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A better year ahead

Restaurants were hard hit by Covid-19 lockdowns and many small business owners had to close their doors. However, there are a number of indicators which suggest that a recovery is underway in 2022, and SACCI will be working hard to support small businesses. Credit: SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme

As we move into the New Year, there are a number of factors that appear to indicate a better year for South Africa.

For starters, on the southern tip of Africa, it was our scientists who identified the new variant and the country was punished, in ignorance, as being the catalyst for the new variant and its rapid infection rate. While this has indeed spread rapidly – like a quick-burning fire, it has almost spent itself here and the situation has become manageable. A quick look at the rest of the world suggests a very different picture. At the time of drafting this article, South Africa has 74 000 active infections for a population of 56-million people compared to Australia with just over 1.1-million infections for a population of 24-million people. This gives some perspective to the current state of play. The impression left is that the severity of this wave in South Africa has also been milder than in other parts of the world.

Against this background we need to pay attention to our shattered economy. While this has dramatically impacted on every one of us, the effects on the small business sector have been dire. The R500-billion safety net that was supposed to bolster small business, didn’t. Many small businesses that have been around for decades, vanished.

Alan Mukoki, SACCI CEO

The Chamber set up work streams to address the immediate issues and tabled a set of action recommendations both with the President’s advisors and the Deputy President’s office. The plan is to address the areas which have been found wanting, whether this be government agencies or institutions in the private sector, no-one is blameless, but let’s not harp on the negatives.

SACCI itself has not been absolved from the damaging effects of this two-year lockdown. But the organisation adapted and took measures to limit as far as possible the revenue-stream impact by addressing the costs of its operations.

There can be no doubt that the pressures are on to get more directly involved in the small business community where we are well represented. This required a completely new approach, with the mother body taking a more visible presence in the township economies. A whole suite of measures are being looked at, from fast-tracking grant funding to small businesses, addressing the financial support and administrative functions, communication issues, transport network, supply depots to the business community, creating greater efficiency and lower cost of products are all issues that form part of a pilot programme to be instituted. Indeed, we are enthusiastic to implement our plans with key stakeholders in 2022.

Overall, the organisation has taken the time to go into the townships and engage with the communities to gauge first-hand what are the crucial issues. What’s more important is that we listened to our people and are putting plans in place to make things happen for them.

Using the muscle of the mother body and the networks we have, we believe we can make a difference to fast-track our small businesses out of the devastation caused by the pandemic, the rioting and looting last year in key areas and the drop-off in demand experienced over nearly two years.

Mboshini Engineering Steel is a small business based in Lillydale in Mpumalanga which has expanded its range beyond burglar bars and doors to steel window frames and trailers, bull bars and palisades. Credit: SEDA

SACCI remains committed to these initiatives. As we have not had such an experience before, so we adapt our programmes based on our learning experiences as we go along and build on such experience.

In so doing, we grow the programmes outwards to areas we currently have no presence in. This way, we strengthen our role in a positive way for our business community.

SACCI stands for everything good in our business communities.

Staycold coolers offer 33% energy savings

Total Cost of Ownership graph looking at purchase price and then electricity costs over the years.

Staycold International, a South African manufacturer of self-contained commercial fridges and freezers, offer supermarket and restaurant owners energy efficient units to save on their monthly electricity bills. This goes a long way in easing Eskom’s proposed double digit tariff increase, effective the first half of 2022, as energy costs form a large contribution to the overall running costs of these businesses.

Staycold units have been found to use over 33% less electricity than other brands in a recent energy test at an operational restaurant business in Johannesburg. With most supermarkets, restaurants and bars having multiple refrigeration units, these savings can often amount to thousands of Rands per month and tens of thousands of Rands per annum.

The reasons why these local units are more energy efficient, is that each Staycold model utilise many, or all of the following technologies and designs: Hydrocarbon refrigerants, high energy fan motors, digital energy management device (EMD) and Low Emissivity glass doors. Operators and owners should thus look for these amongst other things, when comparing product specifications to fully take advantage of efficiency gains.

The cold drink isles in supermarkets where the glass door beverage coolers are often deployed, as well as the underbars in the deli used to prepare the food, are areas that require daily electricity and where Staycold offer these units that could help with monthly savings.

Looking at Staycold’s leading cooler, their HD1140-HC, which has a consumption figure of 3.18 kWh/24hr which equates to a daily cost of R7 per day. As of the proposed 1st April 2022 Eskom tariff increase, that same cooler will cost just under R8 per day. Other brands have been seen to use closer to 10kWh/24hrs, so the post hike running costs of these units would be more than R20 per day. So its seen that the Staycold HD1140-HC could save supermarkets R360 per month, or more than R4000 per year. With a few supermarket outlets, this could equate to hundreds of thousands of Rands that could be recorded as a profit, rather than being paid out as an expense.

Looking at the kitchen of a restaurant, a Staycold Underbar consumes approximately R1 400 Rands worth of electricity per annum. Due to this unit utilizing pathway to Net Zero R290 Refrigerant along with high efficiency fan motors and heat exchanges, this consumption was seen to be more than 50% less than a competitor product. Factoring in the Eskom increase, this relates to a saving. At the bar area, Staycold’s double glass door fridge had more than a 30% reduction in energy costs. So instead of spending R7 000 a year on electricity, which will be close to R8 000 with the Eskom hike on these two units, companies could be spending only R4 500 (after the Eskom hike) with Staycold units – a saving of R3 500 per annum.

If a company has a few restaurants, this could equate to thousands of Rands that could be recorded as a profit, rather than being paid out as an expense.

Lena Le Roux, Staycold’s Managing Director, commented: “With the electricity costs in South Africa going up year on year, our market will no doubt be calculating the total cost of ownership of their equipment over their lifespan. By choosing a Staycold, companies are ensuring that they not only get a great quality, reliable, powerful and durable product, but also a product that over time will reduce their energy costs by a significant amount while at the same time being better for the environment as a whole.”

Staycold has been manufacturing self-contained commercial fridges and freezers from their factory in Parys, in South Africa for 40 years. They were also acknowledged last year and included in the London-based Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) publication: The Pathway to Net-Zero Cooling Product List. The product list has been designed to support and accelerate the race to zero emissions by 2050 and to demonstrate the feasibility of urgent action.

For more information on this case study or Staycold’s coolers and freezers, contact them on 056 819 8097 or visit their website on www.staycold.co.za or LinkedIn page on https://www.linkedin.com/company/staycold-international-pty-ltd/

De Beers Venetia Mine donates school shoes and sanitary towels to local municipalities

From the left: Cllr-Corlett Nematshavhawe ward 3, Cllr Victor Manavhela-Head: Local Economic Development and Technical Services), Cllr Fistos Mafela-Chief Whip, Livhuwani Nwachukwu-Senior Manager, Socio-Economic development, De Beers Venetia Mine, Cllr-Godfrey Nkhanedzeni Mawela-Musina Mayor, Phillip Tshivhundo- Security manager De Beers Venetia Mine, Cllr Evelyn Siyaphi Shirilele-Speaker, Nathi Tshiwanammbi-Municipal Manager.

The donation is one of many corporate social investment programme initiatives undertaken by the mine, with the aim to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable people in the communities we operate, and comes at a time where the need for relief has increased significantly due to Covid-19 pandemic-induced economic challenges.

In accepting the donation on behalf of the schools within the Musina area, Mayor of the Musina Local Municipality, Cllr Nkhanedzeni Godfrey Mawela said the donation could not have come at a better time as many parents from disadvantaged backgrounds had been struggling to afford essential items for their children in the run-up to the start of the new school year.

“I would like to express my gratitude to Venetia Mine for the wonderful support that we continuously receive. This is not the only initiative that receives support of the mine. We really appreciate the support that we are getting, especially when it comes to the education of our kids. The 150 pairs of school shoes will address some of the challenges that kids are facing in the communities,” said Cllr Mawela.

Musina High School Principal, Abraham Legavha thanked Venetia Mine for the generous donation. “Children who lack proper school shoes have a greater risk of being exposed to injuries, especially in cold and rainy weather. Some of our learners come from very poor backgrounds. Owning a new pair of shoes will motivate them because we know that it is difficult to concentrate on schoolwork when basic necessities are not fulfilled”. This donation shows that Venetia Mine cares about the wellbeing of our children,” said Legavha.

Cllr Daniel Mosena, Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning for Blouberg Local Municipality, said: “As the municipality, we appreciate this good initiative. Our goal is to work hand in hand with the De Beers Group and ensure that supporting the community is a priority.  We would like to thank De Beers for the school shoes that were donated to the Blouberg Local Municipality. We will ensure that the shoes are distributed to children who come from economically depressed families during our back to school campaign”.

Phillip Tshivhundo, Security Manager, Venetia Mine said: “Our campaign focuses on providing sanitary pads and school shoes to ensure that children in our local communities stay in school. We need to take care of our communities in order for the mine to prosper. The children who benefit from this campaign will share their skills and make valuable contributions to the mining industry one day”.

Glencore Ferroalloys hands over car to support local woman-owned business in Rustenburg

Reabetswe Maungwa, founder of Ramotshwedi PTY (Ltd).

Glencore Ferroalloys started the new year on a much needed positive note as they handed over a car and manufacturing machinery to local business, Ramotshwedi PTY (Ltd). Ramotshwedi is a female-owned business founded by Reabetswe Maungwa and is part of Glencore Ferroalloys’ Enterprise Development programme. The programme aims to support SMMEs in the communities near Glencore’s operations so they can contribute to local economies.

The handover was held at the Glencore Business Hub and was attended by Glencore Ferroalloys representatives, Rustenburg Local Municipality MMC Karabo Phutu and Enterprise Development Manager Tebogo Sehloho, Western Chrome Mines (WCM) General Manager Richard Vermeulen and HR Manager Rebecca Mokhothu.

Enterprise and Supplier Development Superintendent for Glencore Ferroalloys, Charlin Ntuli who addressed guests on the day, said that the handover was the beginning of many great things for the community.

“Our commitment to transformation goes beyond just ticking the boxes of compliance, when we see talent and potential we truly go all out. As Glencore, we pride ourselves in creating what we call Progress Together in our communities and we consistently live out this message wherever we can. What drew us to Reabetswe and her business was its potential to grow and add value to the local economy. Her type of business speaks to our intention and commitment as a company, that is, to empower women, minimise dependency and develop local black owned and controlled businesses. Enterprise Development is crucial because we move the dependency away from the operation and ensure sustainability outside of Glencore, so that the recipient can contribute to the economy and communities through creating jobs.There needs to be a further shift in mindset to think of opportunities outside the mine’s core function. We are happy to be here today to give Reabetswe the support that she needs to succeed because her success is also the success of her community,” she added.

The support given to Ramotshwedi forms part of a commitment Glencore Ferroalloys made at the launch of their 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) awareness campaign. On the day, Glencore committed to supporting 10 small women-owned businesses near their Rustenburg operations. The programme is part of Glencore’s Enterprise Development which seeks to upskill and support local SMMEs so they can create job opportunities, thus contributing to the growth of local economies.

Reabetswe Maungwa (left) and Enterprise and Supplier Development Superintendent for Glencore Ferroalloys, Charlin Ntuli.

MMC Karabo Phutu from the Rustenburg Local Municipality applauded Glencore for their commitment to SMMEs, especially those that are women-owned.

“Glencore and Ramotshwedi PTY (Ltd) have got a good story to tell today and it is even greater to witness young people particularly women who have been previously disadvantaged in the past make things happen. Today, I can finally say mining meets agriculture, the two can never be separated. Further to that I’d like to encourage our community members who look for opportunities in mining houses to not only concentrate on the core business of the mines but other possible avenues as well, as who would have imagined Glencore supporting a business that locally produces sauces. I want to congratulate Glencore for all the hard work they have done today, this will become a benchmark in supporting local communities as we have the responsibility to address unemployment and ensure people from our communities are able to use the platforms created to further support those around them as well,” he added.

On the day, Glencore handed over an Opel Combi as well as a fridge, oven, pots and other equipment to Reabetswe so she can continue producing, supplying and transporting her products to consumers.

Reabetswe could barely contain her excitement as she thanked Glencore for their support. “This is such an incredible day for me. I am filled with so much gratitude to Glencore for recognizing my journey and walking with me. When I started this, it was just an idea from my kitchen and I while I had many hopes, I had no idea it would get this far. I am so proud of the sauces I make; I would walk as long as it takes to ensure that people taste it because that is how much I believe in it. The support given to me today will go a long way in ensuring growth for my business and I am excited to get to a point where we can offer jobs to people from this community. I was unemployed and got to see the reality of what is happening in my community and I hope my story can inspire more people to believe in themselves and formalise their business ideas. I am so grateful to the Glencore Alloys team for their support and mentorship, I promise to do all that is in my power to pay it forward by empowering more women,” she said.

From left: Richard Vermeulen, Tebogo Sehloho, Reabetswe Maungwa, Karabo Phutu, Rebecca Mokhothu and Brigette Tayob.

Glencore’s ED Programme will continue to make a positive difference to more SMMEs throughout the year by giving them the support and mentorship they require to grow their businesses. The programme is targeting black owned businesses within Glencore’s door step communities as they continue to help government in fighting inequality and work towards progress together for all.

For My Country – Why I Blew the Whistle on Zuma and the Guptas, by Themba Maseko

Themba Maseko was an activist leader who became a lawyer and worked in the Civil Service so that he could be of more help to black people.

In the late 1800s the author’s grandparents and family were forcibly removed from their Eastern Cape farm to a township in Ermelo. His father found work in Johannesburg. Themba Maseko matriculated through his mother’s dedication and with help from nuns at the Immaculata High School.

In 1948 the Nationalist Party came to power and an inferior education syllabus for blacks was introduced. In 1975 Afrikaans became the medium of teaching language and protests in 1976 saw thousands of students, among them Hector Pietersen, killed when police used teargas and live ammunition. Thousands did not return to school, and many left for military training overseas.

Maseko applied for admission to the University of the Witwatersrand, but then Minister of Education, FW De Klerk, told him it was for whites. When laws were relaxed, Maseko graduated there in 1983 after a friend persuaded him not to leave South Africa and to complete his LLB. He was then Assistant General Secretary of the National Education Crisis Committee (NECC).

In the 1980s he became an activist and organised student movements. He was invited to join the SA Communist and ANC parties and was asked to address the rally when Archbishop Desmond Tutu received the Nobel Prize. Nelson Mandela’s daughter Zindzi read a letter from him to her, the nation and to the world denouncing conditions of release. 

In 1990 President De Klerk released Mandela, who became the first President of the democratic South Africa in 1994. Four hundred new MPs were sworn in and Mandela assembled a Cabinet of former enemies. The ANC’s landslide election victory had enabled Maseko, then General Secretary of the NECC, to become an MP, aged 30. He headed the education portfolio.

He helped draft a Constitution and Bill of Rights and was appointed Superintendent-General of the Gauteng Education Department under Mary Metcalfe. He helped integrate four racially-based departments into a non-racial system. Maseko obtained his MBA, but his association with Metcalfe deteriorated and in 2003 he became Director-General of Public Works and Public Service Administration, under Stella Sigcau. Public Works had the task of creating one million jobs by 2009 and Maseko’s programme was announced in President Mbeki’s State of the Nation Address.

His relationship with Sigcau deteriorated and his contract was not extended. Joel Netshitenzhe, CEO of Government Communication and Information System, offered Maseko his job as he was moving to Mbeki’s office. He joined GCIS under Essop Pahad and had to announce Cabinet decisions to media on the day they were taken.

Schabir Shaik, Vice President Zuma’s advisor, was convicted for corruption and Mbeki dismissed Zuma. Mbeki announced that Jackie Selebi, Police Commissioner, had been arrested for corruption and fraud. Vusi Pikoli wanted to prosecute but was suspended. Maseko received calls from everywhere.

At the Polokwane Conference in 2009, Jacob Zuma became President. 

The Gupta brothers were by then hand-picking appointments to SOE boards . International Marketing Council Chair, Wendy Luhabe, was dismissed and Ajay Gupta was reappointed. Zuma sent Maseko to Ajay Gupta who said all departments were to transfer media budgets, R600-million annually, to the Guptas. Maseko refused.

In nine years Zuma reshuffled Cabinet 12 times. Meetings with the private sector stopped and “white monopoly capital” was widely used. 

Ajay Gupta met Maseko and told him ministers did what he told them to do. Tony Gupta spoke to him about their New Age newspaper soon to be published and said if Maseko did not meet him to discuss it he would have him replaced. When Maseko told this to Chabane, he said others had also been harassed.

Two months later Nelson Mandela was admitted to hospital. Maseko protected the family and chaired his first media briefing. Minister Lindiwe Sisulu phoned from Switzerland and said only Zuma had spoken about Mandela. The acting president had approved it but Sisulu said Maseko had defied Zuma. Maseko saw paranoia and mistrust and when he was fired he wondered how he would survive with a wife and two sons to support.

At the Cabinet meeting, e.tv broadcast his firing adding that Mzwanele Manyi had replaced him. Maseko became Director-General of the Department of Public Service and Administration, replacing Richard Baloyi, but officials continued to report to him. Maseko left in July 2011 feeling his refusal to work with the Guptas and being seen as an Mbeki man had sealed his fate. He had also defended work given to off-spring of politicians, not knowing the Guptas had given Zuma’s children government contracts.

Maseko suspected a plan for an alternative state and a move to capture state institutions. This was strengthened when Atul Gupta, not Zuma, led delegates to an economic heads of state (BRIC) function. Zuma announced that wise businessmen supported the ANC.

For a Gupta daughter’s wedding, guests landed at Waterkloof Air Force Base, and police escorted them to Sun City. Chief of State Protocol Bruce Koloane told Chabane there was pressure from number one (Zuma). At the Zondo Commission he admitted to abusing his power of office.

There was relief for Maseko when Deputy Finance Minister Ncabisi Jonas said the Guptas offered him R600-million to be Finance Minister, Vytjie Mentor said they offered her the ministry of Public Enterprises, and Mbalula was congratulated on becoming Sports Minister before his appointment.

Maseko agreed to speak to a journalist. Following publication of his revelations, the phone rang all day – with congratulations from friends and threats from KwaZulu-Natal.

The Guptas were finally to be discussed by the NEC in 2016. Mantashe was shocked by Maseko’s written claims but he stopped investigations when only one written submission came in. Many private companies had also benefited.

Maseko experienced financial difficulties, but in June 2017 Wits friend Bonang Mohale, CEO of BLSA, employed him as Communications Director. Pressure mounted against Zuma. Twenty-seven former Directors General called for an enquiry into state capture and the Guptas, dating back to 1994.

Public Protector Thuli Madonsela wanted information on state capture, the Jonas and Mentor statements and Cabinet appointments. Her report was ready by October and Zuma applied unsuccessfully to the High Court to stop publication. 

At the ANC’s 54th conference, Ramaphosa became ANC leader and President, and Ace Magashule Secretary General. There were calls for the Guptas, who had left South Africa, to be extradited. 

In 2018 Maseko told the Zondo Commission about his experiences with Zuma and the Guptas. President Ramaphosa gave the NPA access to investigations and law enforcement agencies, and gave the Commission the power to subpoena witnesses. Maseko was told to make a formal submission and had to submit an affidavit and he was given pro bono legal advice. Documentation had to be submitted.

During Zuma’s five-day testimony he denied everything, saying the request had come from Chabane to transfer Maseko. Baloyi testified that Chabane had approached him about the transfer from GCIS to Public Works. Zuma “exposed” detractors and made defamatory allegations, and claimed some ministers were apartheid informers. Maseko had to prepare another affidavit.

Critiques insulted him and some threatened violence. Maseko, Jonas, Mentor and others were presented with awards by the Ahmed Cathrada Foundation at a special dinner. He says he aims to continue speaking out against wrongdoing and corruption, supporting whistleblowers and being of service to the nation. 

  1. Title: For My Country
    Author: Themba Maseko
    Publisher: Jonathan Ball Publishers
    Price: R275
    Publication date: May 2021

For more information, visit the Publisher’s website:
https://www.jonathanball.co.za/component/virtuemart/for-my-country

NWU Business School first in Africa to receive international BGA accreditation

The NWU Business School at the North-West University (NWU) is a driving force of business education in Africa. Not only has the international prestigious Association of MBAs (AMBA) renewed the MBA accreditation of the NWU Business School, but the school is also now officially the first school on the African continent to receive international accreditation from the Business Graduates Association (BGA).

This follows after the recent virtual visit to the NWU Business School by panel members of the AMBA, with which the BGA is affiliated. The purpose of their visit was to evaluate the school with the aim of granting it international accreditation. According to Prof Jan van Romburgh, chief director of the NWU Business School, the school managed to also successfully secure another five-year international accreditation for its MBA qualification.

“Business education in general – and the role of MBAs in particular – is going through a fundamental transformation, both globally and domestically. In a fast-changing world and country, business schools must remain relevant by providing business education that critically unpacks their socio-economic environment for successful business strategies.”

Prof Van Romburgh says it is a huge vote of confidence from the BGA that it has accredited the NWU Business School as the first in Africa. “The AMBA accreditation also denotes the highest standard of achievement in postgraduate business education. Only 2% of recognised business schools around the world have AMBA accreditation. We are proud to be one of them. We recognise the big changes across the continent of Africa that excellent business education must help to navigate and manage successfully.”

Who is the AMBA?

Spearheading excellence and trailblazing innovation for more than 50 years, the Association of MBAs (AMBA) has been the impartial authority on postgraduate management education. The AMBA established that vision in 1967, and in a volatile, uncertain world it is as relevant today as it was then. They are committed to raising the profile and quality standards of business education internationally, for the benefit of business schools, students and alumni, employers, communities and society.

The AMBA is the only professional membership association that connects MBA students and graduates, accredited business schools and MBA employers across the world.

What is accreditation?

Accreditation certifies that an institution has the capacity to fulfil a particular function within the quality assurance system. The AMBA’s accreditation is reviewed every five years and is international in scope and reach. They work with senior academics at top global educational institutions to continuously update accreditation policies and maintain their unique, in-depth and detailed approach. Programmes that receive this accreditation reflect changing trends and innovation in the postgraduate education sector. They foster innovation and challenges and encourage business schools to continuously perform at the highest level.

Why is this a big deal?

Students and graduates, business schools and employers alike all recognise the AMBA and BGA accreditation as a gold standard. The rigorous accreditation criteria and assessment process ensure that only the best programmes achieve accreditation. The accreditation bodies look at programmes that demonstrate the highest standards in teaching, learning and curriculum design; career development and employability; and student, alumni and employer interaction.

Employers looking to attract game-changing managers and future business leaders know that graduates from accredited programmes have received the best quality, most relevant management education. To recruit a graduate from an AMBA- or BGA-accredited programme is to recruit top talent.

This accreditation gives our business school worldwide recognition and honour. The AMBA accreditation identifies the best programmes from the thousands available, and the developmental nature of their process helps us spot potential shortcomings. They provide a comprehensive report detailing recommendations for potential future improvements, ensuring that the NWU Business School continues to grow.

What does it mean to the MBA students at the NWU Business School?

Employers are increasingly asking for business graduates who possess a balance between hard and soft skills, innovative capabilities and a mind-set geared towards being more socially responsible. We can guarantee that our students who obtained an MBA or Postgraduate Diploma in Management will bring all these qualities and skills to the table at their workplace and make a viable contribution to their company.

“For our MBA graduates, accreditation offers the opportunity to connect with peers from the best global MBA programmes. Student and graduate membership of the AMBA means alumni can network internationally, knowing that they are connecting with individuals from equally impressive programmes.”

Prof Van Romburgh says through the AMBA they can enjoy career advice and support, a job portal, events, access to the latest research and thought leadership, and selected offers and benefits.

“In short, it opens doors and facilitates opportunities and we are committed to making sure that each and every student receives the best possible education in order to shape executive minds in Africa.”

For more information view:

5 Ways to prepare your business for festive season sales

The festive season is synonymous with an increase in shopping behaviour and the best way to leverage on all the activity is to be prepared. Even with specials and promotions from other businesses creating tough competition, you can give your business an edge with early preparation.

Below we share tips to help you get the most out of the festive season peak:
  1. Strategise Early
  2. Planning Your Product Offering
  3. Marketing and Promotion
  4. Securing enough Capital
  5. Leveraging Omnichannel Customer Experiences
Strategise early 

The festive season is filled up with many public holidays. From as early as Black Friday, the opportunity for high sales volumes begins. To add to this many retailers start their Christmas promotions from late October into early November.

It’s vital that you factor these, and other seasonal occurrences, into your plan so that you aren’t caught out. The earlier you do this the more time you have to develop specific actions and align your resources to ensure you take full advantage of the opportunities that will inevitably arise.

Planning your product offering

Just because it is a busy shopping time of the year it doesn’t mean that all your products or services will be a hit. Thorough research of your audiences’ requirements, challenges and price points is required to understand the products you should prioritise at this particular time of year. Don’t forget to use the learnings from previous years to help plan your product range. 

Marketing and promotion 

Once you’ve established your plan of action and agreed on the products or services you’ll be focusing on, you can start your marketing and promotional activities. Create enticing offers (not necessarily always discounts) for your customers as often as possible. During the festive season consumer attention is contested for by many businesses so you want to ensure that you stay top of mind.

Choose a mix of marketing channels that best suits your audience and reach out to them in the best way possible. Consider which of the following work best and get creative:

  • Social media,
  • Email,
  • Search Engine Marketing tactics, as well as
  • Traditional offline advertising eg: radio/television, newspapers, and direct mail.  
Securing enough capital 

During the festive season you may need to have more funds readily available to increase inventory, hire more staff or set up promotions and holiday displays. If you don’t have sufficient cash on hand to give the season your best shot, talk to a trusted lender about securing a line of credit or short-term business loan. Lulalend, for instance, offers access to working capital with quick turnaround times, flexible repayment terms and no collateral.

Related: The SME Guide to Managing Business Finances over the Festive Season

Leveraging omnichannel customer experiences    

If you can’t beat them, join them! That’s truly the long and short of digital retail trends. Omnichannel retailing only increases during the festive season. This is driven by people wanting to avoid long queues, needing to receive items at short notice or even having to adapt when load-shedding strikes.

With these factors in mind, having an integrated approach that offers a seamless shopping experience for consumers regardless of whether they are shopping from a desktop, mobile device or physical store is a great advantage. For example, customers might buy online and want to collect in-store later that same day rather than wait 2-3 days for home delivery. You ideally want to have a solution that can cater for all of these moving parts.

The festive season can be a stressful time for a small business, especially with pandemic-related issues still lurking, and load-shedding slowing productivity down.  But with enough planning and preparation, you can make it a truly profitable period for your business.

Related: The SME Guide to Understanding your Financial Health

Apply for Bridging Finance with Lulalend

We have solutions that offer your business a cash flow boost when you need access to funds sooner rather than later. We offer bridging finance that is unsecured, and easily accessible within 24 hours. We also offer the option to settle early without having to worry about penalty fees.

Winners of the inaugural Southern Africa Regional Exporters Awards 2021 recognised at a ceremony hosted in South Africa

Mr. Will Stevens, Acting Consul General, U.S. Consulate General Cape Town

East London, South Africa, 8 December 2021 – Businesses and trade promotion agencies from across Southern Africa were recognized at the inaugural Southern Africa Regional Exporters Awards 2021 held on 8 December in East London, South Africa. The hybrid virtual and physical event, which was under the theme, “Celebrating the export excellence of Southern African brands”, presented awards in four categories.  

The big winner for the night was Namibia’s Plastic Packaging (Pty), who was crowned Regional Exporter of the Year, ahead of the first and second runners-up Technical Systems Pty Ltd from South Africa and Far East Textiles Pty Ltd from Eswatini, respectively. These three firms were among eight national finalists who beat other worthy contenders to emerge as the Exporter of the Year in their respective countries.  

The awards are part of a collaboration between the U.S. Government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC). “This partnership with the U.S. Government, has over the past three years, assisted the Eastern Cape companies to utilize the opportunities that are presented by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). This includes providing firms with information on the requirements of trading with the United States”, said the Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, speaking at the awards ceremony in East London.

The event seeks to incentivize and encourage export firms from the eight participating countries of Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zambia, to explore innovative ways of improving their regional and global competitiveness. The awards, which focused on exports to the United States and South African markets, also awarded three supplementary business categories that offer vital support to these firms to achieve export excellence, despite market access challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

The nominations were adjudicated by a panel of industry leaders from across the region, representing both the private and public sector, who awarded the winners and runners-up solely on the basis of excellence deserving of recognition in the export industry. They judged the nominations in the areas of sustainable export growth, competitive advantage, value and contribution to the exporting sector, future expansion plans, innovation, commitment to international business, and key positive steps the business has taken towards sustainable trade.

From L-R: Mr. Ayanda Wakaba CEO ECDC, Ms Puseletso Makhakhe Acting General Manager Trade and Investment LNDC, Ms Lizel Maurice Executive Director Border Kei Chamber of Business, Hon. Mlungisi Mvoko MEC: Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Mr. Will Steven, Acting Consul General, U.S. Consulate General Cape Town, Cllr Xola Pakati Executive Mayor Buffalo City Metro Municipality, Mr. Simphiwe Somdyala ECDC Board member, Last is Cllr. Mawethu Marata Portfolio Head Economic Development and Agencies.

In the category of Trade Promotion Service Provider of the Year, South Africa’s Wesgro emerged as the winner, with the South African Footwear and Leather Export Council, and Lesotho National Development Corporation, in second and third place respectively. Absa Bank, South Africa, won the Capital Provider of the Year award, with the African Trade Platform, also from South Africa in second place, and Post Bank, Lesotho, in third place. In the final category of Buyer of the Year, African Dream Foods, from the United States, was the overall winner, with Crouching Tiger Ventures (United States) and Moringa Initiative Limited (South Africa), placing second and third respectively.

The event, which had a large virtual audience, had dignitaries from government, the business sector, and the development community in attendance. The Eastern Cape Member of the Executive Committee (MEC) for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Hon. Mlungisi Mvoko recognized that the Southern Africa Regional Exporters Awards Ceremony marks a journey towards regional economic integration as the participating countries have common intentions towards sustainable development of the region. MEC Mvoko added that “We [Southern African countries] should continuously seek to unlock the regional potential and opportunities to effectively address the core issues of unemployment, underdevelopment, and poverty alleviation and contribute fully to the upliftment of our continent.”

Acting Consul General, U.S. Consulate General Cape Town, Will Stevens highlighted the U.S. Government’s continuing commitment to supporting the growth of the private sector across the region. He congratulated all the nominated companies, and encouraged all the nominees to consider themselves as winners whose hard work should be celebrated. 

The organizers and partners of the event are looking forward to the Southern Africa Regional Exporters Awards returning in a bigger and better form next year.                                                          

For more details about the awards, visit:

De Beers Group partners with the International Youth Foundation to create a sustainable economy in the Limpopo Province

Partnership workshop between De Beers and IYF at Fusion Boutique Hotel in Polokwane.
19 November 2021. Partnership workshop between De Beers and IYF at Fusion Boutique Hotel in Polokwane. (L-R): Gregory Petersen, Patrick Mugumo, Dr Wynand Goosen, Anusha Naicker and Khalil Patel.

De Beers Group has partnered with IYF under its SA Skills for Life (S4L) programme which focuses on strengthening teaching and learning in the public TVET college system in the Capricorn and Vhembe Districts. On Friday, 19 November 2021, the partners held a workshop on Creating a Sustainable Economy in the Limpopo Province at the Fusion Boutique Hotel in Polokwane.

The purpose of the workshop was to initiate and activate sustainable economic growth and economic opportunities for the people of Limpopo through public and private partnerships by establishing a series of guided entrepreneurial programmes with communities at all levels, including Entrepreneurship, Job Skills, Financial and Critical Thinking skills.

S4L Programme Lead, Khalil Patel, who opened the event, emphasised the need for comprehensive stakeholder engagement through which all stakeholders, including public and private corporations, TVET colleges and communities unite under the common objective of improving economic outcomes for the youth.

Anusha Naicker, Country Director for IYF SA, in her organisational overview, stated: “A strong Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system is essential for economic growth and reducing youth unemployment, especially in the Limpopo Province.

IYF, who operates in South Africa under the auspices and supervision of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), invited a group of noteworthy speakers to address workshop participants.

Speakers included Itumeleng Mogale, Social Performance Specialist from De Beers, as MC; implementing partners: Senisha Moonsamy from the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), Dr Wynand Goosen and Patrick Mugumo of Infomage Rims Group (IRG) as well as Dr Lientjie van Rensburg from the National Institute for the Deaf (NID), and founder of the start-up Nosetsa Africa, Pontsho Moletsane, who shared their methodologies for working together to find new ways to upskill the youth of Limpopo. They also shared examples on how to develop networks and create employment opportunities within the public and private sectors, inclusive of persons with disabilities.

Group photo of the participants who attended the Creating a Sustainable Economy in the Limpopo Province workshop at the Fusion Boutique Hotel in Polokwane.

Gregory Petersen, Group Manager Socio Economic Development at De Beers Group, said: “We continue to explore innovative opportunities and partnerships to support the socio-economic growth of the communities in which we operate. The development of communities through entrepreneurship and skills enhancement is at the centre of our Building Forever sustainability strategy as we continue to strive to Make Life Brilliant for all our stakeholders.

About the International Youth Foundation

IYF® stands by, for, and with young people. Founded in 1990, IYF is a global non-profit with programs directly benefiting 7.7 million young people and operations spanning 100 countries so far. Together with local community-based organizations and a network of corporate, foundation, and multilateral partners, we connect young people with opportunities to transform their lives. www.iyfnet.org | www.iyfsa.org.za.

About De Beers Group

De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining and marketing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. As part of the company’s operating philosophy, the people of De Beers Group are committed to ‘Building Forever’ by making a lasting contribution to the communities in which they live and work, and transforming natural resources into shared national wealth. For further information about De Beers Group, visit www.debeersgroup.com.

Glencore Ferroalloys joins hands with the DMRE to fight Gender-Based Violence and empower women around their operations

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), South Africa has one of the highest rates of violence inflicted on women and girls in the world. In his latest newsletter address, President Cyril Ramaphosa wrote that Gender Based Violence has become a second pandemic in South Africa and expressed that it is only when we work together to confront this scourge that we can overcome it.

It is against this backdrop that on 26 November 2021, Glencore Ferroalloys in partnership with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), Women in Mining Advisory Committee (WIMAC) and Mine Health and Safety Council (MHSC) officially launched their 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) awareness campaign.

The campaign, which calls for zero tolerance against the abuse of women and children within the South African Mining Industry, is a collective effort from Glencore Ferroalloys and other mining houses in the Rustenburg area to play their part in creating awareness as well as supporting victims of GBVF near their operations.

The launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence and Femicide campaign was held at the Hedgehog’s Nest in Rustenburg and was attended by 300 women and men in mining from communities and mining houses in the Rustenburg area. Glencore executives, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy Deputy Director General (DDG): Mineral Regulation – Adv Susan Malebe, Executive Mayor RLM: Cllr Shiela Mabale – Huma as well as representatives from the National Prosecuting Authority, South African Police Services, Department of Social Development and Mine Health and Safety Council (MHSC) CEO Dumisani Dlamini were also in attendance.

Government has announced this year’s theme as “Moving from Awareness to Accountability” urging civil society and the private sector to play their part and become activists against GBVF in their homes, communities and work places.

Japie Fullard, CEO of Glencore Ferroalloys

CEO of Glencore Ferroalloys, Japie Fullard said that the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence and Femicide is one of the most important initiatives in the country, stating that the campaign should in fact run for 365 days every year because of the grave importance of women and children in society.

“As stated by our president, violence against women and children has become more than a national crisis and it is even more heart-breaking to know that from July to September this year, there were close to 10 000 rape cases reported. That is a 7.1 % increase from the previous year. This is tragic and unacceptable.

“Glencore is committed to fighting this scourge through initiatives such as this campaign. We recently committed R4-million towards the construction of a new Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC) at the Dilokong Hospital in Limpopo Province. We have also undertaken to upgrade other TCC centres in the North West, Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces to ensure that they are better equipped to support victims. We are committed to continue to raise awareness of this hyperendemic and we do this because we acknowledge that victory will be achieved mainly through the efforts within the communities around us, the forming of strategic partnerships between government and the private sector, and most importantly, the efforts made within our workplaces as well.” said Fullard.

Glencore Ferroalloys also announced support for start-ups founded by women, which we will be mentored at their Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) hub which was launched in 2020 to support local businesses around Glencore’s operations.

Enterprise and Supplier Development Superintendent of Glencore Ferroalloys, Charlin Ntuli said that the women who own the start-up businesses represent resilience and commitment because they have never given up.

“Our aim from the ESD hub is to support recipients and uplift communities. We aim to provide them with the tools they need to equip themselves so they can equip others. Our first step is to work together with the recipients to create a development plan after investigating the needs and shortages within their businesses. We then put them through a programme with an expert in a particular field to mentor them as they develop their skills. We are proud to walk this journey with these women whom we have seen grow from strength to strength and we will continue to hold hands with them to ensure that they reach their full potential.” she added.

On the day, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy Deputy Director General (DDG): Mineral Regulation – Adv Susan Malebe urged all mining houses to intensify impactful interventions/programmes that will overcome GBVF in South Africa and applauded Glencore for playing their part.

“We as government have developed a National Strategic Plan (NSP) on GBVF in order to provide a multisectoral, coherent strategic policy and programming framework in response to the crisis of GBVF with pillars and initiatives. In addition to implementing polices, we are also in communication with traditional leaders and church leaders in communities so we can have effective workshops on GBV in the communities. Lastly, we applaud Glencore that has been proactive and has not waited for government to launch initiatives that support the activism against GBV.” she said.

Glencore Ferroalloys also announced the roll out of several site campaigns which started on the 25th of November and will run until the 10th of December to ensure maximum awareness and foster a collaborative effort in dealing with GBVF across all their operations.

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