Phumla and Songezo Nayo are a testament to hard work paying off. The married couple, who entered the fuel industry, with no prior experience were committed and absolutely determined to make their new business work. Today the Nayo’s are the proud owners of not one, but two Engen petrol stations, with their eye on future growth. They first opened Engen Vredehoek Service Station in Oranjezicht in 2011 and in 2015 they opened Engen Eastlake Convenience Centre in Muizenberg. “Owning two Engen service stations gave us, as a black family, an opportunity to contemplate creating intergenerational wealth, something that is still elusive for Black South Africans,” says Phumla With a BAdmin (Hons) in Industrial Psychology and having worked for a number of years as a human resources specialist and independent consultant at some of South Africa’s top corporate companies, Phumla’s HR background has played an important role in building her team of employees and ensuring that her customers get great service. “I am passionate about people development, empowerment and service excellence,” she says. The couple’s cross-section of skills complement each other. Songezo has an MBA from UCT and strong management skills, having gained solid business experience as the previous MD of SA Rugby and having run his own sports management business. “Our first break came when Engen gave us an opportunity to be caretakers of Engen Vredehoek, which was a good platform for us to gain industry experience. Breaking into the industry was initially tough as we had to overcome perceptions of black run businesses, which meant having to prove ourselves over and over again,” says Songezo. Today, success for the couple is having had the opportunity to create jobs at their service stations and invest in the development and empowerment of their employees. “We work very well together because we have mutual goals and interests. We implicitly trust each other’s skills and each one allows the . . .
Logistics Runs On Like-Minded, Time-Focused Partnerships
Like-minded partnerships with people who share the logistics industry’s total commitment to on-time delivery are the best way to grow the sector in challenging times. That’s the word from Brent Cramer, Director of TruSeal (Pty) Ltd, who says tamper-evident security seals help secure moveable goods in a way that meets time-based targets. Although resilient, this pivotal sector that channels trade throughout South Africa and the world is currently being hit by an increasing reliance on road transport which comes with greater costs and the threat posed by criminals and the ever-present danger of protests. “Tamper evident security seals can reduce the turnaround time in moving goods from A to B and thereby prove to be a valuable time saver in an industry that runs on efficiently managing the precious resources that are hours, minutes and seconds,” says Mr Cramer. Mr Cramer outlined five ways the security seal industry contributes to saving those valuable minutes: TruSeal security seals are highly tamper evident, so quick inspection will alert if theft or tampering has occurred. Barcoded security seal numbers are easily scanned into a database system rather than manual recording saving time and eliminating human error. TruSeal security seals can be customized according to a range of colours and print options to fit client branding requirements. Barcodes can also be added for electronic capturing. Local printing facilities ensure TruSeal products can be customised for our unique commercial and industrial environment while also always being available to the logistics industry at short notice. Security seals from TruSeal create an entire accountability system. This enhances efficiency and timesaving throughout the entire process of transporting goods. Finally, the advantages of being able to identify theft and tampering quickly by using numbered security seals is obvious for any driver, warehouse worker or business owner who have ever had to . . .
SA Taxi Foundation delivers broad impact with focused CSI initiative
South Africa faces numerous challenges. Two of the most prolific issues that require urgent and immediate attention are rampant unemployment and a failing public education system, as both exacerbate poverty and inequality in the country. While national government continues to address these issues through structural reforms, increased spending on education, student funding and broader access to schools, more is required to accelerate change within the system. This is where the private sector must play a more significant role. As part of its comprehensive corporate social investment (CSI) programme, the SA Taxi Foundation adopted the JB Matabane High School in Ivory Park, Midrand. The company's aim is to establish a grassroots project that will increase access to educational opportunities and benefit learners within the company's local community. “The foundation funds projects and invests in initiatives that aim to make a meaningful contribution to and deliver a lasting social and economic impact on more South Africans,” explains Maroba Maduma, director at the SA Taxi Foundation. But rather than apply the conventional hands-off CSI approach of donating funds and walking away, the foundation developed a programme to promote sustainability and leave a legacy at the school. “Our initiatives span counselling and career development for grade 11 and 12 students, bursaries, and extra lessons, including a winter school, mentoring, goal setting sessions and tutoring.” elaborated Maduma. In 2018, the career empowerment programme helped 243 grade 11 students and 173 grade 12 learners find their ideal career fit. “This process included psychometric testing, career consultation, career talks and workplace readiness programmes,” he adds. As a follow up to this process, SA Taxi's sister company, Transaction Capital Risk Service this year invited 50 JB Matabane learners on a workplace orientation trip and conducted aptitude testing as a means to identify suitable . . .
New major road rules proposed for SA
According to the latest reports by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), South Africa could soon have new harsher road rules, all of which are aimed at curbing the high incidents of road accidents in our country. Unfortunately, 2018 saw tremendous challenges for road users, given that the number of fatalities reported increased by 16% compared to the previous years. Transport Minister, Blade Nzimande, also recently revealed that the Festive season - which is infamously known to be a period of high fatality numbers on the country’s roads - saw over 767 people lose their lives during December alone. And, this was despite increased traffic policing during this period. With 86% of all road fatalities as a result of human error, the proposed changes to road rules are certainly needed to improve road safety. The RTMC has proposed five new changes, ultimately aimed at promoting improved safety for all road users. Some key things all motorists should note about these changes include: • Those planning to renew their driver’s licence, will need to undertake a retest every five years. If accepted, this proposed new structure, will mean a full driver’s licence renewal process, whereas currently road users merely need to undertake an eye-test to renew their existing licence. • Newly qualified drivers will not be allowed to make long trips for the first year, which will be defined as 150 kilometres and more. • During the first 6-months after receiving a driver’s licence, newly qualified drivers, will need to be accompanied and supervised by an experienced driver. • The RTMC also noted that most collisions have in fact been caused by trucks, in comparison to taxis. As a result, it has proposed that additional testing regulations be put in place for all commercial drivers (including truck, bus and taxi drivers). With this, stricter conditions are expected to be introduced to ensure the safety of passengers who use public transport. • A driver that requires . . .
Exciting Milestone Reached for 2018/2019 CILTSA Candidacy Programme for Women
The 14 women selected to participate in the 2018/2019 Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILTSA) Candidacy Programme are making excellent strides towards completing their CILT International Certificate in Logistics and Transport, having reached the Programme’s half-way mark. Once completed, the Candidates will qualify for “Member” MILT status, a designation that is internationally recognised and portable around the globe. “The grade of ‘MILT’ reflects Candidates’ proven expertise and experience in Logistics and Transport,” explains CILTSA President Elvin Harris CMILT. “The Candidacy Programme is very intense and practically oriented – we are excited about the contribution our Candidacy ladies will be able to make to the industry on completion of their studies.” We are grateful to be in partnership with the Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA), who is funding the Programme. Their support to upskill women in the transport and logistics industry, and to prepare them for management roles in the industry is highly commendable. CILTSA, and our delivery partners Commerce Edge and Alto Training are proud to be associated with this very important initiative. Successful Candidates - The following women are participating in the Candidacy programme: Molly Baloyi - Export Controller: Famous Brands Abigail Graaff - Export Controller: Imperial Sasfin Logistics Sekao Magodiele - Key Accounts Senior Advisor: DHL Express Mpho Molalaolwe - Order Desk Administrator: Samsung Electronics Mpho Mbuli - Ocean Imports Controller: Imperial Sasfin Logistics Martina Mothapo Lerato Mudzielwana - Supply Chain Co-ordinator: Ford Motor Company Khothatso Ngwenya - Regional Key Accounts Executive: DHL Busisiwe Nkosi - Outbound Controller: Samsung SDS Lerato Nonyane - Assistant DC Manager: Imperial Managed Solutions Valerie Packree - Ocean/Air Supervisor (Book Groupage): Imperial Sasfin Logistics Pumeza Rhayi – Operations Manager: . . .
Engen celebrates women truck drivers this International Women Day
Phindile Sithole, one of 16 female bulk truck operators employed by Engen says that while she fully supports Engen’s drive to secure a more gender-balanced world, she always knew that she wanted to be a truck driver and nothing was going to stand in the way of her achieving her dream. As a professional driver who often has to work long hours, Phindile says she feels honoured to have received the opportunity to work for Engen and enjoys every one of her shifts. “Believe it or not, I love the sound that trucks make and their size,” she says. Engen’s Head of Transformation and Stakeholder Engagement, Unathi Njokweni-Magida believes it is incumbent upon large corporations to address the ‘barrier’ that continues to exclude emerging black, and especially black female talent. “Gender balance is essential for economies and communities to thrive. It’s not only a gender issue but a business issue which is why women empowerment and transformation is at the core of every part of our operations and forms a critical part of our business plan,” she says. Phindile’s journey is just one of many inspirational Engen stories that will be shared as part of a new TV series which aims to create a positive narrative around South Africa’s success stories. The SA INC. TV series which launches on 7 April is a partnership between Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA), Brand South Africa and producers, Regency Global. "The future is definitely exciting for our industry and the theme for this year's International Women's Day, #BalanceforBetter, resonates particularly with Engen as a company, since we make an effort to strive towards balance across the entire value chain of our business, " adds Njokweni-Magida. Engen salutes all the women and men who are helping to close gender gaps in the world by empowering women in the economy. Post your #IWD2019 message on social media with your "hands out" balance pose for a strong call-to-action for others to also help forge a . . .
First Car Rental is First-To-Market with Self-Service car hire
First Car Rental advances the future of South African car hire. First Car Rental is first-to-market with self-service car hire GAUTENG, JOHANNESBURG, 21 NOVEMBER 2018 - If you are renting a car this summer, don't forget to pack your patience, unless of course, you are hiring from First Car Rental, who this week, launched South Africa’s first ever Car Hire Self-Service at major branches across the country. Says Melissa Nortje, Executive Head of Strategy, Development & Marketing at First Car Rental, “Our new self-service car hire, available at our major branches, is fast, efficient, convenient and paperless. Complete your renter profile at the branch, thereafter, it’s your new way of life! Book online, go straight to a self-service touchscreen, choose the car you want, sign on the screen and you are checked out, all in under 30 seconds.” Self-Service has been piloted at OR Tambo for the past 4 months with select methods of payment and is now ready for all market segments. Over the past 18 years, tech-savvy First Car Rental has led from the front in developing an impressive set of ‘first mobility’ facilities and software programmes in the car rental industry. Being first-to-market typically enables a company to establish strong brand recognition and customer loyalty (before competitors enter the arena), as was experienced when First Car Rental launched their first-in-world, first-in-market, Show&Go Corporate Facilities at their airport branches in 2011. This showstopper technology is popular with corporate travellers, and for good reason, as it ticks all the boxes that frequent flyers would want and benefit from. It entails companies opening an account with First Car Rental, then ‘mobile-readying’ their key staff who travel. These staff are then issued a tiered Show&Go card, and never step foot in a branch again. They step off the plane, walk a predetermined route to the Show&Go car park, where an agent is waiting with a tablet. No . . .
Engen Fairlands gets a new Woolies and Krispy Kreme
The people of Randburg are set to reap the yummy goodness of a 24-hour Woolworths Foodstop and Krispy Kreme which has been added to the recently upgraded Engen Fairlands Convenience Centre. Engen partnered with Krispy Kreme earlier this year, offering fresh doughnuts on-the-go, at select Engen’s across the country to satisfy customer’s sweet cravings at all times of the day and night. Engen Fairlands Convenience Centre is located on the Corner of Beyers Naude Drive and Wilson Street, Fairland, Randburg. The new-look site was officially opened on 25 October, 2018. Customers can also enjoy a diverse range of convenience services including an Engen Quickshop, Wimpy and Corner Bakery. The 6-pump site offers customer’s quality fuels such as Engen Primax Unleaded and Engen Dynamic Diesel 50ppm with ease of access and service for heavy-duty vehicles and trucks. The owner of Engen Fairlands Convenience Centre, Dr Haroon Gutta is extremely excited to add the Woolworths Foodstop and Krispy Kreme to their bouquet of convenience offerings, which all operate 24/7. “We are very proud of our association with Engen and extremely excited to partner with Woolworths Foodstop and Krispy Kreme. Our customers are really looking forward to these new offerings. Our Site is positioned along the Gautrain route which serves both passing commuters in transit and our many regular local residents,” adds Dr Gutta. Says Engen’s Head of Retail, Seelan Naidoo: “Engen is very excited to see our network flourishing. Convenience and customer service remain key determinants of success in our industry. “We wish our dealer Dr Gutta and his team every success.” CLICK HERE to submit your press release to MyPR.co.za. . . .
MiX Telematics records ninth consecutive quarter of margin growth
Global telematics leader continues to exceed expectations across all key operating metrics. Boca Raton, FL – November 1, 2018 – MiX Telematics (NYSE: MIXT, JSE:MIX), a global leader of fleet and mobile asset management solutions, today announced financial results for its second quarter and first half of fiscal 2019, which ended on September 30, 2018. Central to the continued growth trend is the addition of over 22,000 net subscribers during the second quarter, taking the total, global subscriber base to over 714,000. Subscription revenue grew over 18% year over year and adjusted EBITDA margin reached over 30% in the quarter. This was the ninth consecutive quarter of year over year adjusted EBITDA margin improvement, a key objective for the group. “MiX reported a very strong quarter, highlighted by our ability to exceed expectations across all key operating metrics.” said Stefan Joselowitz, Chief Executive Officer of MiX Telematics. “We remain well positioned to maintain this momentum for the second half of fiscal 2019 and beyond given the strong and growing pipeline of opportunities worldwide.” “I’d like to thank our teams that have delivered these great results. There’s no doubt that our customers around the world are benefitting from our broad product portfolio and the great service we provide” concludes Joselowitz. CLICK HERE to submit your press release to MyPR.co.za. . . .
Transnet NPA tests helicopter service at Port of Cape Town
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is exploring options to introduce a helicopter service at its Port of Cape Town to assist with operations during major swells and to increase the availability of service during stormy conditions. Cape Town has been plagued recently by weather related disruptions and high swell conditions. This has at times impacted on port operations and the use of pilot boats to transfer marine pilots onto and off vessels. Physical testing of the marine helicopter operation took place between 28 September and 5 October at the port using a helicopter that services the Port of Durban. Port of Cape Town Harbour Master, Captain Alex Miya, who recently transferred from the Port of Durban, said: “Richards Bay and Durban are the only ports in TNPA’s complementary port system which use helicopters to transfer marine pilots. Our recent successful test exercise indicated that this is a viable service to offer at the Port of Cape Town.” At a recent customer forum in Cape Town, TNPA Chief Operating Officer Nozipho Mdawe said a fully-fledged feasibility study is being undertaken and TNPA will be engaging with customers to determine the best approach. “The process includes engaging with major customers to establish their level of interest and to test whether the service cost would be acceptable. We are also debating whether the service should be shared between the Western Cape ports or dedicated to one port,” she said. Mdawe said two options are being explored. The first involves stationing one of the existing TNPA helicopters in Cape Town to service the Western Cape ports, while the second entails partnering with a private helicopter company to render the service as and when swell conditions dictate or when there are insufficient pilot boats to meet the number of vessel calls. TNPA has an existing fleet of three AgustaWestland (AW 109) helicopters to service the Ports of Durban and Richards Bay but through its Fleet Replacement . . .
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