South Africa's brands and innovators getting noticed overseas

The impact of the work being done by South Africa's innovators, movers and shakers does not stop at our borders. South Africa's products, services and creative talents are being noticed all around the world, while our brands are turning heads globally. As the case studies below prove, South Africa's borders are not your limits if you have a talent, an idea or a service that stands out from the crowd. 

From Soweto to Superbowl campaigns - meet Melusi Mhlungu

Melusi "Mloo" Mhlungu is well known in Johannesburg's advertising circles as the Soweto-born copywriter who began his career at Ogilvy in Johannesburg and has since moved to Miami and written copy for Superbowl adverts. Mhlungu's move to the USA was the result of being offered a position as a creative with the prestigious David agency, which has a jaw-dropping client list boasting the likes of Burger King and Budweiser. 

Having bagged an Adams & Adams Young Creative Award at the Loeries in 2015, Mhlungu was already well respected in his field and has since won two Cannes Lions awards. This is no small feat, as Cannes Lions awards can be described as the Oscars of the creative industry. This South African-born creative genius has settled in the USA and has returned to his roots at Ogilvy as a creative director in Chicago.

An accessory that you can relate to - discover Relate bracelets

Relate bracelets are handmade accessories sold to change lives. This South African initiative gives bracelet makers, who range from elderly people to refugees and unemployed youngsters from townships, the opportunity to earn an income. The not-for-profit brand and its attractive beaded bracelets, which are gaining recognition in the USA, the UK and Australia, grew by 70% in the 2019-2020 financial year. The secret to the company's success lies in empowering and upskilling the people making the bracelets, while also having corporates initiate projects with them to maximise exposure - both here at home and abroad.

A taste of South Africa around the world - Nandos goes global

The Nando's story starts back in 1987 in Rosettenville, Johannesburg. From humble beginnings, these purveyors of grilled chicken have gone from strength to strength, and from country to country. Nando's can now be found in at least 35 countries around the world, including Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States, amongst others. The unforgettable taste of the Mozambican street food, the welcoming ambience of the restaurants and the fun, quirky culture of the brand has transformed Nando's from a small Johannesburg start-up to a well-loved global eatery.

Telecommunications without borders - MTN serving at least 20 countries

MTN is a household name in South Africa, and it has expanded to earn this status in many parts of the world. The brand is well known for the catchphrase "everywhere you go", and when one considers that they have spread from South Africa to at least 20 other countries in Africa and the Middle East, it is clear that the brand is living up to its slogan. Their footprint includes countries in which the business environments are known to be tough, including Nigeria and Syria. The brand is committed to further growing its international footprint, which is evidenced by its recent commitment to spend R2.1 billion to meet the growing digital demand in Ghana. In addition, MTN is one of the companies currently hoping to acquire a nationwide telecommunications licence in Ethiopia.

In order to innovate and expand beyond our borders, every company needs a home base to work from. 3CUBE Property Solutions has a wide array of commercial and industrial properties available to buy or rent in every corner of Gauteng. Contact us today and start your journey towards expansion.