Industry News
Power cuts are hurting small businesses in SA – but sharing resources and equipment might be a solution
Worldwide, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are seen as the backbone of a thriving economy. They make up a substantial portion of the total number of companies and are estimated to contribute over 87% of all jobs globally.
Women in Business in Africa: Free masterclass with Marianne Lehikoinen
Marianne Lehikoinen, self-made entrepreneur and founder of Smart Mentoring, which specialises in the growth of coaches, creators and consultants, announces her first free masterclass for women in business in Africa.
SA retailers and brands making headway in cutting plastic waste
The South African Plastics Pact collaboration involving some of South Africa’s largest retailers and brands is driving strong progress in eliminating plastic waste. According to the initiative’s annual report, 34.7 million ‘problematic or unnecessary’ plastic items were diverted from landfills between 2021 and 2022.
South African retail sales fall 0.8% in December
Stats SA reports that South African retail trade sales decreased by 0.8% year-on-year in January 2023.
How renewables can help drive economic recovery, prosperity in SA
South Africa’s energy crisis is having a devastating impact on its economy, as evidenced by the 0.7% decline in GDP during the second quarter of 2022.
Govt to tighten legislations on procuring locally produced products
Work is underway to tighten the legislation on public procurement to ensure the mandatory procurement of locally produced and manufactured products in some sectors of the economy, as part of government’s effort to address unemployment.
Company opens flagship distribution centre locally
Consumer goods distributor Massmart, has opened its new flagship Riversands distribution centre in Gauteng.
Nearly 70% of consumer payments to be instant by 2027
A new study from Juniper Research predicts that the number of consumer instant payments will exceed 235 billion in 2027, up from 74 billion in 2023.
World Bank favourite Ajay Banga goes straight to Africa
The United States’ nominee for the presidency of the Bank visited the AfDB in Abidjan as he sought to gain African support.
Bespoke connectivity solutions key to enabling SMEs to prosper in 2023 – Telkom Business
In the wake of another rate hike and on top of ongoing loadshedding, high fuel prices and a generally gloomy economic outlook, South Africa’s myriad small and medium enterprises (SMEs) face serious headwinds.
Tough as leather: Leather shoe market growth trends, and sustainability
Finding the right shoe, is like reuniting with an old friend you have not seen for a good number of years. Having that comfy fit come from an ethical and sustainable materials source instils a further sense of comfort, knowing that you can tread lightly on this planet.
The African Cannabis Report™
While cannabis remains illegal in most African countries, many nations are keen to embrace cultivation as a way to boost their economies.
South African cannabis industry poised for huge growth in 2023
Globally the cannabis and hemp market are thriving, and African countries are significant contributors to the supply chain. According to The African Cannabis Report, global sales of cannabis-related products and cannabis could reach a total of $102 billion by 2026.
#BizTrends2023: 6 global retail trends making their mark in FMCG
There’s a global energy crisis, high inflation rates raising the cost of living, supply chains remaining under pressure, and an escalating power play between leading nations impacting trading dynamics. It’s been dubbed a “polycrisis” and the business environment is likely to be in for another year of volatility.
