Forty Cape Town manufacturers joined a financial management workshop this week to strengthen business foundations and improve competitiveness in the clothing and textile sector.
Forty Cape Town-based small and medium manufacturers in the clothing, textile, footwear and leather (CTFL) sector took part in a Financial Management Fundamentals workshop as part of the City-funded Cape Acceler8 programme, hosted and administered by the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster. Now in its second year, the programme aims to strengthen the core capabilities local businesses need to grow sustainably and compete more effectively.
Alderman James Vos addressed attendees, highlighting the CTFL sector’s role as a key employer and contributor to the city’s manufacturing economy. He said the sector employs more than 17 000 people across Cape Town and described Cape Acceler8 as a structured initiative designed to equip businesses with practical tools for growth.
The programme follows a sequenced five-phase model combining leadership development, accredited technical training and core business fundamentals. Having completed the executive development phase — which focuses on supply chain realities and customer expectations — participating businesses have now entered the capacity-building phase. This includes four targeted masterclasses aimed at strengthening operational and commercial performance.
This week’s Financial Management Fundamentals workshop focused on helping manufacturers translate operational activity into financially sustainable practices. Topics covered included financial statements, cash-flow management, cost pricing, profitability and using financial data to support day-to-day business decisions.
City officials said supporting anchor businesses in the CTFL sector remains central to building a more inclusive and competitive local economy. With around 60% of the current cohort drawn from Cape Flats-based businesses, the programme reflects efforts to extend economic growth opportunities to communities across the metro.
