PROJECT MANAGER Chris Bolderstone chris@enterprise-africa.net
SALES MANAGER Tommy Atkinson tommy@enterprise-africa.net
LEAD DESIGNER Aaron Protheroe aaron@enterprise-africa.net
CONTRIBUTOR Manelesi Dumasi
CONTRIBUTOR Timothy Reeder
CONTRIBUTOR Benjamin Southwold
CONTRIBUTOR William Denstone
EDITOR’S LETTER
Following on from a successful Women’s Month in South Africa, where a number of corporates and big businesses made efforts to highlight the significance of the occasion, we hear from two trailblazers who are leading the way in their industries, setting the path for others as real role models.
Elite Risk Acceptances is on the front cover in September, and for good reason. This highly specialist insurance offering, part of the Old Mutual Insure family, protects the wealth and assets of high-networth clients but in an innovative way. Established and led by an all-female team, the company is based on a deep understanding of clients and a strong relationship with brokers and advisors. It is far from a transactional approach and is about adding value to the life of clients. MD Tarina Vlok says that the company is always searching for the best trends in the insurance space, and is a real ambassador for the wealth protection space.
Similarly, Ingrid Osborne – CEO at Saryx Engineering – has developed a company that is at the forefront of the industry. She is always on the lookout for new technologies and new ideas to add to the majorly successful HSEC Online® product suite, developed by Osborne and partner Julie Mathieson in South Africa. The idea came through the company being part of the legacy challenge in health and safety compliance. Today, Saryx enjoys industry leadership status because of its ability to grow and adapt quickly, and that comes from the vision of Osborne and Mathieson.
To grow like these companies, there has to be more to a business than just a dream – it has to be more than just hard work. There needs to be a mix of industry understanding, pioneering thought, relationship building skills, and a daring nature to go beyond the comfort zone. Many think they have it. Most do not.
CMB Media Group does not accept responsibility for omissions or errors. The points of view expressed in articles by attributing writers and/or in advertisements included in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this magazine, no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from use of information published. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the publisher.
Get in touch with us today and tell us how you are ensuring your company stays at the front of the pack. We’re always online and always looking for new stories. Check in with is us on LinkedIn
Groundbreaking Pharmaceutical Magic That Changes Lives
NFB FINANCIAL SERVICES
The Perfect Partner to Achieve Financial Fulfilment
LUCARA DIAMOND
Exceptional Find Solidifies Karowe’s Position Among World’s Best
ACKERMANS
Proud of Its Past, Relishing the Future
NANDO’S SA Fiery Nando’s Ambitious as Ever in Tough SA Market
SAKHIWO HEALTH SOLUTIONS A Healing Approach to Hospital Design
FEEDMASTER
Namibia’s Leader in Advanced Animal Feed
PREMIER HOTELS & RESORTS
Unparalleled Luxury on Offer at Forward-Thinking Premier
Taking Insurance to the Next Level
PRODUCTION: Harry Webster
Elite Risk Acceptances, a subsidiary of Old Mutual Insure, is a leading provider of non-life insurance to the affluent. Elite Risk offers comprehensive and personalised cover across property, vehicle, and personal insurance. Its commitment is to deliver value and peace of mind through expertly tailored insurance solutions.
INDUSTRY FOCUS: INSURANCE
//A High Net-Worth Individual (HWI), as the South African Revenue Service (SARS) defines, is one with gross assets worth R75 million or more, and this group has an important role to play both in South Africa’s economy and in sustaining revenue growth. The trappings that inevitably come along with such circumstances, clearly, require specialist and all-encompassing protection for assets, and Elite Risk’s comprehensive range of personal insurance policies cover the most prized of possessions from property and buildings to fine art and jewellery.
“We recognise the risks that come with the rewards,” Elite Risk comments, “and as part of the Old Mutual Insure family, we possess the power and flexibility to offer a range of insurance products at competitive premiums.”
The broad range of insurance solutions on offer at Elite Risk are tailored to fit ambitious lifestyles, resulting
in comprehensive, personalised and value-adding coverage.
“We have a wide range of insurance products and services tailored to meet the needs of high-net-worth individuals, including asset protection, risk management and personal risk insurance,” Elite Risk summarises, “underwritten by the power and reputation of Old Mutual Insure. Clients continually benefit from a company with a tried and trusted track record.”
EXPONENTIAL GROWTH
A seemingly innocuous glass of wine shared between two best friends at the side of a pool in 2017 was the genesis of this industry frontrunner, shares MD Tarina Vlok of Elite Risk’s origin. “My friend told me it was her dream to start a specialist underwriter for Old Mutual Insure, preferably with me,” Vlok relays.
“We duly put together a business case with which to approach Old Mutual, and within two months
Tarina Vlok, Managing Director
it was agreed, signed off and we began working with them. Within a matter of four months, the company was established, the product was launched, and we officially started operations in August 2018.”
Exponential growth quickly followed, Vlok elaborates. “We were soon positioned to appoint staff and rented a small office space in the Old Mutual office in Durbanville,” Vlok says. “From the start, we have been overwhelmed by the support from the Old Mutual Insure intermediary database and our growth has been phenomenal; even through extensive and strict lockdown periods we have grown at an astonishing rate.”
As co-founder, Vlok was appointed as GM, and later in 2021, MD, with Elite Risk having swelled from the original duo to a current staff complement of over 50. “We were very proud last year to acquire our own dedicated office space,” Vlok expresses. “The Old Mutual brand is so strong, and indispensable to have as a parent, but we have striven right from the outset to create our own name, and we have successfully established an aspirational brand.
“We couldn’t maintain this growth without our staff, and their wellness is very much at the core of our success, with 50% of appointments over the last six years having been internal promotions; this is a very important strategic pillar for us.”
THOUGHT LEADERS
“I’m proudly leading an amazing team who are passionate about providing the best possible service to our brokers and clients,” Vlok beams. “With
// ANCHORED IN MORE THAN 180 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, ELITE RISK IS FIERCE ABOUT GUARDING CLIENTS’ MOST VALUED ASSETS //
WE VALUE YOUR ASSETS
over 20 years of technical non-life insurance experience myself, most of which has involved leading teams, I am accountable to ensure innovative growth solutions by continuing to cater for the specific asset insurance needs of the wealth segment, whilst managing a sustainable and profitable business.”
The company, Vlok reports, is in good health, and although growth is slowing down due to various factors, including the economy, she is confident that Elite Risk will reach growth and profitability targets this year. “We think of ourselves as a risk management ambassador for wealth protection,” Vlok offers, “and we don’t leave anything to chance; our team of experts work with intermediaries to create a custom insurance solution that meets their specific needs and goals.”
Licensed to market non-life insurance to properties within the
South African borders, Vlok clarifies, Elite Risk is proudly insuring some of the wealthiest people in the country within a hotly contested market segment. Looking ahead, she details, Elite Risk has a keen eye on trends in alternative and diverse territories, with strong emerging potential markets for wealth in Namibia and Mauritius, specifically. “Through our principle, our long-term ambition is to expand into other African markets, and possibly even into other classes of insurance.
“We have a reputation for being thought-leaders within our chosen field,” Vlok reveals. “This is something that is close to my heart; we are continuously researching and staying abreast of the insurance landscape, trends, and evolving risks.”
Innovative hybrid approaches mean that Elite Risk places the client at the heart of everything it does,
with a differentiated model driving value and striving for delivering outstanding service, Vlok opines. “Elite Risk puts customers first, always. No matter the plans and safeguards put in place, life is unpredictable. It can throw us a curveball and leave us out in the cold. Our cover solutions are designed to support in every way, and each of the policies we offer across every category is testament to this.
“Anchored in more than 180 years of experience, Elite Risk is fierce about guarding clients’ most valued assets.”
SARYX ENGINEERING
Zero-Harm Now Within Reach
Thanks to HSEC Online®
PRODUCTION: James Davey
In developing HSEC Online® - a powerful health and safety compliance tool – Saryx Engineering Group has changed the way contractors and suppliers can operate on site for their clients. All digital, all flexible, and always growing, this brilliant solution is awardwinning and efficiency-driving. CEO Ingrid Osborne tells Enterprise Africa more about the impressive innovation behind the company’s success.
Ingrid Osborne, CEO
INDUSTRY FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY
//“We like to think of ourselves as similar to internet banking,” says Ingrid Osborne, cofounder of Saryx Engineering, a leading South African electronic and software engineering firm known for creating a product of real significance. “It’s been years since I’ve set foot in a bank, and I hope never to again. I can manage everything online, and that’s incredibly empowering. That’s the kind of
// IN OUR FIRST YEAR WE HAD 277% GROWTH IN THE BUSINESS. RIGHT NOW, WE ARE SIGNING UP HUNDREDS OF COMPANIES PER MONTH AND WE ARE OPERATING IN 14 DIFFERENT COUNTRIES
capability we aim to capture here,” she says of the company she founded with Julie Mathieson in 2007.
In its early days, Saryx made a name for itself by offering engineering solutions to high-profile clients, helping them solve challenges related to industrial control and automation integration. Operating across industries such as mining, rail, manufacturing, and ICT, this 100% woman-owned company established itself as a trailblazer in areas like PLC, SCADA, MES, MIS, big data, and advanced web development.
Recently, the team completed a project at a 60 MW solar plant, which earned them the Best Industrial Solution award at the Aveva South African Conference earlier this year. In October, they will attend the Aveva World Conference in Paris.
However, as contractors for various large industrial clients, Osborne and Mathieson found themselves increasingly frustrated by the demands of health and safety compliance. It consumed time and resources that could have been better spent on more creative pursuits. Managing manual paperwork, dealing with bureaucracy,
and navigating endless red tape allowed Saryx to be a competent onsite contractor—but at a significant cost.
“We’ve had years of success, working on exciting projects in various industries,” Osborne explains. “From designing an automatic tree-planting machine in forestry to writing control software for the world’s largest export coal terminal, we’ve been involved in everything from rail and ports to renewable energy projects.”
Yet, working at these sites required extensive documentation. Every document had to be accurate and valid, with constant checks to ensure that the client wasn’t held liable for any incidents on-site. “It’s a nightmare to manage,” admits Osborne. “The planning involved is immense, and the penalties for non-compliance are steep.”
HSEC ONLINE®
When Saryx lost its site privileges across multiple locations because of an expired letter of good standing, Osborne and Mathieson hit a breaking point. “It was awful,” recalls Osborne.
Biometric Time & Attendance and Access Control Solutions
BEYOND ATTENDANCE
• Cloud-Based Attendance & Access Solutions for Every Industry
• We provide advanced cloud-based Access Control and Time and Attendance solutions, utilizing state-of-the-art fingerprint and facial recognition technology.
• Our web-based platform allows for real-time monitoring across multiple sites and mobile teams, all from a centralized location.
• BA seamlessly integrates with all major payroll systems, enabling effortless data export and formatting for direct import.
• Our mobile app empowers remote employees to clock in and geo-locate their position with ease. Moreover, our Geo-Snap feature ensures precise time tracking at remote sites through a unique URL, eliminating the need for a dedicated app.
Beyond Attendance Portal App
Fingerprints are the way forward however it is not always possible to have hand to scan in with. So we’ve decided to use what’s in you pocket for such
Keep track of employees whilst out on the road
Allow employees to check in remotely
Beyond Attendance Portal turns any smartphone phone into a personal biometric vice with the help of a USB scanner.
Remote check-in integrates with GPS for accuracy
Fingerprint scanning for clock ins and out Map overlays for user convenience
Beyond Attendance Portal provides a standalone solution that is easy to and cheap. It allows for multiple users to all connect to a single centralized ing control and administration a breeze. Beyond Attendance Portal means scan in the most remote of areas, perfect for temporary sites or for small employees.
Setup work times and groups for all your employees, get them to start scanning
Beyond Attendance does the rest, calculating who left early, came late, never their weekly hours or who worked overtime.
SARYX Engineering Case Study
• Keep track of employee’s while you’re out on the road via any mobile Android vice
We approached SARYX with our comprehensive time and access solution, tailored to meet their needs for managing multiple sites and providing remote monitoring capabilities. Our solution included an advanced access control system that secures entrance doors across their various locations. Coupled with our time and attendance software, SARYX has efficiently monitored and tracked working hours while enhancing safety and access control through Beyond Attendance.
• Allow employee’s to check-in remotely via their smartphones and tablets.
• Remote check-in integrates with mobile GPS systems to ensure employee’s the location they say they’re at
• “No Brainer” clock ins and outs. Simply scan a fingerprint on the device yond Attendance works out the rest
• Mobile Check in report overlays scan information on a map for user convenience
Beyond Attendance is designed for organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to large enterprises. Our user-friendly, cloudbased Time and Attendance and Access Control solutions eliminate the need for costly on-site servers, with easy online account setup.
It integrates with most payroll systems and can also function as a standalone payroll application with Microsoft Excel. The mobile app supports small teams and includes a USB fingerprint scanner that turns smartphones and tablets into mobile scanning stations, along with many more biometric options such as facial and fingerprint scanners built for any environment.
INDUSTRY FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY
Continued from page 12
“We discussed it and realized we needed to automate the entire process. We wanted to be smart about it.”
With Osborne’s background in electronic engineering and Mathieson’s expertise in computer science, they saw an opportunity to digitize the health and safety space. They recognized gaps in the manual system—which many large corporations still rely on—that often led to incidents. However, no viable or affordable digital solutions existed.
“We wanted something cloud-based that addressed the specific problem we were facing. So, we decided to develop it ourselves, and in 2018, we sold
our first commercial license.”
Their first major client was a mining company that implemented HSEC Online®—a solution developed in-house by Saryx—across 16 sites in southern Africa. The system gives users complete control over business compliance, ensuring that qualifications, certificates, insurance, and liabilities are all in order.
“The client required that anyone working with them be licensed and compliant. That’s when things really took off,” Osborne recalls. “In our first year, we experienced 277% growth. Today, we’re signing on hundreds of companies a month, operating in 14 different countries, and have opened offices in the USA. We’re also developing a new technology stack, and last year was the first
time HSEC Online® surpassed the engineering side of our business.”
Just like internet banking revolutionized a manual process, Saryx has found a way to automate traditionally paperwork-heavy tasks, providing contractors with a seamless digital solution while ensuring corporations can operate safely and securely.
PROBLEM SOLVING
Osborne notes that South African companies spend around R15 billion annually on fines related to compliance. According to a report by the Minerals Council South Africa, Section 54 work stoppages cost the industry R4.84 billion in lost revenue in 2015 alone. In the U.S., job injuries and illnesses are
estimated to cost between $250 and $388 billion annually. HSEC Online® helps reduce this financial burden with its innovative software, designed by those who have experienced the system’s challenges firsthand.
“No one had thought to automate it,” says Osborne. “Contractors now have a digital solution for their businesses, which elevates them. The information on the platform is shared with all licensed clients. Both the client and the contractor have a clear view of compliance, performance, and upcoming expirations.”
Thanks to its proven efficiency, HSEC Online® has become immensely popular. This growth has required additional investment from Saryx, but Osborne welcomes the innovation that comes with it.
“It’s turned into something very exciting,” she smiles. “HSEC Online® now has a 24/7 call center and supports multiple languages. We’ve added about 15 additional modules—it’s evolved into a suite of products within one solution.”
To further support its zero-harm mission, Saryx launched SkillUp, a training academy that has already trained over 8,000 people since March 2024. The company also uses its Training Management Platform (TMP) to manage its training department, which is available as an add-on to HSEC Online®.
The tool’s compatibility with
third-party systems makes it even more valuable, allowing seamless integration with products already in use. For example, if a company has a medical surveillance system or an access control system, HSEC Online® can easily integrate with both of these products, ensuring that non-compliant individuals are seamlessly denied site access. “The system is fully automated, offering substantial savings for both employers and contractors,” Osborne confirms.
She also highlights the system’s potential to become smarter, emphasizing that leadership is responsible for ensuring compliance on-site. “If a company is experiencing frequent hand injuries, for example, we can send them a notification requiring a refresher course on safety. Employees who complete the training receive certification, and the system tracks this for future incidents.”
REMAINING EXCITING
Looking ahead, Osborne says that HSEC Online® will continue to receive substantial investment, with Saryx focused on developing new features and innovations.
“The product is quite mature now,” she admits. “We’re staying ahead of the latest tech and adding exciting features, including AI. We need to ensure the system remains both effective and engaging.”
Expedite contractor access to sites
• Proactively eliminate non-compliance Check real-time compliance status
The organic growth of HSEC Online® has also exceeded expectations, with more large companies adopting the system and bringing their suppliers, contractors, and partners into compliance. “We didn’t anticipate this level of business development,” Osborne says. “That’s why we’re expanding our resources, ensuring we have the staff to support our growing client base.”
Much like the shift from branch banking to online banking, Saryx is spearheading a movement toward digitization, with zero-harm at the core of HSEC Online®. “Zero-harm is our guiding principle,” Osborne explains. “There are still far too many accidents, injuries, and deaths. We believe that everything we build into the product should contribute to achieving zero-harm.”
In the not-so-distant future, paper-based compliance checks may become a relic of the past, and contractors will no longer be turned away due to incomplete paperwork. Instead, they’ll arrive at sites ready to work, confident that compliance is fully managed. The opportunities for progress are endless..
Groundbreaking Pharmaceutical Magic That Changes Lives
PRODUCTION: Jamie Waters
Cilo Cybin represents the first entity in South Africa to obtain both medical cannabis cultivation and GMP manufacturing licenses, in 2020 and 2021 respectively, maintaining a focus on cultivating medical-grade cannabis flowers for exportation and further processing. “We are recognised as leaders in the industry in South Africa,” says CEO Gabriel Theron, as his company continues to create history and shift perceptions all while making a genuine difference in the lives of users every day.
CILO CYBIN
INDUSTRY FOCUS: PHARMACEUTICAL
//“Cilo Cybin was established in 2018 with the vision to transform lives through accessible, effective medical cannabis products,” unpacks CEO Gabriel Theron, with the company’s commitment to scientific research, innovation and high-quality standards ensuring that these products make a genuine impact on users while establishing Cilo Cybin as a genuine industry great.
“Cilo Cybin is dedicated to bringing medical cannabis products to markets worldwide, including Australia, Japan, Thailand, and other countries recognising South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) accreditation,” Theron details, of goods known for offering rapid absorption, precise dosing and
Gabriel Theron, CEO
targeted relief, to establish them as ideal for various medical applications.
“By adhering to the highest standards of GMP cannabis manufacturing, Cilo Cybin ensures that our medical cannabis products are safe, effective and reliable.”
TARGETING EXPANSION
The company’s core focus is on supplying GMP medical cannabis products, Theron details, to meet the highest standards of quality, effectiveness, care and safety. Two key arms comprise the overall company: state of the art, indoor medical-grade cannabis cultivation in accordance with Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP) and extraction of the cannabis flower, trim and kief with a cold ethanol process. “The former is
on a small scale, and very boutique, with production of around 50-60 kilos per month possible of triple A-grade dried cannabis flower,” Theron says.
“Cilo Cybin’s cultivation facility provides us with the purest and most consistent flower, ensuring a medicalgrade product that is used both
// CILO CYBIN WAS ESTABLISHED WITH THE VISION TO TRANSFORM LIVES THROUGH ACCESSIBLE, EFFECTIVE MEDICAL CANNABIS PRODUCTS //
in-house to create our world-class cannabis-derived supplements and medications, as well as internationally. On the extraction side we use both the trim and buy in products to extract, and current capacity is around 100 kilos of biomass per week.
“We are busy with expansion of this ability, and by the end of this calendar year we are aiming to be capable of processing 10 times this amount - a tonne a week.” From this point follows distillation, Theron further expounds, where the crude oil extracted is purified, which is due to be subject to a similar increase from 10 to 100 litres per week. “This will place us as one of the largest on the continent,” Theron reveals.
Various product lines then result from the raw product, including bottling, vaping and an imminent edible range with an accompanying new
laboratory, set to multiple this capacity tenfold, too. “Cilo Cybin is also one of the few licensed facilities that is allowed to package finished cannabis products under GMP in South Africa for the local and export markets,” Theron adds.
“We are, today, the only fully vertically integrated cannabis company in the country, meaning that we alone can both cultivate and extract to make final products under one roof. Quality is a further key differentiator for us, due to the regulatory environment associated with South Africa compared to the likes of Colombia, for example, allowing us to compete in the global market.”
The vast majority of Cilo Cybin’s wares are crafted for export, Theron explains, due to the difficulty of selling within South Africa. “Australia is currently one of our largest markets,” he says, “while Europe is central on
our radar in terms of our next move.” There has been a definite maturity in the market in the last 12 months, however, Theron perceives, and an uptick in terms of these products landing up in patients’ hands. “We have certainly felt it become easier to operate in, and sell products into, this space - now price and quality become paramount, which suits us perfectly.”
HISTORIC LISTING
Having been the first South African company to win the right to grow, process and package cannabis goods, Cilo Cybin this year racked up another first, this time doing like no-one medical cannabis company ever before it and listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange’s Alternative Exchange. The move is part of a concerted bid to capitalise on
The Source For All Your Growing Needs
We are a South African based company that specializes in the distribution of horticultural supplies, offering you the best possible solution for your needs and helping you achieve the best crop possible. Our range of products covers all forms of Horticulture supplies and equipment having partnered with many recognizable international brands who are very proud to introduce their products into the South African market.
Having been in this industry for over 20 years, great relationships have been formed between ourselves and our partnering brands. We can ensure the best quality for your grow!
Range of Premium Hydropronic Products
We offer a wide range of supplies such as Hydroponic/Aeroponic Systems, Plant Nutrition, pH Control, Growing Mediums, Grow Tents & many more…
INDUSTRY FOCUS:
growth in the legal marijuana industry, which is projected, Theron shares, to grow to more than $40 billion by 2032 - from $12.6 billion in 2023.
“As the markets mature, we want to be at the forefront of taking advantage of them,” Theron details of the rationale behind the listing, with funds raised
set to help the company, “tap into the growing global investor appetite for alternative medicines,” he adds.
“The entity on the Alt-X is Cilo Cybin Holdings,” Theron further unpacks. “The intention is that it will then acquire a 100% stake of Cilo Cybin Pharmaceuticals, in the form of a share swap, resulting in an entity with no debt, funds in the bank and the ability to scale very quickly.”
Following the combination of the entities, Theron explains, the next step is to start clinical trials for product lines in the cannabis stage, including for drug-resistant epilepsy, before pursuing a Nasdaq for Cilo Cybin listing within the next two to three years.
Theron’s vision is broad, with
// WE APPLY OUR CAPABILITIES AND EXPERTISE TO ENSURE THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF QUALITY AND COMPLIANCE, WE WANT TO BE THE INGREDIENT IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL WORLD THAT MAKES THE MAGIC //
a keen eye on involvement in psychedelics, but with cannabis always as the starting point, and current priority. “We have some work to do before we can confidently apply our energies elsewhere,” Theron smiles.
“Even our name points to a move to psychedelics as having been in the offing right from the beginning,” he qualifies, taken as it was directly
from that of the key ingredient in magic mushrooms. “We adopted it intentionally, in full knowledge that it was cheeky and risqué,” he closes. “We want to play in the pharmaceutical world, but with alternative, edgy things as well, and we can see that the world is moving that way.
“We set out to be a new-age, new-thinking pharmaceutical
company,” Theron stipulates, “and this has always been the pathway that we have seen ourselves following. We are taking a name, and a concept, and declaring loudly and proudly to people that something which was maybe taboo 10 years ago has now been turned on its head.
“This is how we see ourselves: as we apply our capabilities and expertise to ensure the highest standards of quality and compliance, we want to be the ingredient in the pharmaceutical world that makes the magic.”
NFB FINANCIAL SERVICES
The Perfect Partner to Achieve Financial Fulfilment
PRODUCTION: James Redwell
NFB Private Wealth Management was established close to four decades ago, and the spirit that imbued it when originally founded has only grown stronger in its delivery of world-class service. A blend of modern business philosophies with old-fashioned integrity has resulted in the creation of sustainable growth for clients and stakeholders alike.
//“We are a leading South African financial services provider,” NFB Private Wealth Management (NFB) begins, “offering highly specialised, fiercely independent financial advice, products and services alongside the support and advice our clients need to ignite their passions and achieve their aspirations.”
According to the market insight of Statista, South Africa’s Wealth Management market is anticipated to witness a significant increase in Assets Under Management, reaching a projected value of US$616.10bn
INDUSTRY FOCUS: FINANCE
by 2024. Looking further into the future, these assets are predicted to demonstrate a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR 20242028) of 0.93%, translating into a market volume of US$639.40bn.
CONSISTENT APPROACH
Established in 1985, NFB can now point to close to 40 years of results-driven performance in this lucrative sector, all guided by the overarching goal of supporting clients in building their wealth and preserving their legacy. “We have a history of bringing shared wealth opportunities to fruition,” it asserts, of its mission to help grow and nurture assets. “We use hard-won experience along with new age due diligence to achieve exceptional results for our clients.”
NFB is unique in so many ways, among the most notable of which being the extraordinary expertise and dedication its advisors pledge to the business, with an average industry experience of over 20 years and mean length of service at NFB approaching 15 years. “When times are tough, a consistent, structured approach to financial management is necessary,” NFB assesses of the impressive longevity and loyalty it is uniquely placed to offer. “Across the organisation, we are defined by the entrepreneurial spirit with which our founders built the company.
“When markets are volatile and confidence is low, searching for reassurance is human instinct,” NFB says. “The path to future certainty lies in a financial plan crafted by a team
of professional wealth managers and financial planners with the skills, knowledge and independence to empower you with the security you seek and the financial rewards you’ve earned,” and this is exactly what is on offer at the company, allowing it to confidently and consistently provide financial certainty by putting this deep knowledge and experience into practice for clients. “NFB allows us to protect families, secure futures and share knowledge with our clients,” the company underlines.
“Investing the time to understand our clients’ unique needs is vital in earning their trust.”
PROUDLY INDEPENDENT
As of April this year NFB was just one year shy of its 40th anniversary,
GLACIER BY SANLAM: SUCCESSFUL INVESTING STARTS WITH A TRUSTED PARTNER
For over 27 years, Glacier by Sanlam has been a leading force in meeting the diverse needs of South Africans. As the largest linked investment service provider in the country, with over R601 billion in assets under administration, Glacier’s vision is to help clients create and preserve wealth through tailored solutions.
With an extensive selection of local and international investment solutions, including fixed-term and guaranteed investments, retirement savings, and retirement income solutions, Glacier empowers investors to achieve financial freedom. Partnering with expert financial intermediaries, Glacier ensures every client’s unique circumstances are addressed with world-class, customisable solutions.
UNLOCK INFINITE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Whether you’re starting your investment journey, saving for retirement, or planning for a sustainable retirement income, Glacier offers opportunities across local and international markets. Glacier International provides direct access to offshore investment opportunities, with solutions specifically designed to meet the needs of South African investors.
BUILDING A LEGACY OF FINANCIAL EXCELLENCE
As part of the Sanlam Group, Glacier upholds the company’s purpose of creating sustainable value. With a commitment to advancing financial wellbeing and inclusion, Glacier’s solutions are designed to provide financial confidence for all stages of life.
YOUR PATH TO FINANCIAL FREEDOM STARTS HERE
At Glacier, we believe in empowering clients to unlock their financial potential. Whether creating or preserving wealth, our trusted team is here to guide you every step of the way. Appointing an appropriately authorised financial adviser, is a big step forward in achieving and embracing a confident financial future. Visit Sanlam Money Meetups and find your perfect partner to accompany you on your journey to financial confidence.
To learn more about Glacier, visit our website at www.glacierinsights.co.za or call our Communication Centre on 021 917 9002 / 0860 452 364
Glacier Financial Solutions (Pty) Ltd is a licensed financial services provider.
Sanlam Life Insurance Ltd is a licensed life insurer, financial services and registered credit provider (NCRCP43).
with some R30bn in assets under management and 98% client retention, and frequent recipient of awards from industry pinnacles such as Intellidex and Raging Bull. Being proudly independent is a huge boon for NFB, allowing it to lead with advice and tailor the very best choices of products to the individual.
As Philip Bartlett CFP, Senior Executive and Private Wealth Manager, underlines, this enables NFB to remain entirely unbiased in the crafting of a solution-based financial management strategy for clients. “We are not product-orientated; we bring the appropriate tools and knowhow to whatever our clients’ wealth objectives are we are there solely to help meet these,” he explains.
Relentless in the pursuit to utilise its experience to the best of its ability for the benefit of its clients, NFB looks
to turn knowledge into wealth at every opportunity. “We manage our clients’ money as if it we were managing our own,” Mosa Manqindi, Research Analyst, points out. “This is why we are so fully invested in our process.
“The skillsets that we have in our team enable us to be thorough in doing our homework and ensure that the investment vehicles that we use are both cost-efficient and yield the necessary results. We are very passionate about our process, which spans right from ideas generation, through in-depth research and finally to decision-making.”
“Planning is the most important step in achieving,” NFB states, adding that such an ethos has arguably been more critical than ever before in its nearly four-decade lifetime.
“When times are tough, a consistent,
structured approach to financial management is necessary. Tough economic climates call for preparation and resilience to achieve results.”
“We partner with you to achieve financial fulfilment, and have an instinct for growth,” NFB rounds off, the perfect summation of this longstanding powerhouse and the possibilities it opens up for every one of its clients.
“We take great care in understanding our clients, getting to know their story and their specific financial objectives, so that we can guide their journey with care and insight.”
LUCARA DIAMOND
Exceptional Find Solidifies Karowe’s Position Among World’s Best
PRODUCTION: Jamie Waters
In August 2024, when Lucara Diamond found a 2492-carat rough diamond at its Karowe mine in Botswana, everyone in the company was delighted. This find will result in energy and excitement on site, and further investment into Botswana from HQ in Canada. The industry continues to show its value in a country where it has become a backbone.
//In Botswana’s Central Region, far from the bustle of Gaborone, and more than 240 km from the noise of Francistown, is a large expanse of dust and salt – a rural area with little life away from the wildlife and shrubs. But dotted through the baron landscape are small hives of activity. This region
// WE ARE ECSTATIC
ABOUT THE RECOVERY OF THIS EXTRAORDINARY 2492 CARAT DIAMOND //
is home to Botswana’s diamond mining industry and the highly productive Orapa Kimberlite Field. From here, recent success has drawn the attention of the world. Under the African sun, and beneath the African soil, for billions of years a sparkling gem like no other was formed and then discovered by Lucara Diamond at its Karowe Mine.
Lucara Diamond is a Canadian firm headquartered in Vancouver. It began operations at the Karowe Mine in 2012, quickly building status as a leading global supplier of large, high quality, Type IIA diamonds. From here, in hot, humid and arid central Botswana, famous stones have been
unearthed. The 1758-carat Sewelô, the 1109-carat Lesedi La Rona, and the 813-carat Constellation (sold for a record US$63.1 million) are all product of Karowe and the Botswanan team on site. Cristiano Ronaldo wore a brooch containing a 33-carat diamond cut from a 110-carat rough stone pulled from Karowe when he participated in the recent UEFA Champions League draw showcasing the beauty of Botswanan stones on the global stage.
PRECIOUS STONE
Karowe means ‘precious stone’ in the local language. And this name is apt, proven in the mines most recent breakthrough. On August 21, Lucara
Diamond announced to the market what locals had been excited about. An exceptional 2492 carat had been discovered – labelled as the second largest ever found behind only the Cullinan, from South Africa in 1905. The largest ever pulled from Botswanan soil, all parties were thrilled.
“We are ecstatic about the recovery of this extraordinary 2492 carat diamond,” said President and CEO, William Lamb, a mining industry veteran. “This find not only showcases the remarkable potential of our Karowe Mine, but also upholds our strategic investment in cutting-edge XRT technology. The ability to recover such a massive, high-quality stone intact demonstrates the effectiveness of our
approach to diamond recovery and our commitment to maximizing value for our shareholders and stakeholders.”
Detected and recovered by Lucara’s Mega Diamond Recovery (MDR) X-Ray Transmission (XRT) technology - which was installed in 2017 to identify and preserve large, high-value diamonds - the stone is a symbol of the heights the local industry has reached in terms of value extracted and technology developed thanks to significant investments from regional and international sources.
In 2023, Lucara announced that it would forge ahead with a previously developed plan to move mining at Karowe underground. Delayed, and overshadowed by cost
LUCARA DIAMOND
overruns, there was speculation about the project’s viability. But the firm said it had the required support and would push ahead. Labelled the Karowe Underground Project (UGP), major investment will see the life of mine extended to 2040 and additional $4 billion in revenues expected to be delivered (using conservative diamond pricing).
“The Karowe underground mine expansion provides access to the highest value portion of the orebody responsible for delivering numerous record-breaking diamonds in respect of size and value, including three diamonds in excess of 1000 carats. The project remains highly economic, despite the delays incurred, and as
Lucara’s largest shareholder, we remain fully supportive of the company,” said Adam Lundin, Board Member at Lucara Diamond Corporation and Lundin Mining Corporation, among others.
WORLD CLASS MINE
Technology is a key differentiator for Lucara in Botswana. The country is home to the world’s second largest diamond mining industry (20% of global supply), behind only Russia, and it is through investment from the private sector, and organisations like Lucara, that mining tech has thrived. Ore from the mine is processed
through a vibrating grizzley and then a primary crusher before coarse screening and feeding into secondary crushing. Larger deposits are fed straight into the MDR XRT. Then, product moves to hand sorting. After secondary gyratory crushing, various tech is used to mill, sort, crush, and screen further before the XRT is used to sort the remaining bulk. Finally, magnetic and x-ray recovery are used alongside dense media separation to bring about a final collection of valuable minerals.
During processing of EM/ PK(S) kimberlite, the dominant ore type that Lucara will continue to
target during the first years of the company’s underground mining operations, the technology picked up the latest extraordinary stone before the local team in Boteti – the smallest area in the Central Region – confirmed the stone’s status.
“This discovery reinforces Karowe’s position as a truly worldclass diamond mine and highlights the continued success of our operational and underground development strategy,” said Lamb.
“It symbolises Botswana’s continued ascent as a global leader in diamond production. It
// THIS DISCOVERY REINFORCES KAROWE’S POSITION AS A TRULY WORLD-CLASS DIAMOND MINE AND HIGHLIGHTS THE CONTINUED SUCCESS OF OUR OPERATIONAL AND UNDERGROUND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY //
represents not only the unparalleled wealth found in Botswana’s soil, but also the remarkable progress the nation has made in developing its diamond industry for the benefit of its citizens,” the company added.
Lucara invests in Botswana in a big way. It builds communities, it develops economic success, and it moves people out of poverty. By employing local people, investing in local skills, and creating campaigns that
ensure impact will be felt long after the diamond mine is gone, Lucara has developed a solid relationship with its hosts and the Botswana government. The money generated from diamonds found here goes back into the country. before the diamond mining industry was active in Botswana there was just 12km of paved road. Now, there is more than 7000km. Before diamond mining began here, the average life expectancy at birth was just 36. Now,
through investment in healthcare initiatives and hospitals, that figure is 66 years – a drastic improvement in a relatively short period of time. Currently, any mining firm that opens in the country must accept the government as a shareholder, and there is a process underway to ensure that, if the government does not exercise this right then a 24% stake must go to a local firm.
Reports from various industry onlookers suggest that Lucara’s latest find could be worth more than $40 million. This, for the Central Region, with its wide open landscape and very natural feeling, is quite the coup and will not be the last impressive stone to come from Karowe.
ACKERMANS
Proud of Its Past, Relishing the Future
PRODUCTION: Jamie Waters
More than 100 years ago, Gus Ackerman’s vision of making quality products affordable to everyone resulted in the opening of his first store in Wynberg, Cape Town. Today, that vision remains at the heart of every one of the more than 6000 Ackermans stores spread over five countries, as the company continues to demonstrate its dynamic adaptability in the form of global brands and innovative systems, to remain a trusted choice.
//When Gus Ackerman opened his historic first store in Wynberg he immediately created a place where customers could find great products at unprecedented prices, providing value fashion for the whole family. Now more than 100 years
on, Ackermans continues to bring the best in quality to value-seeking South Africans, year after year, in its quest to make affordable products available to an increasingly broad audience.
“Our customers have been at the heart of our story for over 100 years,”
Pepkor-owned Ackermans succinctly outlines of the heart of its mission. “We know that family comes first and always will, and believe that people should be able to pay less without compromising on quality or style, freeing up cash for the important things in life.
INDUSTRY FOCUS: RETAIL
“At Ackermans we’re proud of where we’ve come from, and excited about what’s still ahead.”
GLOBAL ICONS
Ackermans is acutely aware that, globally, consumers are crying out for the fashion industry to prioritise mindful sustainability and an ethical agenda. Bidding to make its own significant contribution toward such a movement, Ackermans has sought to bring the very best in international brands to the South African market, last year introducing the duo of Lilly + Sid and Turtledove London to its kidswear range in selected stores.
“These new brands were selected as they offer affordable premium organic cotton garments that put people and planet first,” Ackermans explains, with Merlin Norman, Marketing Director, adding: “As the
largest value retailer in South Africa, we have a responsibility to offer our consumers a more sustainable option.”
Famed for offering timeless, colourful designs made from premium, 100% organic cotton fabrics designed to be re-loved for many years, Lilly + Sid is an LBP (Loved By Parents) - the trusted global parenting award programmeaward-winning brand. “We want people to be able to purchase these clothes with the idea of contributing to the circular economy, by passing them on to friends and family once their little ones outgrow them,” Norman states, with the label’s dedication to families and to fostering fun further strong factors in attracting Ackermans’ attention.
“We love Turtledove for its gorgeous unisex clothes that are classic/ timeless and designed as antidotes to fast fashion and fast living,” says
Norman of the beloved purveyor of gender-neutral clothes featuring 100% premium organic cotton with Azo-free dyestuffs. “Similar to Lilly + Sid, these items are made to last and be re-loved.
“We hope to see these clothes enjoyed by generations of South African children for many years to come.”
ENDLESS EVOLUTION
With a view to remaining competitive and future-proofed in an ever-changing industry, Ackermans has, too, recently announced implementation of the Oracle Retail Merchandise Financial Planning Cloud Service (MFP), a much more robust and efficient solution than its outdated enterprise planning (EP) system and tailored to meet the evolving needs of the business. “The transition to Oracle MFP represents a crucial improvement
Revolutionizing Retail with RFID Innovation
FineLine Technologies stands at the forefront of technological innovation, offering cutting edge soloutions across various industries, particularly in retail. Known for its efficiency and precision, FineLine delivers state-of-the-art barcode and RFID tags and labels, enhancing supply chain management and operational efficiency. With global delivery and a reputation for quick-turn production, FineLine is committed to helping businesses streamline their processes and adapt to the rapidly changing demands of today’s marketplace.
In South Africa, FineLine’s collaboration with Ackermans, a leading retail brand, exemplifies its ability to transform retail operations. This partnership enables Ackermans to achieve greater accuracy in inventory management and improved customer experiences through sophisticated tracking and data management systems. By integrating RFID technology, FineLine helps retailers like Ackermans reduce cost, enhance efficiency, and elevate their service offerings, ultimately leading to more satisfied customers and stronger market presence.
For more information, visit https://www.finelinetech.com/
FineLine’s FASTtrak platform further exemplifies its dedication to innovation and customer service. This platform ensures 48hour order fulfilment, guaranteeing data accuracy and providing real-time order tracking capabilities. Such advancements empower businesses with tools needed to maintain a competitive edge in a fast-paced global economy. FineLine’s commitment to excellence and innovation continues to set industry standards, positioning the company as a leader in RFID technology solutions.
Looking ahead, FineLine is poised to expand the applications of its RFID technology, driving advancements in automation and data analytics. By continuously developing more sophisticated solutions, FineLine aims to enhance data accuracy and operational effieciency accross various industries. As businesses seek to optimize their operations and meet evolving market demands, FineLine Technologies remains a trusted partner, dedicated to shaping the future of retail and supply chain management on a global scale.
in our planning capabilities,” shares Imke Henning, Business & Systems Integration Manager.
“We are confident that this upgrade will enhance our operational efficiency and provide our customers with a better shopping experience through improved product availability and planning accuracy.”
In an increasingly crowded marketplace, Ackermans continues to shine as a leading South African fashion retailer, most recently honoured with two prestigious titles at the 2023/2024 Ask Afrika Icon Brands Awards with results derived from the Target Group Index (TGI) Survey, the country’s largest survey of its kind. Clinching top spot in both the Children’s Clothes and Women’s Clothes and Accessories categories affirms Ackermans’ position as a trusted choice for South African
// WE ARE COMMITTED TO ENSURING THAT EVERY SOUTH AFRICAN HAS ACCESS TO OUR AFFORDABLE AND HIGH-QUALITY FASHION //
“Our success is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing quality and affordable fashion for the entire family,” she says. “By consistently meeting our customers’ needs and preferences, we have cultivated deep loyalty. This achievement reinforces our status as a leading value fashion retailer in South Africa.
“For over a century, we have been part of the South African fabric, understanding our customers’ unique aspirations and lifestyles. Our extensive store network and online
presence make us easily accessible to shoppers nationwide. We are committed to expanding our reach even further, ensuring that every South African has access to our affordable and high-quality fashion.
“Innovation and adaptation are key to our strategy moving forward,” Pretorius concludes.
“Our goal is to stay ahead of the curve, offering our customers the best in fashion and value.”
Fiery Nando’s Ambitious as Ever in Tough SA Market
PRODUCTION: Sam Hendricks
Nando’s remains a firm favourite in South Africa, and around the world, thanks to a complete focus on excellent customer experience. Food, service, environment, community involvement, and a little bit of the x-factor help to make the brand hotter than others. “Bom proveito” is the company’s invitation to all.
INDUSTRY FOCUS: HOSPITALITY
//Nando’s is one of the true South African business success stories. Now a global operation enjoyed by millions, the PERi-PERi flavour competes among the elite of the fast-food giants. But less transactional and more experiential, Nando’s has carved out a niche as a restaurant among a league of over-the-counter competitors.
Established in South Africa in 1987, the secret sauce in the Nando’s story comes from Mozambique. The African bird’s eye chilli grows under the hot sun becoming tear-inducingly spicy. Combined with lemon and garlic, the chilli sauce – recognised as PERi PERi – became the signature for Nando’s expansion. In Rosettenville,
south of Johannesburg’s CBD, the first Nando’s opened serving chicken lathered in the fiery goodness, and as the blend of Mozambique, Portugal, and South Africa hit people’s lips, there was no looking back.
Today, Nando’s is in more than 20 countries around the world with more than 1100 restaurants. The spirit of South Africa follows the brand, with clever marketing and uncompromising community focus.
Showing the strength of the brand globally, Nando’s announced at the end of 2023 that it would open 14 new sites in the UK with profits increasing as diners returned to the market after the pandemic. Sales were up against a loss in the previous year, displaying the draw
of the company’s warm environment.
In May, the company announced a new JV with K Hospitality in India with the aim of strengthening its presence in one of the world’s most prominent economies.
The company is also keen on further penetration in the Middle East, specifically in Dubai where a recent expansion programme was undertaken. Upgrades and improvements to existing sites in Dubai Festival City Mall, Mirdif City Centre, BurJuman, Deira City Centre, and Shams Boutik in Abu Dhabi, have create a more comfortable experience for those looking for that PERi-PERi kick. An upgrade to the Marina Walk location in Dubai, and a new opening in Nshama – a new urban lifestyle region – will
further enhance the brand reputation in the UAE. In Abu Dhabi, new openings are set for Al Wahda Mall and Khalifa City by the end of 2024. Qatar now has its 12th restaurant, in the Tawar Mall, where an appreciation of shared culture was highlighted as a drive of success. In the USA, the company is cooking up plans for new sites in Atlanta, adding Georgia to the five other states home to Nando’s chicken and sauce.
At home in South Africa, Nando’s has been looking internally at processes, products, premises, and profits as it looks to perfect its positioning in a market where it is well-recognised as an industry leader.
LOCALLY SOURCED
From a property perspective, there are now more than 300 Nando’s in SA, and each tastefully displays the company’s brand. This is not a colour scheme or a logo, but an ethos behind which is the entire employee base. Working closely with local creatives,
// FROM A PROPERTY PERSPECTIVE, THERE ARE NOW MORE THAN 300 NANDO’S IN SA, AND EACH TASTEFULLY DISPLAYS THE COMPANY’S BRAND. THIS IS NOT A COLOUR SCHEME OR A LOGO, BUT AN ETHOS BEHIND WHICH IS THE ENTIRE EMPLOYEE BASE //
each restaurant displays artwork that highlights South African heritage. Locally sourced equipment and furnishings are complemented by open and comfortable settings. At Nando’s, you can gather as a family, team or group, or you can sit as a couple or even alone and always feel at home. This is what makes South African tourism so appealing, and what keeps Nando’s atop a list of strong competition.
Product-wise, the company has, like most, introduced a strong vegan and meat alternative menu. This is, in part, to remain up-to-date with
market trends, but also to help drive a wider sustainability initiative that sees the company aiming for a significant reduction in its carbon footprint by 2030. Since 2014, the company has reduced its carbon footprint by 40% and Nando’s hopes to half that once again before the end of the decade.
These products are, alongside the company’s world-famous chicken offering, can be enjoyed within an impressive Nando’s restaurant, or at home through various delivery apps. Lufil Packaging, a Bidvest company and a partner of Nando’s for more
il Packaging established itself 40 years ago and supplies paper bags, wraps and serviettes to the QSR and Retail markets. Lufil has been the supplier of Nando's branded paper bags and serviettes in South Africa.
The paper and serviette material are food grade and FSC certified that is supplied from Sappi, a Local Paper Mill supplier
Fun Fact:
Did you know - Lufil has been on a fantastic journey for the last 36 years with Nando's.
INDUSTRY FOCUS: HOSPITALITY
than 35 years, supplies Nando’s with a range of recycled packaging including PrimePak Unbleached (PPU) which offers strength and durability for the modern environment where food can take knocks en route.
Chicken is the nation’s favourite fast food, and research from consumer insights and data science
firm, Eighty20, found that 20 million individuals chose to eat at one of the country’s top 10 quick service restaurants (QSR) at least once a month. Nando’s is often associated with delivery or drive through quality, and the superior packaging combined with clever marketing could be a driver behind this success.
// WHEN YOU SAY HOWZIT, HEITA OR HELLO AT A NANDO’S, THE ONE THING YOU’RE GUARANTEED TO FIND, BESIDES OUR LEGENDARY CHICKEN, IS A WARM SOUTH AFRICAN WELCOME AND A SMILE TO MAKE YOU FEEL AT HOME //
EFFECTIVE TECH
To encourage interaction between the Nando’s brand and its customers, the company has launched a new interactive game. The goal here was to encourage increased orders through the app as Nando’s launched its new Shisanyama flavoured Cabo Sosatie and Chips. This skewed chicken coated in smoky Shisanyama spices and Nando’s PERi-PERi is a popular springtime offering from Nando’s and the game is a fun way to advertise in a typically different way. South Ah Sosatie Catch is similar to Tetris with users aiming to catch ingredients on a skewer as they fall down the screen. Success here can help customers achieve discounts for their next order
Lupo Bakery’s vision is to be achieved by employing its unique strengths. These include, a focus on food safety with annual audits and the high quality of products produced at competitive prices. In addition, Lupo Bakery aims to innovate and develop novel products suited to the clients’ individual requirements. Most importantly, Lupo Bakery is committed to correct governance in maintaining business ethics.
Love Bread, Love Lupo
while they await their delivery.
At Nando’s restaurants, the experience is slightly different. The company has invested in 5G connectivity to stabilise communications. Helping to support back-office IT infrastructure as well as customer experiences, the new 5G is delivered through modern E300 routers. Some restaurants are already rolling out a digital ordering system where customers can place their order through the app before arriving, helping the company to be efficient while creating a profile of users for a more targeted experience.
The whole idea is about scaling up, or down, depending on demand in restaurants. When operating on different systems or competing technology, this became difficult for Nando’s SA. Now, the system is strong,
Manufacturers of Italian Breads, Sandwich Breads, Croissants, Braai Breads, Buns and Rolls Contact us for our full range of products! +27 10 023 0998 • www.lupobakerysa.co.za customercare@lupobakery.co.za
cloud-based, flexible, and makes new options available when it comes to improving the customer experience.
Initiatives such as this, combined with historically developed flavours that are well-loved, are helping Nando’s to build further momentum in South Africa. As the brand booms around the world, achieving growth that others could only dream of, the South African operation – the home of it all – must be aggressive in its bid to retain and grow market share. Upgraded restaurants, improved delivery, better technology, cheekier marketing, and a genuine connection with customers has the brand cooking nicely. In May, it was announced that Nando’s was labelled as the fourth most valuable African brand by Brand Finance Africa. The world’s leading brand valuation consultancy lauded
the company’s culinary innovation and celebration of African heritage.
“When you say howzit, heita or hello at a Nando’s, the one thing you’re guaranteed to find, besides our legendary chicken, is a warm South African welcome and a smile to make you feel at home,” the company says.
“We’ve set the eating experience on fire and we can’t wait for you to join our table because if there’s one thing we love as much as PERi-PERi, it’s lots of people to enjoy it with.”
SAKHIWO HEALTH SOLUTIONS
A Healing Approach to Hospital Design
PRODUCTION: Sam Hendricks
A multi-disciplinary consultancy specialising in hospitals and healthcare facilities, Sakhiwo avails of an extensive network of top industry talent to deliver comprehensive solutions to public and private sector clients. At the forefront of the concept of healing architecture, Sakhiwo is redesigning the future of healthcare facilities, turning its abilities and innovations to construction of the groundbreaking new Limpopo Central Hospital.
//“Creating functional healthcare infrastructure, one facility at a time,” is how Sakhiwo defines its mission and purpose, with close to 50 completed projects to its name and more than 25 years of experience speaking to its success.
“With a proven track record in
healthcare infrastructure, planning and technology in South Africa and across the continent, we continually raise the bar for functional infrastructure services and deliver comprehensive solutions from infrastructure development to commissioning and facility maintenance management.
“We’ve expanded our scope, and
today we are an all-inclusive partner, driving infrastructural progress in the public and private sectors.”
HEALING ARCHITECTURE
The hospital has come so often to represent a milestone, or landmark, in the lives of so many, and there is growing awareness, backed by
INDUSTRY FOCUS: INFRASTRUCTURE
research, that patients’ experience and healing are influenced directly by the environment in which the process takes place, with the physical environment is increasingly recognised as a pivotal factor. As a result, the concept of healing architecture has become key to architectural layouts in the design of hospitals and healthcare establishments, underscoring how thoughtfully planned spaces can profoundly impact patient recovery, staff efficiency and overall well-being.
“Healing architecture addresses environmental stressors like noise, lack of privacy, and physical barriers,” Sakhiwo elaborates, “to create healthcare settings that cater to both the physical and emotional needs of patients. By incorporating elements such as natural light, stimulating and revitalising colours, and efficient spatial organisation, this approach helps to
create a holistic healing environment.”
Natural light is critical in both healthcare and hospital design alike, impacting our psychological and physiological well-being and even accelerating post-operative recovery and enhancing pain relief, Sakhiwo underscores. “By integrating natural light into healthcare environments, hospitals can create spaces that promote faster healing and better patient outcomes. Incorporating architectural elements such as large windows and skylights is essential in redesigning healthcare facilities as instruments of healing,” it continues, citing Maggie’s Centres across the UK as examples of how such design principles can transform therapeutic environments.
“The principles observed in these centres exemplify the profound impact that architectural elements can have
on creating therapeutic environments and foster a healing atmosphere that reduces anxiety, speeds up recovery and improves overall satisfaction with care.”
TOMORROW’S HOSPITAL
From harnessing the power of the natural to broaching the furthest stretches of innovation, Sakhiwo is, too, deploying technology in shaping tomorrow’s hospital. In an era characterised by rapid technological advancement the healthcare sector is itself on the brink of significant transformation, and developments such as artificial intelligence (AI), telemedicine and smart building systems are all poised to bridge some of the major gaps in healthcare delivery.
“With unmatched reach, technologies like AI have massive potential to address the critical shortage of healthcare professionals globally,”
+27 21 930 9360www.ekcon.co.za
Sakhiwo recognises, before adding that, “telemedicine has evolved to revolutionise healthcare delivery, connecting patients and medical professionals regardless of geographical constraints and significantly improving healthcare accessibility and quality.”
The role of Internet of Things (IoT) services also looks set to be monumental in enhancing primary healthcare efficiency in South Africa’s rural regions, Sakhiwo states. “The integration of IoT technologies offers a lot of advantages as it can enable innovations which are vital for modernising healthcare infrastructure and ensuring responsive, personalised care.”
A facility set to open its doors in 2026, Sakhiwo has applied the sum of its experience, aspiration and innovation to the design, construction
// TECHNOLOGIES LIKE AI HAVE MASSIVE POTENTIAL TO ADDRESS THE CRITICAL SHORTAGE OF HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS GLOBALLY //
and commissioning of the new 488-bed state-of-the-art academic hospital greenfield development in Polokwane for the University of Limpopo Medical School, one of five such flagship academic hospitals in the country.
Initial planning began in the 2008/09 financial year, with a master plan approved by the National Treasury in 2022. “The establishment of a specialist hospital in this province will bolster the health sciences education and training, creating more opportunities for future generations to pursue careers in health sciences,” announced former Health Minister, Dr
Joe Phaahla, adding that the facility - in association with the health science faculty of the University of Limpopo - will make a significant contribution to health education and research.
“This Limpopo Central Hospital will be one of the pillars to deliver the National Health Insurance,” Phaala underlined. “This will not be an ivory tower, but part of a network based on the foundation of primary healthcare.”
FEEDMASTER
Namibia’s Leader in Advanced Animal Feed
Founded in 1983, Feedmaster is Namibia’s leading animal feed manufacturer and part of the Namib Mills Investments Group (NMI). Based in Windhoek and its environs, Feedmaster’s three feed mills provide its customers with a wide range of scientifically proven animal feed products, packed full of the optimal nutrients and developed especially to respond to Namibian conditions. “We provide innovative agri solutions to create optimal, sustainable and economical animal production,” the company sets out.
PRODUCTION: Sam Hendricks
INDUSTRY FOCUS: AGRICULTURE
//When founded in 1983 as a subsidiary of Namib Mills, Feedmaster’s primary objective was to maximise the use and value of milling by-products, with a product range initially limited to maize chop and the first mixed feeds manually produced on a cement platform. Namib Mills, meanwhile
was established one year prior, and its investment in a wheat mill in 1986 enabled the development and manufacture of a much more comprehensive range of feed products, through the introduction of motorised mixing equipment.
“Feedmaster’s growth and innovation have been fuelled by a
dedication to ongoing research, a deep understanding of nutritional balance and animal digestion and applying local and international research findings in product development,” the company assesses, which commitment has enabled Feedmaster to consistently formulate products with the requisite nutrients to safeguard optimal
// OUR STRATEGIC INTENT IS TO BE THE LEADING SUPPLIER OF TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED ANIMAL FEED PRODUCTS AND VALUEADDED SERVICES THROUGH OUR SKILLED AND COMMITTED STAFF //
animal health and productivity.
“Our strategic intent is to be the leading supplier of technologically advanced animal feed products and value-added services through our skilled and committed staff.”
FUELLING FOUR DECADES
The close of 2023 saw Feedmaster mark its 40th year of operations, having guarded the simplest of concepts at its heart throughout: to provide high-quality animal feed that would enhance the productivity of Namibian livestock farmers.
“We are so proud of what we have achieved in the past 40 years,” enthused Group CEO Ian Collard, commending the dedication and hard work of Feedmaster’s employees as so integral to the company’s sustained success. Collard was also anxious to thank Namibian farmers for their own unwavering support, acknowledging their role as a driving force in understanding the industry’s challenges and needs.
Over this long and distinguished lifetime, says the company, “Feedmaster has evolved into a
company at the forefront of animal nutrition, consistently striving to enhance and add value to sustainable livestock production systems.”
“As Namibia’s top animal feed producer, Feedmaster is committed to providing technology-enabled livestock feed that enhances and adds value to sustainable livestock production systems.” To this end, Feedmaster has continually upscaled and optimised its operations, establishing a state-of-theart monogastric animal feed mill on
Continues on page 52
VALERA & FEEDMASTER’S RELATIONSHIP WITH PROMTEK
Valera and Promtek: Leaders in Feed Milling Control Systems
Since its formation in 1997, Valera has been at the forefront of supplying, installing, and maintaining Promtek’s state-of-the-art recipe handling control systems for the feed milling industry in Southern Africa. Promtek, with over 50 years of expertise in feed milling, specialises in precise weighing, blending, batching, and mixing control solutions.
For advanced mill control, Promtek’s Kestrel Intime server provides a graphical process display and automated SQL-based links to third-party platforms like Format and SAP, ensuring streamlined operations and efficient production. One of Promtek's standout innovations is the Microman hand weighing system, designed to log all micro or manual weighments into individual batches with accuracy and ease. Another key technology is Promtek’s StoraWeigh system, which integrates seamlessly with recipe downloads from least-cost formulation packages, ensuring smooth data exchange with existing accounting systems, recipe control and historical data.
Feedmaster and Valera: A Decade of Collaboration and Success
The partnership between Feedmaster and Valera began in 2013 when Valera was entrusted with installing and commissioning Promtek’s advanced software controls for Feedmaster’s new mill, located 40km outside Windhoek, Namibia. By August 2014, the mill was fully operational, delivered on time and within budget, thanks to the strong collaboration between the three companies. This facility was optimized to produce high-quality feed for Feedmaster’s integrated poultry business, setting the foundation for future successes.
Building on this momentum, in 2018, Valera was awarded the contract to integrate the existing Small Bird Seed facility at Okapuka into the Promtek control systems. This was one of several projects that Valera successfully completed for Feedmaster, which also included a new press line, additional final product bins, and microbins for precise vitamin weighing.
Over the last decade, the partnership between Valera, Promtek, and Feedmaster has thrived on mutual trust, respect, and a deep understanding of each other’s businesses. This strong relationship has created a positive outlook for future cooperation and ongoing success.
Despite the often high-pressure environments, the employees at Feedmaster handle each project with professionalism and good humor, ensuring the job gets done efficiently and with a smile. The trust and respect that have grown between Valera and Feedmaster are the key ingredients in this enduring and successful partnership.
INDUSTRY FOCUS: AGRICULTURE
Continued from page 49
the Okapuka farm in November 2013.
In 2017, Feedmaster then unveiled a modern ruminant feed mill, standing as a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovation and technological advancement. The investment, according to
Feedmaster, was propelled by the constant growth in the ruminant feed market sector and advances in local precision farming practices, which require animal feeds to improve livestock production profitability.
“Feedmaster’s products, training and extension services to animal producers are meticulously
// FEEDMASTER HAS EVOLVED INTO A COMPANY AT THE FOREFRONT OF ANIMAL NUTRITION, CONSISTENTLY STRIVING TO ENHANCE AND ADD VALUE TO SUSTAINABLE LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION SYSTEMS //
formulated based on scientifically proven principles specifically developed for Namibian farming conditions,” the company clarifies.
“This dedication to providing localised solutions has been instrumental in supporting the growth and success of Namibia’s livestock industry.”
EVOLVING NEEDS
Feedmaster today boasts an impressive annual production capacity of in excess of 200,000 tonnes across its three plants, an almost unimaginable increase from its initial output of 150 tonnes.
“This remarkable growth reflects the company’s unwavering dedication to providing high-quality, technologydriven feed solutions,” says Feedmaster.
// THE COMPANY IS UNWAVERING IN ITS DEDICATION TO SUPPORTING THE GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY OF NAMIBIA’S AGRICULTURAL SECTOR //
In this spirit of evolution and improvement, Feedmaster recently revealed the significant shift in Equibran, part of its Equimaster range, from mash to pellets. “When it comes to feeding your horse, we want to make things easier,” Feedmaster summarises, in characteristic fashion. “Equibran mash will now be replaced with Equibran pellets, allowing for more flexibility and a lower chance of choking when the product has not been moistened by mistake.” Equibran pellets, Feedmaster explains, are formulated with feedlime to achieve
a calcium to phosphate ratio essential for bone development and growth and the maintenance of bone strength.
As well as its core feed production activities, Feedmaster also operates Namib Laboratories, a subsidiary entity whose establishment in 2018 was sparked by a desire to address the shortcomings of local veterinary laboratory services, particularly within the poultry industry. Looking ahead, states the company, Feedmaster remains committed to further strengthening its position as a leader in animal feed production.
“The company is unwavering in its dedication to supporting the growth and sustainability of Namibia’s agricultural sector,” Feedmaster asserts, “ensuring that Namibian farmers continue to thrive and contribute to the nation’s economic prosperity through the provision of superior animal nutrition as part of the food supply chain.”
PREMIER HOTELS & RESORTS
Unparalleled Luxury on Offer at Forward-Thinking Premier
PRODUCTION: James Redwell
From humble beginnings in the Eastern Cape, since 1991 Premier Hotels & Resorts has built a five-star reputation as one of South Africa’s leading independent hotel groups offering unique hotel, resort and conference properties throughout the country, each carefully selected to reside within the heartlands of SA’s regional business and travel destinations.
INDUSTRY FOCUS: HOSPITALITY
//From Johannesburg to Cape Town, the hotels of the Premier Hotels & Resorts group offer the ultimate in comfort and opulence, whether luxury accommodation or state-of-the-art conference facilities, in South Africa. “All our versatile properties offer the level of luxury and opulence that you would expect from international first-class hotels,” the group outlines.
From the 40 bedrooms of current Managing Director Sam Nassimov’s first East London hotel purchase, Premier Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio has grown to encompass over 24 hotels and resorts throughout the country, offering in excess of 2000 bedrooms and employing some 1500 passionate members of staff experts in delivering a superior customer experience.
“As a world class African Hotel Group, guests are invited to not only experience the luxurious and modern facilities within each hotel, but to take advantage of the surroundings in which they are located,” Premier says.
TOP DESTINATIONS
South Africa’s reputation for playing host to some of the most abundant and breathtaking tourism hotspots in the world is entirely deserved, a landscape arguably unmatched in terms of natural beauty, famous hospitality and cultural diversity.
Key to its seductive appeal for rafts of would-be travellers is an extensive variety of breathtaking holidays, experiences and activities throughout the year - all underpinned by excellent tourist infrastructure - but arguably its clinching argument is the wealth of accommodation on offer in such an extensive range of distinctive settings.
From the soaring peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains to the bustling, cosmopolitan life of Gauteng, careering through the spectacular coastlines of Cape Town and Kwa-Zulu Nata or taking in the scenic surroundings of the Lowveld and sightings of Africa’s abundant wildlife in the Eastern Cape, few of South Africa’s premier destinations fail to be brought to life by
Premier’s commitment to unparalleled experience, friendly service and unquestionable value for money.
“We are continuously bringing South Africa’s top destinations to life by providing our guests with an unparalleled experience and friendly service, as well as great value-formoney, and in all ways, the ideal solution for both business and leisure,” Premier Hotels & Resorts reiterates. “We are the preferred destination of choice offering professional, personalised and flexible hospitality and service to the discerning business and leisure market.”
GROWTH AND EMPOWERMENT
Entering new territory in a history replete with innovation and forwardthinking, as South Africa’s Women’s Month drew to a close in August, a powerful symbol of the empowerment of women emerged in Thohoyandou courtesy of Premier Hotels & Resorts, with Tsakani Masia stepping into the limelight as the owner of the newly launched Premier Hotel Thohoyandou.
PREMIER HOTELS & RESORTS
of access to the most contemporary hotel be dding trends as well as the beautiful, timeless styles we are famous for.
Sheraton Textiles are proud to be associated with most of Africa’s Premium Hotels, Boutique Hotels , Guesthouse establishment s and B&B’s. We are elated to convey our heartfelt congratulations to the Premium Hotels Group upon the opening of their new Premier Hotel Thohoyandou. We are proud to be associated with the group as premium bedding supplier and wish the hotel and its staff every success in th is memorable launch.
Since its humble beginnings, Sheraton Textiles now employs over 400 dynamic and talented individuals who represent the divers ity of our beautiful South African Heritage. Without compromising on quality and craftmanship, our distinctive and sought -after brand is aimed at our customers’ specific needs, and it is our mission to always satisfy even the most discerning taste. Sheraton Textiles creates luxurious bedlinen crafted from meticulously constructed fabrics, in an array of beautifully custom-made designs and prints conceptualized by our in-house Design Studio here in Cape Town.
Each item we manufacture is treated with great care; from meticulous handling and stringent quality specifications, to fine embellishments and attention to detail. Our Sheraton Textiles team are constantly investigating and embracing the latest technological developme nt and machinery available, to bring an international standard of ethical sourcing and manufacturing home to you from a progressive global pla tform. We remain committed to continue to deliver world-class service and to remain the hospitality textile company for the people of S outh Africa, Africa, and the world beyond.
Our business is our passion, our customers our priority and our products our pride – and we commit to always serving with honor and integrity.
Our mission – to not only deliver the most exquisite products and beautiful ranges, but to emphasize our attention to quality, d etail, and our talent for innovation by delivering a superb customer experience.
Contact our expert team today to explore the specific needs of your establishment with us – we cannot wait to be of service.
Congratulations, Premier Hotel Thohoyandou!
Sheraton Textiles - 134 Princess Vlei Road / Diep River / Cape Town / Western Cape / South Africa PH. +27 21 745 3220 / info@sheratontextiles.co.za
“It’s been a privilege to have been afforded a unique opportunity to work as both a technical guide during construction and an operator upon completion,” enthused Masia of the four-star hotel boasting 120 rooms, situated within the Thulamela Municipal area of Limpopo’s Vhembe District. Businesswoman Masia not only owns the hotel but has also built it from the ground up as a contractor, an unprecedented feat in South African construction and business history.
The hotel spans nearly 8,700 m2 of usable space, and is poised to set new benchmarks in sustainable hospitality: its striking stone facade replaces traditional brick and embodies an environmentally conscious approach that runs through the entire development, to seamlessly blend luxury with eco-friendliness.
“Partnering with remarkable entrepreneurs such as Masia is integral to our strategy of growth and empowerment across South Africa,” commented Sigal Nassimov-Geva, COO of Premier Hotels & Resorts. “Premier Hotels & Resorts remains committed to expanding its footprint into previously marginalised areas, aiming to stimulate local economies like that of Thohoyandou.”
“Partnering with remarkable entrepreneurs such as Ms. Masia is integral to our strategy of growth and empowerment across South Africa.” The development stand as the largest formal hotel accommodation in the province, and represents a significant investment in the region’s future, underscoring the confidence in its tourism growth potential while contributing to the empowerment
PROUD SUPPLIER OF :
DUVET AND PILLOW INNERS
DUVET COVER SETS
FITTED AND FLAT SHEETING
PILLOWCASE PAIRS
NAPERY AND THROWS
BASE WRAPS AND SKIRTS
PILLOW PROTECTORS
MATTRESS PROTECTORS
MATTRESS TOPPERS
QUILTED COMFORTERS
SCATTER CUSHIONS
POOL AND ROOM TOWELS
GOWNS & SLIPPERS CURTAINS
of the people of Vhembe region.
“Premier Hotels & Resorts has a proven reputation for delivering superior results through forward focused ingenuity and exceptional asset management,” summarises the award-winning hospitality company, now equipped with more than 30 years’ experience in developing and managing hotels, conference centres, boutique concept hotels and restaurants. “Our special hotel and resort properties throughout the country leave an awe-inspiring mark in every province in which we land.”
Having stood the test of time, the Sheraton Textiles brand has become a coveted name within the hospitality industry, synonym ous with an essence of quality, attention to detail and the assurance to our valued customers
EXHIBITION CALENDAR
KEY UPCOMING EVENTS ACROSS THE REGION
IMPORTANT EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS TAKING PLACE ACROSS SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA, GIVING BRANDS A PLATFORM TO TELL THEIR STORY.
BOATICA CAPE TOWN
OCT 25 - 27 | CAPE TOWN
We are thrilled to extend a warm invitation for you to experience the magic of Boatica Cape Town, hosted at the iconic V&A Waterfront – one of the world’s most picturesque locations. Boatica is renowned as the ultimate platform for the blue ocean economy, proudly showcasing South Africa’s vibrant boat, yacht, and catamaran manufacturers. Join us for an unforgettable display of boats, the latest boating equipment, accessories, and all things related to the boating lifestyle, as we celebrate our 22nd anniversary.
SEAMLESS AFRICA
OCT 16 - 17 | JOHANNESBURG
Seamless is a unique global event brand bringing together the converging worlds of the banking financial services industry and the retail and e-commerce ecosystem. But it’s more than this. It’s a global community made up of decision-makers from large Enterprise, SME’s, start-ups, NGO’s, Regulators and Government, all actively engaged in driving change in digital commerce. Join over 6,000 attendees at #SeamlessAfrica in 2024!
ENLIT AFRICA
OCT 7 - 10 | CAPE TOWN
The Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) is Africa’s only aerospace and defence expo that combines both a trade exhibition and an air show. Held biennially in the City of Tshwane – South Africa’s administrative capital, the AAD Expo is one of South Africa’s largest contributors to the country’s GDP in show years, and is regarded as a national asset.
MODERN MARKETING EXPO JOHANNESBURG | SEPT 11 - 13
AFRICA AEROSPACE & DEFENCE PRETORIA | SEPT 18 - 22
HYROX CAPE TOWN CAPE TOWN | SEPT 21
CLEANTEX AFRICA JOHANNESBURG | OCT 16 - 18
AFRICA TECH FESTIVAL CAPE TOWN | NOV 11 - 14
LPG WEEK CAPE TOWN | NOV 18 - 22
•
•
•
•
•
Elevating people.
Elevating business.
Elevating society.
Guiding growth, elevating business
BDO and Cavalier have been partners since 2017. BDO provides expert auditing to support tomorrow’s agro-processing innovations. The Cavalier group is a leader in this sector. Our relationship is built on our joint obsessions with clarity, quality and exceptional client service. Cavalier benefits from:
X Long-term partnership – consistent auditing support enables the Cavalier Group to maintain the highest standards of financial integrity and compliance, which is crucial for ongoing expansion and operational success
X Strategic investment support – when a significant investment of approximately R50 million was made in energy solutions for the business, BDO ensured the required financial due diligence
X Expert industry knowledge and guidance – BDO understands the particular challenges and opportunities the agriculture sector faces in South Africa and tailors solutions accordingly
X Future-focused strategies – BDO is always looking beyond the immediate to what will assist our clients in the long term
X Risk management – agriculture is no stranger to risk: climate change, drought, flood, exchange fluctuations, regulations – and BDO can advise in that context.
Experience the BDO difference in auditing – visit our website to see how our expertise can elevate your business into the future.
To view our latest facts and figures scan the code
