Team size: 14

What are the most significant cases and transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?

In 2023, our team was involved in a variety of significant cases and transactions. These included a complex brand repatriation that required a competition approval process, successful litigation against SARS in a high-value tax dispute, negotiation of several high-value agreements with third-party partners in an organisational commercial reorganisation, navigation of litigious High Court matters, facilitation of new brand launches, and execution of several commercial transactions across southern, western, and central Africa.

How do you see the general counsel role evolving in South Africa over the next five-ten years?

The role will increasingly reward a holistic, people-centric leadership approach. Successful general counsel will foster environments where legal professionals can thrive and contribute innovatively. The focus will increasingly be on nurturing a culture of ethical practices, continuous learning, and adapting to technological advancements. The sweet spot will be balancing expert legal advice with conscientious team management to ensure that legal departments are agile, resilient, and strategically aligned with broader business goals.

What are some of the main trends impacting your industry in South Africa?

The liquor industry is navigating several key trends. These include shifting consumer preferences, economic challenges leading to consumer down-trading, and the challenge of counterfeit and illicit products. Additionally, legislative challenges, such as a punitive excise tax regime, are shaping the industry. These trends require a strategic legal approach that not only addresses compliance and regulatory issues but also supports business innovation and adaptation in a rapidly changing market.

What are some of the key developments that have affected your business over the past year?

Over the past year, our business has been influenced by a range of developments, including continued adjustments to the COVID-19 pandemic, changes in global trade policies, and local regulatory modifications. These developments have accelerated digital transformation and e-commerce adoption, brought environmental and sustainability concerns to the forefront, and highlighted the importance of agile and responsive legal strategies to manage risks and seize new opportunities.