City-funded project helps clothing and textile industry cut absenteeism, boost cost-savings
A City-funded programme administered by the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster aimed at clamping down on employee absenteeism has achieved remarkable success in just six months. Read more below:
Launched in March 2024, the programme titled Project Present saw the Cluster partner with 14 leading clothing manufacturers, representing over 6 000 employees, to disseminate best practices in absenteeism management.
Over the past six months, the programme has invested more than 600 hours in training 104 leaders and frontline workers, equipping them with the tools necessary to cultivate consistent attendance and improve workplace outcomes across the industry.
‘Since launching in March, Project Present has helped the businesses to reduce absenteeism by 11,34% from the 2023 benchmark. This translates to a recovery of 1,2 million minutes of production time and a direct cost-saving of R1,11 million across participating factories. We are honoured to support a programme that not only enhances productivity but also ensures the future of Cape Town’s clothing and textile industry,’ said Alderman James Vos, the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth.
The project also saw the CCTC partner with the National Bargaining Council’s healthcare fund, as illness during winter was noted as a driver of absenteeism. Through this collaboration, 627 workers received vaccinations.
‘In 2023, an estimated 100 million clothing and textile units were sourced from Cape Town. It should further be noted that this industry contributes around R3,1 billion to the city’s economy while supporting nearly 24 000 jobs. Ultimately, programmes such as Project Present lead to more motivated employees and a more competitive clothing and textile industry that will further bolster our economy. This isn’t just good for the sector; it’s good for the City as a whole. When we invest in our people, the returns ripple through every corner of Cape Town,’ said Alderman Vos.
