The Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber (NMBBC) and South African Airways (SAA) have entered into a landmark partnership that will provide Chamber members with discounted airfares, supporting more cost-effective travel for members when they travel for business purposes.
Denise van Huyssteen, Chief Executive Officer at NMBC, expressed her excitement over the new partnership, highlighting its importance in not only assisting local businesses with their travel requirements, but also in recognising the growing importance of Nelson Mandela Bay as an investment location. “SAA see the potential which can be unlocked in the Bay, particularly as the Chamber accelerates its efforts to retain and attract investment to the metro.
“We are ramping up our efforts to position the metro as the Bay of Opportunity - the diverse manufacturing base on the African continent. Our members have taken enthusiastic ownership of this vision and are actively supporting key initiatives such as our Trade and Investment Desk, Entrepreneurship Desk, Local Economy Reinvention Think Tank and the soon to be launched Skills Development Desk,” she emphasised.
“This is being strengthened through our growing partnerships with national organisations which are geared towards getting the Bay on the national and international map. We need to all work together to turn the Bay around and ensure that we get attention and priority focus on areas which are critical for the growth of our local economy.”
“We are therefore absolutely thrilled that SAA, as the national airline, is partnering with us to help support and drive our efforts to unlock the potential of the Bay of Opportunity.”
Through this partnership, Chamber members will now have access to special discounted rates on flights operated by South African Airways. This optimises the affordability of travel within South Africa, Africa and globally in both economy and business classes. It enables members to connect with business hubs across the country and beyond, opening doors for collaboration, networking and growth.
SAA’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Vimla Maistry, said, “The partnership with the Chamber is an exciting opportunity for SAA to support the business community in the Bay. By offering discounted fares, we are not only making travel more accessible, but we are also contributing to the growth and development of local businesses.
“At SAA, we understand that business travel is essential for expanding market reach, and we are proud to be part of this initiative that aligns with our commitment to supporting economic growth and development across South Africa.”
The partnership between both entities represents a significant step in unlocking opportunities for business leaders in the region. By reducing travel costs, the collaboration will enhance connectivity, foster economic growth and inspire renewed confidence in the potential of Nelson Mandela Bay as the Bay of Opportunity.
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