A black youth-owned business that specialises in custom cabinets and high-end interior design, Pascal Interior Designs and Carpentry Services, has secured an investment to expand its workforce.
The funds were received by the six-year-old business from the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) in recognition of the favourable market response to their offering and products.
The company has garnered noteworthy recognition in the industry for his custom carpentry products. These encompass built-in cabinets, wine cellars, vanity bars, and kitchens.
Switch from outsourcing to in-house production
Strong market demand forced them to switch from outsourcing manufacturing to in-house production. Even though this was their initial strategy as the business expanded.
Cornelius Mdluli, NEF’s acting manager of the Strategic Projects Fund, explained the project. He said that the funding is intended for youth empowerment and growth.
“Pascal Interior Designs and Carpentry Services is a prime example of the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit that the NEF seeks to foster.
“Our investment will not only foster local manufacturing capabilities. It will also create new jobs, contributing to youth empowerment and economic development,” he said.
NEF’s commitment to youth empowerment
The business is based in Sandton, Kramerville, in Johannesburg. It has employed more young South Africans, averaging the age of 33 years old.
With this cash injection, the company will create an additional 15 jobs, adding to the 44 permanent employees. This while prioritising recruitment from local communities and enhancing skills in furniture manufacturing and design.
“The investment aligns with the NEF’s strategic priorities in fostering local manufacturing capacity.”
According to owner and founder Pascal Hlongwane, the NEF supported them in their pivotal phase of expansion.
He said the funds enabled the company to lease factory space and acquire needed specialised equipment. It also empowered them to bring the manufacturing process in-house.
Expand the business’s market reach
“This investment will enable us to enhance our production capabilities and expand our market reach. It will enable us to continue delivering exceptional artisanry to our clients.
“Pascal’s expansion plans include in-house stone cutting facilities and a prestigious showroom. This is aimed at bolstering production efficiency and attracting high-end clientele,” he shared.
He said addressing current production limitations and enhancing product quality will help them grow business. It will help them penetrate the SADC market while reducing dependency on outsourced services.
“With NEF’s backing, we are confident in our ability to achieve significant milestones in the local and international furniture markets.”
