This chapter explores aspects around the public nature of GIs and the associated debate on the need for public intervention in supporting GI development and implementation. The discussion draws on the commonalities and differences between the Camdeboo mohair and Karakul pelts cases, both of which are Southern African luxury clothing products with sophisticated quality management systems. The cases are both endemic industries with a strong link to the region but which are not linked to national GI protection schemes. They differ significantly however with respect to their approach to investment in the common resources underlying the reputation of the origin based product as well as with respect to the management of the collective reputation. The chapter provides insights into the implications of public versus privately driven origin based quality schemes, particularly with respect to potential exclusionary dynamics.