Headlines
RetailBloed Street mall, taxi rank openedThe Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality has officially opened a R200-million Bloed Street mall and taxi rank facility as part of its ongoing efforts to upgrade the city's transport network and regenerating the inner city. Online power moms provide frequent parenting adviceUS mothers who use the Internet frequently are using a number of online avenues in order to build relationships and seek and offer advice on a wide range of subjects. Bears gnaw Pick n Pay's p:e ratio[Ben Temkin] A single-digit price:earnings ratio, according to guru Mark Mobius, head of Templeton Asset Management, is, as I've mentioned, an indication that a company's share may be good value. SAB KickStart East Coast winners announced The winners of the SAB KickStart East Coast regional awards have been announced. Aimed at 18- to 35-year-olds from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, the KickStart programme launched in 1995 as a poverty alleviation initiative, and has subsequently become a platform to stimulate sustainable enterprise development. It's all about the shoes, stupid[Jacquie Myburgh] I do believe Stuttafords has finally stumbled upon the answer to retail success. In one word? Shoes. Big bucks in London art marketLONDON: Just a month after a record-shattering auction of works by Damien Hirst, the economic crisis has suddenly hit the art market with two big London sales in recent days falling short of previous highs. SA's GDP expected to slow - Manuel[Michael Appel] While South Africa was hoping to maintain its 5% economic growth rate in 2008 and 2009, global economic conditions have forced the downward revision of expected growth. Francarlo's golden touch earns prestigious awardA family business in Mandela Bay has added another jewel to its crown by being named the country's best retailer. Advertisement:
AssociationsWoolies strike ends
South African Commercial Catering and Allied Workers Union (Saccawu) and Woolworths have agreed to end the strike that had lasted four weeks. The retail giant and Saccawu had been at loggerheads over recognition of the union's organisational rights. Both parties confirmed on Tuesday they would enter into a process of the verification of membership which would be monitored by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration. - I-Net Bridge - Sowetan
Banking & FinanceUS consumers still trust banks, but...New research just released in the United States finds that despite their financial problems, American consumers, generally, still have confidence in their banks. But they're not so sure about the officials in their capital. Rand continues to slide amid global crisisThe Rand continues to be under severe pressure amid global market turmoil, as it reached its worst bid of R11.82 per dollar on Wednesday - its worst level since March 2002. Economies under siegeEurope, one area of focus of this report, is a major trading partner with South Africa and the rest of Africa. This is the World Economic Forum's latest report focuses on how financial turmoil will affect the real economy. Busa welcomes 'mini budget'Business Unity South Africa (Busa) has welcomed the overall thrust of the mid-term budget policy statement (MTBPS) - or so-called mini budget - presented in Parliament yesterday, 21 October, and says it shares the realistic assessment of the economic outlook given by the Minister of Finance, Trevor Manuel. CPI basket revamp on the cards, announces Manuel[Michael Appel and Luyanda Makapela] The Consumer Price Index (CPI) basket, which initially excluded interest on mortgage bonds, is to be replaced by a component of the CPI with "owners' equivalent rent" instead. SA waits anxiously for Manuel's Mid-Term BudgetWith the world economy in trouble and the Rand suffering some of its biggest loses in recent years, South Africans will be waiting anxiously to see what the Mid-Term Budget holds.
Brand newsWoolies and WFF in SASSI joint venture Recognising the vital role retailers can play in the worldwide drive to conserve our precious seafood resources, Woolworths has formulated and is implementing a Sustainable Seafood policy. It has also just become the first South African retailer to sign the Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative's (SASSI) Retail Charter. More organic options for baby South African produced organic baby food brand, Olli Organic, is expanding its product range to include organic baby cereals and biscuits, as well as Step 3 baby foods, for babies from aged 10 months and older. With no added sugar, allergens, salt or modified starch, the Step 3 ready-to-eat range aims to offer exceptional nutritional and health benefits to babies. It is also both halaal and kosher certified. A slice of eye relief eyeSlices are the latest alternative to traditional eye-soothing products. These hi-tech disposable eye treatment pads are made from a patented cryogel polymer technology - a slow-release system that aims to effectively release a blend of active ingredients and moisture into the eye area. Adding a little colour with new note range [ActivRetail] 3M South Africa has launched a new range of office and stationery products to brighten up desks in the home, office and conference venues. Drink in a stick Frisco is expanding their product range with the launch of their new pre-blended drink stick pack range due to reach stores during the month of October. Keep dry for 10 years [ActivRetail] Renowned towelling product manufacturer, Glodina, is launching a towel that comes with a 10 year guarantee certificate. The Natural & Organic Expo brought out the best in pet lovers - Vondis Holistic Pet NutritionThe Natural and Organic Expo was a phenomenal success and I can truly say that people are starting to question what goes into their bodies. We were also overwhelmed with pet owners interest to change over to correct nutrition. I was also horrified to learn of all the disgusting ailments that our pets have become inflicted with. Almost every person had a story. General Mills to add innovative limited edition flavours to the Pillsbury TubeSet batter range - General Mills South Africa Pillsbury's convenient TubeSet product range, the innovative batter delivery system that combines all of the delectable taste of fresh ‘from-scratch' baking with versatility and record time, will also be available in exciting ‘Limited Edition' flavours, beginning with the heavenly Strawberries & Cream TubeSet. Advertisement:
Corporate Social InvestmentTraders get something back [ActivRetail] Affordable Mixed Brewed Brands has recently embarked on a campaign to reward traders in the community; by offering immediate gratification prizes in return for the support they have given the brands, Mona, Ace, and Kloof. The changing profile of a CSI Head [Sizile Mabaso] Appointing an appropriate individual is the first step in the effective and efficient management of CSI funds. The requirements and obligations put on companies these days make it imperative to ensure that the individual in charge of driving the company's CSI strategy understands the company's business strategy, values and obligations to stakeholders.
e-CommerceGetting your site to play well with all browsers[Imad Mouline] Internet Explorer is always working on a new version, Firefox is growing in use, Safari is riding Mac's rise in popularity, and now even Google has its own browser. Developers for e-commerce sites must ensure that their pages work for all users, or else sales will suffer. Here are a few guidelines for making your site looks right regardless of which browser the visitor is using. Amazon shares nosedive on grim outlook[Rachel Metz] While third-quarter profits rose by nearly half at Amazon.com, the company's outlook for the coming quarter caused investors to sell off its shares. Amazon scaled back its full-year profit forecast by nearly a billion dollars. Intellectual property pointers for enterprising e-tailers[Vivian Wagner] Getting into the online retail business is tricky stuff. Aside from the difficulties any business faces, e-tailers must also worry about whether they're violating anyone's intellectual property. A few IP attorneys offer some tips for navigating the tough waters. eBay slams door on ivory tradersOnline auctioneer and retailer eBay has banned the sale of ivory products on its Web site to help protect African and Asian elephants.
ExhibitionsSA to showcase trade, investment advantagesThe South African International Trade and Investment Conference and Exhibition 2008 will bring together local and foreign business people as it showcases the advantages of doing business on the southern tip of Africa. New Luxury Life Expo is coming to Cape Town - CADEK Media CADEK Media recently announced that it will stage its first Luxury Life Expo at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The dates are set for 4 - 7 June 2009. Advertisement:
FranchisingFranchises safer in hard times[Marcia Klein] In tough economic times, franchises are a relatively safe way of doing business. This is evident in the 2008 Standard Bank Franchise Factor survey, which showed that only about 3% of franchises fail, whereas the percentage of failed start-up businesses is much higher.
HospitalityTeam SA win five medals at IKA Culinary OlympicsThe City of Cape Town has congratulated Team South Africa on winning five medals at the Internationale Kochkunst Ausstellung (IKA) Culinary Olympics in Erfurt, Germany.
Import/ExportTime frame set for establishing Africa's biggest free market[Bathandwa Mbola] This week's Tripartite Summit held in Uganda agreed on a Council of Ministers to be convened within twelve months to determine the time frame for the establishment of a single Free Trade Area (FTA) comprising the three Regional Economic Communities (RECs). African countries form single market[Bathandwa Mbola] KAMPALA, UGANDA: Leaders of the Tripartite Summit from 26 African countries belonging to the three regional economic blocs in East and Southern Africa on Wednesday, 22 October, resolved to merge the blocs into a single regional market.
ManufacturingHummer personnel changes may boost sales [Karl Greenberg, MediaPost] This may be anticlimactic, given word that Cerberus Capital wants to sell Chrysler, and General Motors is considering buying it. Robust, ultra-hygienic and professional-looking lockers - your HACCP solution - Path Plastics We often search far and wide for the best product, when the answer to one's need is right here in our own country. Path Plastics manufacture a range of roto-moulded plastic lockers that are smart and professional-looking, come in various standard colours and are very robust and absolutely maintenance free!
PackagingMarking and coding system tracks pharmaceuticals' journey to customers Dutch pharmaceutical packager Tjoapack implements a marking and coding system that exceeds existing global requirements for track and trace. Resealable can wins international Can of the Year Award 2008Dutch invention earns international recognition for Ball, Coke, and Bound2B. How US brewer rebuilt its brand with new packaging look New labels, a new can design, new corrugated packaging and new branding reinforce the Dundee Ales and Lagers brand's Pioneering Craft Heritage at Dundee Brewing Co. Icon naming competition deadline extended The Glass Recycling Company has extended the closing date for its competition to find a name for its new icon. Hopefuls now have until 30 November 2008 to get their creative entry in if they want to stand a chance of winning R5000 in prize money.
PromotionsJack Daniel's road tour comes to SA Whiskey brands like going big. Last week it was the launch of the world's largest Johnnie Walker Striding Man building wrap, this week we learn that Jack Daniel's is bringing its JD Mobile Experience, a state-of-the-art truck of epic proportions that will give South Africans a true-to-life taste of the famous distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Brand interaction through online t-shirt designing Saatchi & Saatchi earlier this month launched a new website for men's fashion retail group Markham, which coincided with the launch of the group's new Summer 2008 fashion range. Briefed to create excitement around the Markham brand and also to convert website visits into online interaction, Saatchi & Saatchi's interactive division AtPlay partnered with local social media/online retail outlet Springleap.com for an interactive experience. Advertisement:
RegulatoryHope for dispensing charge settlement[Tamar Kahn] CAPE TOWN: Pharmacists and the health department have agreed to postpone until February today's court case over how much money pharmacists can charge for dispensing medicines. SA Health Dept recalls White Rabbit sweets[Bathandwa Mbola] The Department of Health has called for the seizure and disposal of the White Rabbit sweets which failed the test for melamine. Parliament gives amended Competitions Bill thumbs upThe National Assembly earlier this week stamped its approval on the Competitions Amendment Bill aimed at combating the uncompetitive behaviour of businesses which undermine competition. SA dept gives Mars clean bill of healthAfter rigorous testing of 107 milk brands and milk-based products sold in South Africa, the Department of Health has announced that Mars products such as M&Ms are safe for consumption and can continue to be sold across South Africa.
ResearchThe rush to the cities... Africa at a glanceThis report, published by courtesy of UN-HABITAT, summarises the influx of rural dwellers into the cities of Africa. The influx promises dramatic urban growth that will not only present challenges, but also opportunities for business. Climate change may drown some of Africa's citiesPeople in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, prefer to commute in three-wheeled autorickshaws, taxis and buses that run on compressed natural gas (CNG), in their bid to slow down global warming. Nineteen African port cities could be in danger - ranging from Tunis and Alexandria in the north, to Cape Town and Durban in the south. Profits could prove elusive for the on-demand CRM model[Surya Mukherjee] “…The need of the hour for on-demand CRM vendors is to accelerate their path to profitability... ” Study underscores family value of technologyTechnology is helping families stay connected, despite fears of it bringing in a corrupting influence or driving people apart. It's the pace of modern life that makes technology a necessity in order to remain up-to-date, researchers say. Seven 'rules of the road' to success for better-for-you kid food products[George Carey] "Better for You" or healthier kid food products are the hottest battleground for food marketers nationwide. Yet, as in most battlegrounds, the field is overwhelmed with "dead soldiers", or "BFY" products that seemed great in the lab, on the PowerPoint, or in research exercises. US magazine advertising revenues downLatest figures show that the print magazine sector in the United States is showing a decline in adspend by advertisers.
Retail servicesEnterprise feedback management: Getting inside your customers' heads[James Martin] Companies strive for a 360-degree view of their customers, while at the same time, many of them have data on customers that isn't making its way across the enterprise. Pulling together CRM and enterprise feedback management systems can give a more complete customer view. UK online buyers go for secondsSecond-hand goods gain popularity as UK Internet users look to beat the credit crunch. Winning entries require skills to prepare - Quo Vadis CommunicationsSouth Africa has a wealth of talent and the projects that communicators throughout the country implement have been proven to be on par with the rest of the world. This can be seen through the numerous awards won by many South African business communicators down the years - notable amongst them winners of International Gold Quill Awards.
RetailersShoprite Sept quarter sales up 25.9%Grocer retailer Shoprite said today sales for the three months ended September rose by 25.9%, identical to the rate of growth recorded in the same period last year. Clicks on the mend[Edward West] New Clicks, whose past performance has been spotty, reported a 28% rise in diluted full-year headline earnings. The results were boosted by share buybacks and, more importantly, sales of pharmaceuticals. Maponya Mall gets flair for hair Charlie Parker, one of the largest independent retailers of ethnic hair products in South Africa, has just opened a new concept store in Maponya Mall, Soweto. Conveniently located on the ground floor, the new-look store aims to offer a complete hair and beauty shopping experience with a wide range of products and accessories. New Clicks posts high earningsNew Clicks reported diluted headline earnings per share of 131.9 cents for the year ended August 2008 - up 28.1% from 103 cents a year ago. That makes 400!Woolworths reaches another milestone with the opening of its 400th store. Pick n Pay interim earnings upPick n Pay has reported a 21.5% increase in diluted headline earnings per share to 89.76 cents for the six months ended August from 73.9 cents a year ago. BP, Pick n Pay in petrol pilot schemePick n Pay and BP have combined forces in a pilot programme set to change the face of petroleum retailing and convenience shopping in South Africa.
SecuritySoftware giant launches multi-pronged assault on piracySoftware-maker Microsoft has stepped up its fight against pirated and counterfeit software with the announcement yesterday, 21 October, of the “Global Anti-Piracy Day,” a simultaneous launch of education initiatives and enforcement actions in 49 countries on six continents. In Africa, South Africa and Nigeria are the two countries seeing the launch of the initiative.
Supply chainHigh food prices are here to stay[Robert Laing and Kea Modimoeng] Consumers have been waiting months for deflation at the farm gate to appear on their grocery bills. | 
