economy, making it important for the community, big businesses and the government to support the industry.
Matlou said this is why a business such a Jurni aims to assist small businesses in getting their name out into the community. The Jurni platform allows businesses to advertise their offering to potential travellers.
“One of the key aims of Jurni is to empower all small South Africa businesses operating within the industry through a digital platform.”
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