It is well-known that South Africa has some of the worst road-safety statistics in the world. The death or injury of loved ones exacts a high social cost, but accidents also hit the economy hard - business vehicles have to be repaired or replaced and often goods in transit are destroyed or delayed.
Many truck drivers on our roads today suffer from sleep deprivation, back and neck problems, poor lifestyle and fitness habits, as well as stress. These problems contribute to drivers being unhealthy
South Africa's small business sector continues to grow, with SMMEs now accounting for over 36% of the country's GDP. Many of these entrepreneurs are, however, unable to sustain their business operations due to limited support and countless administrative hassles.
These business owners also suffer as a result of reduced opportunities for collaboration and networking, with many working from home or out of small offices that leave them with little exposure to other like-minded business owners.
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Very often we hear that "mistakes are inevitable" and that the lack thereof means we're not trying hard enough. Starting a business is often the realisation of a dream (that doesn't come without its own fears) and if you don't take your brilliant idea and turn it into a thriving business, someone else might… Unfortunately, the fear of not succeeding is human - and, somehow, we still need to face the music and get on with business.
We have done some research to give you the edge and to
SMEs are the backbone of our country, and the R2.1 billion that has been allocated towards the funding of small businesses in the 2018 budget speech is testimony to this. Economic downgrades, VAT increases and general uncertainty about the future can, however, cast a shadow over the positive outlook this investment predicts.
It's not all doom and gloom though; we have put together 4 opportunities that small businesses may like to look into this year:
Give your business airtime. Creating aware
Fuel prices make us all nervous, and fuel consumption is an increasing issue for drivers and fleet owners to understand. Even if you're running a fleet of one handyman vehicle, fuel is a major business expense.
These four simple tips will help fleet-owners and busy consumers alike to save cash - and protect business profits:
Stay on top of your maintenance. Stick to your vehicle's recommended maintenance cycle to ensure that your engine is working optimally. Regular maintenance means that mino
When transporting goods and stock, it may be tempting to load the vehicle a little more than usual in order to maximise the load and possibly reduce fuel costs, but this can be a costly mistake. We know that optimising productivity, reducing operational costs and improving profit is key for any business, but "Overloaded vehicles are estimated to be responsible for R400 million of unnecessary road damage per annum" according to a report from Loadtech.
Just how harmful are those extra bags of cem
Challenges such as long working hours and low salaries for skilled truck drivers in South Africa, mean that the country is unable to recruit the thousands of new professional truck drivers it requires every year.
Demand for skilled drivers is at its peak, leaving prime opportunities for economic and entrepreneurial success. We know that the road to riches may be a tricky one given the high upfront costs and ample risks and hazards, but it can definitely be worth the while for those willing to g
Action packed and adrenalin filled, this year's TruckX and FleetX event is being held at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit from 12-13 July. With a wealth of information, insights and excitement for transport operators, fleet managers, logistics providers and anyone with an interest in efficient mobility, the two-day event promises action and adrenalin with a high-octane line up both on and off the circuit.
Day One will focus on heavy commercial transport (TruckX), while Day Two will be dedicated
Many South Africans see transport as a viable sector in which to start a small business. Think of the numerous Ubers, taxis, bakkies and trucks that you drive past every day.
However, one of the basic conditions of any vehicle insurance policy is that the driver has the relevant qualification. If your business involves the transportation of people, ordinary goods or dangerous goods on public roads, it is critical that your driver(s) have a Professional Driver's Permit.
What happens if the drive
The recent downgrade of South Africa's debt to junk status and news of another recession spells tough times for business, with SMEs likely to be the hardest hit.
As a business owner, you will be tempted to cut costs as things get tougher - however, insuring your business has never been more important. Don't succumb to the pressure and skimp on your business insurance - being properly covered is critical to long-term survival.
In general, depressed economic activity will put pressure on all busin