Partnering with Employers.
Shaping the
Future of Labour.
About Us
Service and Manufacturing Industries Employers' Organisation
SMIEO was established in 1993 (with their name first being SMME, Small Medium and Marco Enterprises). In 1995 a name change occurred from SMME to SMIEO which stands for Service and Manufacturing Industries Employers' Organisation. The main aim and purpose of SMIEO was for employer engagements regarding centralised bargaining in the Chemical Sector. During that process a number of employers grouped together to indicate that they held more in common as being small businesses than being associated with the specific sectors within the chemical industry. From that time the services and scope of SMIEO have grown substantially to form a formidable body representing the interests of all employer members across a wide range of industries.
It is important to note that SMIEO was established prior to the enactment of the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995, meaning the true intention of the organisation was at all times to represent the interest of its members at Bargaining Council level and not necessarily to only represent in the CCMA or Bargaining Councils. It was only in 1995 that the Labour Relations Act incorporated Employers Organisations and Trade Unions to represent its members in the CCMA and Bargaining Councils.
Aside from representing its members in collective bargaining, SMIEO is the voice of its members on many issues where comment is invited by Government on proposed changes to legislation.
As well as keeping members informed of developments in labour law and labour court and CCMA precedents, our able team of organisers are available to assist members with resolution of disputes, bargaining engagements and representation at conciliation, mediation and arbitration. We represent members at the CCMA, Bargaining Council and the Labour Courts. Some of our able and experienced officials are admitted legal practitioners. Our officials have vast experience in collective bargaining, negotiation, dispute resolution, training, equity and diversity management.
We are proud to be in our 30th year of guiding and representing employers in an ever-changing labour market which is incredibly protective of employees’ rights. We continue to assist employers in what has become a rather complex labour law dispensation.
We look forward to serving the interests of employers for the next thirty years as we increase and develop the depth of services and skills to support those members of our society that create employment and build our economy.
OUR VISION
To be the leading voice and trusted partner for employers, championing ethical leadership, sustainable labour practices, and a progressive employment environment that drives economic growth and business success across all sectors.
OUR MISSION
To promote and protect the interests of employers by providing expert representation in labour matters, delivering practical and strategic employment relations support, and fostering collaborative engagement between employers, employees, and stakeholders. We are committed to empowering employers through compliance guidance, policy advocacy, capacity building, and upholding fair, lawful, and productive workplace practices.
Our Specialised Services
Our services are tailored to meet the evolving needs of our members
Our Core Objectives
Empower employers with a strong foundation for sustainable growth and labour compliance
Ensure fair and structured interactions between employers, employees, and trade unions.
Partnering with Employers.
Shaping the Future of Labour.
About Us
Service and Manufacturing Industries Employers' Organisation
SMIEO was established in 1993 (with their name first being SMME, Small Medium and Marco Enterprises). In 1995 a name change occurred from SMME to SMIEO which stands for Service and Manufacturing Industries Employers' Organisation. The main aim and purpose of SMIEO was for employer engagements regarding centralised bargaining in the Chemical Sector. During that process a number of employers grouped together to indicate that they held more in common as being small businesses than being associated with the specific sectors within the chemical industry. From that time the services and scope of SMIEO have grown substantially to form a formidable body representing the interests of all employer members across a wide range of industries.
It is important to note that SMIEO was established prior to the enactment of the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995, meaning the true intention of the organisation was at all times to represent the interest of its members at Bargaining Council level and not necessarily to only represent in the CCMA or Bargaining Councils. It was only in 1995 that the Labour Relations Act incorporated Employers Organisations and Trade Unions to represent its members in the CCMA and Bargaining Councils.
Aside from representing its members in collective bargaining, SMIEO is the voice of its members on many issues where comment is invited by Government on proposed changes to legislation.
As well as keeping members informed of developments in labour law and labour court and CCMA precedents, our able team of organisers are available to assist members with resolution of disputes, bargaining engagements and representation at conciliation, mediation and arbitration. We represent members at the CCMA, Bargaining Council and the Labour Courts. Some of our able and experienced officials are admitted legal practitioners. Our officials have vast experience in collective bargaining, negotiation, dispute resolution, training, equity and diversity management.
We are proud to be in our 30th year of guiding and representing employers in an ever-changing labour market which is incredibly protective of employees’ rights. We continue to assist employers in what has become a rather complex labour law dispensation.
We look forward to serving the interests of employers for the next thirty years as we increase and develop the depth of services and skills to support those members of our society that create employment and build our economy.
OUR VISION
To be the leading voice and trusted partner for employers, championing ethical leadership, sustainable labour practices, and a progressive employment environment that drives economic growth and business success across all sectors.
OUR MISSION
To promote and protect the interests of employers by providing expert representation in labour matters, delivering practical and strategic employment relations support, and fostering collaborative engagement between employers, employees, and stakeholders. We are committed to empowering employers through compliance guidance, policy advocacy, capacity building, and upholding fair, lawful, and productive workplace practices.
Our Specialised Services
Our services are tailored to meet the evolving needs of our members
Our Core Objectives
Empower employers with a strong foundation for sustainable growth and labour compliance
Ensure fair and structured interactions between employers, employees, and trade unions.
REG. No.: LR2/6/3/436
The leading voice and trusted partner
for employers in the service and manufacturing industries.