SABBEX

Process

The South African Boatbuilders Export Council (SABBEX) realised the importance of sound ethics and good business practices, and subsequently requested proposals for the development of an Industry Code of Conduct for the South African boatbuilding industry. The purpose of the Code of Conduct is to have an instrument to ensure that minimum standards within the industry are adhered to with respect to quality, warranties, business ethics, customer service, etc. The Code of Conduct, administered by SABBEX, was written by Dr. Brian Gowans and funded by the Department of Trade and Industry.

There is currently a considerable diversity within the boatbuilding industry. Many industry players are demanding that common minimum-standards be developed to protect the common brand, and the related international reputation of the industry. The Code of Conduct is not only an end-goal in itself, ensuring that minimum standards are adhered to, but has a developmental aspect focus, to assist and encourage laggard firms to be brought on par with national best practice. The Code is not prescriptive but provides a good guide on how companies can improve their performance. Companies will be audited against the Code to obtain the accolade of an “SABBEX Accredited” company.