September 2020 Issue #93
Kwa
Celebrating Page 4 a new look for PEP
Read more about the Top Performers on pg18
OUR OUR NEW NEW WAY WAY TOTO OUR NEW WAY TO OUR OUR NEW NEW WAY WAY TO TO OUR NEW WAY TO
We’ve We’ve teamed teamed up up with with Standard Standard Bank Bank We’ve teamed up with Standard Bank We’ve We’ve teamed teamed up with Standard Standard Bank Bank Instant Instant Money Money toup help to with help our our customers customers send send Instant Money to help our customers send We’ve teamed up with Standard Bank Instant Instant Money Money to loved help to help our our customers customers send send money money to their to their loved ones ones quickly quickly and and easily. easily. money totheir their loved ones quickly and easily. Instant Money to loved help our customers send money money to their to loved ones ones quickly quickly and and easily. easily. money to their lovedfee ones and easily. NoNo cancellation cancellation fee quickly NoNo PIN PIN expiry expiry
SEND SEND & & SEND & SEND SEND & SEND & RECEIVE RECEIVE RECEIVE RECEIVE RECEIVE RECEIVE MONEY MONEY MONEY MONEY MONEY
No cancellation fee NoNo NoPIN PIN expiry NoNo cancellation cancellation feefee PIN expiry expiry No cancellation fee No PIN expiry Over Over 1010 000 000 cash-out cash-out points points Over 10 000 cash-out points Over Over 1010 000 000 cash-out cash-out points points Over 10 000 cash-out points
HOW HOWTO TOSEND SENDMONEY MONEY HOW HOW TO TO SEND SEND MONEY MONEY HOW TO SEND MONEY HOW TO SEND MONEY STEP STEP 1 1
MONEY INSTANTLY INSTANTLY INSTANTLY INSTANTLY INSTANTLY INSTANTLY
STEP STEP 1 11 STEP
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STEP STEP 22 STEP STEP 2 22 STEP CHOOSE CHOOSE THEIR RECIPIENT RECIPIENT & PIN & PIN STEP 2THEIR
Customers with an ID can send up to R1 500 for only 9.90.
Enter Enter the the recipient’s recipient’s cell cell number number andand let the let customer choose choose a a CHOOSE CHOOSE THEIR THEIR RECIPIENT RECIPIENT &the PIN &&customer PIN CHOOSE RECIPIENT PIN new new PIN. PIN. Once Once theTHEIR the PIN PIN iscell confi isnumber confi rmed rmed you you may may accept accept their their cash. cash. Enter Enter the the recipient’s recipient’s cell number and and let the let the customer customer choose choose a aa CHOOSE THEIR RECIPIENT Enter the recipient’s cell number and & let PIN the customer choose new new PIN. Once Once the the PIN PIN is confi isisconfi rmed rmed you may accept accept their their cash. cash. Enter thePIN. recipient’s cell number and letyou the customer choose acash. new PIN. Once the PIN confi rmed youmay may accept their new PIN. Once the PIN is confirmed you may accept their cash.
STEP STEP 33 STEP STEP 3 33 STEP SEND SEND &3 RECEIVE & RECEIVE STEP
The The recipient recipient willRECEIVE will be sent be sent a SMS a SMS voucher voucher to cash-out to cash-out at any at any SEND SEND & RECEIVE & SEND & RECEIVE PEP PEP or other or other participating participating outlets. outlets. The The recipient recipient will will be sent be sent a SMS a SMS voucher voucher to cash-out to cash-out at any at any SEND & RECEIVE The recipient will be sent a SMS voucher to cash-out at any PEP or other or other participating participating outlets. outlets. ThePEP recipient will be sent a SMS voucher to cash-out at any PEP or other participating outlets. PEP or other participating outlets.
Multiple Multiple cash-out cash-out points points Multiple Multiple cash-out cash-out points points Multiple cash-out points Multiple cash-out points
9 9 9 9 9 9
Send Send money money
90 90 90 90 90 90
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per per transaction transaction per per transaction transaction per per transaction transaction
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SEPTEMBER 2020
The service The service is underwritten is underwritten by Standard by Standard Bank Bank of South of South AfricaAfrica Limited Limited with registration with registration number number 1962/000738/06. 1962/000738/06. The service The service is underwritten is underwritten by Standard by Standard Bank Bank of South of South Standard Standard Bank Bank is a licenced is a licenced financial financial services services and credit and credit provider. provider. PEP PEP Africa Africa Limited Limited with registration with registration number number 1962/000738/06. is a juristic is a juristic representative representative of Standard of Bank Bank Limited. T’s1962/000738/06. & C’s T’s apply. & C’s apply. The service is Standard underwritten byLimited. Standard Bank of South is fiunderwritten by Standard ofprovider. South Standard Standard BankThe Bank is aservice licenced is a licenced nancial financial services services and credit andBank credit provider. PEP PEP Africa Limited with registration number 1962/000738/06. Africa Limited with registration number 1962/000738/06. is a juristic is a juristic representative representative of Standard of Standard Bank Bank Limited. Limited. T’s & C’s T’s apply. & C’s apply. Standard is a licenced andprovider. credit provider. PEP Standard Bank isBank a licenced financialfinancial servicesservices and credit PEP is a juristic representative of Standard Bank Limited. & C’s apply. is a juristic representative of Standard Bank Limited. T’s & C’sT’s apply.
ED’S LETTER
A Dose of
Positive Attitude I read a piece that I thought would be great for these trying times in which our attitudes are everything. Enjoy this special edition of KwaPEP, filled with hope!
Share store photographs & letters with us. VIA INTERNAL MAIL: KwaPEP, Central Office, PO Box 6376, Parow East 7501 Email: suzannec@ pepstores.com PLEASE INCLUDE 1) your store number and name, 2) description of event 3) Dynamos’ names PLEASE NOTE: Only Jpegs allowed, no scanned photos or collages will be used.
So, get going and send us your magic. You might just win a prize too!
Sikhula KunYe! Suzanne Coetzee
KwaPEP is PEP’s newspaper published quarterly by the Communication Department. PO Box 6376, Parow East 7501 Editor: Mariki Schwiebus Tel:(021) 937 2562 Email: marikis@ pepstores.com Design: GAPdesign Printing: Novus
“Michael is the kind of guy you love to hate. He is always in a good mood and always has something positive to say. When someone would ask him how he was doing, he would reply, “If I were any better, I would be twins!” If an employee was having a bad day, Michael was there telling the employee how to look on the positive side of the situation. This made me curious, so one day I went up to Michael and asked him, “I don’t get it! You can’t be a positive person all of the time. How do you do it?” Michael replied, “Each morning I say to myself, ‘Today, you can choose to be in a good mood or you can choose to be in a bad mood.’ I choose to be in a good mood. Each time something bad happens, I can choose to be a victim, or I can choose to learn from it. I choose to learn from it. Every time someone comes to me complaining, I can choose to accept their complaining, or I can point out the positive side of life. I choose the positive side of life.” “Yeah, right, it’s not that easy,” I protested. “Yes, it is,” Michael insisted. “Life is all about choices. When you cut away all the junk, every situation is a choice. You choose how you react to situations. You choose how people affect your mood. You choose to be in a good mood or bad mood. The bottom line: It’s your choice how you live your life.” I reflected on what Michael had said. Soon thereafter, I left the Tower Industry to start my own business. We lost touch, but I often thought about him whenever I made a choice about life instead of just reacting to it. Several years later, I heard that Michael was involved in a serious accident, falling down nearly 20 metres from
a communications tower. After 18 hours of surgery and weeks of intensive care, Michael was released from the hospital with rods placed in his back. I saw Michael about six months after the accident. When I asked him how he was, he replied, “If I were any better, I’d be twins. Wanna see my scars?” I declined to see his wounds and asked what had gone through his mind as the accident took place. Michael replied. “As I lay on the ground, I remembered that I had two choices: I could choose to live, or I could choose to die. I chose to live.” “Weren’t you scared? Did you lose consciousness?” I asked. Michael said, “The paramedics were great. They kept telling me I was going to be fine. But in the ER I saw the facial expressions of the doctors and nurses, and I got really scared. In their eyes, I read, ‘He’s a dead man.’ I knew I needed to take action.” “What did you do?” I asked. “Well, there was a nurse shouting questions at me,” said Michael. “She asked if I was allergic to anything. ‘Yes,’ I replied.” The doctors and nurses stopped working as they waited for my reply. ‘Gravity,’ was my reply. Over their laughter, I told them, ‘I am choosing to live. Operate on me as if I am alive, not dead.’ “ “Michael lived, not only thanks to the skill of his doctors, but also because of his amazing attitude. I learned from him that every day we have the choice to live fully. After all, today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday. Enjoy each day, each breath and, mostly, each and every friend. And remember to start each day with an “attitude of gratitude!”
Sikhula KunYe! Editor SEPTEMBER 2020
1
BERTIE’S LETTER
Life-changing events! One day, many years from now, we will be telling our children about this year we have had. We will tell them about a terrible virus that infected many of our fellow South Africans and caused a great deal of pain and sorrow. We will tell them we lost loved ones, people lost jobs, many went hungry and it was for many the worst time they have ever experienced. But we will also tell them that although PEP was closed for many weeks losing millions in sales, PEP and the Dynamos of PEP returned with renewed vigor and achieved some of the best sales months ever in May and June! Up to the end of March before lockdown, our sales growth was below budget, but better than the rest of the market. When the lockdown took place in April, sales came to almost a complete standstill. But customers came back with a vengeance in May and June and sales were specifically boosted by customers buying more items in a basket and buying a lot of winter products. All departments in CFH have seen a great recovery but due to the high sales, we have seen our stock availability dropping significantly. Despite this, the Logistics teams have done great work to get back into proper availability for our customers in July and August and for fresh new Summer stock to land in our stores. At the end of May, we experienced the highest market share growth for many months! Cellular handsets have seen a similar wonderful recovery after April, although virtual airtime sales are declining. FMCG and PEPmoney sales have also had very good growths. Even PAXI has experienced record-breaking transaction levels as customers see the value in this service.
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SEPTEMBER 2020
However, even with the good sales we experienced after the re-opening in April, we should expect that the impacts of COVID-19 on our economy will directly impact the purchasing power of our customers. Government has come to the aid of many of our customers, handing out extra grants, but this will only last a few months and then the impact of job losses and slow economic growth will impact our sales. That is why it will become extremely important for us to focus on how we manage our Cost of Doing Business. And it is up to each one of our PEP Dynamos to be cost busters by watching out for bad costs or becoming more effective in the way that we are working. A lot of plans have been made during our budgeting process to help keep our costs low in order to continue to give our customers the lowest price in the market. In these tough times, we must always remind ourselves why we are here – to make it possible for everyone to look and feel good. And if we stay true to this vision and deliver to our customers, they will reward us in sales. I want to thank each and every Dynamo for your hard work and commitment during these very challenging times! Looking forward, the future is still a bit unclear, but with the right attitude, we can continue to be successful. With the busy season lying ahead, all the best to our store and DC Dynamos. Also remember to CLAYGO and look after yourself!
Sikhula KunYe!
Blow the whistle It’s your responsibility to report any dishonest behaviour of customers or fellow Dynamos (including management) regarding the misuse of company assets. Nobody will know that you reported the incident. You do not have to give your name and nobody can trace your call. Follow-up on your lead is guaranteed. Toll Free Number: 0800 006 285 Email: information@ whistleblowing.co.za Toll Free Fax: 0800 212 689 Postal: FREEPOST KZN665, MUSGRAVE, 4062 SMS:33490 Online: www. whistleblowing.co.za
Chief Executive Finance
JAAP’S LETTER
I feel proud! Hi 5 Dynamos It’s wonderful to speak to you again. Unfortunately, due to the chaos of COVID-19, we missed the June edition of KwaPEP. To my knowledge, this is the first time in the history of PEP that an issue has ever been cancelled. They say tough times don’t last, but tough people do. Although we are not out of the woods yet, I am extremely proud of the way in which every Dynamo has handled the pandemic and made sure that we kept safe and that our business could keep its doors open for our remarkable customers.
“There is a promise in every new dawn. Promise of a new start, new chances, new opportunities and new hope. Always remember the promise.”
Even though we couldn’t trade for one month, we had our best sales month ever in May and we have been gaining market share ever since. Our customers unquestionably need our friendliness, ~ DOE ZANTAMATA products, services and lowest prices in these tough economic times and I feel so proud when I see their smiles. Our customers also desperately need something to excite them in these dark days - like a ray of sunshine signalling a new beginning, new hope and a fresh start… something like our bright new PEP logo! Dynamos, isn’t our new logo the most beautiful, fresh and modern design that will take PEP into a new era? An era in which customers will walk tall, proudly displaying their PEP shopping bag. Where they will brag about how smart they are to shop at PEP, because why would anyone pay more for the same item? Just imagine how proud this will make us all feel. Dynamos, this is our new dawn and we are privileged and should feel proud to be part of it.
Sikhula KunYe!
CEO SEPTEMBER 2020
3
A new-look PEP to delight our customers In 1965 Renier van Rooyen started PEP with the vision to delight customers by making them look and feel good. Today, 55 years later, that vision remains. During the past few years our products and offering have really become worldclass. Our customers, however feel that our image doesn’t reflect 2020 and needs some refreshing. They want to walk tall with their PEP shopping bag in hand, telling their friends that they did the smart thing by shopping at PEP because life’s better with PEP. We listened because we want to delight our customers, and now we are proud to introduce you to the new refreshed PEP logo and applications.
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SEPTEMBER 2020
So, why did we change the logo? • Our customers asked for it. • As a discounter, simplicity and consistency is required. • Shopping centres demand it. • The brand deserves it.
How do our customers experience our brand? GENEROUS
PEP is sociable and always willing to share – be it knowledge, experience or lesser-known information. PEP always makes ME feel included and valued.
DYNAMIC
We are vibrant and spirited. We have that get-up-and-go attitude. We are enthusiastic and our energy is contagious.
WELCOMING
SAVVY
We have our finger on the pulse. We are well-connected and up-to-date with trends. We give you more to make your money go further.
We are friendly, authentic and grounded. Everyone is welcome, no-one is excluded. We are accessible and easy to talk to.
PEP’S NEW LOOK
Our new logos
SEPTEMBER 2020
5
Let’s explore
look our new
We call it: our PEP Tab.
We know that our customers are savvy with their money. We want them to shop with us because we offer them so much more, so that their money can go further. We wanted a symbol that not only reflects our optimistic personality, but something that represents the “MUCH MORE”. We wanted a symbol as dynamic as we are, that showcases how PEP goes the extra mile for our customers.
It is dynamic and simple in its form, and can be mirrored to form a circle and elongated to form an oblong shape.
= more From its symbolism as the sun, to a full circle as a dinner plate, to a stylistic speech bubble, or to use it as a digital navigation, the Tab is universally recognised. Our Tab will tell our brand story and showcase the “MUCH MORE” that we, as PEP, have to offer, be it in highlighting our products or in using it to feature as a backdrop or prop. The opportunities are endless.
Primary Colours: Pep Blue Pep Pep Blue Yellow
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SEPTEMBER 2020
Patterns:
Internal fonts:
LIVVIC livvic
PEP’S NEW LOOK
Our Culture
Sikhula KunYe Sikhula KunYe is still at the centre of how we do business, how we treat one another and how we behave. We are still the same Dynamos who greet each other with a Hi 5 (even though it’s currently a virtual one). We still care, we still do it for you, we still grow together and we are still the difference. We have one of the best cultures in the world and our refreshed Sikhula KunYe look will match that and continue to reinforce that we are growing together. We live our values of honesty, passion and resourcefulness and recite our credo with pride.
SEPTEMBER 2020
7
Our new signage, decals and brandwalls
Some stores will receive the exciting new signage, decals and brand walls soon. This will be a slow roll-out process, but all new and revamped stores, as well as any stores that were due to receive new signage, will boast the new look.
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SEPTEMBER 2020
PEP’S NEW LOOK
New shopping bag Our new PEP shopping bag is made of 100% recycled material, and at the same cost as the previous bag. PEPhome will also now boast their own shopping bag, which will be phased in.
SEPTEMBER 2020
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New Our new leaflets
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SEPTEMBER 2020
retail and corporate applications
PEP’S NEW LOOK
Stationary
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SEPTEMBER 2020
11
Dynamo Feelgood Kit
PENS
DYNAMO FEELGOOD KIT BOX
BUFF NEW SOCKS
New Feelgood FM logo and sound FGFM boasts a new sound to match the new refreshed PEP look and its own new logo. The new sound of FGFM aims to set the mood, speak the lingo and bring a savvy vibe for the overall in-store customer experience. They will also be adding new features in the Staff Show that will enhance the Sikhula KunYe Culture.
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SEPTEMBER 2020
PEP’S NEW LOOK
Here’s what some of our leaders have to say about our new refreshed brand:
CHIEF EXECUTIVE MARKETING, BEYERS VAN DER MERWE: “The new refreshed brand signals so many new opportunities still to come for PEP in making our customers look and feel good. For many years Dynamos worked with lots of passion, and PEP is now ready to tell our remarkable customers about all these changes... Ready for more growth. Ready for more happy customers and ready to reset and start the new chapter of success and growing together.”
REGIONAL MANAGER ARNO VAN ROOYEN: "It’s fresh, exciting but still the trusted PEP name.”
REGIONAL MANAGER CHRIS VAN ROOYEN: “The same trustworthy business with the same remarkable people serving remarkable customers, but with a new and fresh look.” DIVISIONAL MANAGER PAUL WOLFAARDT: “We are all proudly PEP and ready for the future.”
DEALZ OPERATIONS MANAGER, MARIUS KOCH: “It’s exciting, modern, simple and very relevant!”
REGIONAL MANAGER MAHOMED PEERBHAI: “Our beautiful new brand confirms that PEP is moving forward into a new era and we are proud to be part of PEP. Sikhula KunYe!”
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, JAAP HAMMAN: “This is much more than just a logo change, it’s a bold statement of our confidence in the future of PEP. We’ve been talking to our remarkable customers, looking at our market, improving our offerings and significantly evolving the way we do things. The COVID-19 lockdown confirmed PEP’s commitment to the process; ‘With our prices, product and unparalleled footprint across the nation, we will have a big role to play in reviving the economy, and we want to give our customers a sense of new and positive purpose.”
REGIONAL MANAGER LIEZEL LE ROUX: “I am grateful and very blessed to be part of a new era in PEP – an era of uplifting, growing, being relevant and stronger than ever before! In all these uncertain times, one thing stood out: PEP is here to stay. PEP really cares; PEP is the difference to many of us as Dynamos and Customers – I am so lucky to be part of this special company, my PEP!”
SEPTEMBER 2020
13
REGIONAL MANAGER TIELMAN NEL: “I think the timing of the launch is perfect and the new brand is fresh and funky!”
GENERAL MANAGER THEUNS DU PREEZ: “World-class, fashionable and vibrant.”
REGIONAL MANAGER BASTIAAN ERLANK: “World-class brand – Best Sales Force!”
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SEPTEMBER 2020
CHIEF EXECUTIVE: SALES, WYNAND MÖLLER: “PEP is undoubtedly one of the most recognisable and trusted brands in Southern Africa! When PEP was founded in 1965, the requirement for the name was that it must be short, and you must be able to say the name in any language. PEP was certainly the name! With the name came the Yellow, Blue and White colours with a very distinctive font. Now, 55 years later we are giving our logo a much needed “spring clean”. A new font, clean, neat yet still PEP. During the coming years, we will replace the old logo wherever we use it. It is as the saying goes “a new jacket” for our brand, one of the most recognisable and trusted brands in Southern Africa.”
REGIONAL MANAGER JAN NEL: “A balance between the old and a fresh new PEP. Continuation of the same WHY and HOW we did business in the past, as well as focussing on the future to adapt, to always be relevant in order for everybody to associate with our trusted Brand and the inclusive feeling of belonging.”
REGIONAL MANAGER FRANCIS MBAMBO: “Refreshing, exciting and a sign of renewed hope for the future. A dawn of a new era.”
REGIONAL MANAGER BEREND VAN STRAATEN: “An inspiration of a bright future, a shining beacon of hope to our customers.”
CHIEF EXECUTIVE: PLANNING, FRANCOIS FOURIE: “This is one of the most exciting days in my 17 years at PEP. It symbolises a fresh start and a great opportunity to make an even bigger impact on the lives of our Dynamos and our remarkable customers. It shows that, as a company, we are relevant, innovative, growing and evolving.”
PEP’S NEW LOOK
REGIONAL MANAGER JOHANN GENIS: “Nothing is as good as a change for our great and wonderful customers!”
DIVISIONAL MANAGER JUAN LE ROUX: ”Fresh, clean, crisp and with-it. Very exciting!”
REGIONAL MANAGER RUDI BOEHME: “Exciting, with-it and yet simple. We need change, otherwise we will die.”
CHIEF EXECUTIVE: COMMERCIAL, MICK SILKE: “The needs of our remarkable customers are evolving and so is our brand. It is new and fresh, yet it still stands for the PEP we know and love. It is a very exciting time to be part of the PEP story.”
REGIONAL MANAGER FRIKKIE NORTJE: “Simpler but better. Giving hope of a great future. The right thing at the right time!”
CHIEF EXECUTIVE: MERCHANDISE, SUZETTE VAN ZYL: “With the launch of the new fresh logo we are now even more relevant to our customers than before. Not only by offering a friendly service but also in the customer experience of offering wanted products at the best prices. We are still PEP but we need to keep on evolving to stay relevant to our environment. The new logo symbolises hope and growth. I am very excited about this next chapter of making it even more possible for our customers to look and feel good with PEP.”
DIVISIONAL MANAGER BARRY KAWAL: “Re-Freshed! Re-Focused! ReCharged! I am extremely excited, proud and privileged to be part of this new chapter in PEP. We owe it to our remarkable customers to be relevant and to evolve with time. Viva PEP, Viva!”
GENERAL MANAGER KAGO REGOENG: “The brand says we are committed to our course and we will stir our innovative capabilities to ensure our customers get the best, on time, all the time. We keep it simple and remain reliable, accessible and the friendliest as we take on a new path, a fresh beginning. We are transforming our image without distorting our story, hence the new brand keeps the resonance of the old and just signals and strikes new hope and emotions.”
SEPTEMBER 2020
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Senzela Wena
INSIDER INSIGHTS A journey into the hearts and minds of our customers
CUSTOMERS TALK COVID CONCERNS WITH US We’ve come so far on our Senzela Wena journey to Know, Understand and Love our customers. In the past few weeks we have made leaps and bounds forward in our understanding of how the Covid-19 crisis has affected our customers and communities. We took bold steps to create our largest Mobile Survey ever, with over
60 000 customers opting in. Now we’ve gathered the most relevant and up-to-date information out there on how the average consumer’s life has changed, and how they feel about it. Let’s take a look at a few of the many new insights our customers have shared.
HOW ARE OUR CUSTOMERS FEELING?
49% UNCERTAIN, ANXIOUS & DEPRESSED
30% CONFUSED & SCARED
32
I TRY TO AVOID GOING OUT
18% I FEEL A LITTLE WORRIED
HAPPY & HOPEFUL
SOURCE: Kantar’s Mzanzi Nillionaires 2020 Study
HOW CONFIDENT ARE THEY GOING OUT? %
16%
19
%
I FEEL VERY WORRIED
30% I’M COMFORTABLE BUT TAKE PRECAUTIONS
CHANGES IN SHOPPING BEHAVIOUR
22% 59%
SHOPPED MONTHLY PRE-COVID
NOW SHOP MONTHLY
LESS SHOPPING TRIPS = MORE UNITS PER SHOP = HIGHER BASKET VALUE CUSTOMERS ARE SPENDING MORE IN THESE CATEGORIES
SOURCE: Customer Panel Survey 1, Survey Respondents = 16,415, Q1 Completion Rate 100%, N = 16,415
86% 16
SEPTEMBER 2020
FEEL IT’S IMPORTANT TO KNOW THE STORE IS SAFE AND HYGIENIC
SANITISING ITEMS
DATA AND AIRTIME
HOME ENTERTAINMENT
CLOTHING INCL. BABY CLOTHES
SOURCE: Customer Panel Survey 1, Survey Respondents = 10,159, Q9 Completion Rate 82%, N = 13,489
WHAT ARE THEIR BUDGET PRIORITIES? CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR ARE NUMBER 10 ON THE LIST OF PRIORITIES
GROCERIES
FUNERAL POLICY
TRANSPORT
SCHOOL FEES
97%
92%
84%
70%
70%
68%
60%
12%
ELECTRICITY
SAVINGS
AIRTIME & DATA
ENTERTAINMENT
SOURCE: Customer Panel Survey 2, Survey Respondents = 7 159, Q18 Completion Rate 77%, N = 5 484
HOW IMPACTED ARE CUSTOMERS FEELING? 55% FEEL NEGATIVELY IMPACTED AFFECTED BY • LOSS OF JOBS
• INCREASED GROCERY BILL
• SALARY CUTS
• TOILETRY AND SANITISING SPEND INCREASE
• DECREASE IN HOUSEHOLD INCOME
• NO MONEY FOR ESSENTIALS
• DOMESTIC WORKERS RETRENCHED
18%
5 - Extremely
21%
4 - Very
23%
3 - Slightly
32%
2 - A little
6%
1 - Not at all 0
500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500
SOURCE: Customer Panel Survey 1, Survey Respondents = 16,415, Q10 Completion Rate 81%, N = 13,377 Verbatim responses (4,628) from customers who responded 4/5 to question 10.
EXPENSES OUR CUSTOMERS ARE UNABLE TO MEET • STORE ACCOUNT PAYMENTS
• HOME LOANS
• SCHOOL FEES
• LAY-BY PAYMENTS
• STOKVEL CONTRIBUTIONS
• FUNERAL/INSURANCE POLICIES
SOURCE: Customer Panel Survey 2, Survey Respondents = 7 159, Q17 Completion Rate 77%, N = 5 492
EVERY DYNAMO CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO OUR CUSTOMERS’ LIVES DURING THESE TIMES. THANK YOU FOR DOING YOUR PART. SEPTEMBER 2020
17
TOP
132 STORES,
R1,59bn. OF SALES
1,20% STOCK LOSS AVERAGE
COMPARED TO THE REST
OF THE STORES’ 1,53%
5,7%
THEIR COMBINED SALES PERCENTAGE OVER BUDGET.
Zama Zulu from 4930 Durban was the winner of the top PEPcell store below R5m. Her store was 20% ahead of the budget.
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SEPTEMBER 2020
Performers PEP’s top performing store managers were flown to Cape Town in March to be acknowledged for their stores’ successes. They first paid a visit to Central Office where they visited the FGFM radio station, Jaap’s office and the various Central Office Dynamos with whom they often interact. Then the big moment arrived. The prizegiving ceremony took place at Central Office with all the Central Office Dynamos present to acknowledge the stores and cheer them on! The group stayed at a lovely hotel overlooking Cape Town. The following day, they were treated to some sightseeing
activities. They could choose between a red bus tour of Cape Town, a trip to Robben Island and a ride up Table Mountain. The group represented 132 stores, with a combined total sales of R1,59bn. Their stock loss average was 1,20% compared to the rest of the stores’ 1,53%. Their combined sales were 5,7% over budget. Chief Executive Officer, Jaap Hamman, congratulated the managers at the prizegiving event and said that these stores’ results are amazing.
Golden Acorn Winners:
Kathy Maluleka from 4479 Embalenhle was the winner of the top PEPcell store above R5m. Her store was 23% ahead of the budget.
Ncami Melani from 5709 Hammarsdale was the winner of the top store below R12m. Her store was 24% ahead of budget.
Nontobeko Majola from 6732 Pietermaritzburg was the winner of the top store above R12m. Her store was 10% ahead of budget.
TOP PERFORMERS
Top Performers Winners: 1. PEPcell top winners below R5m F.l.t.r. are Phumzile Ndlela (4913 Kwa Ngwanase), Pearl Nhlangwana (4489 Mtubatuba), Zama Zulu (4930 Durban), Njabulo Zulu (4874 Malelane) and Simamkele Sontshantsha (4940 Queenstown). At the back are Ian Reynolds (PEPcell Divisional manager), Jaap Hamman (CEO) and Wynand Mรถller (Chief Executive: Sales).
2. PEPcell top winners above R5m
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F.l.t.r. are Patricia Hendricks (4945 Vanderbijlpark), Kathy Maluleka (4479 Embalenhle) and Letlhogonolo Kgasi (4712 Brits). At the back are Ian Reynolds (PEPcell Divisional manager), Jaap Hamman (CEO) and Wynand Mรถller (Chief Executive: Sales).
3. Top stores above R12m In front f.l.t.r. are Smah Seerane (6421 Tembisa), Thembile Gwamba (257 Maun), Masello Moloko (924 Groblersdal), Stephany Harri (6685 Port Elizabeth), Maano Monyeki (6711 Thohoyandou), Tembelihle Lebobo (6721 Delft), Phumlani Dube (6700 Piet Retief ), Charlotte Strauss (270 Piketberg), Sfiso Mbatha (349 Piet Retief ) and Norma Waiter (6470 Gaborone). Second row f.l.t.r. are Joyce Ramoshaba (8375 Secunda), Sadiya Mahmud (6522 Durban), Asma Jacobs (5533 Goodwood), Emily Otsholetseng (8569 Gumare), Pumeza Njawuzela (6632 Lusikisiki), Nontobeko Majola (6732 Pietermaritzburg), Remisia Amakali (8752 Oranjemund), Sabela Msoki (6244 Mthatha), Harriette Mathebula (6397 Nelspruit), Suene van Staden (6533 Secunda) and Ntombi Mpofu (413 Barberton). At the back are Jaap Hamman (CEO), Emma Lesia (6701 Springs), Teyise Dlamini (4530 Herefords) and Wynand Mรถller (Chief Executive: Sales).
4. Top stores below R12m
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In front f.l.t.r. are Pretty Masilela (5648 Delmas), Alice Shilongo (5643 Windhoek), Thandeka Dlamini (6730 Sipofu Thulini), Elizabeth Kashawa (5681 Swakopmund), Monicca Modisane (5644 Thabazimbi), Sfiso Shlongonyane (5543 Witbank), Lindiwe Manyoni (5705 Table Bay Mall) and Sonia Motaung (5687 Rustenburg). Second row f.l.t.r. are Dineo Kula (5581 Secunda), Stacy Reddy (5699 Scottburgh), Patricia Mthembu (6702 Johannesburg), Debbie Viljoen (5666 Port Elizabeth), Ncami Melani (5709 Hammarsdale), Brenda Khumalo (5691 Johannesburg), Vera Mathebula (5668 Malelane), Siyabonga Nyandeni (546 Secunda) and Ameo Nelson (5697 Jeffreys Bay). At the back are Jaap Hamman (CEO), Phyllis Kotze (5565 Bloemfontein), Nozipho Dlamini (6713 Nhlangano) and Wynand Mรถller (Chief Executive: Sales). SEPTEMBER 2020
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Top Performers. Our Secret to Success
During their trip to Robben Island earlier this year, we’ve asked some of the Top Performers what their secret to success is and this is what they had to say…
Question: What is your secret to success?
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5 1. Sylvia Melani from 5709 PEPhome Hammarsdale: “Believe in yourself and do your best.” 2. Zandile Ndlanzi from 5766 PEPhome Ladybrand: “Engage with your team and always involve them. Don’t be the boss, just be yourself.” Nikiwe Mbena from 4941 PEPcell Delft: ”Have regular checkins and morning talks with your Dynamos. If you have promotions, get all Dynamos involved and get their ideas. Don't just tell them what to do. That way all are happy and excited to work together.” Tembelihle Lubobo from 6721 Delft: “Teamwork, and motivation is key.”
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SEPTEMBER 2020
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Catherine Sekhoto from 8791 Pretoria: “Be a team leader. I am also a mentor – that way I give good medicine to heal a broken heart.” 3. Tebenyane Ramolula from 6662 Welkom: “The more times I fail, the more I learn from my mistakes and the more I understand. Just do your best. Always be involved with a customer, as the more you are involved, the more they care about you.” Phumlani Dube from 6700 Piet Retief: “Work hard. Take problems as a challenge and ask for help. Be involved with wise people to become wise”. 4. Florence Isaacs from 6645 Kraaifontein: “Customer Service is
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always important. Always be friendly and keep the shelves full.”
Success is not about you, it is about your team.”
Ameo Nelson from 5697 Jeffreys Bay: “Always try your best every day and put your best foot forward.”
Stacy Reddy from 5699 Scottburgh: “The secret is how you treat your team and your customers. By treating everyone with dignity and respect, you can achieve more.”
5. Ziyanda Zwane from 4917 PEPcell Johannesburg: “Do things as a team, then you can achieve more.” David Lombaard from 4333 PEPcell Khayelitsha: “Have a positive mindset and always treat Dynamos with respect. Be an example to your team and give recognition when needed.” Lindiwe Manyoni from 5705 PEPhome Table View: “By having a positive attitude and lots of energy, it will bring you success. Also, don't be a boss – involve your team.
6. Letlhogonolo Kgasi from 4712 PEPcell Brits: “Unity and teamwork are important. Talk and strategise with your team regularly.” Busisiwe Bali from 6689 Heidelberg: “We do promotions in store every weekend and the customers love it. We also have zero complaints in our store, the customers love us.” 7. Patrick Mongalo from 4473 PEPcell Bochum: “Be driven
and passionate. It is not a job, but a career. PEP gave me the opportunity to grow from a P27 to a store manager. Our SIkhula KunYe culture drives me. Always do your best.” 8. Pinke Khanye from 4751 PEPcell Siyabuswa: “Hard work and teamwork are the secrets to success. My store Dynamos are the reason I am here today. Always encourage your team to achieve more and to grow to be successful.” Mpho Mogodiri from 4326 PEPcell Johannesburg: “Listen, understand and love your team. I refer to Zahara’s song called Umthwalo Wakho – it is your responsibility to sort out the baggage and learn to deal with it.”
PEP ACADEMY
Growing the PEP Academy family despite difficult times In 2020 we welcomed three new schools into the PEP Academy family. In KwaZulu-Natal, Thembeni Primary joined our programme and brought three of the cluster of schools working together in KwaDukuza. In Soweto, two more schools have joined. Esithebeni Primary and Mdelwa Hlongwane Primary bring the PEP Academy schools in Soweto to four. Nobody could have foreseen what 2020 had in store for us when our PEP Academy learners across four provinces arrived to receive their backpacks, books and stationery in February, ready for a year of maths, language, arts and drama in the afternoons. At the end of March our 4287 learners were looking forward to the second term when they would receive PEP Academy vouchers to acknowledge their good attendance (about 92% of them attended 95% or more of the classes in the term). Sadly, at the time of writing (July 2020), our Grade 4s and 5s had still not returned to school after the COVID-19 lockdown. The good news, however, is that when they do return to school, PEP Academy vouchers will be waiting for them.
While our learners and teachers may not have physically been attending PEP Academy classes for most of this year, we have continued to support the schools as far as possible during this time. Read more about this in the next issue of KwaPEP.
Thandulwazi teachers adapt to e-learning For three years PEP has funded a programme that helps teachers in the Modimolle area of Limpopo register for and complete a Grade R teaching qualification from UNISA. For many of these teachers, this is their first opportunity to study towards a tertiary qualification. This year 50 teachers enrolled. Typically, teachers would gather several times a year to complete their UNISA registration and to work together – with the support of tutors – on their UNISA assignments. These gatherings were no longer allowed during lockdown, and the Thandulwazi programme managers had to work fast to come up with an alternative plan. As an alternative, pre-recorded video tutorials were sent to teachers to help them prepare each of their assignments, and then they were invited to attend WhatsApp sessions for more clarity and for questions and answers.
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DC Dynamos receive Sikhula KunYe awards during Lockdown Whilst COVID-19 turned the world upside down, it gave the DC Dynamos an opportunity to bring out the very best in themselves and the Dynamos around them. The DC opened its doors again after the first lockdown phase had ended and introduced a new working environment with various new rules and regulations. Our Sikhula KunYe culture once again showed how our remarkable Dynamos worked on the front line, providing an essential service during this global pandemic. As of June 2020, the DC re-implemented monthly departmental Sikhula KunYe awards by recognising Dynamos in these difficult times. Sikhula KunYe means “growing together” and, if this pandemic has given us anything good at all, it is the opportunity to grow, to change, to evolve and most importantly, to bring our Dynamos safely with us.
DC COVID-19 protocols The DCs are keeping up with the demand and getting boxes in store on time while prioritising health and safety measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. All DCs have put proper precautions and protocols in place to ensure that all Dynamos are safe and healthy. With the deployment of hygiene-enforcing tools and physical-distancing measures, most of the Dynamos could return to work. The Dynamos are working extremely hard behind the scenes to fulfil the demands of our remarkable customers.
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Here’s a quick look at what’s going on at the DCs right now, nationally:
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Upon entry and exit every Dynamo, third party contractor and supplier visitor is screened at the gate. Dynamos have to sanitise their hands when entering through the gates and must wear a mask at all times.
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Social distancing is very important in the DC space. The departments have different break times to ensure that the canteen is not overcrowded and that there is enough distance between Dynamos when they are seated.
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Each DC has a cleaning team who follows a strict cleaning checklist to ensure that every hotspot is sanitised regularly.
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To ensure that protocols are adhered to, a COVID-19 committee was formed. This committee holds weekly meetings to discuss new risk findings and concerns.
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Health and Safety officers screen our Dynamos randomly during the day to check on temperature and symptoms. This team is also trained on how to handle various scenarios of COVID-19 if it should occur at the DC.
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We are facing tough times, but with our Dynamos being so understanding and adhering to the COVID-19 protocols, we can overcome any challenge.
DC COVID
DC Dynamos practising social distancing during break time.
Social distancing while working in the DC.
Sanitising stations are placed all over the DC.
System upgrade at Johannesburg Distribution Centre During June, the Johannesburg DC upgraded to a new Warehouse Management System called GLODC2. The Kuils River and Duran DC have been using this system for a while. The DC Dynamos were very excited to work together and embraced the change as a team. All Dynamos played their part in making this system upgrade the best ever. Even the COVID-19 pandemic and recent taxi strike did not stop this amazing team. The theme for this new project was #TheBestGoLiveEver and this was a huge success. Dynamo was involved from the start and all shared a vision and wanted to accomplish this milestone. They followed a consistent communication plan and Dynamos were excited about the new logo and branded masks which they received to celebrate this milestone. Alf Harding, Johannesburg DC Manager, and Vanya Jansen, National DC Manager, says that the new system now allows the DC to be more efficient and productive. A picker can now pick more than one store at a time. They are also seeing a reduction in the cost of doing business. The stock gets to the stores much faster, the system allows for more accurate visibility and traceability of stock, and many processes can now be automated.
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Magic
Moments
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4 1. 6358 Centurion 2. 4705 PEPcell Rustenburg
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3. A customer from 6597 Pelican Park turned this overall into a dress.
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4. 4444 PEPcell Kempstar 5. 8743 Lakeside mall 6. 6498 Hillcrest village
Sikhula KunYe celebrations
Valentine’s Day Celebration
7. 4441 PEPcell Simunye centre
10. 6595 President Hyper
8. 4872 PEPcell Rustenburg
11. 8758 Heidelberg
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4705 PEPcell Boitekong Mall
6734 Mutale
12. 8003 Whittlesea
9. 4800 PEPcell Vereeniging
13. 183 Touwsriver 14. 9763 Dealz
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8743 Lakeside Mall
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Valentine’s Day Celebration
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SEPTEMBER 2020
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1. 6675 Queenstown
6. 8484 Nqamakwe
11. 6481 Soweto
15. 8514 Soweto
2. 4206 Queenstown
7. 315 King William’s Town
12. 4955 Diepsloot
16. 0115 Simunye
3. 6591 Lichtenburg
8. 531 King William’s Town
17. 8323 Piggs Peak
4. 8485 Tarkastad
9. 4556 PEPcell Tembisa
13. 8773 Eastpoint Shopping Centre
5. 6497 Queenstown
10. 4490 PEPcell Kroonstad
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18. 8357 Tshaneni
14. 5670 PEPhome Standerton
19. 8512 Mbabane 20. 6763 Kempton park
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Lockdown Magic Moments
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5. 4800 PEPcell Vereeniging 6. 4599 Mokopane Mall 7. Dynamos sanitising 8. 4859 PEPcell Potchefstroom 9. 4444 PEPcell Kempton Park 10. 690 Thaba Nchu
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SEPTEMBER 2020
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11. 4945 PEPcell Kempton Park
7 12. 4788 PEPcell Kempton Park 13. 4488 PEPcell Nongoma 14. 8348 Maun 15. 8414 Ghanzi 16. 4842 PEPcell Goldfields Mall 17. 935 Elim 18. 6266 Tzaneen 19. 6538 Acornhoek Plaza 20. 6731 Dwarsloop 21. 272 Phalaborwa 22. 6232 Hoedspruit 23. 603 Phalaborwa 24. 338 Musina
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Showing support against
gender-based violence
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1. 6343 Stanford Quarter
4. 6574 Hunters Retreat
2. 8693 Greenacres
5. 6685 Greenacres
3. 6242 Walker Drive
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DYNAMOS ON THE MOVE
What’s happening in the Quality Assurance department? Due to COVID-19, we all had to adapt to a new way of working. Even the quality technologists and buyers at Central Office had to change to a new process. During the hard lockdown, no samples could be sent from suppliers to the technologists and the buyers. Virtual approvals were done where suppliers sent photos to the buyers and technologists. The sample on the dummies had to be photographed from all sides (front, back and sides) so that the fit could be assessed and approved or rejected. The suppliers also had to send photos of the measurements for approval. During level four and three, more approvals are now being done on physical samples. Technologists and buyers keep their social distance, wear their masks and only the buyer and technologist will be in a fit or approval session. In some cases, the technologist will assess the fit/samples on their own and email the images and comments to the buyer for virtual approval.
Dynamos
on the Move Nazarene Barnes joined Dealz as a divisional secretary.
Sylvia Silinda joins PEP as a regional secretary for the Kwena, Emfuleni Regional Office.
This new way of working has created new opportunities in the sense that the lead time on urgent orders can be made shorter.
Nadine van As has been promoted from a regional secretary for PEPhome and Langeberg to a Southern divisional secretary.
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Long Service
Awards 20 YEARS June 2020 to December 2020
20 YEARS
20 YEARS
Theresa Adams Central Office
Trudy-Ann Presence and Tracy-Lee Presence Central Office
25 YEARS
35 YEARS
Louis Lourens Central Office
Desiree Agulhas Central Office
YolandĂŠ Muller Central Office
40 YEARS
40 YEARS
40 YEARS
Marius Koch Dealz
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35 YEARS
20 YEARS Rudi Craeye Central Office
SEPTEMBER 2020
Pedro Mannel Central Office
Davie Louw Central Office
Edward Moriri Hilda Adams Vuyelwa Twani Peggy Akanyang Elmarie Johnson Lucy Mashigo Zoleka Skelemana Buyiswa Lewu Usinah Sebeka Joyce Motshwarateu Barapedi Letshwenyo Maria Maluleke Florah Chauke Johannes O’Connell Zandile Ntshiza Sarah Mfebe Thuli Sithole Nhlanhla Tshabalala Jane Mothogoane Petunia Sehloho Sandra Fortuin Tutu Ngubane Dalsey Mbongela Mnoneleli Jebese Nthabiseng Namane Funeka Buthelezi Iyaloo Hailapa Wayne Simpson Peloentle Eole Lettie Masilela Maki Motloung Matumane Thabane Buyisiwe Xaba Zanele Gumbi Harry Mogabi Priscilla Mthethwa Zelda Marah Eric Mahlangu Samantha Louw Lientjie Mcdonald Anna Malgas Portia Gcukumana Randall Beukes Tseri Mathebula Amanda Nyanto
Acornhoek Plaza Bellville Berlin Bobonong Bonnievale Bushbuckridge East London Elliot Francistown Gaborone Gaborone Giyani Giyani Grahamstown Greytown Hertzogville Hlatikulu Johannesburg Jane Furse Johannesburg Kuruman Ladysmith Lebowakgomo Libode Bokleni Maseru Mossel Bay Oshakati Port Elizabeth Palapye PEPcell Kwaggafontein PEPcell Phuthaditjhaba Phuthaditjhaba Phuthaditjhaba Pongola Pretoria Richards Bay Richmond Siyabuswa Soweto Springbok Trompsburg Uitenhage Vredenburg Witbank Zeerust
LONG SERVICE AWARDS
20 YEARS June 2020 to December 2020 Albert Ramphiri Thanja Eksteen Sylvia Botha Elias Pelego Bonolo Simanyana Anne van der Reede Ruchalle van Schalkwyk Neil Douman Setlalekgosi Setiko Sharief Adhikarie Elize Farrel
North West Namibia Inland Gauteng Indlovu Indlovu PEPcell Imbewu Finance Botswana Merchandise Indlovu
25 YEARS Suzette van Zyl Erens Sekhu Staba Radebe Bongani Khamane Saadia Sheik Hassan Doreen Sikhosana Audrey Cleophas Pumla Makapela Sidney Ndlumbini Motlatsi Quntsu Basetsana Makete Johanna Mokhalautsi Zodwa Ntombela Thaldah Dzimba Agrippine Katopa Nickel Shingange Alphoncina Motloung Geroldine Pillay Taihera Rahiman Lorraine Mogasoane Mala Pillay Yolanda Farao
Executive Alberton Carletonville Durban Durban Edenvale Hopefield Keiskammahoek Khayelitsha Krugersdorp Krugersdorp Modjadjiskloof Nkandla Nkowankowa Oshakati Phalaborwa Reitz Scottburgh Scottburgh Springs Umzinto Villiersdorp
35 YEARS Delores Morries Sharon Trouncelle Marietta Maasdorp Maki Thai Cecelia Wyngaard Mavis Makgale Anna Mokgeledi Suri Mbokane Bongiwe Mndaba Buyisiwe Msengane Matopa Lephoi Chrisbin Meyer Phillemon Khumalo Katy de Wet
Dealz Planning Planning Alberton Bredasdorp Brits Dealesville Emoyeni Mall Empangeni Johannesburg Maseru Paarl Pretoria Steinkopf
30 YEARS Elke le Roux Vanessa Landman Linneth Mculu Elizabeth Maduna Patricia Qali Veronica Stemela Carolina Bente Sea Kethokile Maria Boneparte Vero Mthembu Salome Kgomotso Maggie Matebese Maria Buys Iris Linden Johana Mothwa Florence Rasibai Constance Budeli Thoko Lukhele Constance Khetheng Elina Shabalala Sphiwe Zwane Sxosh Ketelo Hazel Pullen Joyce Sadiki Irene Mudau Elna van den Heever Martha Netshifhefhe Matsali Chabana Jakobus Jod
Merchandise Indlovu Bushbuckridge Daveyton East London East London East London Gaborone Grahamstown Isipingo Kanye Katlehong Kimberley Komga Krugersdorp Louis Trichardt Makhado Manzini Mohale’s Hoek Newcastle Newcastle Ngcobo Port Elizabeth Polokwane Sibasa Springbok Thohoyandou Vanderbijlpark Windhoek
40 YEARS Stephanus Manasse Glenda Davids Johannes Zinyoka Jacoba Coetzee Cecilia Mofokeng
Kuils River DC Merchandise Bloemhof Postmasburg Randfontein SEPTEMBER 2020
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Madiba Day Challenge The Tafelberg area in the Langeberg region took on a Madiba Day challenge and collected 30 sanitary pads per store, which were then donated to the Keeping our Girls in School project. A total of 477 sanitary pads were collected in one day. Well done for making a difference! Here is 6438 Kenilworth Centre, one of the stores that participated in the challenge.
Port Elizabeth Dynamos Madiba Day Project
Happy girls receiving their donation of sanitary pads.
Store managers at the back f.l.t.r. are Nozuko Mtyobo from 8570 Govan Mbeki, Stephany Harri from 6685 Greenaches and Priscilla Ntsansa from 8693 Greenaches. In front are Busisiwe Pati from 8442 Pier 14.
All the Port Elizabeth stores made a difference for Madiba Day by making soup and bread, and by donating chips and Easter eggs to a community in need. A few Store Managers handed out all the goodies on the day, which turned out to be a huge success. Sanitary pads were also donated to girls in need.
Store managers Rochne Matsimella from 8496 Metlife Plaza and Priscilla Ntsansa from 8693 Greenaches handing out food to the community. The community is all ready and excited to receive their goodies. 34
SEPTEMBER 2020
LIVING WITH HOPE
On life and hope Since last year I have been planning a year of celebrating my healthy life of Living with HIV for 30 years. I can tell you that I never thought that I would live to see the day where another virus would put us in turmoil that feels worse than HIV, but here we are.
BY TONI ZIMMERMAN 082 926 3368 antoinettezimm@ gmail.com
One cannot really compare HIV and COVID-19, especially in the way they are transmitted and the way they act in the body. Some technical words like immunity and viral load sound familiar but things that felt similar to me are: 1. You have to protect yourself in order to reduce the risk of infection, although the protection methods are vastly different. 2. You have to get tested to truly know whether you are infected or not. 3. People fear those who are infected. The lockdown, the working from home, the masks and social distancing is obviously way different than we could have expected. At the beginning of 2020 I, like so many others, was planning to have one of the best years of my life, and by March we could hardly leave. It made me think about life and the plans we make, and how unpredictable everything is.
PEPpermint
I am a very agile person when it comes to change and one of the first things I decided was to not panic, to not become negative and to not lose hope. That is what has helped me to cope for 30 years with HIV – that is how I have coped up to now. The wonderful thing about plans is that they can change. The wonderful thing about being human is that we are so amazingly adaptable to circumstances that we can learn how to do things differently. I was listening to our CEO, Jaap at our online monthly information session recently and he said similar things about PEP and it just reminded me why I started to work here almost 19 years ago and why I love this company so much. Because, with all that has happened, we never gave up, we operated the best way we could until all stores were open again. We made changes that make me look forward to the future. And because of all that, Dynamos – 2020 is still the best year of my life and every day I get up is still the best day of my life, because now is the only reality we have.
Never give up HOPE
(and do not forget to take your medication!)
“Company culture matters. How leadership chooses to treat its people impacts everything for better or for worse.” – SIMON SINEK
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Corna makes the most of every moment she has Corna joined the PEP family on 14 July 2014 as the Benefits Manager and got promoted to Remuneration and Benefits Manager on 1 July 2015. Corna’s leader, PS Chief Executive Anita Carollisen, says Corna’s passion, dedication and tenacity are exemplary. “When the chips are down the team knows who to call for almost everything!”
Where are you from?
I was born in Klawer. Lived in Nababeep, Richmond and Riebeek-Kasteel and after school became a city girl (Cape Town).
How do you define happiness?
To make the most of every moment you have.
What is the deepest form of misery?
There are lots of opportunities to grow and be yourself.
Tell us something nobody knows about you I have a twin sister.
What is your biggest dream?
To see others suffer unduly.
To enjoy life and make a difference wherever I go.
What are your biggest shortcomings?
The best advice you ever got
I find it difficult to say “NO”. I always try to help if possible.
Who would you like to invite the most to a meal?
Bill and Melinda Gates (philanthropists).
What would you serve them?
A simple dish – the wisdom and conversation will be the focus, not the food.
Who is the love of your life?
Neville, my husband of almost 25 years.
What is your biggest accomplishment? Being the mother of two beautiful boys and being happily married.
Why is PEP special for you?
I love the embracing culture and the inspirational Dynamos I work with every day.
You get what you give.
What makes you lie awake at night? Not having enough hours in a day!
What is the most important decision you have made in your life? Nothing extraordinary, but an important one was to choose Mr Right!
What makes you excited about the future?
Life changes constantly and we have in recent times seen that we are very adaptable and resourceful under difficult circumstances. That fills me with hope for an uncertain future.
What makes you worried about the future?
Our economy – which has been severely affected by COVID-19, and violence against women and children in South Africa.
Do you have anybody in your life that gives you unfiltered feedback? My mother, of course.
Where have you visited that you would like to return to? Namibia – such a beautiful country with breathtaking landscapes.
Last word – teach us something
A person who feels appreciated will always do more than what is expected. 36
SEPTEMBER 2020
Dynamos who live the culture - Sikhula KunYe When did you start working at PEP and in which position? I joined PEP in 2004 as a C24 at Parow and in 2005 I became a
contract worker. In 2006 I became permanent and in 2007 I was appointed as an admin supervisor. Later in 2014 I became a store manager.
What work stresses do you face? All work has stress but I believe to deal with stress in a positive way. What cheers you up most?
What hidden talent do you have? I can bake delicious cookies. What makes you excited bout PEP? Our Sikhula KunYe culture and our Dynamos. What is your best characteristic? To always stay positive and always believe that I can do more in life and stay true to myself. What have you learnt the hard way? Closed mouths don't get fed, meaning that you have to speak up for what you want and what you believe in.
Joanne George - 6294 Zewenwacht, Langeberg
PEP’s culture and the Dynamos and also the difference I make in our remarkable customers’ lives. Who do you admire most? I admire a lot of people, but mostly the two important ones are Patrica Mc Feece and Altie Hillter. If you could edit your life, what would you change? I would focus on being more grateful for life and everything that has helped me get to where I am today. What is the best advice you’ve ever come across? No-one is promised tomorrow. Cherish the people God has placed in your life, hug them and tell them you love them because once they're gone, you will wish you had done so while you still could.
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