| 15 SLOTS FOR ESG WORKSOP IN EUROPEAN EXPORT PUSH |
Export-focussed companies are invited to a high-level ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) workshop on 21 October at the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business Trade Hub. With sustainability increasingly influencing market access and competitiveness, the interactive session will help 15 selected SMMEs navigate rapidly evolving European buyer, financier and supply chain expectations and action on the ESG requirements. With only 15 slots up for grabs, early application is highly recommended. Participation is free for selected SMMEs. Here’s the link.
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| MAESTRO ASSIST LENDS A HELPING HAND TO SMES |
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From the left (standing) to the right: Kopo Mkhonta (Business Consultant), Taahirah Rubridge Joseph (Marketing Manager), Hayden September (IT), Annique Williams (Administrative assistant), Charlton Abrahams (Office Manager), and front, CEO Rupert September and COO Anthea Pillay.
Meet Maestro Assist that helps SMEs streamline operations on a single cloud-based platform to eliminate the need for multiple business systems, and a new member of the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business. Headquartered in Roodepoort and serving clients nationwide, including the KZN Midlands, the company combines CRM, invoicing, accounting, HR, payroll, tax, audit tools and AI-powered copilots in one solution.
Clients also receive onboarding, training, bookkeeping, payroll support and compliance assistance covering SARS, VAT and CIPC requirements. Each customer works with a dedicated Maestro consultant supported by an AI-enabled success team and live in-app support.
Chamber members qualify for a preferential onboarding rate and a free business needs analysis. Contact Maestro Assist Hub on (011) 568 8188, at info@maestroassisthub.co.za or visit the website to arrange a free 20-minute demonstration. |
| CORICRAFT'S LOCALISATION TRIUMPH SHINES UP LEAN CONFERENCE |
It’s all systems go for the 2026 Lean Conference at the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business with Lean Expert and International Lean Leadership Consultant Mark Graban as the keynote speaker. His input will be complemented by a highly appropriate case study, that of top tier furniture manufacturer Coricraft that successfully localised its manufacturing and improved factory efficiency. Through a strategic lean manufacturing drive in partnership with the Localisation Support Fund, Coricraft replaced R79.6 million worth of imported furniture production - shifting about 5 000 units from countries like China and India to South Africa - as well as safeguarding nearly 500 jobs and creating 23 new manufacturing jobs at their Epping facility in Cape Town.
Overall factory efficiency was boosted from 36% (2022) to 50%, achieved a 38% improvement in sewing efficiency, and saw an 8.33% general increase across all departments. They also increased local sourcing for essential raw materials like timber, board, foam, and leather from domestic South African suppliers.
For more information and to register for the Lean Conference, click here. |
1879: The Anglo-Zulu War officially ended.
Elsewhere, in 2008, Google launched its Google Chrome web browser.
It's World Coconut Day!
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MANUFACTURERS LOOK BEYOND AUGUST SLUMP AS OUTLOOK BRIGHTENS
Manufacturing activity weakened further in August, with Absa’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) falling to 45.8 from 46.8, remaining below the 50-point threshold for a third consecutive month. Business activity plunged to 40.2, while new sales orders dropped to 40.3, reflecting subdued consumer demand, weak confidence and reduced non-essential spending.
Higher diesel and international oil prices kept input costs elevated, although the stronger Rand offered some relief. Supplier deliveries improved, but container shortages and shipping delays at Durban harbour continued disrupting operations. Despite the current weakness, manufacturers became more optimistic about the months ahead. The six-month business activity outlook climbed sharply to 54.7 from 49.3, moving back into expansion territory and suggesting expectations of improved conditions later in the year. (SOURCE: BDLive/Bloomberg)
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FUNDAMENTALS STACKING UP FOR INVESTMENT GRADE IN 2028
South Africa could regain investment-grade status as early as 2028, with Goldman Sachs arguing markets have yet to fully price in the potential gains. Improving public finances, economic growth and the policy environment could prompt ratings upgrades, benefiting government bonds, equities and the rand. Goldman sees the 10-year government bond yield falling more than 100 basis points to 7.6%, while credit-default swaps could decline to 100 basis points. The Rand could gain about 9% against the Dollar. Both S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s currently rate South Africa below investment grade, but maintain positive outlooks on the country’s debt. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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... AS ROBUST INFORMAL FMCG MARKET LOOKS BEYOND SPAZAS
South Africa’s informal FMCG market grew 5.9% to an estimated R220 billion in 2025, highlighting its resilience despite economic pressures, tighter regulation and changing township retail dynamics. The sector is evolving beyond traditional spaza shops, with retailers increasingly offering fintech and payment services while serving as community hubs. Shoppers are prioritising convenience, proximity and value, while 75% receive product recommendations from spaza owners. Digital payments are gaining ground alongside cash, creating opportunities for promotions and loyalty initiatives. For FMCG businesses, the market demands tailored approaches to products, pricing, pack sizes, distribution and retailer relationships as consumer needs become increasingly diverse. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity)
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NEW VEHICLE SALES POST DOUBLE-DIGIT GROWTH
South Africa’s new-vehicle market maintained its strong momentum in August, with passenger cars, bakkies and trucks all recording double-digit growth. Toyota again led the market, reinforcing its position as the country’s best-selling brand. The strong performance follows July’s 57,708 domestic vehicle sales, which were 11.9% higher year on year. Passenger-vehicle sales reached 40,912 units, up 12.5%, while light commercial vehicles rose 10.6% to 13,710. Medium commercial vehicles increased 19.4% to 843, while heavy trucks and buses rose 7% to 2,243. The figures underline sustained demand across South Africa’s automotive market. (SOURCE: Moneyweb)
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... AND CAR MAKERS DEMAND FAIRER COMPETITION FROM IMPORTS
South Africa’s major vehicle manufacturers are pressing government for a level playing field as affordable imported vehicles, particularly Chinese brands, gain market share. Volkswagen and Ford have reaffirmed their commitment to local production and investment but warn that unequal competitive conditions could undermine jobs, skills and future investment. Chinese brands accounted for more than 19% of new passenger and light commercial vehicle sales in Q1 2026. Volkswagen has invested over R4 billion in producing its new Tengo SUV, while Ford is calling for policies that support industrialisation. Government says it is reviewing the Automotive Masterplan and policy framework to address changing conditions, improve competitiveness, encourage localisation and sustain South Africa’s automotive manufacturing base. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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NERSA GREENLIGHTS MAXIMUM GAS PRICES AS CLIFF LOOMS
The national energy regulator has approved Sasol Gas’s maximum gas prices for the 2027 and 2028 financial years, providing regulatory certainty amid major changes in South Africa’s gas supply landscape. The regulator will retain a quarterly adjustment mechanism through March 2028, based on actual acquisition costs and volumes. Adjustments will face additional scrutiny if they would raise prices by more than 10% in any quarter. The decision comes as Mozambique’s declining gas supplies create an anticipated “gas cliff”, while the market transitions towards methane-rich alternatives. Nersa says its approach balances affordability, sustainability and efficiency while ensuring regulated costs are properly supported during the changing supply environment. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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SHOPRITE PROFITS SET SCENE FOR COFFEE-CHAIN EXPANSION
Shoprite Holdings delivered a strong year, with net income rising 6.4% to R8.08 billion and its dividend increasing 12% to R8.73. The retailer is expanding beyond grocery retail, acquiring a majority stake in R&A Cellular to strengthen financial-services reach into the informal sector. It has also agreed to acquire Vida e Caffè, with about 400 outlets, strengthening its quick-service restaurant presence. Meanwhile, financially pressured consumers remain promotion-driven, with discounted products accounting for nearly 38.5% of sales. Shoprite kept South African selling-price inflation at just 0.8%, below food inflation, helping merchandise sales increase 7.1% and supporting higher volumes. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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SASOL EARNINGS SOAR 9% ON OIL-PRICE BONANZA
Sasol’s annual headline earnings per share rose 9% to R38.31, from R35.13, helped by higher crude oil prices and increased fuel sales volumes. The average Brent crude price increased 7% during the year, boosting income amid continued oil-market volatility. Sasol again withheld a dividend as net debt remained above its R3 billion policy threshold. The carbon-intensive producer is pursuing decarbonisation through renewables, efficiency, natural gas and green hydrogen. It has contracted 1 370 MW of renewable power towards its 2 000 MW 2030 target, with 510 MW already operational and saving up to R550 million annually. (SOURCE: SENS)
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PREMIER FOODS CLOSURE TALKS HEAD FOR CCMA
Talks over Premier Foods’ proposed closure of its Tulbagh fruit canning factory have broken down, with a dispute over union representation referred to the CCMA for a ruling. Premier objected to the participation of two worker representatives, delaying negotiations until the commissioner rules, with talks expected to resume on 8 September. The closure would affect 424 workers, including 246 permanent and 178 fixed-term employees. Unions want the process suspended for at least a year to explore alternatives. Meanwhile, the Competition Commission is investigating whether the closure breaches merger conditions protecting jobs for three years. A breach could result in a fine of up to 10% of annual turnover or merger approval being revoked. (SOURCE: GroundUp)
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CAPITEX TO TRADE ON A2X FROM 7 SEPTEMBER
Capitec has been approved for a secondary listing on A2X Markets, with its shares set to begin trading on the exchange from 7 September. The bank will retain its primary listing on the JSE. The move gives investors an additional regulated venue for trading Capitec shares, potentially broadening investor access, increasing shareholder choice and supporting greater liquidity. Capitec CFO Grant Hardy says the listing supports the group’s commitment to creating shareholder value through enhanced trading access. A2X CEO Kevin Brady welcomed Capitec, saying its inclusion strengthens the diversity and depth of the exchange’s growing market. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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AFRICA BITCOIN EXECS DEBARRED, ON SPECIAL LEAVE
JSE-listed Africa Bitcoin Corporation’s CEO and chief investment officer have been debarred and placed on leave, raising questions over leadership at the cryptocurrency-focused company. The move follows regulatory action against the two executives, although the available report excerpt does not provide details of the reasons for their debarment or the regulator involved. Their removal from active duties comes as digital-asset businesses face increasing scrutiny over governance, compliance and investor protection. The developments could have implications for Africa Bitcoin Corporation’s operations and reputation while the company addresses the regulatory process and determines its next steps. (SOURCE: News24)
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SOLAR OUTSHINES COAL FOR FIRST TIME IN CHINA’S ENERGY MIX
China’s solar power capacity has overtaken coal, marking a major milestone in the country’s rapid renewable-energy expansion. Solar capacity reached 1 286 gigawatts by the end of July, representing 31.5% of total installed generation capacity. Solar generation increased 15.5% year-on-year to 802.4 billion kilowatt-hours in the first seven months of 2026. China remains the world’s dominant solar supply-chain player, with sector investment expected to exceed 2 trillion Yuan over five years. However, renewable installations have slowed following a policy overhaul ending guaranteed revenue for wind and solar projects. China added 86GW of solar capacity during the first seven months of 2026. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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TRAINING - THE HIGH PERFORMING TEAM
In today's workplace, effective teamwork can be the difference between a business that struggles and one that thrives, perform and grows.
TRAINER: Dirk Calitz – Outdoor Educators
OVERVIEW
THE HIGH-PERFORMING TEAM is an engaging, practical team-building workshop designed to inspire, equip, and guide participants with team-building principles, values, and tools that can be applied in the workplace. It will help organisations unlock the potential within their people and build motivated, productive and high-performing teams that deliver results.
KEY OUTCOMES AND DISCUSSION POINTS
Participants will explore:
• A deeper understanding of the real value and power of teamwork
• How to build a positive, high-performance team culture
• Moving from unhealthy and dysfunctional to inspired and engaged (the need for positive change)
• Awareness of the impact of emotional wellness, positivity and attitude on the team
• Building blocks, key values and principles to build positive, motivated, and energised teams
• Tools to strengthen communication, trust and interpersonal relationships
• The inspired team player and leader-the role of leadership in driving change
• Ignite the fire within!
GREAT TEAMS DON'T HAPPEN BY ACCIDENT. THEY ARE BUILT. BUILD THE TEAM. STRENGTHEN THE CULTURE. IGNITE PERFORMANCE.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
Business owners, leaders, managers, HR professionals, team leaders and team members with a keen interest in building high-performing teams.
Attendees will receive a certificate of attendance.
Date: 9 September 2026
Time: 08:30 – 16:30
Venue: PMCB Office, 1 Parkhaven, 55 MacLeroy Road, Northern Park, Pietermaritzburg
COST (excludes vat ) includes lunch
PMCB Members: R1 430 p/p, R1 390 p/p for 3/more, R1 320 p/p for 5/more
Non-members: R1 695 p/p, R1 640 p/p for 3/more, R1 590 p/p for 5/more
Please note: The company will be liable for payment unless CANCELLATION is received in writing 24 hours prior to the event. |
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Nothing is a waste that makes a memory.
Ned Rorem |
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