"We firmly believe that we can build an international brand consultancy with a SA domicile," McCoy said.

"Our Lagos office will service the growing Nigerian market and also act as a growth hub into other African markets. Our ultimate intention is to service the whole of the African continent through a network of strategically placed regional offices."

Expansion into the Middle East was a natural progression from HKLM's African growth, McCoy added. "It's a tremendously exciting market, dynamic and growing, and our Dubai office is already up and running with several Middle Eastern clients. Dubai will also serve as a springboard into North Africa."

HKLM has already secured a number of clients in Dubai, notably Woman's World, a unique retail and leisure destination dedicated to the fairer sex. Discussions with potential clients in neighbouring Qatar and Saudi Arabia are also currently underway.

The decision to open up in Berlin, Germany was fuelled by the close working relationships established with several of HKLM's international clients who have joint operations in South Africa and Europe. "We see good growth prospects, and believe our South African experience provides valuable insights particularly for clients in the emerging Eastern European markets," he said.

HKLM's South African platform will, however, remain the main driver of growth, both within the country and further afield. Recent client gains in the region include mCell in Mozambique and Stanbic Bank in Botswana.

"Whilst we have embarked on a deliberate and strategic programme of international representation, our core focus will remain in this country," McCoy said. "Our roots and our hearts are proudly South African."

[7 Feb 2006 13:06]

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