Four years of research into the successes and failures of Soweto businesses has finally been released by the BMR. Some of the report highlights include the great market potential of the area, having found a large majority of the residents aren't planning to move out of the township. However, as bigger businesses tap into these markets, this has impacted negatively on small businesses. But it's not all bad news for small retailers, as the successful ones have a few things in common... The consumers have once again had their say, with the final results in for the 2011 Product of the Year Awards and FHM Guy Awards. Unilever scooped 12 POTY wins, while P&G came out tops in the baby toiletries categories. Bar-One was voted the best chocolate for the third year in a row by FHM readers. A big congratulations to all the other winning brands; may we continue to see great product innovation and sustainability.

Shan Radcliffe, Retail editor
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