Our industry has experienced a severe recession and as a country we have unfortunately lagged the effects of the global upturn and this factor has had a marked impact on trading conditions. In addition, our strong currency has retarded our recovery. The Glass Industry in South Africa has been particularly hard hit. We have all felt the impact and have had to deal with the realities of a contracting economy. These effects are still a reality for us, however, we are seeing encouraging signs of recovery, except in the commercial building sector, which hopefully will recover later in the year.

It is during these difficult times that we need to demonstrate leadership. The Glass Industry in South Africa is dynamic and resilient. We need to use that determination and expertise and use it to collectively support our own industry.

In 2008 the glass industry initiative led to the staging of the first ever Glass Expo, alongside Interbuild Africa at the MTN Expo Centre, Nasrec. The exhibition was an unqualified success. It gave the Glass Industry in South Africa a platform to showcase its capabilities; network; host local, African and international suppliers and buyers and conduct new business relationships.

These are activities we, as an industry, should continue to nurture. I thus believe that it is important for us to support the second Glass Expo, even though times remain tough and we are all under cost pressures.

Due to the factors mentioned above and our Group’s major and historical role in the glass industry in Southern Africa, we as the PG Group, along with other leading players have decided to support this initiative and we will be participating at the Glass Expo 2010.

In line with the economic conditions, our presence may not be on the same scale as two years ago but it will be clear and unambiguous. Our stand will reflect our commitment to all our stakeholders and the broader industry.

I appeal to the South African Glass Industry to utilise this opportunity. I commend those players that have already committed and encourage those players that may be reluctant to participate to join forces with ourselves and other participants to make this a really good show. We will certainly be doing our very best to make this show a success.

The current economic cycle is turning. By taking a leadership position now, the Glass Industry will emerge stronger and fitter than ever before.

Kind Regards Stewart Jennings PG Group CE