FedEx Power Networking Event empowers businesses with insights and global trade solutions

Johannesburg, South Africa - September 19, 2025 - Federal Express Corporation, one of the world's largest express transportation companies, recently hosted its first Power Networking event of FY26 in Johannesburg. The event brought together decision-makers from across industries to discuss South Africa's evolving trade landscape and explore solutions to strengthen business resilience.

In collaboration with Standard Bank, the event featured a keynote presentation from senior economists who shared insights on the macroeconomic forces shaping South Africa's economy, including the impact of inflationary pressures, the Rand-to-Dollar exchange rate, and domestic consumption trends. The session highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing businesses with a particular focus on the vital role of businesses in driving national growth.

South Africa's SMEs make up 91% of formalised businesses, provide employment to about 60% of the labour force and total economic output accounts for roughly 34% of GDP. SMEs are essential to both economic resilience and future growth. Yet, many of these businesses face persistent barriers when scaling including navigating global trade complexities, managing costs, and overcoming limited access to markets.

As a trusted logistics provider, FedEx plays a critical role in helping businesses break through these barriers, offering expertise, digital solutions, and global connectivity that enable businesses to reach new customers around the world. Events such as the FedEx Power Networking series create vital platforms where SMEs and large businesses can access expert economic insights, strengthen business relationships, and identify practical pathways for growth.

The Johannesburg event was opened by Leon Bruwer, managing director - Sales, FedEx Sub-Saharan Africa, who emphasised the commitment to helping South African businesses of all sizes thrive.

"SMEs are the backbone of South Africa's economy," said Bruwer. "By hosting forums like our Power Networking events and collaborating with trusted organisations such as Standard Bank, we ensure businesses have access to both the economic knowledge and logistics support they need to grow confidently in a complex environment. At FedEx, we go beyond just moving shipments and believe in building strong connections and helping SMEs take South African innovation to the world."

Following the keynote, attendees engaged in an interactive Q&A and networking session with FedEx leaders and team members. Discussions focused on how FedEx can continue supporting evolving customer needs, particularly in helping SMEs scale and compete globally.

The Power Networking series reflects the ongoing commitment of FedEx to create platforms where knowledge, collaboration, and opportunity intersect to ensure SMEs have the tools and insights needed to thrive in a dynamic trade environment.