We are talking about production and exports, but cannot ignore the fact that banks have no liquidity and it is not easy to find funding in times of crisis. What is your opinion?
Before discussing the banks, let us first clarify what the reality of modern manufacturing is. This is not the production we knew 30 years ago, when the local economy was protected by state institutions. Today, the production units of the company are located where production is cheaper (outsourcing). The production units providing services remain in the country – those related to designs, standardization of products and other similar activities. Therefore, we say that it is very important to make branded goods, because if the success of our sector today, whatever it is, is due to the branded goods known in foreign markets. They are produced in different parts of the world, but the designs are created in Greece, the samples are made here and the added value of their production remains in our country. It is very important to see the production in that dimension that has existed in the past 30 years, but some try to ignore it.
Furthermore, we must have presence on foreign markets, on not only the wholesale market, but also in retail with our own shops and offices in order to mark our name in consumers’ memory. When a company/brand has been recognized in its own country, it has found its development model. This same model is then reproduced in other countries and provides a basis for sustainable development. For example, if a company has been recognized and is successful on the Athenian market, which is not easy and there is serious competition, it has all the prerequisites to be established with offices in Paris later. This is what we should do but forcefully. Until yesterday, domestic demand was enough, which has made us lazy. Now, however, we have to act and the opportunities are limitless.
Do you mean that Greek companies producing clothing and apparel should follow the Spanish model, which turned out to be very successful for Europe?
This is a model that exists in all countries with a developed fashion industry.
What about the banks and the lack of borrowing?
We are going through a very critical period for the country and the banks. Due to the deepening recession and economic crisis, banks for a long time have not been playing the role they should play in the economic life - to trade money. I would like to believe that the behaviour of banks will change until the necessary changes and reforms are completed.
How long could real business wait for the state to recover?
What I know and I can assure you is that now people and companies are preparing very patiently for the developments that will follow. However, nobody could say when the country will recover. The problem is not just Greek, but European and threatens to become global. It is important to be patient, to wait, to closely monitor the development of things and take the necessary steps in time. I believe that soon we will see developments that will solve some of the problems that were caused in Greece. These developments will give rise to optimism, and with it, new initiatives will come.
RSS
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
