- Bidvest

Transcription

- Bidvest

BIDVOICE
GROUP PANORAMA
QUARTERLY MAGAZINE FOR BIDVEST PEOPLE
Spotlight on
South Africa
f page 4
issue
2011
f CE’s message f Success is habit forming f A conference with culture f Profile f Health and wellness f Competition
CONTENTS AND EDITORIAL
Welcome
readers
features
04
e A story of growth
Although we are heading towards winter
in Johannesburg, we are being spoilt
with barmy days and sunny blue skies
and only need to head indoors in the late
afternoons when the temperature drops
quite drastically. I always have a smile
when I talk to my daughter in the UK and
tell her that I am freezing at 19 degrees and
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she tells me that they are having a lovely day in London and it’s… wait for it,
19 degrees!
Life never stands still and our Bidvest world is no exception. Read all
about the exciting restructure of the Bidvest South African businesses
Conservation collaboration f
and hear about the possibilities that this offers from some new names and
faces. It is inspiring to see that, as Bidvest reinvents itself, people are still at
the centre of ensuring business success. Chief executive Brian Joffe has
been swift to mention that this restructure has opened up opportunities
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e Bidvest Foodservice SA
at a number of levels and particularly in the realm of succession planning
(read more on page 3). And isn’t this what Bidvest has always been
about? Seizing opportunity and seeing potential and creating something
extraordinary out of the everyday and ordinary.
3663 in the UK has also undergone a rejuvenation. Read about its new
branding and positioning on page 20.
We have stories of excellence and achievement within all of our
businesses – please remember to let us celebrate your achievements
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with you by forwarding your stories to us for inclusion in Bidvoice, your
publication.
Keep warm or enjoy your summer, depending where you are in our
Bidvest world!
Bravery award f
Junette
56
e Floods in Australia
Highlights
Our Group
Greetings from Brian Joffe
Cover story
Generating value
Group panorama
BIDVOICE ISSUE 2 2011
Send contributions to: Junette Davidson, The editor, Bidvoice, The Bidvest Group Limited
PO Box 87274, Houghton 2041, South Africa
Tel: +27 (11) 731 7600 ` Fax: +27 (11) 880 3254
E-mail: junette@bidvestcommunications.com
2011/2012 deadline dates for copy to editor
` ISSUE 3 2011: end July` ISSUE 4 2011: end September ` ISSUE 1 2012: end November
regulars
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Junette Davidson – Bidvoice editor and Bidvest communications manager
Kate Cunningham – Assistant brand manager
Noelene Gouden – Administrative assistant
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58
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‘Star’ stories
Our people
Reaching out
Health and wellness
Rest and relaxation
Winning streak
Bidvoice is published quarterly by The Bidvest Group Limited for the people of Bidvest companies
worldwide. Its mission is to communicate the news and growth of the Group, to inform about
Bidvest companies, their services and products and to encourage mutual understanding and the
will to succeed.
No responsibility will be accepted for any statement made or opinion expressed in the publication.
Consequently, nobody connected with the publication including directors, employees or editorial
team will be held liable for any opinion, loss or damage sustained by a reader as a result of an
action or reliance upon any statement or opinion expressed.
© Bidvest 2011 This magazine is copyright under the Berne Convention. In terms of the South African
Copyright Act No. 98 of 1978, no part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information
storage and retrieval system, without permission of the publisher and, if applicable, the author.
Design and layout: Bastion Graphics `
Printers: Blesston Printers, a Proudly Bidvest company.
HIGHLIGHTS
highlights
Visiting the home of Angliss
Our Angliss colleagues were excited to introduce Hong Kong to the rest of
Bidvest during the February incentive trip. Page 24-25.
Bidvest World Chefs’ Tour Against Hunger
The Bidvest World Chefs’ Tour Against Hunger will take place in South
Africa from 21 August 2011. More than 200 of the best and most wellknown international chefs from 42 countries will be arriving in South
Africa to treat the public to a culinary bonanza to raise funds for the
African Children’s Feeding Scheme and the Akani Diepsloot Foundation.
The Bidvest Unity Walk 2011
From left: Lionel Jacobs, commercial director; Peter Meijer, financial director and Lindsay
Ralphs, chief executive officer of Bidvest South Africa.
Our new division –
Bidvest South Africa
The South African businesses have undergone a strategic restructure.
We are excited about the potential value to be unlocked. Read more on
pages 3-5.
The Bidvest Unity Walk will take place on Sunday, August 14 2011
and Bidvest employees are encouraged to participate.
Venue: Bidvest Wanderers Stadium
Time: 08:00
Distance: 10 kilometres
Catering and entertainment will be provided.
Bookings open mid-June. Enquiries: info@mscsports.co.za
BEE status
Transformation is a journey, not a destination – and we are delighted that
Bidvest is now ranked fourth in BEE status within the services sector and
eighth in terms of BEE ownership.
1
OUR GROUP
Chefs to tour SA
Two hundred top international chefs are to visit South Africa in August in a bid to raise
more than R4 million to feed hundreds of thousands of starving children.
From August 21, the 10-day Bidvest World Chefs’
what we do as a business with what we feel as
Tour Against Hunger will host public fund-raising
citizens. We see powerful alignment between our
initiatives and gala dinners in Johannesburg,
foodservice activities and the tour.
Durban and Cape Town to raise awareness of the
“Two-and-a-half million children cannot fend for
plight of starving South Africans and to finance food
themselves. They go hungry every day in South
for them.
Africa. It’s a heart-rending catastrophe. It demands
The tour, the third by international chefs, is being
arranged by the SA Chefs Association and the
Academy of Chefs, under the auspices of the World
Association of Chefs’ Societies.
It is being sponsored by Bidvest and Southern
a response, which is why we wholeheartedly
support the tour.
“Many challenges cry out for urgent action. One
issue above all should never be ignored – hunger.
“Education is the first step to nation building.
Hungry children cannot learn or become active
Sun.
The tour’s convenor, Martin Kobald, says: “We’ll
and productive members of their communities. By
use the funds raised by the tour to develop meal
partnering the tour, we believe we’ll raise not only
plans for beneficiary charities and to buy the food
money to feed hungry children, but awareness of
needed to sustain those charities for as long as
their plight. Ultimately this awareness will change
possible.
their future.”
raising event undertaken within the global chefs’
Key events during the tour will include:
fraternity.”
` A march to Alexandra, where the feeding
sponsor the chefs’ accommodation in South Africa.
The chefs, from 32 countries, will pay their own
way and donate their expertise and services.
Bidvest chief executive, Brian Joffe, says: “Our
diverse CSI programmes work best when we align
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prepare delicacies from their home countries for
the public to sample; and
`Gala fund-raising dinners, primarily for
corporates, in Durban and Cape Town.
The organisers are confident that various
complementary fund-raising efforts will add to the
“We expect the tour to be the biggest fund-
Bidvest donated R3,6 million. Southern Sun will
`Demonstration kitchens, where the chefs will
money raised.
South African pop singer PJ Powers, for
scheme run by the Abused Women and Children
instance, is to re-record the song that won popular
Foundation serves 350 children;
appeal during the 2003 tour, Sing Children Sing,
`Food festivals at Southern Sun hotels in
Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, East London
with a video, to support the tour.
Bidvest Foodservice SA will offer commemorative
and Nelspruit, where the public will be able to
chefs’ hats for sale to companies to promote the
sample speciality dishes prepared by the chefs;
tour and their own companies’ links with it.
CE’S MESSAGE
We’ve pressed the refresh button ...
now let’s press ahead
A recent restructure has grouped all South African Bidvest businesses outside the foodservice industry into a single unit – Bidvest
South Africa. The new entity – by far the Group’s biggest employer – comprises 10 divisions and is a platform for renewal and
sustained growth… as Brian Joffe explains.
N
ew divisions at Bidvest South
office furniture. The glue is geographic
Africa soon got into their stride.
proximity within South Africa.
Early indications are that they are already
I congratulate Lindsay and all
beginning to achieve the gains envisaged
divisional CEOs and financial directors
when we announced the restructure
on their new appointments. They take
some months ago. Our people can take
the reins at an exciting time.
credit for this. They have again showed
For me, a pleasing aspect of the
their adaptability and knack of making a
new structure has been the positive
success of change.
response, not just by managers, but by
One reason for the smooth transition
staff at all levels. One reason for this is
is that in key respects there has been no
that ours is a genuine restructure.
change at all. The Bidvest South Africa
Too often, businesses use the word
structure reaffirms Bidvest’s commitment
‘restructure’ to describe cutbacks and
to a decentralised business model in
job losses. At Bidvest, we say what we
which independent teams are trusted
mean and restructure means just that.
to optimise opportunities and grow their
We expand the number of South
own businesses.
African divisions to 10. Changes involve
The restructure focuses 10 different
no reduction in the headcount.
divisions on well-defined fields of activity.
Numerous appointments and
The various teams eat, sleep and drink
promotions were necessary to give
their own areas of special expertise.
effect to the new structure. All talent
Tighter focus will enable these teams to
was recruited internally. Not one
derive competitive advantage from their
significant senior appointment required
in-depth industry knowledge.
the services of a recruitment agency.
The changes are a natural progression.
Bidvest’s managerial strength in
In the second half of last year, all our
depth is now there for all to see.
foodservice businesses were assembled
Change demonstrates that robust
into Bidvest Foodservice, under the
succession planning has been in
leadership of Bernard Berson. This
the works for several years. In many
structure addressed geographic diversity
instances, a successor generation of
across the Asia Pacific, Europe and southern Africa regions. The glue was
executives has moved into senior positions, taking over from a founder
shared participation in a single industry.
generation of entrepreneurs who established the businesses that grew into
It was essential to create a similar family of businesses across our
remaining companies and give them the benefit of similar management
focus and the support of a single, consolidated leadership team.
This has been achieved through the creation of Bidvest South Africa,
the Bidvest of today.
In top jobs across Bidvest South Africa we now have a mix of young
blood and experienced older heads.
This blend of youth and experience has the task of renewing and
headed by Lindsay Ralphs as chief executive officer. Ten divisional CEOs
reinvigorating Bidvest. The restructure means we have pressed the ‘refresh’
report to Lindsay.
button … now we can press ahead.
This structure addresses industry diversity across sectors as wide-ranging
as automotive retailing and security services, the laundry business and
Brian Joffe
3
COVER STORY
A story of
A new structure, a new base and
new opportunities to grow
A new grouping of our businesses, Bidvest South Africa, is up and running; without dislocation, but with lots of renewed
enthusiasm. Here’s a rundown of how it happened, why it happened and why the new structure is working so well …
Lynden Wright
idvest’s story is one of growth, successful
base creates room to grow. Ultimately, that means
There’s no clutter. Better focus makes it easier to
acquisition and unprecedented value creation.
growing jobs, growing people and growing careers.
manage your business. The new structure also makes
B
The attitude to corporate growth is also without
The foodservice businesses underwent
it easier to grow.
“Managers and teams close to their business,
precedent. The Group never adopted a ‘merge and
restructuring last year. It’s worked well. This year, the
purge’ approach to acquisitions. Bidvest bolts on. To
South African non-foodservice businesses have been
their customers and industries can see where the
simply lop off people and jobs is not the Bidvest Way.
accommodated in a new structure that will drive
opportunities lie.
Local brands were always respected and retained.
deliberate, value-enhancing rededication to core
Local teams almost invariably remained in place and
retained the freedom to run their own businesses.
activities and customers.
Bidvest prizes simplicity. The structure is readily
Their entrepreneurial flair was the driving force that
understandable – 10 areas of focus equal 10
fostered further growth in a wide variety of sectors.
divisions.
But over the years, diversity and multiple options
Bidvest South Africa comprises: Bidvest Freight,
“The structure is about renewal and new growth.”
In many cases, the changes take on a ‘back-tothe-future’ dimension.
“The Bidvest Services division illustrates the
process,” says Lindsay. “These businesses are
focused on the ‘soft services’ to corporate clients
can play games with your sense of direction. Sturdy
Bidvest Paperplus, Bidvest Automotive, Bidvest
that were always at the heart of the original Bidserv
size demands sturdy structures. Clear vision about
Office, Bidvest Travel and Aviation, Bidvest Services,
division.
the way forward is also essential.
Bidvest Rental and Products, Bidvest Industrial,
At the same time, a Group built on people power
has to provide outlets for the energy of the new talent
developed over the years by companies that value
staff with ‘get up and go’.
Bidvest Electrical and Bidvest Banking and Insurance
else. This explains the boost to morale our managers
Services.
have told you about. The structure enables them
Each division focuses on core competence.
understand best – no distractions; no reason not to
do well.
An appropriate structure can capture the talent
it means a shared business model. Alternatively,
operations straddle sectors with strong affinity,
without becoming unwieldy or unfocused... this is
permitting synergies through improved service to
the core rationale for the restructure of the Group’s
shared customers.
local operations into Bidvest South Africa. Without
Lindsay Ralphs, CEO of Bidvest South Africa,
exception, the process was put into a context that
points out: “The structure has been expanded but
will be welcome news for staff members – the new
is certainly not complex. It’s easy to understand.
to do the things they know best in the sectors they
Sometimes this means a single industry. Sometimes
and unleash the energy needed for continued growth
4
“Teams know these operations better than anyone
“They’re confident going forward because they’re
on familiar ground.”
There are additional reasons for positive morale –
the chance for a bigger role at a reinvigorated
business.
“At a strategic level, the restructure shows
BIDVEST FREIGHT
Terminal operations SACD Rennies Distribution Services
Safcor Panalpina
BIDVEST PAPERPLUS
Lithotech Afric Mail Silveray Statmark Kolok
E Mail Connection
BIDVEST AUTOMOTIVE
McCarthy Burchmore’s
BIDVEST OFFICE
Konica Minolta Océ Waltons Business Furniture G.P.T.
BIDVEST TRAVEL AND AVIATION
BIDVEST SOUTH AFRICA
Lindsay Ralphs
Chief executive officer
Bidtravel Budget Rent-a-car Bidair
BIDVEST SERVICES
Prestige Magnum TMS TopTurf
BIDVEST RENTAL AND PRODUCTS
Steiner G.Fox Laundries Execuflora Puréau
BIDVEST INDUSTRIAL
Yamaha Nissan Afcom Vulcan Berzacks
BIDVEST ELECTRICAL
Voltex Versalec Cables
BIDVEST BANKING AND INSURANCE SERVICES
Bidvest Bank Financial Services
Bidvest has ample natural talent on board and that
Lindsay, “and we didn’t fire anybody on the inside.”
with the necessary training and encouragement.
succession planning has been undertaken in plenty
Lionel Jacobs, commercial director of Bidvest
Investment in these areas goes up all the time. If
of time,” says Lindsay. “From a people perspective,
South Africa, notes: “The restructure is a great
you have the ability and energy, the opportunities for
the opportunities are closely linked to career progress
expression of faith in the people of Bidvest and their
personal growth are right here at Bidvest.”
and individual development.
future potential.
“There are 10 new CEOs, each running substantial
“We didn’t look to the outside. We were confident
businesses with the support of their financial
we have the talent inside the business to drive long-
directors. They get a chance to step up into major
term growth.
strategic roles. This creates knock-on effects
“This is why the reaction has been so positive. No
throughout their divisions. As they step up, new
jobs were lost and we put our trust in the people of
opportunities open up for other team players all the
Bidvest.”
way along the line. The main effect is new energy
that touches every part of the organisation.”
Change rarely affected individual operations within
Change has also sent a positive signal to those
from historically disadvantaged communities.
“Employment equity remains a major focus area
Change also creates an implicit challenge –
proving the new structure’s fitness for purpose
by using core competence to achieve improved
returns.
“We rightsized during recession,” explains
Bidvest South Africa financial director Peter Meijer.
“Now South Africa is moving out of the downturn,
we have reformatted for renewed growth.
“We have a broader structure; in effect, a broader
base on which to build sustained growth. The
structure has only been in place for a few months,
divisions, as they were left to get on with the job of
across all divisions,” says Lionel. “The arithmetic
serving their customers. As one source put it, “This is
is simple. There are more divisions than before;
business as usual … only better.”
10 of them. In terms of people development and
environment, making it easier to identify problems
advancement into positions of real responsibility, that
and areas of under-performance. You can see what
means more room to grow.
you need to do to improve. The structure opens the
Pride is taken in the fact that the restructure was
implemented the Bidvest Way and showcased the
Group’s spirit of self-reliance.
“We didn’t hire anybody on the outside,” observes
“Across 10 divisions there’s more chance to
stand up and stand out. You will be provided
but we already see great enthusiasm for growth.
“It’s also a clearer structure, a very open
door to new growth. The challenge for us all is to
make the most of the new opportunities.”
5
COVER STORY
It’s
unanimous
Bosses of all divisions within Bidvest South Africa run dissimilar businesses but have similar views on the restructure. It might not
qualify as reinvention as existing businesses are focused on core activities, but it certainly qualifies as reinvigoration. Teams across
the country have reacted with renewed enthusiasm and energy. Motivation and expectations are running high.
Here’s what the divisional CEOs had to say …
Anthony Dawe
CEO, Bidvest Freight
We see the South Africa-only focus as a platform for achieving renewed energy, while giving
each decentralised team the scope to optimise new opportunities and rapidly adjust to
significant changes at industry and operational level.
At Bidvest Freight, we see a big shift towards agricultural bulk cargoes and commodities
like manganese, coal and copper. Demand is driven by China and India, with South Africa well
placed to respond with large volumes of natural resources for export. At the same time, South
African farmers have produced bumper maize crops, resulting in excess volumes for overseas
shipment.
Bidvest’s significant investment in port facilities over many years has become a source of
competitive advantage. We not only handle higher volumes, but do so more efficiently than our
competitors. The capacity to manage large bulk exports will enhance South Africa’s position in
world markets. Our task is to support these strategic developments while assuring sustained
advantage and long-term growth. The new structure clears the way, not just in the immediate term
From left: Anthony Dawe, CEO; and Mike Steele, FD.
but into the future.
Neil Birch
CEO, Bidvest Paperplus
The changes are readily understood by our people and reinforce the divisional autonomy that has
helped drive our growth of recent years. Kolok’s inclusion complements our wholesale stationery
manufacturing and distribution business while customer overlap bestows significant operational
benefits. Though the product range is different, this presents an opportunity for future synergy.
Internally, it’s generally ‘business as usual’, but externally one of the restructure’s main
effects is to heighten our profile and position us as a significant Bidvest brand. This
enhances our quality credentials at an important time.
Enactment of the Consumer Protection Act means customers increasingly seek quality
reassurance and appropriate levels of certification. They expect suppliers to deliver
products that perform to specification, that contain no harmful materials and won’t give
rise to litigation and other claims. A restructure that showcases our status as a Bidvest
division with a quality profile could hardly have been better timed.
The restructure is also an opportunity to re-examine existing practices and look for innovations
to keep driving us forward. It’s positive all round.
From left: Neil Birch, CEO; and Colin Adendorf, FD.
6 f BIDVOICE ISSUE 2 2011
COVER STORY
Graham Damp
CEO, Bidvest Automotive
This is an exciting development at an exciting time for our business and the wider
automotive industry. The restructure assures total focus on core competence at all
operations. This is highly beneficial as our people try to derive optimum advantage
from significant opportunities while addressing some tough challenges.
We – and our industry – are looking to achieve renewed growth. But
competitive pressures are intense as every manufacturer is trying to drive up
sales volumes. Meanwhile, we have to address the consequences of the severe
downturn in 2008-09. Car sales stalled in this period, resulting in lower service
business today.
Knock-on effects from the Japanese tsunami and the closure of several parts
and electronic component plants will also create challenges in the months ahead,
but we are excited about the restructure, about our position within a strong parent
Group and about the future. It’s also a big plus that in a challenging environment
like ours, we can call on the assistance of an executive with the depth of
experience of Lindsay Ralphs.
From left: Graham Damp, CEO; and Carla Seppings, FD.
Alan Griffith
CEO, Bidvest Office
The restructure brings the old Bidoffice family back together again, after a period
when some units were under the Bidserv banner while others were part of Bidvest
Industrial and Commercial. The effect on morale has been very positive. We know
where we belong and what we have to do.
The restructure gives each business a chance to get back to basics and back to
profit. The main effect is to focus all businesses on areas of core competence. Tight
focus on areas of traditional expertise does not lock us out of growth opportunities,
as each business has room to grow market share. The exciting thing for our people is
that we can grow by doing what we’re best at.
The major new opportunity is Konica Minolta’s expansion into healthcare through
its new generation of digital X-ray technology. This has created tremendous
excitement, but excitement is by no means limited to Konica Minolta. All teams are
enthusiastic about the more focused approach within a structure that creates major
opportunities for synergies and efficiencies.
From left: Alan Griffith, CEO; and Ivan Keshwar, FD.
Kevin Wakeford
CEO, Bidvest Travel and Aviation
The new division aligns Bidair’s ground handling operations, Bidvest Premier airport
lounges and air cargo business with our travel management companies and Budget Car &
Van Rental, creating scope for numerous synergies.
A distinct identity as a separate division is new, but continuity is evident, as well as
change. Our teams have long functioned as individually accountable ‘small businesses’.
This won’t change. In fact, the new structure guarantees that growth into large complacent
businesses will not happen. We stay decentralised, lean and keen to build the business.
Within the old Bidserv structure, we learnt to think in terms of serving the wider
hospitality and leisure industries. Now we have a chance to put this broader vision to work
by seeking growth through collaboration with divisional colleagues. The new set-up has
been well accepted by all teams, morale is good and we already see camaraderie between
staff from different business units. This indicates to me that our people are eager to make
the most of fresh opportunities for individual and business growth.
From left: Kevin Wakeford, CEO; and Allen Kotze, FD.
7
COVER STORY
It’s unanimous
John Taylor
CEO, Bidvest Services
The structure makes it clear exactly what we and all other divisions do.
We are clearly a services division and add value through our service
support to other businesses.
The change reinforces the rebranding strategy of recent years. Ahead
of structural change, our name was changed to Bidvest Services.
Prior to that, we drew competitive advantage by making much greater
use of the Bidvest name, using it alongside the names of established
operational brands. Market acceptance has been extremely positive.
Our customers now understand that our businesses are part of Bidvest,
that exceptionally high quality standards apply and that we can call on
considerable resources.
The new structure adds even further to customer understanding of
our positioning, while making it clear to our teams that they are free to
pursue any new opportunities in the service space. The positive effects
on the morale and development of our people cannot be stressed
enough. They can see where they fit in and that their growth will be
accommodated, too.
From left: John Taylor, CEO; and Bina Gosai, FD.
Alan Fainman
CEO, Bidvest Rental and Products
The restructure is positive all round. We’re smaller, more focused and
we’re looking at lots more synergies. Previously, we were more diverse.
The new structure makes interaction and networking quicker and easier
for all teams. The businesses remain decentralised and individually
accountable. Each has the opportunity for strong growth as each
operation serves similar customers, allowing us to deliver significant
efficiencies.
The division is very cohesive as all businesses operate on the same
rental model. There’s a good fit between G.Fox and Steiner while
water, laundry, hygiene and plants under one banner creates numerous
opportunities to better serve our customers.
But it is not just on the business level where we see opportunities.
Our managers and people can see future potential as well. Because we’re
smaller, good people get earlier exposure to decision-making at a higher
level. They get a motivational benefit. We benefit from fresh thinking.
Timing was ideal, as a new generation has been under development.
Now they get the chance to grow as their businesses grow.;
From left: Trevor Scruse, FD and Alan Fainman, CEO.
8
COVER STORY
Howard Greenstein
CEO, Bidvest Industrial
I’ve spoken to staff at all businesses in the division and people at all levels are enthusiastic about the
new structure.
The lack of obvious synergies across our businesses is positive. Each business has a well-defined role in
its own field of operations. Each company can focus on core competence and build from this base.
The electrical and office businesses have been stripped out, but we gain Yamaha – a strong brand
that has just moved into its new Gauteng home, Bidvest’s World of Yamaha. There’s already a lot of
energy there. Clarity around its place in the division just adds to it. The Nissan warehouse equipment
agency is another relative newcomer that is building strong momentum.
We can now look closely at how best to unlock both organic and acquisitive growth in each industry
and at each business. This is a wonderful opportunity for our people. The smaller divisional base means
there is more chance to stand out, and those who stand out have a great opportunity to grow with the
company.
Stanley Green
CEO, Bidvest Electrical
Response has been positive locally, regionally and nationally. Change is healthy, giving a
sense of new beginnings. A new broom not only sweeps clean, but has a tendency to
sweep in new directions and makes inroads in new areas.
The exclusively electrical focus will enable us to take advantage of new opportunities
without possible distractions. A risk with the previous structure was that one’s perspective
could be clouded by extraneous factors. Our operational focus is much sharper. This
focus will help us identify opportunities a lot sooner, thereby enabling us to move more
aggressively to exploit them. Identification of acquisition opportunities will also be
speedily facilitated, enhanced and actioned.
We will be looking to grow, but are ever mindful of the substantial challenges we
face as a major driver of volumes, given that the construction sector is in the eye of its
harshest storm in almost 40 years. However, we remain cautiously optimistic that
progress will continue to be made. We also recognise that opportunities arise in tough
times and, accordingly, the timing of the restructure is opportune for us. We sense the feeling
of reinvigoration and strong team spirit and we are encouraged in the face of a challenging
and harsh industry environment.
From left: Eric Immermann, FD; and Stanley Green, CEO.
Alan Salomon
CEO, Bidvest Banking and Insurance Services
In 21 years with Bidvest, I’ve witnessed exceptional success on the back of our decentralised
business model. The new structure renews the commitment to decentralised success while
acknowledging huge changes in the business world generally and at Bidvest. We see greater
diversity and flexibility while in-depth specialisation has become vital. So there’s greater breadth
than ever before, but businesses have to have deeper understanding of their customers and their
needs. Understanding competitor activity has also become a vital pre-requisite. The structure
responds to these new realities.
The challenge is illustrated by developments at Bidvest Bank. We are foreign exchange
specialists, but our banking licence is not restricted to this field. We cover lending and
deposit-taking and asset-based finance. Through our financial services business we offer a
comprehensive range of insurance products. To meet anticipated customer expectations, we
have to display in-depth knowledge in each field of specialisation while simultaneously looking for
opportunities across a broader spectrum and building significant annuity-style income streams.
Structural changes facilitate these processes and give all our people a clearer understanding of
their place in the wider Group and the personal opportunities that are opening up.
From left: Alan Salomon, CEO; and Lydia de Waal, FD.
9
GENERATING VALUE
is habit forming
Roy Parkhurst
Recent research has shown how our brains
possess an extraordinary ability to adapt.
Major insights regarding neuroplasticity
go about how, through self-awareness
and focus, we can literally rewire the way
we think and act. More specifically, how,
through developing powerful new habits,
we can better manage our own success,
and how that can result in more satisfying,
effective and healthier lives.
‘Just as money
compounds, so does
knowledge and
so do habits’
R Allis
Create a picture of what greater success
would look like
To do this, complete the sentence: “I will know
I have achieved the success I am wanting to
when…” Be specific but brief. Try to include some
hard measures of success.
In your mind’s eye – take some time on this –
reflect what this greater success would look like and
Rate how successful you are at the moment
(out of 10: 10 for superb; 1 for long way to go)
First give yourself an overall rating. This may not be
easy, but have a rough go. Write down your score.
Now choose some broad headings that describe
how it would feel. Hold this in your memory.
Identify a new habit that would be key to
achieving greater success
Because you’ve identified a ‘success gap’, the
the major areas of your life like work, career,
chances are high that you will need to think and act
wellness, relationships, money, community –
differently to achieve the success you want. If you
New habit-forming processes are often facilitated
anything that’s relevant to you. Write these down
agree, here’s a precious opportunity to start closing
by a coach. However, based on relevant research
and score each. Note how you feel about each
your success gap by designing one, tailor-made
findings, this article offers you a ‘DIY’ opportunity to
rating.
new habit for success! (You can add new habits
take advantage of new, success-building habits by
Choose something specific to focus on for
greater success
later.) Habits comprise the ways you repeatedly
reflecting on the things that you strongly believe will
make a difference to your personal or work life, by
identifying new habits that will enable you to achieve
these things and by giving you pointers to what you
should be doing to nurture and deepen these so
that success is assured.
The approach is condensed into key action
steps. Each one is critical. Some are challenging.
Look at your score sheet and choose something
tend to think, feel or physically act.
Identify the key behaviours that should make up
carefully. Select an area:
your desired new habit. Focus on the new things
` That would make a big difference to your life or
you’ll be doing (rather than any problem behaviours
work;
you may want to leave behind). Pause a while and
`You feel about strongly;
reflect. Write your first ideas down. Then come back
` You believe you can achieve if you set your
to them after a while and sharpen your thinking.
mind to it;
` That’s achievable in three months or less.
Formulate the action plan for launching your
new habit
If you are not game for the first step, then consider
Write it down in one or two words. You now have a
You are aiming for a big, positive change. Maybe
moving to the next article!
worthwhile goal.
even life or career changing. So give this very
No fuzzy New Year’s resolution stuff! This is for real.
You’ll need a pen, paper and a few quiet minutes.
10
GENERATING VALUE
serious attention. Don’t start if you are not
committed to finishing!
Draw three columns and write down the ‘what’,
10 days that their chain of circles is unbroken.
Up front, many people formally request feedback
goal worth focusing on, that your new habit will
make a powerful difference, that your plan and
from trusted colleagues or family on what changed
your success milestones are clear. Only proceed if
‘when’ and ‘how’ of the behaviours you will be
behaviours they notice. Others pre-schedule
there’s a tick next to each.
expecting from yourself. Under ‘what’, break down
motivational quotes or ‘do it’ type reminders to
the new behaviours into bite-sized, easy-to-focus-on
themselves.
chunks. The ‘when’ could describe frequency, like
daily/weekly, or what will prompt the behaviour. The
Get creative, decide on what to do and add a
When your first draft is complete. pat yourself
Mark the date in your diary in whatever way
monitor/support section to your action plan.
grabs your attention.
Set success milestones
necessary, according to your experience.
‘how’ could have to do with anything, eg reallocating
time, using technology, getting people support.
Finally, select a start date. Be smart by choosing
a time that will work for you.
Get started! Follow your plan, tweaking if
You will be travelling a new route. Decide on at least
You are now on your way to greater success.
on the back. Then look at what’s involved. Decide
three milestones when you can say that you have
Expect to be surprised by what you learn. The
realistically over what period your action plan should
achieved a key objective and have reason to celebrate.
great majority of people find the new habit process
run. The deeper the changes, the longer the period.
Milestones could be anything meaningful to you, for
opens up more possibilities than they ever
Between 30 and 100 days is recommended.
example, doing a particular thing every day for an
expected.
unbroken number of days, or achieving a target.
Spell out how you will monitor and support
your progress
make the celebration memorable. Let your imagination
Like young plants, new habits are vulnerable!
run, possibly consider ‘hijacking’ something nice you
How do you plan to protect and nurture the growth
may want to buy anyway, but delay its purchase until
of your new habit? There are many possible
you’ve reached a milestone. Never skip a celebration.
Record your milestones plus what you will do to
approaches. Some people reflect on their progress
every so often, others score themselves or write
Get started!
notes. Some circle each successful day on their
You’re almost ready to start. Just a couple of things…
calendars and reward themselves for every (say)
Check that you can honestly say that you have a
Bon voyage! Enjoy the journey and your
greater success!
Roy Parkhurst, the author, is an internationally certified coach
and was previously a director of McCarthy for 21 years,
among other things. He received the Bidvest CEO’s Award
for Bid Auto in 2007. For recommended reading on habits
or to relate any new habit success stories, contact him at
parkhurst@mweb.co.za
11
GROUP PANORAMA
Conservation
collaboration
In true supply chain style, Safcor
Panalpina facilitated the ultimate
collaboration in efforts to aid research
and conservation in the Makhamisa
and Mkuze game reserves just north of
Richards Bay.
Above; With the container safely on the ground, everyone was both
relieved and overjoyed.
Panalpina’s Richards Bay branch manager,
was approached by a Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park
honorary officer, Annelie Jordaan, with a request
for containers and other equipment needed for the
The SANDF’s ‘Wit-hings’ placing a container in Mkhuze game
reserve.
conservation efforts in the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
Zululand region. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi is the oldest
to offload the containers in the correct positions in
game reserve in Africa and world renowned for its
the parks. The Zululand Observer was there to cover
white rhino conservation,” says Jenny.
the story and to top everything off, Safcor Panalpina
Safcor Panalpina began contacting various
handed over a cheque for R10 000 to EKZN for the
Jenny Retief, Safcor Panalpina’s national marketing
parties who could possibly assist with this ambitious
Imfolozi honorary group. These funds will go towards
executive, was on hand to witness the event.
project. Support came from various sources.
the purchase of equipment for the section rangers, to
“Our Richards Bay office has a keen interest in
Mediterranean Shipping Company in Durban,
assist in the investigation of criminal incidents in the
conservation, with staff sacrificing their own time to
through Oliver Holley of the Legal and Claims
reserve.
perform many necessary tasks in the various game
department, donated two reconditioned 20-foot
“It was an exciting day and the parks’ employees
parks, such as digging trenches, installing water
containers. PLM’s Carl Webb donated one of his
were overjoyed at the generosity of all involved,” says
pumps, installing electricity and putting covers on
trucks with two drivers and the SANDF Mtubatuba
Jenny. “Safcor Panalpina was privileged to be part of
reservoirs.
joined in the efforts by making the ‘Wit-hings’
this great effort to protect our wildlife and heritage for
recovery vehicle with officers available for the day
future generations.”
“Our collaboration began when Safcor
12
GROUP PANORAMA
Diamond award
Safcor Panalpina has once again achieved the diamond award in the latest PMR survey on freight forwarders. The company achieved
the highest rating amongst 150 respondents, which consisted of logistics, operations and warehouse professionals from a number of
leading companies.
The themes evaluated included: service
excellence, comprehensiveness of solution
offering and value for money. This independent
survey is conducted to set industry
benchmarks and acknowledges employee
contribution.
Managing director of Safcor Panalpina,
James Reddy, comments: “We are delighted
with the result of yet another diamond award.
This is our third diamond award in four years,
and shows our continued commitment to
offering our clients the best possible solutions
and service in a very competitive industry.
My thanks go to the entire Safcor Panalpina
team, who have worked hard and were fully
committed to achieve this result. I look forward
to our developing and strengthening our
business further to satisfy the expectations of
all stakeholders.”
Attending the function from Safcor Panalpina were from left: Mike Wood, Wally Hoddinott, Sibusiso Buthelezi, Dirck Wayber, Mike
Manby, Charles Speed-Andrews, James Reddy, Geoff Fairhurst and Maria du Preez.
For the love of song
The Safcor Panalpina Port Elizabeth branch celebrated its
client year-end function with an unusual performance. The
entertainment was none other than 12 staff members, who
sang their hearts out to rousing applause from clients and staff.
Bruce Thoresson, regional director, explains: “Earlier last year, I was
approached by Bernadine Willis (business development consultant) with a
request to start a choir. We had about 12 staff members who wanted to
participate. This was an unusual request, but as it involved a number of
staff members from different departments, I gave it my full support.”
The choir practises once a week during lunchtime at a nearby hall
and has engaged the services of an external choirmaster. The choir also
performed to staff in PE at the company’s centenary celebrations.
“A number of clients commented to me after the year-end performance
that it was a good example of the passion and teamwork that our staff
displays,” says Thoresson. “I can vouch for this. We intend to keep the
choir intact, and who knows where this talented group might end up
performing.”
The Safcor Panalpina choir from left: Sharon Blom, Matthew Mnuna, Celeste Filmater, Kelvin
Williamson, Liezl Smith, Vuyani Sibengile, Azola Nika, Litha Ganya, Bernadine Willis, Jaco Ferriera,
choirmaster Samantha Surtie and Glynis Gentle.
13
GROUP PANORAMA
New company ready
to roll
Newly formed Cargo, Office and Property
Services (CopServe) has opened its
doors for business as a provider of cargo
distribution, cargo drawing, facilities
management, consulting services and
office administration.
The initial focus of CopServe will be to service its
main client, Safcor Panalpina. This is an Enterprise
Development initiative, involving 76 staff members
and a fleet of 22 trucks that have transferred to this
new business, with an additional 14 trucks on a
contractual hire arrangement.
Above from left: Directors Suleilah Haffejee, Mandisi Feni
(non-executive), Ahmed Suleman, Sophie Mathebula, Edward
Cassel (non-executive), Wellington Veco and Riaan Oosthuizen.
Says managing director, Ahmed Suleman: “We
are thrilled at the opportunity Safcor Panalpina
impact on our bottom line. Most companies would
has presented to us. All directors have excellent
prefer to outsource their non-core functions and this
track records and long service, so we are starting
is where CopServe will concentrate in growing its
our new business with a full house of expertise.
business.”
Maria ddu Pree
Preez, Ga
Gauteng
teng regional director,
director Safcor Panalpina
and Ahmed Suleman, managing director, CopServe.
While Safcor Panalpina has no shareholding in
Safcor Panalpina has been involved with
this company, it has signed a five-year contract
Enterprise Development for 10 years. Gauteng
with us and is fully supportive in ensuring we are
regional director, Maria du Preez, has been the
legislative requirements, such as security training for
financially stable and a viable business. We also
driving force behind the formation of CopServe.
export cargo, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Part 108
have the full support of the Safcor Panalpina board.
“Enterprise Development can be very difficult and
and are trained to handle high value and vulnerable
Safcor Panalpina benefits from this transaction by
sometimes ends up being unfair towards the very
cargo.”
scoring a full 15 points for Enterprise Development.”
people it should benefit. We did a lot of research
Suleman says that after one year of trading,
before approaching some of our key staff, and
projects. The new company will replace its fleet
CopServe will apply for a level 2 BBBEE rating.
have stringently structured the formation around
in line with reduced carbon emissions, and run
Enterprise Development guidelines.”
the business in accordance with environmental
“The longer-term plan is to grow the business
in terms of acquiring new customers for all
“Our fleet is currently sufficient to handle any
CopServe will also focus on green initiative
and other green practices. For further information,
our services,” says Ahmed. “We will focus on
business opportunities that come our way,” says
please contact Ahmed Suleman, CopServe on
efficiencies and synergies which will have a positive
Ahmed. “Our well-trained people have experience in
+27 (11) 570 6000.
New wheels in traffic
In Gauteng, the morning traffic requires
pointsmen alleviated many of the traffic headaches
strong nerves, and when the traffic lights are
that they sponsored a Vuka scooter as a prize for
malfunctioning, mayhem often ensues – but not at
the Pointsman of the Year for 2010 competition,
the Gold Reef City intersection where Outsurance
managed by the Traffic Freeflow organisation.
702 pointsmen assist with the traffic. The Kolok
Congratulations to the prize winner, Thobani
employees so appreciated the way that the
Nkabinde (21), from Alexanda.
Sam Njela (left) hands Thobani Nkabinde (right) his new Vuka scooter.
14
GROUP PANORAMA
Long-awaited road upgrade
The increase in the number of vehicles along Durban’s
Bayhead Road over the past few years has been
significant and one of the main factors causing
congestion is access to the container terminal. This has
severely impacted on access to the Cutler complex,
where Island View Storage is situated.
As a result of the increased traffic in the area,
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has embarked
on a 19-month project, consisting of three phases:
` Phase 1 (completion date July 2011) will provide the
first staging area for New Pier 1, resulting in a staging
area for 138 container vehicles. Minimal disruption is
expected during this phase of construction.
` Phase 2 (completion date September 2011) will result
in Langeberg Road (the main road in the container
complex) being significantly increased in size and
upgraded.
` Phase 3 (completion date November 2012) will
provide the Cutler staging area with space for 36
vehicles.
There will be also be considerable CCTV footage of
the area and the introduction of a variable message system (VMS) at Cato Ridge
to warn vehicles of congestion in the Bayhead Road area. The TNPA will also run
a 24-hour towing service to remove vehicles that have broken down, as this is a
frequent occurrence and is a major cause of traffic congestion.
Once the first phase is completed, vehicles travelling to the Cutler area will
have access to the container staging area if it is not being utilised.
The staging of vehicles will greatly assist in removing congestion outside the
complex, which has a significant knock-on effect within the complex.
Protecting Zimbabwe’s diamonds
The mine is at the centre of ongoing legal wrangles
Bidvest Magnum Technology has secured
a R16,5 million-plus contract to protect a
mining concession in Zimbabwe.
and government crackdowns on illegal miners since
it sparked a diamond rush in 2006, and is said to
be ‘the biggest discovery in southern Africa since
diamonds were found in South Africa a century ago’.
The concession is expected to yield around
Experts describe the fields as a world-class deposit,
US$10 million of diamonds a day.
with concentrations of diamonds among the highest
The company is at work at the E1 concession,
in the world. “A freak of nature,” says one.
about six kilometres by two kilometres in size. It is
A neighbouring concession, Gareth says, is mining
setting up a three-phase electronic security system
an average of 8 500 stones a day at three to four
to combat theft from a ‘red zone’ in which the alluvial
carats each, at US$70 to US$80 dollars a carat. “It’s
diamonds will be excavated; a sorting plant where the
for the end of May. The security system uses solar
predicted that up to 40% of the world’s diamonds
diamonds will be separated from the alluvial extract;
power, generators and wireless communications to
could ultimately come from Zimbabwe.”
and a recovery bay that will sort the stones and
create an integrated solution, predominantly with
calculate their worth.
thermal imaging cameras that detect human body
in Zimbabwe. It is, however, working on other
“The contract is expected to grow,” says Bidvest
The project is Bidvest Magnum’s first involvement
heat. It was designed, manufactured, assembled and
contracts in Africa, mainly in cash processing
Magnum Technology system integration specialist,
tested in South Africa before being shipped in total
environments. The security system will be run
Gareth Davies.
to the site.
according to standard operating procedures, by
Mining was scheduled to begin at the end of April.
Completion of the recovery bay and plant was set
“We have to do it all without conventional power or
GSM communication,” Gareth says.
a local guarding company probably consisting of
ex-military and police personnel.
15
GROUP PANORAMA
A fresh approach
“Chipkins has always been a leader in innovation
Among life’s little pleasures is the aroma
that only a bakery can produce.
and added value,” she says.
(Witness the Wrapped in Chocolate range of chocchip cookies, fudge brownies, mud cake biscotti and
It enchants the senses and tempts the taste buds.
chocolate chilli dessert mousse recently launched
Yet it’s something experienced less often than it
internationally.)
used to be.
“We will be working more closely than ever with
Thankfully, Chipkins is working to change that.
our customers to identify opportunities for them
Chipkins Bakery Supplies, ingredients supplier
individually, to offer them the products they need and
to the South African bakery industry, wants to bring
can use, to train them and their staff and to encourage
back the past and reawaken bakeries’ mouth-
demand among their customers.”
watering appeal.
The bakery industry is a difficult one, Lorraine
Its intention is to help the country’s food stores
explains. Many bakeries have the equipment they
and the bakers in them to re-establish their appeal
need, but they are often under-utilised.
among shoppers seeking the incomparable taste of
freshly baked breads and cakes.
Highly qualified bakers are few and far between.
Lorraine Heislitz.
The plan calls for product innovation, baker
so are the funds available to train bakers to top levels.
training and building closer business and emotional
and providing a solutions-based, value-added
bonds with Chipkins customers countrywide.
approach to our business partners.”
Once little more than a supplier of commodity
Chipkins has branches in Johannesburg,
ingredients, Chipkins is now working more closely
Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London,
than ever with 4 000 bakeries nationwide.
Polokwane, Nelspruit and Bloemfontein.
It’s helping them to understand their shoppers
“Not only do we have the flexibility to distribute
particularly, and to answer their special needs and
a diverse range of product solutions to a wide
preferences; to gauge local tastes and responses to
variety of customers around the country, but we can
new (sometimes international) trends; and to offer
ensure that any bakery, big or small, anywhere in the
the quality ingredients the bakers will need to satisfy
country, can benefit from the quality bakery solutions
them.
we offer,” Lorraine says.
It’s assisting bakeries with store merchandising
solutions provider and stock the widest range of
to make a good return on their sales; and backing
quality bakery ingredients in Africa.”
It’s consistently offering innovations that give
As convenience markets increasingly offer shopper
pre-packaged confectionery off the shelf, Chipkins and
the in-store bakers are confident they can bring back
the straight-from-the-oven goodies that consumers
used to know and love.
Lorraine, whose parents were both master
bakers, grew up in her father’s bakery and was
the bakeries an edge on food stores’ off-the-shelf
baking at the age of five. When her father died years
confectionery.
later, she ran the bakery for five years.
“What we’re doing,” says Bidfood Technologies
Bakers who are experienced often lack general
business acumen and other business skills.
“We pride ourselves in being a one-stop bakery
and eye-catching packaging that still allows them
them in national promotions.
Training facilities are limited. So are trainers. Even more
After a spell playing professional golf in the United
marketing manager (bakery sector) Lorraine Heislitz,
States, she returned to the industry in 1995, having
“is meeting the changing needs of our customers
missed what was really her passion.
Stabilo Boss turns 40
Stabilo Boss is proud to highlight the 40-year anniversary of its
innovative fluorescent pens. The iconic highlighter was first introduced
in 1971, and since inception more than 2,5 billion highlighters have
been sold... they’re literally used in every corner of the world. It is no
wonder that Stabilo Boss is regarded as Germany’s most classic design. South Africa will be taking part in the celebrations and there are plans
to implement a wide array of marketing, advertising and promotional
initiatives. Watch this space!
16
GROUP PANORAMA
Africa’s best bank
Sustained growth at Bidvest
Bank has reached such a high
level that its foreign exchange
specialists are starting to win
international awards for it.
comes off a substantial base.
“But the award has deeper
significance than numbers alone.
Person-to-person transfers are vital
to the families concerned and can be
crucial to entire communities. Fast,
efficient service is therefore essential.
The Group’s forex, banking and finance
“The MoneyGram environment is
and leasing arm has been saluted by
people-intensive. Word-of-mouth is key
MoneyGram, one of the world leaders
to customer retention. This gives a solid
in person-to-person money transfers,
base from which to grow. If you don’t
as the fastest growing send transaction
agent in Africa.
The award was bestowed in Cape Town at the
annual conference for Africa-based MoneyGram
From left: Guillaume Dewael, vice president of MoneyGram
International; Pam Patsley, chairman and CEO of MoneyGram
International; Craig MacFarlane, head of retail operations,
Bidvest Bank; Nigel Lee, executive vice president and Mrs Lee.
agents by Pam Patsley, chairman and CEO of
MoneyGram International.
There to receive the award was Craig
MacFarlane, head of retail operations at Bidvest
Bank. On hand to add their congratulations were
Guillaume Dewael, vice-president of MoneyGram;
and Nigel Lee, MoneyGram executive vice-president
for all operations outside the US market.
meet customer expectations through
superior service, you don’t keep their business. This
means quality and quantity are closely connected.”
Bidvest Bank has made substantial infrastructure
investment to ensure its systems are leading edge
now has 12 300 agents in Africa. It is estimated
and fully able to support partnerships with leading
that Africans remit about US$21 billion a year via
international companies.
MoneyGram.
Often, the product is used monthly to send
money home to families.
Craig MacFarlane comments: “The award
Craig adds: “It is also a source of pride that our
systems and service stand comparison with the
best in the business.
“Bidvest Bank is one of only two MoneyGram
recognises high percentage growth, year on year,
agents serving the South African market. The other
MoneyGram has 227 000 agents in 190
in MoneyGram volumes at Bidvest Bank. This level
is a major bank with strong international links. It was
countries and has recently achieved fourfold
of growth is satisfying as we are one of the largest
satisfying that we achieved greater growth than an
expansion of its African network. The company
MoneyGram agents in Africa, and growth therefore
extremely strong and well-established competitor.”
New brands at Horeca
Horeca Trade introduces Al Mumtazah, a premium and innovative halal brand of Supreme Foods Group,
offering a range of cold cuts, deli and value-added meat products that are processed under the strictest of
halal standards, with all processing facilities being ISO 22000
and BRC accredited.
The Al Mumtazah range of products has been
specifically developed to address the need for a
locally manufactured, quality range of products that
not only offers a distinctive culinary experience,
but that can also be consumed with trust and
confidence by all consumers.
Horeca Trade introduces Château Blanc,
Whether frozen, precooked or
pre-proved, Chateau Blanc will
offer you the right range for your
requirements.
Horeca Trade has introduced
3663 Private Brand, the Chef’s Smart Choice
range developed to offer caterers value-for-
“Grand Pain de France”, which is emblematic of
money choices appropriate to their needs.
the finest quality traditional French bakery and
Chef’s Smart Choice is now in the UAE with a
pastry products. A wide range of breads, pastry
and macaroons is available at your fingertips.
variety of products: sauces, soups, bouillons
and canned vegetables.
17
GROUP PANORAMA
Bidvest Foodservice SA
recognition strengthens market leadership
Bidvest Foodservice SA, recently acclaimed
as Africa’s only food distributor with
internationally recognised certification for its
storage and distribution systems, is set to
reinforce its market leadership.
Nationally, the business has 26 branches
Since the CPA allows consumers to hold any
(including Botswana and Namibia), handling on
party in the supply chain liable for any negligence,
average 32 000 product lines, including dry, chilled
this assurance is crucial.
or frozen foods, chemicals, alcohol and packaging
materials.
“Our objective was to establish a strategy and
develop a system to fit the business activities.
With new benchmarks in place, Bidvest
Foodservice SA requires that its suppliers meet a
certain level of compliance.
“This is particularly important for the less formal,
Now I‘ll be going into our branches to start
structured suppliers and we realise the importance
It is moving forward to assure adherence to the
implementation there and find the champions to run
of attracting the preferential procurement partners,
Consumer Protection Act (CPA) and food labelling
with it.”
like SMME enterprises and BEE partners.”
specifications, entrench supplier standards, build
Achievement of the certification wasn’t her doing
Jane, a qualified dietician who has been in the
client relationships, ensure sustainability and
alone, she says. “It was the determination of the
food industry all her working life, joined Bidvest
improve waste management.
Sea World and Chipkins teams to be the leaders
Foodservice SA (formerly Caterplus) in September
of the pack that really brought us success. They
2009, specifically to spearhead efforts to develop
deserve the praise.”
and implement food safety management systems.
Certification for storage and distribution
standards for ambient, chilled and frozen products
handled at its flagship Sea World and Chipkin facility
Bidvest Foodservice SA stores and distributes
The journey has just begun. “The gun has gone
at Linbro Park was achieved through independent
food products and ingredients for the restaurant,
off and now the race has begun. I’m no longer
certification audit to the British Retail Consortium
catering, hospitality and food processing industries.
focusing on just one branch as a pilot site, but
(BRC) standard for storage and distribution.
Quality risk manager Jane Russill says the next
“The BRC standard assures our customers that
we are handling products correctly,” Jane says.
step is to roll out the system to the rest of the
“So when the products reach customers, they can
business units.
safely take over responsibility for them.”
18
now that we have achieved our objective, we can
confidently move into the rest of the business.”
Equally crucial, Jane adds, is the Bidvest
Foodservice SA relationship with its customers, to
GROUP PANORAMA
Quick guide to food labels
Bidvest Foodservice SA has summarised
Bidv
Ingredient list
gen
general guidelines for food labels that will
Ingredients (including water) of blended,
nee
need to meet strict legal requirements, to be
compound or mixed foodstuffs, including mixtures
int
introduced in March next year.
of herbs and spices, must be listed on the label in
descending order of mass present in the product.
Nutritional information
N
A label that makes a claim about the nutritional
Labels must tell the truth
p
properties of the packaged product (ie
Manufacturers and suppliers must label food
‘high in fibre’), must show the amount per
products with accurate weights and measures
recommended single serving and per 100g.
information, declared as net contents of the
Nutrient claims
Food labels and advertising may no longer
(from June last year) claim ‘X% fat free’. This applies
to energy (Kj content), fats, cholesterol and sodium
and, in particular, alcohol.
Percentage labelling
If a label emphasises the presence of one or more
valuable characterising ingredients, it must show the
percentage value of the ingredient in brackets after
each of them.
container, in the relevant SI units. Labels may
not be false or misleading. Food with a picture of
strawberries on its label must contain strawberries.
Food additives
All food additives, natural or synthetic, must
be shown on a list of ingredients. If a foodstuff
contains flavouring of an ingredient but not the
ingredient itself, the words flavouring or flavoured
must accompany the name or descriptor of the
product.
Any foodstuff containing the colourant tartrazine
ensure they comply with the CPA (effective in
South Africa from March 31 this year) and food
Name or description of the food
must show this on the list of ingredients, with its
labelling and advertising legislation (to come into
On the main panel of a pre-packaged food label, the
descriptor E 102 or Yellow 5.
force in March 2012).
name of the foodstuff must be clearly visible, with
Monosodium glutamate must be included in the
an appropriate description eg fruit yoghurt must
list of the ingredients as monosodium glutamate or
determining the accuracy of labelling details,
contain fruit. If the yoghurt is only flavoured with fruit,
MSG, followed by the words ‘flavour enhancer’.
so that communication to the consumer is
the label must say ‘fruit-flavoured yoghurt’.
“We’re working closely with our suppliers in
correct.”
To ensure sustainability, she is also liaising
Additives derived from common food allergens
must also be identified on the label.
Food recall information
with customers to use packaging that is both
Food labels must show the name and physical
Legibility requirement
efficient and will help to reduce waste to landfill.
address of the manufacturer, imported or seller. It
Regulation 146 of the Foodstuff, Cosmetic and
“We see ourselves as packaging’s nursemaid
must also show a batch identification number so
Disinfectants Act requires food labels to be legible,
that, if a product is recalled, a specific batch can be
prominent and distinct from the background, in
identified and traced easily.
English and where possible at least one other
between the cradle and grave,” Jane says.
“Our whole purpose is to reduce the waste
South African language.
we send to landfill and to ensure that packaging
delivered to customers contributes as little as
Information for allergy sufferers
possible to their waste.”
Foods, ingredients or components of an ingredient
Directions for use and storage
that can cause severe reactions in people allergic
If specific storage conditions are required for a
energy control, fossil fuel usage and water
to them – such as peanuts, tree nuts (cashews,
product to keep until its ‘best before date’, this
consumption, it is under pressure from key
walnuts, almonds), shellfish, finned fish, milk,
information must be stated clearly on the label
customers, like hotel chains, to align with their
eggs, soya and wheat (gluten) – must be declared
panel.
specific environmental management strategies.
clearly on the label, however small the amount.
While the company examines its own
“We need to engage with our customers and
stakeholders to understand their environmental
The presence of goat’s milk in a foodstuff must be
Country of origin
labelled in the same way as milk is labelled.
The country of a foodstuff’s origin must be
declared as:
management needs and then assess our
business to see where we can reach alignment.
“That will be my next big project: an
Date marking
All food products must be date-marked clearly. The
environmental assessment from which we can
date must be preceded by the appropriate words,
drive key initiatives into the business so that
such as ‘best before’ or ‘use by’ or ‘sell by’. The
eventually the business operates on a system
only permitted abbreviation is BB for ‘best by’.
that integrates food safety, occupational health
Foods that, for health and safety reasons, should
and safety and sustainable environmental
not be consumed after a certain date must have a
management,” says Jane.
‘use by’ date indicated as day, month and year.
` Product of (name of country), if all main
ingredients, processing and labour used to
make the foodstuff are from one country;
` Produced, processed or manufactured in (name
of country) when it is processed in a secondary
country which changes its nature; or
` Packed in (name of country) in addition to the
requirements above.
19
GROUP PANORAMA
The 3663
reinvention
3663 in the UK is changing and it’s not just our look! We do have a great new image and new logo, but the change is a lot more
fundamental than that. We have started on a journey that will take us a few years, but we know where we are going and have
developed some great tools to help us get there!
It all began in 2009….
vision, mission and values were also introduced.
Various workshops were held to start the
Through the tough economic climate in the last
two years, 3663, like many companies, put a great
embedding process for the new vision, mission
deal of thought into where our energies should be
and values, followed by an internal competition to
focused, to be sure that after the recession we
identify what being customer focused would be
would come out in a market-leading position.
like for different functions. We then need to recruit
internal facilitators to support the ongoing induction
This resulted in a mammoth research
of the new 3663.
project, gaining insights from the industry,
Through the research process we
the marketplace, our customers (both
also asked our customers about our
lapsed and current) and our internal teams.
To have clarity for our ongoing strategy
brand look and feel, we showed them
and focus, we needed to identify our core
lots of suggestions for new styles and
brand positioning along with a real point of
colours and got really good feedback
competitive difference.
on what would work for them and what
At times the feedback we received
might have been a little difficult to
hear, with views like:
new style guide and our new logo.
wouldn’t. From this, we developed our
The colours in our new pallet are now
all food colours, and the blue and red
` We can be hard to do business with
(which is hugely associated with discount
` We sometimes don’t listen
and value products in the UK) is no longer!
` We can seem aloof and distant
Our colours are now fresh, vibrant and
` We seem a bit dated and lacking in innovation
modern, much more cheerful and friendlier
` We do what we want not what our
customers want.
Innovation was also an assumption across each
pillar, as they don’t want things to become static.
So what did that leave? The clear position
than the stark choices we had before.
When using our logo, we have stopped saying
we are ‘first for foodservice’ as our customers felt
Though this was balanced with some more
positive views, including:
of difference came out as service. From our
this was us talking about ourselves, not putting
customer’s point of view, none of the key
them first.
` We have great people
foodservice players in the UK are holding a true
` Many consider us reliable and punctual
service excellence territory and they would very
identity is our new tone of voice. We had feedback
` Our levels of availability and service can be
much like to see a John Lewis, M&S or Amazon in
that we could come across as aloof, authoritative,
the foodservice sector.
formal, distant and impersonal. To show true
better than others.
Though challenging, we decided to take up the
A really challenging but vital part of this change in
customer focus, it was essential that we became
The brand positions under consideration included
gauntlet and go for this service positioning, which
more warm, friendly, fun, caring and personal. Our
being seen as the leader in providing – great
represents a huge opportunity in the UK market.
new tone includes more customer-friendly words
value, food expertise, product range, national
We recognised at the outset that to make the move
such as ‘helping’ ‘listening’, ‘supporting’ and
infrastructure, sustainability, innovation and service.
to customer-centricity genuinely happen, we would
‘together’ – it is now more in the first person, about
What came out clearly from our stakeholders was
have to change a few things…
‘you’ (the customer) and less about 3663 (though
that five of those pillars were not seen as either
To start the change, we agreed our new
we would now say ‘us’ to be less formal).
This is a gradual move as it involves a great deal
leading or unique, but as an entry-level requirement
company strategy – but a stated strategy wasn’t
to be ‘in the game’. They simply expect the big
going to make an impact without some fundamental
of training and change in our culture, but it has
players to be able to deliver on those fronts.
change in internal behaviours, so a new company
started. From the feedback we have had so far, it
20
GROUP PANORAMA
has been very well received. One example is our new corporate website, which customers
love, and the number of enquiries we receive from this channel has increased tenfold.
Before the site was busy with a lot of talk about 3663. Now it is more modern and
focused on what we can do to support our customers – see www.3663corporate.co.uk.
We intend to keep listening to our customers at each stage on our journey and have
already had some really helpful feedback on the first test of a new vehicle livery.
They loved the livery style, but they preferred the strapline ‘Inspired by you’ to the ‘truly
tasty together’ we initially put on the truck.
A very important area for our customers was the look and quality of our own brand
product range. They told us they found our own brands confusing, that our product quality
wasn’t consistent and, of great significance, that the packaging didn’t communicate the
quality of the product inside. This proved for some to be a major barrier to purchasing
3663 lottery
3663 in the UK has developed a winning lottery
scheme to raise money for its long-standing nominated
charity, Hospitality Action – a model that, if successful,
could be rolled out across other businesses in the
hospitality sector.
from the range.
We have completely reviewed our own label product range and are relaunching the
Launched in December last year, more than 4 000 employees have
brand in a style to suit the new corporate brand look. We have created a circle design that
the chance to play the monthly ‘big prize draw’ by contributing as
stands as a quality mark for ‘quality you can always trust’. To substantiate this mark, every
little as £1 per week to try and win 50% of all contributions – with
item is now blind tested against competitors’ products, and only products that make the
the rest going directly to Hospitality Action. So far, winners have
grade get into the range.
taken home at least £500 and the prize fund is set to grow.
The lottery is a fantastic scheme that enables people at every
level within the business to support the chosen corporate industry
charity, with the possibility of taking home a little extra too! The
scheme is in its early stages and winners so far have included
telesales members and drivers. The initiative has really helped to
raise the profile of Hospitality Action throughout the company; it’s
Old trucks.
Testing fresh new branding on our vehicles.
Out with the old labels (which some say looked like cans of paint!)… and in with the
new, we also changed our adverts to an advertising style in line with our new tone of
encouraging employees to get involved in their own
fundraising schemes to help this important charity.
To improve the scheme since its
launch, it has now been confirmed
voice, which is more fun and informal.
that the cash prizes will not be
taxed, so winners can take home
even more. We hope that
the scheme will continue
to grow, as the more
employees that take part
the bigger the prize and
the bigger the contribution
Old label.
New packaging design.
to the charity. We are
optimistic that participation
We are pleased with the feedback from our customers so far on the changes we have
will continue to increase and
made, but we do know that this has to be about more than looking good. If our customers
if just over 10% of our
think this is just a facelift, we could lose credibility and struggle to gain the service reputation
people sign up, a lucky
we are seeking. The next steps on our journey involve us continually reviewing internal and
member of staff could win
external feedback so we know what we can improve on, and we have also committed to
being honest and open. If for any reason we can’t deliver on any promises made, we will tell
our customers or our people why.
Other ideas in the pipeline to aid us on our journey include: developing a customer service
charter to help us quantify our service levels and measure our performance; reviewing our
processes to become easier to do business with; implementing a new internal recognition
and suggestion scheme; and coming up with new ways of working that meet our customers’
needs.
We would love to share details of the launch of our new e-trading website so watch this
space for more news. We are designing a site to exceed industry standards and deliver
a service more in line with state-of-the-art retail online shopping. After all, that’s what our
customers want and we’re listening!
£1 000!
Group commercial director Ian Crawford
receiving the first lottery cheque from
Penny Moore, chief executive of Hospitality
Action.
3663 has supported Hospitality Action as its nominated charity
since 2002. It is the only charity specifically dedicated to supporting
the lives of people within the hospitality and catering industry. The
registered charity provides vital financial support and advice to those
who have fallen on hard times, including those who are affected by
life-changing illnesses, poverty and domestic violence. Over the past
nine years, we are extremely proud to have helped to raise more than
£800 000 to improve the lives of people within this sector.
Hospitality Action’s chief executive Penny Moore comments:
“We’re so happy that long-term supporter 3663 has launched this
scheme to benefit the thousands of people from the hospitality and
In the spirit of our new collaborative style, we would welcome
catering industry who need our help. The big prize draw is turning
any views or feedback you have on our journey or our destination! Please e-mail us on
out to be a real success and we hope that more businesses will be
YourThoughts@3663.co.uk. We would love to hear from you.
keen to adopt this attractive initiative.”
21
GROUP PANORAMA
It’s not just about
the numbers
Unless you live under a stone, you will be aware of how important sustainability is across the globe.
The foodservice sector is no exception, and at 3663
When we collect waste cooking oil from our
we have been driving the agenda for change in this
participating national account customers through
cause further environmental damage in addition to
industry within the UK. For 15 years, we have been
this ISO14064 accreditation, we are now in the
the cost.
setting a pace that others try rapidly to follow.
unique position to be able to quantify the carbon
As part of our way of both ‘doing the right things’
dioxide saving these customers have made, based
carbon saving certificate is, providing tangible
and ‘doing things right’, we have sought many
on the amount of waste oil they have provided to us
evidence of their carbon reduction and sustainability
external assurances to validate our efforts over the
for recycling.
credentials. More than that, there have been
This not only helps customers with their own
years.
most operators, and if it goes into landfill it could
Our customers have told us how valuable this
occasions where customers believe it has genuinely
sustainability targets and reporting, but also helps
helped them to win business – now that’s turning
These have included:
them win business based on their environmental
a ‘telephone number’ into something that really
` ISO14001 – our environmental management
credentials, particularly where contract caterers are
matters.
system – the only national foodservice
operator in the UK to have this in every site.
` BS OHSAS 18001 – our occupational
health and safety management system,
demonstrating our commitment to our
concerned.
This turns our grand telephone number
assurance into a real environmental and commercial
comments: “We’ve been working with 3663 on
benefit to our customers.
the waste oil recycling scheme since May 2008.
To help make it ‘official’, each national customer
In that time, we have been able to demonstrate a
employees through robust health and safety
participating in the scheme receives a certificate to
clear environmental benefit, which is an extremely
practices.
formally present them with their carbon saving. For
important element of our business ethos, while also
many, this a substantial number of tonnes.
disposing of a waste product in a clean and safe
` BRC global standard for storage and
distribution – one of only 336 sites globally and
This year we have awarded over 60 certificates
manner, which complies with our legal obligations.
59 within the UK to hold this accreditation for
to our customers, including names such as Nando’s
In a 12-month period, we were able to demonstrate
our commitment to excellent standards in the
(restaurants), Elior (contract catering) and Her
a carbon saving of 88,5 tonnes, which is an
safe storage of food.
Majesty’s Prison Service.
incredibly powerful message for us to be
` ISO14064 – our assurance of the greenhouse
We are recruiting new names into the scheme
gas reductions achieved from our waste oil
every day and recently signed up the well-known
recycling scheme – we are the only operator in
brand TGI Friday. It is delighted to be part of the
Europe to provide this.
scheme, as disposal of
waste oil is a
These telephone number-style assurances are good
headache
for us being sure internally, via audits and checks,
for
that we are doing the things we think we are. But
what do they mean from a customer’s point of
view?
ISO14064? So what?!
It’s not really an after-dinner conversation
topic, is it? A company patting itself on the
back proudly for an achievement means
little to a customer unless the benefit can
be properly explained and passed on.
So, in line with our new customer-focused
strategy, we have done just that.
22
John Pearce, senior procurement manager,
ISS facilities management services – Healthcare,
sending out.”
GROUP PANORAMA
Slick transhipment
It has been a number of years since two
ships undertook a large transhipment of
cargo from one vessel to the other in Durban
harbour. This is what happened when the
bulker Cleantec arrived at Durban port with
approximately 30 000 tonnes of wheat, of
which 22 000 tonnes were destined for a
West Africa port.
Because of per tonne limitations at the
West African destination, Cleantec would
have been prevented from entering the
port. It was decided to rather undertake the
transhipment within the safety and comfort
of Durban harbour, with the remaining 8 000
tonnes being discharged later at SA Bulk
Above: Cleantec (closest to camera) and Voge Felix
transhipping the cargo of wheat.
Terminal.
The stevedoring operation was in the
hands of Bidfreight Port Operations (BPO)
and was a slick and efficient operation.
The two ships were locked tightly together
and heavy plastic tarpaulins prevented any
spillage into Durban Bay, while a number
of eight-tonne grabs effortlessly transferred
the cargo across using the ship’s gear, with
remarkably little spillage.
A piece of nostalgia returns home
After more than two years of efforts by the North
1900 for the then Natal Government Railways.
British Locomotive Preservation Group (NBLPG),
She spent many years slogging it out through
her home at a greatly reduced rate on one of
a historic 112-year-old Dubs ‘A’ Class Tank
Natal’s Thousand Hills area. Her last service was
its regular callers at Richards Bay. Loading and
locomotive was loaded out of Richards Bay onto
at the Springfield Colliery for AMCOAL (now Anglo
securing on board was carried out with the use of
the Bergen Arrow bound for Royal Portbury Docks,
Coal). Once out of service, Anglo Coal kindly
the Transnet mobile crane, BPO Stevedoring and
Bristol, UK.
donated the loco to NBLPG where, for the past
Molloy Lashing Services. Her final resting place is
couple of years, she has been at Masons Mill
Mizens Railway Museum, near Woking, under the
(Pietermaritzburg) being restored.
care of the NBLPG.
The ‘A’ Class is the last of 100, which were built
at Dubs’ Glasgow Loco Works between 1888 and
Gearbulk generously offered to assist in getting
23
GROUP PANORAMA
A conference
with culture
Around 500 managers from Angliss’s parent company, Bidvest,
visited Hong Kong and Macau during February 2011.
24
GROUP PANORAMA
Brian Joffe.
T
Martina Navratilova.
David Bloch.
Professor Robert Reich.
his cultural familiarisation trip coincided
with the first day of work after Chinese
New Year, which saw some Bidvest
Exco members join Angliss’s New Year
celebrations. These included line dancing, paying
respects to the deities and a traditional roast
pig-cutting ceremony. They also toured Angliss’s
new production facilities and finished with a
sumptuous meal.
During their time, Bidvest managers were
kept busy with a number of activities. Highlights
included touring Victoria Peak; taking in Hong
Kong’s glittering skyline with dinner at Café Deco;
attending an inspirational speech by world-famous
To round off a remarkable experience, there was
tennis player Martina Navratilova; and a team-
a trip to Macau where, aside from visiting Angliss’s
building activity that had the managers travelling
Macau office, managers also enjoyed the awe-
all over Hong Kong, getting to know landmarks
inspiring water acrobatics show at the House of
such as the International Finance Centre and Star
Dancing Water, as well as a tremendous dinner
Ferry Terminal. The half-day ballroom dance class
organised by the Venetian, complete with live
culminated in a dance competition in the evening,
entertainment.
where the entertaining and elegant twists and spins
The attendees all expressed admiration for the
were met with roaring laughter and cheers. Many
Hong Kong and Macau teams’ enthusiasm and
tried out their luck while enjoying tasty nibbles at the
dynamism, and learnt a great deal from working as a
races at The Hong Kong Jockey Club.
team with colleagues from so many different cultures.
25
GROUP PANORAMA
Introducing new MD at
CN Business Furniture
Herbert Meyer has been appointed
managing director of CN Business
Furniture. Formerly head of CN Cape
Town branch, Herbert joined the company
in 1998 and brings over 17 years of
experience in the industry.
products; again, we can meet this challenge with
our eco-friendly ‘green’ board,” adds Herbert.
When asked which industry figure he most
admires and draws inspiration from, Herbert was
quick to answer: “Phillipe Starck, one of the bestknown contemporary designers in the world today
and a legend of modern design. He has produced
some of the iconic shapes of the 20th century,
including the Louis Ghost polycarbonate fauteuil –
a chair that features in CN’s latest catalogue.”
This, coupled with his creative fuel and passion
Herbert’s career highlights over the last 10
for design, ergonomics, aesthetically beautiful and
efficient office spaces, well positions Herbert to
years include projects for Safmarine, Liberty
realise his immediate goals for the company: to
Life, The Medi-Clinic group and Edward Nathan
ensure that CN maintains its status as the largest
Sonnenbergs.
Herbert is married with three children and takes
office furniture supplier in South Africa.
six-hour long hikes in and around Cape Town to
Handpicked to succeed former CN MD Robbie
refocus, recharge and revitalise.
Bergh, Herbert says in the short term they intend to
“CN is an integral part of my life and I’m proud
continue to improve their product ranges to ensure
that they can offer the best possible value to their
of our people and what we have achieved as
many thousands of loyal customers.
a team. My objective is not to just assume this
role but to take this incredible business forward
When considering the more immediate trends
to achieve new highs,” he says. His extensive
expected to influence the industry, Herbert is of the
management experience, passion for his product
opinion that, increasingly, customers will demand
and proven business development skills will
total solutions for their offices. “Instead of merely
“With customers seeking sustainable solutions
investing in singular pieces of furniture, clients will
and ways to reduce their carbon footprint, there will
underpin the traction he is hoping to achieve in the
want the total environment designed,” he says.
also be more emphasis on environmentally friendly
months ahead.
No weight
too heavy
for SACD
The handling of heavy lifts and abnormal project
cargoes requires special care and attention, says
SACD Durban’s heavy lift team. The team boasts both
experience and expertise and is more than adequately
equipped to handle difficult project cargoes, offering
a seamless service to customers. An example is the
recent handling of the peanut harvesters, seen in the
photograph.
26
GROUP PANORAMA
Top-end designer furniture
Nothing counts quite like a first impression and there’s no going back on an
initial introduction, be it of a company, a brand or a personality.
With this in mind, CN Business Furniture, a group that lives on the cutting edge of design, has
launched a new, hot-off-the-press, user-friendly catalogue titled Designer Furniture 2011. This
comprehensive catalogue introduces the many exclusive ‘with design flair’ ranges that CN
carries, and is a showpiece of CN’s top-end designer furniture.
There are two versions of the catalogue – an impressive A3 limited edition and a standard
A4 size – both of which feature the same products, all of which CN carries in stock at its
Johannesburg warehouse. Each page, from cover to cover, features stunning images of
the wide range of intelligent, energising workspace solutions for efficient yet great office
environments. From the latest in engineered veneers, satin etched glass, aluminium and
chrome fittings and its exclusive green laminate desking, this catalogue is bursting with the
very best of imported and locally produced office furniture ranges.
A more generic catalogue is in the pipeline and will feature the budget, middle-of-the-range
products (which will be made-to-order furniture that could take up to six weeks to deliver).
Well-known designer Massimo Vignelli is reported as saying that the life of a designer is a
life of fight – fight against ugliness. He adds that visual disease is what we have all around
us, and what we try to do is to cure it somehow with design. There is no doubt that this
was at the heart of the production phase of the CN catalogue, which is being distributed to
the industry.
‘Taste the colour’
The Sandton Convention Centre
was abuzz with activity and
excitement when the largest
digital print exhibition in Africa
was held.
inkjet printing and the response to the
machine was fantastic. ”
Kitted out in the traditional Océ red
and white and running on the theme
of ‘Taste the Colour’, Océ’s section
of the exhibition certainly stood out.
“The ‘Taste the Colour’ theme was
Africa Print served as a platform for the
supported by the various sweet
entire digital print process and included
dispensers set up around the stand.
exhibitions from both suppliers and
Some were full of different colours
manufacturers of finishing equipment,
Océ South Africa’s
marketing general
manager, Peter Enslin.
media, software and printers. Océ South
Africa’s marketing general manager,
to represent Océ’s colour printing
capabilities while others were only
black and white, representing our
black and white capabilities.
Peter Enslin, comments: “Africa Print is
always a highlight on our calendar. It is one of the
new JetStream Series. The Jetstream is Océ’s
“I am, however, convinced that the visitors to our
best opportunities to introduce new and exciting
revolutionary, high-speed inkjet printing system
exhibition wanted more than just sweets – and we
solutions to the industry, as well as draw attention
capable of producing up to 200 metres per minute
certainly delivered,” explains Peter.
to current products that are unique and that are
and 600 dpi resolution to produce high-quality
With the next Africa Print taking place in
CMYK full-process colour. Peter explains: “We are
August, Océ is already starting to put the plan
Océ South Africa also took the opportunity to
definitely going for gold this year with the Jetstream
together for another successful showing at the
inform customers and the media of the upcoming
Series. It really introduces a new level in high-speed
largest print exhibition in Africa.
excelling in their respective sectors.”
27
GROUP PANORAMA
Creating a culture of learning
For the last three years, Bidvest Paperplus has successfully run its ABET programme for a large number of staff. The key focus of the
programme, in partnership with Mappp-Seta, has been to upgrade, up skill and create a culture of learning in the organisation.
During this time over 520 staff have been assessed,
“At a very basic level it assists them with reading,
skills have improved immensely,” says Natasha van Zyl, a
of whom 240 completed and graduated in the year
writing and numeracy skills. Learners are taught
binder’s assistant at Lithotech Manufacturing Cape.
2009-2010. A further 250 have been certified in
to write their names, read basic literature and are
For employee Heather Williamson, her improved
2010-2011 for the communication fundamental
able to read their payslips. During the Mappp-Seta
communication and numeracy skills have made her the
programme, and are awaiting their numeracy results
visits to Bidvest Paperplus, some of the learners
person her grandchildren turn to when they need help
in their respective levels.
expressed their excitement at being able to operate
with homework. “It is a wonderful feeling to be able to help
automatic teller machines.”
my grandchildren so many years after I have left school,”
Bidvest Paperplus is committed to helping staff
members to achieve an NQF4 qualification, which
remarked Heather, CTP operator, Lithotech Manufacturing
This is what some of the staff members had to
say about the training:
Cape.
“I was a shy person and was not able to easily speak to
department at Silveray Manufacturing in Mobeni, Durban,
it deals with basic literacy issues for illiterate
others, now I am a different person and I have the confidence
says: “This training shows that education is for everyone who
employees,” says Mosiuoa Lebone of Mappp-Seta.
to initiate a conversation with strangers. My English language
wants to succeed in life.”
is equal to Grade 12. ABET is the first step towards
achieving this goal.
“The value of ABET in an organisation is that
Catherine Chonco, machine operator in the stationery
Open for
business
A new Waltons Nedbank store has
been opened for business to Nedbank
employees as well as to the public.
Access is via Nedbank Entrance 1.
Their address is Basement level B2,
Nedbank entrance 1, 135 Rivonia Road,
Sandton
+27 (11) 783 5200 / 5255
28
GROUP PANORAMA
Aesthetically
pleasing waste
recycling
Waste has become a serious environmental problem. Aiming to address this
issue and, at the same time, educating and encouraging staff members on
the importance of recycling, Konica Minolta SA strategically placed a dozen
custom-made recycling bins at its head office in Ormonde, Johannesburg.
The aesthetically pleasing bins offer four separate compartments for
employees to deposit their general, paper, cans/aluminium and plastic waste.
To make it all as simple as possible, each section is colour coded.
Says MD Alan Griffith: “In the long term, we aim to reduce our consumption
of petrochemical-based products, as well as provide an overall education for
our entire workforce that shows the benefits of recycling and establish good
recycling habits.”
New curing
system
A brand new curing system from Benford UV in the UK has been fitted to Lithotech’s
Grapha 5 to replace its ageing system. The new system’s ease of operation
convinced Lithotech to purchase this product from the UK.
Pressure seal
Producing accurate, timely, confidential and professional-looking pay advices
is a thankless task. Some organisations still utilise traditional ‘wage envelopes’
that are supplied in continuous format and require a dot-matrix or impact
printer to print the required details. Confidential information is obliterated from
view by the use of ‘hatching’. After printing, the wage envelopes are separated
into single envelopes, often by hand.
This labour-intensive, inefficient system may be contrasted with Lithotech’s
Pressure Seal system – a sealing and mailing solution that supports
applications such as pay advices and invoices. It is a complete system that
uses forms and equipment that in combination produce user-friendly and
efficient documentation.
Lithotech supplies a complementary range of forms and mechanised
pressure sealers – from low-volume desktop models to high-volume
departmental models – that fold and seal these forms without the added cost
of envelopes and other consumables. Lithotech also supplies a range of preprinted, generic pay advices that can be used with most payroll systems.
All machines are manufactured to the highest standards and come with a
full one-year warranty, ensuring customers’ expectations are fully met.
See www.lithotech.co.za or call 0861 548 468.
From left: Ian Ferguson, engineering manager; Cary Horne, production manager; Marc Boden,
technician Benford UV, UK; Heiko Schmidt, member of GVS Techniquip and John Vorster,
electrician.
29
GROUP PANORAMA
Ben Spies in action.
Fifty Grand Prix years
This year witnesses a landmark of World Championship Grand Prix racing for Yamaha, having successfully competed at the highest
level for 50 years.
From the very first Grand Prix entry in the French
celebrated online, with a special dedicated website
A special demonstration run for the public and
GP of 1961 to today, Yamaha has been an icon at
featuring an impressive archive of Yamaha’s
global media at Motegi in Japan and at Assen
the forefront of Grand Prix racing, with countless
involvement with racing. Throughout the season,
in The Netherlands, will see iconic machines
victories delivered the world over to the delight of
the site will be regularly updated with columns and
back on track. The legends on the circuit for
the many loyal and dedicated fans.
videos along with exclusive messages and interviews
this special event will include the 1974 YZR-500
of key people involved in the Yamaha story.
(OW20), Yamaha’s first 500cc factory bike, and the
A special 50th anniversary logo has been created
using Yamaha’s corporate colours, and will be
used during the season. The logo will be proudly
displayed on the 2011 YZR-M1 fuel tank, on all
Several exciting events are also planned to
1978 YZR-500 (OW35K), which delivered three
bring some of the glorious racing history to life.
championships at the hands of Kenny Roberts.
When Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies take their
Yamaha factory racing team uniforms, within the pit
places on the grid to contest the Dutch TT at
garage of riders Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies and
Assen, their YZR-M1 race bikes will wear a unique
also on the Yamaha factory racing trucks.
Yamaha 50th anniversary livery design, reflecting
The World GP 50th anniversary will also be
Jorge Lorenzo
30
Yamaha’s legendary GP racing activity.
Ben Spies
GROUP PANORAMA
Whisking up new chefs
In 2010, Bidvest Foodservice embarked on an Enterprise Development programme in association with the South African Chefs’
Association and the HTA School of Culinary Art.
Branded WHISK!, the objective was to grow and
practical training at the CCE and theoretical
enrich 14 previously disadvantaged entrepreneurs in
training at HTA. Each candidate received a chef’s
achieved outstanding results. With the help and
the catering and hospitality industries by providing
uniform and a set of professional chef’s knives. The
support of all the branches based in the Gauteng
them with additional technical training and business
candidates also attended a full-day practical small
region, this programme provided deserving
development skills.
business workshop, including the development of
individuals, their businesses, personnel, suppliers
logos, websites, Facebook profiles and business
and clients with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to
form templates for each candidate.
advance in their respective fields.
The carefully selected candidates entered into a
six-month training programme, alternating between
All the candidates successfully graduated and
Auction shaken and stirred
The crowd that gathered at Burchmore’s in Sandton recently
was both shaken and stirred when one of the cars was driven
in front of the auctioneer’s podium. That’s because it was a
rare – and drop-dead gorgeous – 2006 Aston Martin Vantage.
Powered by a 4.3-litre V8 engine and with a mere
40 000 kilometres on the clock (and a full service history),
the car attracted vociferous bidding.
“We all know that the Aston Martin is James Bond’s
favourite car. Auctions at Burchmore’s are always a fun affair.
But it was good to bring a touch of glamour to the auction
arena,” comments Darryl Jacobson, managing director of
Burchmore’s.
The beautiful car was knocked down for R800 000 – which
means the lucky new owner snapped up a real bargain.
31
GROUP PANORAMA
East Cape Foods milestones
East Cape Foods celebrated its milestone 25th anniversary in March, at the same time saying farewell to Ava Roberts, co-founder of
the business and regional operations director, Eastern Cape.
Founders Ava and Mervyn Roberts began as
the company for the next 10 years, growing the
manufacturing agents and swiftly developed their
business to become the leading multi-temperature
enterprise into three separate businesses, of which
distributor within Caterplus and winning many
East Cape Foods is one. The first of its kind in
awards along the way.
South Africa, East Cape Foods is a pioneering
Ava attributes her success to the people who
multi-temperature distribution facility, selling and
have walked the road with her. Some employees
distributing both frozen and ambient food and
have been with the company since its inception
related products to the catering industry.
and everyone in the team has contributed to the
Together Ava and Mervyn built their business
development of East Cape Foods, which has
based on firm business principles as well as solid
become the leading supplier of a comprehensive
family values. Whilst developing their company they
basket of products to the catering market, providing
also brought up four children in the family business
excellent service, food safety and numerous other
and are especially proud of the professional
benefits to the market it serves.
accomplishments of all their children.
Caterplus has changed its name to Bidvest
The dynamic couple continued to operate their
Foodservice SA, with the strategy to develop a
business for 15 years with Mervyn at the helm,
the transition of a family-owned business into a
strong multi-temperature distribution platform. East
before being acquired by Caterplus. Mervyn left
corporate environment.
Cape Foods will be changing its name to Bidvest
to pursue a successful property portfolio and
Ava remained as general manager to manage
Although her original tenure was for a year, Ava
rose to the corporate challenge and remained with
Foodservice SA Multi-Temp to align the company
with the new business strategy.
Voltex facelift
Voltex branches in
Cape Town, Strand and
Worcester recently
underwent major
renovations. The branches
now have a more
professional image,
with new showrooms.
32
GROUP PANORAMA
Konica Minolta Medical SA
Konica Minolta Medical South Africa successfully introduced itself as a company that stands at the forefront of medical solution
providers at the recent Society of Radiographers of South Africa-Radiological Society of South Africa (SORSA-RSSA) 2011 Imaging
Congress in Durban.
“As the principal importer and distributor of the
Konica Minolta range of radiology equipment, we
believed that the distinguished congress would
be the ideal background to launch our digital
radiographic imaging systems to radiologists and
radiographers. Judging by the enormous response
and the positive interest displayed by delegates
visiting our state-of-the-art stand, the congress
proved to be a great introduction to our products
and services,” says Wendy Biggins, product
manager: Medical at Konica Minolta Medical
South Africa.
More than 600 medical professionals from both
private and public healthcare sectors, as well as
medical students, visited the exhibition hall and
attended talks and lectures at this year’s congress.
“The Konica Minolta Medical South Africa
stand featured the company’s Regius computed
radiography (CR) systems, laser imagers, digital
imaging software options and its exceptional Aero
digital radiography (DR) system, which allows the
most affordable migration from conventional film
imaging or CR to DR radiology without having to
replace existing hardware,” she says.
Wendy adds that Konica Minolta Medical South
The team responsible for launching Konica Minolta Medical South Africa at the SORSA-RSSA 2011 Imaging Congress are from
left: Mehmet Cagri Yilmaz, technical support manager; Juneid Docrat, divisional manager; Moses Manoko, dispatch supervisor;
Tomohide Satou, international sales manager; Andrew Griffith, product manager at Konica Minolta South Africa; Dale Mandel,
technical solutions specialist; Melanie Goadsby, student; Shaun Mckerchar, solutions specialist supervisor and Wendy Biggins,
product manager: Medical.
Radiographer at Grey’s Hospital
in Pietermaritzburg, Shanaaz
Kader (centre), was announced
the winner of the Sony camera,
given away at the Konica Minolta
Medical South Africa stand. She
is flanked by Andrew Griffith,
product manager at Konica
Minolta South Africa, and Wendy
Biggins, product manager:
Medical at Konica Minolta
Medical South Africa. Managing
director of Tuft and Partner, Inc.
and past president of RSSA,
Dr Richard Tuft, drew the
winning name.
Africa also saw the congress as a platform to
highlight its dedication to providing clients with
effective radiology management solutions through
Alan Griffith (left), managing director of Konica Minolta South
Africa, shakes hands with Logie Naidoo, deputy mayor of
Durban.
pre-sales analysis, audits to sales, installation and
procedure times, ensuring that a patient’s
application training, as well as ongoing off- and
journey through the X-ray department is a
onsite technical and software management, as well
pleasant experience,” she says.
as the supply of consumables.
Following the success of the Durban event,
“Importantly, our CR and DR solutions enhance
radiology workflow while reducing radiographic
Konica Minolta Medical South Africa is preparing
for its Gauteng launch.
33
GROUP PANORAMA
Consecutive winners
Konica Minolta SA has received three consecutive
awards from suppliers.
BERTL’s Best Award – The Bizhub C35 colour multifunctional peripheral (MFP) has been awarded a prestigious
BERTL’s Best Award, focusing on the benefits received by
users and business dynamics, rather than the simple feed and
speed productivity, reliability testing and pricing list checks of
the past. The award, in the Best Feature Rich A4 Color MFP
category, is one of BERTL’s Best Workgroup awards.
Buyers Lab – This global provider of information and testing services to
the digital imaging industry has awarded Konica Minolta SA ‘Line of the
Year’ for the OEM whose product line is determined to be the best overall
in its category, based on the cumulative test results of all models tested
in a rigorous two-month laboratory evaluation. Reliability, image quality,
productivity, ease of use, scanning, a host of connectivity attributes and
overall value are amongst the many deciding factors taken into consideration, as is the extent of the product line and its ability to
provide quality products suitable to a broad spectrum of customer needs.
Pcounter Europe – Employing an in-house team of specialists has resulted in Konica Minolta SA scooping the Pcounter
Europe Partner of the Year award for the third year in a row. Pcounter adds value to Konica Minolta South Africa’s
bizhub devices by offering print and document accounting solutions for a wide variety of industries, achieving enhanced
productivity and cost savings for customers. The annual award is bestowed on a vendor for outstanding work and focus
in representing, selling and supporting products from Pcounter Europe and driving the business to new goals.
Lithotech Labels wins award
Lithotech Labels has been awarded the Top Supplier in the Packaging Category for a range of labels that were produced for
Freeworld Coatings’ Plascon brands. This emphasises the exceptional service offerings from Lithotech Labels and the commitment
and dedication from the team.
“This award certainly demonstrates that we have
the necessary technology, skills and commitment
to compete with the best suppliers in the market,”
remarks Kevin Swan, MD Lithotech Labels.
Lithotech Labels offers products including:
product identification/decoration labels, cosmetics
labels, pharmaceutical labels, roll labels (up to
eight colours), continuous computer labels, nursery
labels, parking tickets (including consecutive
numbering), bar-coded labels, security labels,
wraparound labels, tagging systems, label design
profits and return on funds employed (ROFE),
software, bar-code printers and labels, price
complementing Rotolabel, Lufil and Sprint
marking systems, labels and ink rollers and thermal
Packaging’s presence in South Africa’s growing
is ready to provide Bidvest businesses with
transfer ribbons.
packaging sector.
first-class labeling solutions. For queries, please
Lithotech Labels is forging ahead with plans to
Other improvements planned at Lithotech Labels
introduction of in-house DTP, and staff training.
With all the plans underway, Lithotech Labels
contact Roger Boulle (sales manager) or Annette
replace ageing equipment with new machinery.
for 2011 include: factory re-organisation to improve
Lourencinho (commercial manager: estimating) on
The planned investment will enhance efficiency,
flow, a focus on quality assurance procedures, the
+27 (11) 975 8141.
34
GROUP PANORAMA
Buy Bidvest roadshow
wins acclaim
The Buy Bidvest campaign is gaining momentum – and efforts to promote it are winning acclaim throughout the Group.
A Bidvest Gauteng relationship day, held
technology sector, particularly hardware and
on March 11 at the Southern Sun Grayston
software. All the relevant details can be found
for Bidvest companies to showcase their
in the Bidvest Group deals booklet available
products and services, attracted more than
on request from Bidvest Procurement.
200 people. The event was widely hailed for
“At Bidvest Procurement, our efforts are
its success and usefulness.
focused on growing Bidvest into the future by
“What’s more, the event drew a high level
enabling companies to support one another
of company representatives,” says Bidvest
and ensure that they source goods and
Procurement’s Derek Kinnear. “We had many
services from Bidvest businesses,” Derek
managing directors, financial directors and
sales directors there.”
Also in attendance to take advantage of the
networking opportunities were key partner suppliers
says.
From left: Dirk Bornebusch, Bidvest Procurement financial
manager; Derek Kinnear, Bidvest Procurement – CEO; Ricky
Naidoo, Data Centrix; Ravi Govender, Bidvest Procurement
director and Riaz Hafferjee from Vodacom.
including MTN, Vodacom, Telkom, Datacentix, First
Bidvest Procurement is now also on Facebook
to keep employees up to date with company
developments and with events or news affecting
the Group.
Technology, Autopage Cellular, HP, IBM, Internet
“Anything we feel is useful to the Group is
Solutions, Southern Suns, Protea, Praxis, PAG, GD
available on the Facebook page. We’re on our
Stores, Netsurit and Zakumi Training Solutions.
way to 1 000 friends and there’s a lot of interaction
Success emanated not just from what the
between companies.”
Bidvest companies offered, but from the manner in
Comments on the roadshow and its impact were
which they offered it.
universally complimentary and included feedback
Bidvest Procurement arranged attractive prizes
such as: “So many times, in business and in life,
for the best presentations – from iPads and laptops
it’s that one extra degree of effort that separates
to cameras, holidays and even an advanced driving
The hall
the good from the great”; “Your extra efforts on this
course. The top three presentations, as judged by
event left great memories to all that attended and
Lionel Jacobs and Gillian McMahon, were Ryan
provided an excellent networking opportunity”; and
Blake of BidTrack, Paulette Scrooby of Budget
“Congratulations and well done on an extremely
Rent-a-Car and Mojaki Finger of Bidvest Paperplus.
organised event.”
“Every presenter received a prize,” says Derek,
Peter Enslin, marketing general manager, Océ
“which created a lot of goodwill.”
South Africa, said: “Congratulations on putting
Especially exciting was a motivational talk from
together a great function. I was able to secure some
SA sales guru and motivational speaker, Paul
sales opportunities as well as a few ideas on how
Naidoo, worth R25 000 and donated by Zakumi,
we can enhance our own business at Océ. In fact,
which was won by McCarthy Motors.
a meeting with Elliance has already been set. Please
Over the past year, although the Group has
made good progress with inter-company buying,
procurement reports highlight that some companies
pass on my thanks to the rest of your team.”
From left: Lionel Jacobs, Bidvest South Africa director and
Rod Tyack, Puréau managing director.
are still buying outside the Group.
“Our chief executive Brian Joffe has said
Gillian Schneiderman of Konica Minolta SA
added: “Thank you for the opportunity to network –
and present KMSA – at the meeting. It was a great
“The value and deals available to Group
initiative and very informative and useful for us at
our decentralised operational structure has
companies are not limited to the Buy Bidvest
both head office and branch level. We’re glad this is
served us well and we remain committed to our
campaign. Bidvest Procurement has negotiated
run around the country and look forward to being a
entrepreneurial mindset, but there remains a huge
with the partner suppliers (mentioned above) the
part of more, similar initiatives in the future.’’
and untapped opportunity for companies to support
best possible deals for all Group companies and, in
the broad spectrum of businesses within Bidvest,”
many cases, individual employees.
Derek says.
“The focus for 2011 will be in the information
The roadshow will also visit Cape Town, Durban,
Port Elizabeth, Bloemfontein, Nelspruit (Mbombela)
and Polokwane.
35
OUR PEOPLE
Roger Chan
Bidvest Foodservice: Asia Pacific: Angliss
From sales supervisor to general manager
Roger Chan had a background in food sales when he joined
Hong Kong Refrigerating (the former name of Angliss) in 1993
as sales supervisor, responsible for dairy product development
and sales. By the time Bidvest acquired Angliss in 2007, he had
20 years of industry experience, strong meat product knowledge
and a reputation as a team leader with good interpersonal skills.
Roger took full advantage of Bidvest’s policy of leaving
good people in place while looking to develop them further. In
2008 when Angliss Hong Kong set up its Macau subsidiary, he
became general manager, with the job of moving from a zero
base to a position of strength in Macau’s foodservice sector.
Roger and his start-up team rapidly took the business into
profit. Macau is a unique market with Portuguese colonial
associations, exceptional Cantonese cuisine and cosmopolitan
tastes. The new business demonstrated intuitive feel for this
diverse market, making Angliss the supplier of choice to the
city’s leading hotels and restaurants.
I am Proudly Bidvest.
36
OUR PEOPLE
Patrick Ximba
Bidvest Freight: Rennies Distribution Services
From labourer to facility manager
Patrick Ximba completed Standard 9 at school in Newcastle,
KwaZulu-Natal, then had to leave to find work, only to be laid
off. He eked out a living selling clothes until 1990 when he joined
SACD as a casual labourer. He soon impressed and secured fulltime employment. Pat used his spare time to learn how to drive a
forklift and was promoted to forklift operator, then tally clerk. Soon
he was responsible for the supervision of export container packing
at SACD’s Mondi division In 2001, he joined Rennies Distribution
Services at its Durban Super Terminal.
When the terminal opened, Pat – thanks to his SACD grounding
– was the only employee who knew the export container packing
configurations. He sometimes put in 18-hour shifts; apparently
without recognition, but his loyalty had been noted.
He was first a storeman operator, then warehouseman, then
superintendent. In 2008, he became shift manager and later
operations manager. In 2010, he became facility manager,
responsible for the Super Terminal. Pat, a family man with three
children, grabs every training opportunity. Making the best of
opportunities works for Bidvest… and for Pat.
I am Proudly Bidvest.
37
OUR PEOPLE
Steve and Cindy Bonser
Bidvest Foodservice: Europe: 3663 Wholesale
From order assembly and telesales
to management
Husband-and-wife successes of Steve and Cindy Bonser
showcase the infinite possibilities that open up for hard-working
Bidvest people. Steve joined 3663 in Nottingham in 1983 as a
depot order assembler, moving on to bacon hand (preparing fresh
bacon for customers). By 1986, he was warehouse supervisor and
introduced a two-shift system. About this time, Cindy joined as a
telesales operator, soon moving up to supervisor.
Steve and Cindy married in 1989. That same year, Steve
became warehouse manager and was responsible for re-racking
Nottingham’s 60 000 square foot warehouse in four weeks. Cindy
moved into buying, and in 1991 became Nottingham depot’s
frozen and non-food buyer.
Steve moved up to operations manager and acting divisional
general manager of Nottingham depot, then acting depot
manager and depot manager. A special projects secondment
was a springboard to the job of distribution hub controller, then
up to operations support manager. Cindy also earned a series of
promotions – to senior depot buyer, then regional buyer, national
stock planning manager and more recently national account
manager.
They have a son and daughter. The boy was born with a serious
heart condition, but is well today. Support from the extended family
of 3663 managers and co-workers has never been forgotten.
The Bonsers have won international Bidvest recognition for their
achievements. But Bidvest spirit matters more than awards.
We are Proudly Bidvest.
38
OUR PEOPLE
39
OUR PEOPLE
Meet
Johan
– always a hunter
Always a hunter, Johan Nell. When just a ‘laaitie’ (youngster) at Dwarsrivier, the family
farm at Lydenburg, he shot his first buck. Now he’s 40 and a committed family man, but
he still heads for the bush at every opportunity for a little hunting.
etween weekends, however, he varies it
B
somewhat. His quarry are the ne’er-do-wells
who threaten the security of some of the country’s
major business enterprises.
As Bidvest Magnum’s regional director for
Gauteng North, Johan spearheads the protection
of such multi million-rand organisations as Impala
Platinum, Carnival City and Vodacom.
It’s a service that earns Bidvest Magnum more
than R10 million a month.
He and around 1 600 security officers take
care of clients across a region stretching from
Johannesburg through Pretoria and Rustenburg to
Polokwane and westwards to Klerksdorp.
“Unfortunately for South Africa,” Johan says,
“crime is still a growing problem.
“It’s becoming accepted as the norm. People are
losing focus. They need to be alert to it all the time,”
he cautions.
What’s bad for the country, though, is good for
the security industry. It’s growing.
“For many companies, security is a grudge
purchase. They have to do it but they don’t buy
anything tangible.
“When they run into financial trouble, they start
cutting back their security, only to find a little later
graduated from Potch University with a B Proc in
helped turnover grow from just R800 000 to beyond
that there’s a problem that really needs it.”
1994.
R10 million.
So the trend nowadays is toward electronic
security and to save money by reducing manpower.
“The challenge for the industry is to keep our
own people on the right side of the law. Because
of the economics of the country, bribery is always a
temptation. We have to be alert to this all the time.”
Johan, who went to school in Lydenburg and
completed national service in Potchefstroom,
40
He joined a security company as a legal advisor,
Johan is married to Hannelie (who worked for
but when Magnum in 1998 won the security
Magnum for 10 years) and they have three children,
contract for the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, he
Devan (nine), Kean (seven) and Kaylee (four).
was employed to run it and a few others.
He became a branch manager when Magnum
merged with Shield Security, and was made a
regional director.
In his 13 years with the company, he has
He’s heavily involved in coaching cricket at school
and is chairman of ‘bulletjie’ rugby, played by about
200 youngsters.
He enjoys off-road motorcycling and understandably,
as a ‘plaas seun’ (farm lad) he loves the outdoors.
OUR PEOPLE
Bidvest Magnum
– a celebration of people
Sol earns his wings
Bravery award
George Knoke says he thought all was lost when he was
robbed. His wallet contained his ID book, cheque book,
petrol card, bank cards and, of course, cash.
According to Jackie Reddy of Absa
Bank, David Khowa (MS0822) is
the bravest man she knows.
Within 15 minutes of the robbery, the thieves had filled their car with
Recently, an Absa employee grabbed a
petrol and used his credit card to buy food. George had become yet
gun from a client’s gun holder and pointed
another victim of crime.
the gun at the client. David immediately
The next morning, “an angel” called George on his mobile. It was
stepped in front of the client to protect him
Bidvest Magnum security officer Sol Motsoeneng who, on his way to
and managed to wrestle the gun away.
work at Absa Bank, found the wallet. Sol, a security officer for 12 years
His swift reactions meant that no one was
at the bank, returned the wet but otherwise intact wallet to its owner.
injured and he helped to avert a potential
Says Sol: “I was just walking to work when I saw the wallet in the
veld. It was open and the cards were lying all around. I found the
disaster.
The Absa employee was later admitted
business card and gave the owner a call.” Sol received a reward from
to hospital for psychiatric observation, and
a grateful George and was awarded ‘angel wings’ in recognition of his
David received an award and recognition
good deed.
for his bravery from Absa and Bidvest Magnum.
Patiswa Damba
Gladys Tladi
Patiswa Damba joined the company in
Gladys is mom to a 24-year-old
1990 as a Grade D security officer. Her
daughter and a 13-year-old son.
first site was the Checkers Warehouse in
She is also a proud granny and
End Street, Johannesburg. Soon after,
says her grandson (18 months
she was transferred to the Holiday Inn
old) is cute and clever and that
hotel in Sandton.
she can’t wait to get home to him
Clive Dawes, the then-general
manager, offered Patiswa the opportunity
every evening.
Gladys joined the company
to work in the control room, but there
in February 1988 as a Grade E
was a challenge attached to the offer…
security officer. Her first posting
she only had two weeks to prove herself.
was to Adcock Ingram in Industria,
She certainly did that and for the next five
and after being transferred to
years she worked as a controller.
various sites over the years and
In 1996, Patiswa was asked to help out in the payroll department as a data
receiving many commendations
capturer – since then, and in her own words, she says: “I have never looked
from the company and clients,
back, I taught myself and today I am a payroll administrator and proudly Bidvest
Gladys was promoted to the position of receptionist in 1997.
Magnum.” Patiswa is a single parent with three children – two boys (17 and 16)
and a four-year-old little girl, who is the apple of mom’s eye!
Her potential was again recognised when she was appointed as HR clerk
(Gauteng Central) in March 2009.
41
OUR PEOPLE
Night of the Stars 2011
Managing director of Bidvest Magnum, Dave Crichton, with the winners.
Manager of the year, Jacob Phake (Gauteng
central).
Security officer of the year, David Khowa
(specialised services).
Site of the year, Melrose Arch (Gauteng central)
(accepted by Hendrick Tegmann).
Support employee of the year, Ashika Manilall
(KZN).
Region of the year, Gauteng South
(accepted by Vicky Barnard).
Paul Buckby entertains the guests.
New uniforms
In line with some exciting developments at Bidvest TMS, employees
now have the opportunity to wear stunning new uniforms. Between the
managing director, Danie Otto, and Helene Honey, the TMS group sales and
marketing director, the initiative was concluded within a short space of time.
Very soon all office and management employees will be able to
wear the TMS range with pride. Professional uniforms contribute to an
individual’s confidence and sense of pride, and this translates to an overall
feeling of well-being.
A daring rescue
In the early hours of January 11 2011, two Bidvest Magnum officers went way beyond
the call of duty.
Morris Chauke (site security supervisor) and Sibonisine Miza (security reaction officer)
were on site at Dimension Data when they heard a loud noise. On investigating, they
found that two vehicles had been involved in an accident and as a result of the collision,
both vehicles were in flames.
The security officers contacted the Dimension Data control room via radio to inform
them of the situation and pulled the trapped drivers from their burning vehicles. By
the time the fire department and medical emergency personnel arrived on the scene,
the Bidvest Magnum security personnel had managed to extinguish the flames. Both
drivers sustained injuries in the accident and were taken to hospital for treatment.
But for the quick reactions of Morris Chauke and Sibonisine Miza, the two drivers
could have been another vehicle accident statistic.
42
From left: Fahmeeda Areff, TMS SHERQ divisional director; Thula Nongogo, TMS
personal assistant to HRD and Annatjie Dennison, image consultant from Image Makers,
a corporate uniform supplier.
OUR PEOPLE
From left: Charles Swartz, Adnaan Harneker, Jeremy McGregor, Raymond Abrahams, Desmond Paulsen, Desiree Wilson, Owen Pistorius (behind Desiree Wilson and Deon Jeneker), Deon Jeneker,
Sean Lakay, Linda Tashe and Igshaan Erasmus. Absent: Ben Cupido.
Bellco Electrical
celebrates 65 years
Cape Town-based Bellco Electrical recently celebrated its 65th anniversary. Founded in January 1946 by the late J J Bensohn and
his wife, Bellco Electrical was the largest independent, privately owned wholesaler in the Western Cape.
Bensohn’s two sons inherited the business, with
Walk Shopping Centre, Grandwest Casino,
unit is run with a senior management team of four
Sidney Bensohn as managing director, until the
PetroSA and Mittal.
people. The specialised lighting division is headed
company was sold in 1992.
Servicing various markets such as commerce and
Bellco stocks and distributes approximately
up by Richard Lowe, a corporate member of the
7 000 products and is the appointed exclusive
Institute of Lighting Engineers. Fred Wilson heads
industry, building, mining, transport and municipalities,
distributor for many major manufacturers and brands.
up the electrical wholesale division and Shiraj
Bellco’s markets extend throughout the Western and
The company prides itself in being the first choice
Wentzel the procurement and distribution division.
southern Cape – from Saldanha Bay in the north to
supplier to customers, offering competitive prices and
Mossel Bay, George and Plettenberg Bay in the south
superior products and services. Belco is committed
staff members were honoured for their long service
– as well as national business such as supplying
to providing its customers with a professional service
to the company, of which two celebrated 25
Woolworths with light fixtures.
by way of timeous delivery, with a fleet of 16 delivery
years. More than 20% of staff have been with the
Major projects include: The One & Only Hotel,
vehicles and twice-daily deliveries throughout the
company for more than 15 years. The success of
Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape
peninsula and to the surrounding country areas.
Bellco is due to the commitment of the staff, their
Town International Airport, Nedbank Towers and
BOE Clocktower, Century City Housing and Canal
Bellco employs 84 people under the leadership
of Hugh Ward, joint regional manager. The business
At a function to celebrate its anniversary, 15
expertise and product knowledge and the quality of
products sold.
43
OUR PEOPLE
More than just food
The Catering Equipment business was established by 3663 through the acquisition of an existing equipment company, with
the primary objective of meeting the
equipment needs of one of the UK’s largest
contract caterers – Compass UK.
The Catering Equipment business has gone
from strength to strength and is now a significant
contribution to the total supply solution offered to
3663 customers.
Operating out of sites in Bristol and Glasgow,
equipment ranging from a teaspoon to a complete
kitchen with a full installation service can be supplied
to customers across the UK. The business has been
developing rapidly and this year launched a new
trading website, as the Internet is often the caterer’s
first port of call when sourcing and comparing new
equipment products.
To continue to drive this dynamic business, Paul
Knight, managing director, 3663 Catering Equipment,
held the first-ever Catering Equipment conference this
year. The event was held in February, not far from the
Most successful newcomer: Ben Price.
Best up-sell and outbound sales performance: Catherine Kerr.
Best overall telesales performance: Judith Hughes.
Operational sales support: Stuart Cameron.
` The employer of choice for all staff.
Supplier of the year: Churchill.
Top-performing Catering Equipment BDM: Robin Barnes.
Plans were then presented from support functions
evening – a glittering Oscars-themed gala awards
` Operational sales support: Stuart Cameron
including sales, buying, marketing and operations to
dinner, which was extended to key suppliers. This
` Best overall telesales performance: Judith
give the delegates a clear view of how the strategic
was the opportunity to recognise great performers
plans were underpinned and how the business was
across a range of departments for their fantastic
` Supplier of the year: Churchill
going to adapt to meet these challenges.
achievements.
` Top-performing Catering Equipment BDM:
main office location in Bristol.
The conference was a major event for the
Catering Equipment team, with members from both
sites covering field sales, telesales, warehouse,
buying and operational support attending. There
was representation from national accounts, sales
and head office colleagues all keen to support
the event.
The conference was opened by Paul Knight,
with his vision of how the business was going
to become:
` The catering equipment supplier of choice for
all 3663 customers;
` The partner of choice for all equipment
manufacturers operating in the UK foodservice
market; and
Fun was had by all in the ‘Dragon’s Den’ session –
Robin Barnes
an exercise loosely based on a well-known BBC TV
Here are some of the talented winners:
show, to see how teams could use their creativity to
` Best up-sell and outbound sales performance:
help deliver the new vision.
The event then culminated with an amazing
44
Hughes
Catherine Kerr
` Most successful newcomer: Ben Price
The huge success of the event has already seen it
put into the annual calendar, with team members
planning their campaigns for next year’s awards.
OUR PEOPLE
Lifetime achievement
Shop SA, the official magazine of the South African Association for Stationery, Home and Office
Products and the stationery industry, honoured Hans Servas with a lifetime achievement award at
a glittering ceremony. Hans has chalked up 30 years of service and the award is in recognition of
his lasting contribution towards the stationery industry. His unwavering dedication and passion as a
brand specialist in the industry has proven invaluable, and he has left an imprint that will endure for
many years to come. Congratulations to Hans on his outstanding achievement.
Long service
at SSC
Silveray Statmark Company’s long service awards are given to
those who have been dedicated to adding value to the company
over many years. The company was proud to acknowledge the
commitment of these special people, by presenting each with a
long service award at the annual year-end function.
A Premium evening with Parker from left: Kim Innes, Shelby Zimmerman, Des Christopher,
Maritza As and Janet Barker.
A Premium
evening
The unveiling of the stylish new Parker Premium range and new Parker
packaging on October 14 2010 was a well-attended event at the
Grillhouse in Sandton. Guests included various trade partners, suppliers,
media representatives and Hagar Heshmat, Newell Rubbermaid’s Fine
Writing brand manager for the EMEA region.
The evening was an elegant occasion, with guests enjoying fine dining
and great entertainment. The entertainment, by Abbott and Crabb, proved
a perfect fit for the stunning new range of Parker Premium pens. It was
35 years of service – Irene Mavis Theron.
20 years of service – Jafta Tshabalala.
certainly a Parker experience of note, and had guests charmed with their
‘Premium’ gifts.
Journey of hope
The Revlon Journey of Hope is a national breast cancer awareness
campaign. In August 2010, it took place for the third consecutive year.
Fifteen breast cancer survivors set out on a journey riding Harley Davidson
motorcycles from Durban to Cape Town. Their mission was to create
awareness regarding the importance of early detection and to carry a
message of optimism. Parker was recognised as a Silver Sponsor for the
25 years of service – Rose Ngobeni.
20 years of service – Carlson Nelwando.
Revlon Journey of Hope.
45
OUR PEOPLE
New writing instruments and finishes
from Waterman
Silveray Statmark Company has released the
latest range of writing instruments and new
finishes from the luxury Waterman brand.
Waterman has always excelled in the quality and luxury
of writing instruments, and has designed nothing less
with its Hemisphere in matt-black chrome trim. Waterman
Hemisphere is available in four modes: fountain pen, roller
ball, ballpoint and mechanical pencil.
Waterman Expert Deluxe is now available in a new range
of stunning finishes. These include Deluxe Black Lacquer and
Deluxe White Lacquer, which are offered as fountain pen,
roller ball and ballpoint. Waterman has added a superb new
look to its gift boxes, too.
Think about what you eat
to use healthier ingredients to enable them to create
What some people eat is doing them a fat
lot of good.
menus with a greater nutritional value.
“It’s a critical partnership,” he stresses. They have to
work together to create the meals that are beginning
Obesity is a problem in South Africa, as it is in many
to emerge as ‘health food’ options on the menus of
parts of the world, and it’s posing challenges for the
many restaurants and pizzerias.
people who make food and ingredients, restaurants
Menus are changing not only in restaurants, but in
and chefs and the average housewife.
corporate in-house facilities, where large ‘health bars’
“Around the world, there’s a consciousness
are being introduced.
about obesity,” says top chef Martin Kobald, “and a
The demand is being driven as much by employers
growing trend to combat it.
as employees, as companies realise that healthy
“The emphasis is not just on healthy food, but
eating promises healthier staff members and
on educating people on what’s good for them and
enhanced productivity.
what’s not.”
“It’s significant here and internationally,” he says.
Martin, honorary past president of the SA
For the day-to-day shopper, Martin advises
Chefs’ Association and global chairman of the
‘conscious shopping’: reading labels more often and
marketing and communications committee of the
more carefully than before.
World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS), is
The newly introduced Consumer Protection Act
spearheading the forthcoming Bidvest World Chefs’
requires food labels to show exactly what’s in the
Tour Against Hunger.
food, and shoppers should train themselves to read
“Most of the time,” he says,”obesity is less a
them carefully before adding them to the supermarket
result of the size of food intake, but of the wrong
trolley.
nutritional intake. That’s what chefs are eager to
quarter of people don’t know what their children eat
help people understand.”
during the day.
Recent research suggests South Africans are
Understandably, Martin says, chefs are educating
a nation in denial of how overweight, unfit and
themselves on nutritional food – not just because
unhealthy they are.
they want to learn new things to keep up with
It’s not only adults who are obese: 17% of South
Africa’s children under nine are obese and nearly a
46
“Pick up a ready-made meal from the freezer in any
supermarket and you can be sure there will be sugar
in it, as a flavour enhancer. Then ask yourself: If you
cooked it, would you add sugar?
“To live a healthier life, people need to educate
trends to satisfy the dining customer, but they are
themselves, and with technology today there’s no
working with their industry partners (or suppliers)
excuse not to do that; and chefs are part of the journey.”
REACHING OUT
From Stowmarket
to West Africa
– the journey of 10 first aid kits!
Tina King, from telesales at 3663 Stowmarket, has a heart for The Gambia, a small West
African country south of the Sahara Desert.
In Tina’s words:
“Not only have I fallen under the spell of this country,
the culture and the climate, but have come to love
its people, who never cease to amaze me with their
resourcefulness and resilience in the face of extreme
poverty and often very harsh and challenging living
conditions.
“But every year in The Gambia, many people fall
seriously ill, and without basic medical knowledge or
Phil Mullins, depot general manager at 3663 Stowmarket,
donated the kits (top) to Tina for use in The Gambia.
equipment, even a small cut or graze can result in
infection, loss of a limb, or sadly even death.
“After visiting The Gambia several times, and
hearing heart-breaking stories of needless loss of life, I
Tina with some of the residents of The Gambia.
decided to try and find out if there was something we
could do to help.”
Tina contacted FirstAid4Gambia, a registered
Tina describes their day
“Our brief was to train 10 students and two teachers
charity that aims to deliver basic first-aid training
in basic first-aid skills. Nothing could have prepared
and supplies to teachers and helpers in schools and
us for the fantastic welcome we got on entering
nurseries. The charity has already helped over 24
the makeshift training room – not only were the 12
schools and over 3 000 children.
participants waiting for us, but a further 70 students
Phil Mullins, depot general manager at 3663
as well! The headmaster had given the whole school
Stowmarket, chatted to Tina about her plans and very
the day off from their studies so that they could
kindly agreed to donate 10 x 20-person first-aid kits.
observe the training and hopefully take away some
As she had already booked her trip, Tina
knowledge themselves. What the students lacked
immediately contacted the airline, who agreed to grant
in amenities, they more than made up for with their
her an extra 20 kilograms in charity luggage allowance
enthusiasm!
to enable her to take the kits with her other luggage.
After leaving the snow and ice at Gatwick Airport
– and a 10-hour delay – Tina, with the first aid kits in
tow, arrived in The Gambia to 40-degree heat and
brilliant sunshine!
Tina was involved in first-aid training at the Simma
Vocational Training Centre, a charity-run school for
Demonstration on first aid by Tina.
“We then presented the school with two of the
first-aid kits from 3663 to much applause and thanks
from everybody there!”
The other first-aid kits (with the addition of a few
extra items) will enable the charity to provide another
eight small nurseries with training and supplies.
Congratulations to Tina and the Stowmarket
17 to 19-year-olds from some of the poorest villages
team for making such a worthwhile contribution.
of the Upper River Region, who had not had the
To see more about this initiative, please visit
opportunity to complete their education at an
www.firstaid4gambia.org or chat to Tina on
earlier age.
kingontheroad@hotmail.co.uk.
The participants from Simma Vocational Training Centre
received certificates for their efforts.
47
GENERATING VALUE
Cycling for schools
Bidvest Magnum, among other sponsors and cyclists of the Impala Platinum Cycling Club, has participated in raising R220 000 for
two underprivileged East Rand schools.
Twenty-two cyclists, including Bidvest Magnum’s
sponsors. The Implats corporate social investment
bikes and then 90 minutes in vehicles from and to
Dave Mitchell, rode 1 730 kilometres from Springs to
department will manage the two projects.
the stopovers.
Cape Town in six days to gather the money for the
The tour, the club’s second ride to Cape Town,
“Days became very short, and although teamwork
Protea School and Muriel Brand School on the East
followed a route through the Karoo to approach
off the road ensured that bike servicing and washing
Rand in Johannesburg.
Cape Town from the west coast and included 110
were done in time to allow for a decent night’s sleep,
In total, they covered 24 100 kilometres.
kilometres on sand roads where the cyclists rode
five hours sleep a night was the norm.
The club’s founder, Johan Olivier, says the money
mountain bikes.
will finance a hearing testing station at Protea, with
Immediately afterwards, the entire team rode the
additional testing and evaluation equipment and
Pick n Pay Argus Tour. All finished in good time – two
material.
of them in less than three hours.
The money for Muriel Brand School will enable
“For individual cyclists to complete
the school to replace computers and printers in the
1 000 kilometres on the tour, each had to
school’s computer room.
average 180 kilometres for the first five days and
Bidvest Magnum sponsored riding kit for two days
and contributed to the money gathered from other
48
100 kilometres on the last day,” says Johan.
“Teams spent seven to 10 hours a day on their
“The weather was also not kind, with rain the
second and fourth day and very strong head winds
the last three days.
“But team encouragement and sometimes peer
pressure pushed all of us to do those extra few
kilometres.”
The tour was completed with only seven flat tyres,
one snapped spoke and one fall, causing only minor
injuries.
REACHING OUT
Chipkins supports
Rosie’s Bakery
Chipkins Bakery Supplies played a pivotal role in supplying ingredients and
training unskilled people to bake bread at the new Rosie’s community/non-profit
bakery, which opened recently in Khayelitsha. Khayelitsha is one of the most
poverty-stricken townships in South Africa. The township has a population of
over 1 million residents, with over 50% of the population unemployed and over
27% of the population being HIV positive. It is estimated that there are over
14 000 orphaned children in the township.
Rosalia Mashale founded Rosie’s – a safe haven for children – in 1989, when
an infant was left on her doorstep and she knew she had to care for it. Quickly
word got out, and more children were left at her doorstep. With the help of a
group of women from the community she began looking after these children,
and after the first week had 36 children in her care.
The Collette Foundation was responsible for the funding to take Rosie’s
dream for a bakery into a reality. Rosie also runs a kitchen, an educare centre,
an orphanage, a woodworking shop and an Aids respite centre, in addition to
her new bakery. Dan Leader, the CEO of Bread Alone in America, developed a bread recipe
that Rosie’s bakery uses. The recipe is not only nutritious, but also delicious! It
is a blend of South African wholewheat, soy, cornmeal, seeds and nutritional
supplements and serves as a valuable source of proteins, vitamins, minerals,
enzymes and amino acids, which the underprivileged children desperately need.
City of Cape Town executive mayor, Alderman Dan Plato, who officially
opened Rosie’s container bakery, had the following to say: “Projects like these
are crucial, not only for providing the daily basic nutritional needs of poor
communities and specifically those living with HIV/Aids, but also for empowering
Capetonians through skills development. I am proud to support it.”
KMSA bursary recipients
Konica Minolta South Africa is providing financial support for two Grade 10 students from
the Marais Viljoen High School in Alberton, by sponsoring their school fees, uniforms,
extracurricular activities and other school-related needs for the next three years.
Desiree Mabasa and Kgalalelo Modibedi were selected by the company’s Life Starter
programme committee from the five students nominated by Elanza de Villiers, the
school’s guidance counsellor – not only for their excellent marks and attendance records
but also for their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn.
The girls will be employed by Konica Minolta Johannesburg for a period of three years
after they matriculate. They will work in the IT department, which will give them a solid
start to their careers.
Kgalalelo and Desiree and their families (front row). The girls recently joined the Life Starter programme.
The Konica Minolta committee (back row), together with both families, enjoyed a morning tea and toured
the offices and warehouse.
49
REACHING OUT
Christmas wish fulfilled
Jason Pitzer had always longed to pursue a career in catering,
but did not have access to the necessary resources to fund
a culinary education and basic catering equipment. Bidvest
Foodservice Catering Equipment came to Jason’s rescue
when it heard about his dream via the 94.7 Christmas Wish
List. Jason was not only awarded a culinary scholarship from
the South Africans Chefs’ Association but also received two
chic chef’s uniforms and a set of professional Arcos knives
from Bidvest Foodservice Catering Equipment.
Jason is well on his way to reaching his goal, and has
recently started his apprenticeship at Silverstar Casino under
the guidance of chef George Georgiou.
From left: George Georgiou, Silverstar Casino; Jason Pitzer; Caron
Malamoglou, GM – Bidvest Foodservice Catering Equipment; John
Malamoglou and Jacques Badenhorst.
‘Love-Box’ campaign
Underprivileged and less-fortunate children were the recipients of
Voltex western Cape’s generosity in December, with a donation of 255
Love-Boxes totalling R8 765. Each box contained essentials such as
toothpaste, toothbrush, facecloth, soap, stationery, sweets and chips.
The boxes were donated to three children’s homes and to the Red Cross
Children’s Hospital. The campaign was an enormous success.
The children opening their ‘Love-Boxes’.
Below: Some of the children outside the home.
Johan Edeams loading the boxes for the home.
Below: A lot of love stacked high.
Johan Edeams with Rosie Tenge, far left, and two
caretakers at the home.
50
Contents of the boxes.
REACHING OUT
A unique way to give
back
No time to sit on one of our designer
chairs, say staff from these three Bidvest
companies.
Hard hats were donned by Waltons, Dauphin
HumanDesign and Ditulo Specialists in Business
Furniture to support a Habitat for Humanity
project at Orange Farm, 30 kilometres south of
Johannesburg.
Waltons finance department and members of
the maintenance team headed out to Orange Farm
on February 9 2011. Says Gillian Audier: “Upon
arrival, we met the team leader, the project builders
and most importantly Nozizwe Dlamini, the lady
Constructing the roof.
for whom the house was being
built. After a short team briefing,
we got to work. The outer walls
of the house had been built and
Debbie Robinson with the homeowner,
Nozizwe Dlamini.
our job was to build the internal
house walls. We formed a human
The Dauphin team, led by
chain and moved bricks into the
house, ‘using rhythm’ as the
managing director Debbie
pre-requisitions stated. We even
Arnoldi-Radford, joined home
tried mixing duggha (mortar) and
bricklaying. Plenty of neighbours
Debbie Arnoldi-Radford with Abram
Sebogodi.
owner Nozizwe Dlamini in
constructing the roof trusses
and community members came
and erecting them in time for
out to assist. Shortly after lunch,
the next team to tile the roof
the internal walls were finished and
and plaster the walls. Nozizwe
the house was one day nearer to
will stay in the house with her
completion, which meant one day
two younger siblings, who are
closer to when the family could
currently in Grades 9 and 10.
move in and would no longer have
Their mother passed away
to worry about the leaking roof and
seven years ago and 23-yearold Nozizwe has cared for them
rat problems, as they experienced
in their previous home.
“We learnt a great deal on this
The Waltons gang on site.
Left: Quentin Faltain, and right: Makgadi
Matli, the HR manager.
ever since.
Ditulo Specialists in Business
Wearing their designer hard hats and bright green Ditulo T-shirts
are: Andrew Deacon, Christal Pansegrouw, Kobie ‘Boss Lady’
Britz, Kelly Collins, Don Kriel, Tanya van Tonder, Kate Molefe and
Sandy van Heerden.
house build. Not only was this an
Furniture completed the house
opportunity for us to put our newly
on the Friday. Says Sandy
acquired building skills to use,
van Heerden: “This family has
but a unique way for us to give
been living in a shack where
back to the community and make
everything got wet each time
two-bedroomed house, with a bathroom, kitchen
a difference in ways other than
it rained. It was too cold in
and living room as well as having electricity and
financially. It was also a memorable
winter and too hot in summer.
plumbing. The young family cried when they were
team-building experience. We
There was no electricity or
given the keys to their new home. What a wonderful
highly recommend this opportunity
plumbing, but now they will
and worthwhile team-building exercise this proved
be able to move into a proper
to be.”
to other companies.”
Starting the build.
51
REACHING OUT
Bidvest Prestige
volunteer day
In Durban
When Prestige KZN decided to
Above: Some of the items
pulled out of the sea.
volunteer a day in December for a
clean-up campaign, Durban Children’s
Homes was identified as an ideal
Right: Chairman of the Dive
Club and one of the main
organisers of the Coastal
Clean-up with one of our
Prestige people, Lungile
Christopher Xhorana.
recipient.
This non-profit organisation, founded
in 1905, provides needy children, young
people and their families with a range of
services, which recognise their existing
strengths and provide opportunities for
them to meet their developmental needs.
Based in the suburb of Glenwood, Durban
Children’s Homes has for the past 10 years worked
From left: Four temp cleaners from South Coast region, Artwell
Bhala, training consultant; Elaine Smit,divisional manager: South
Coast; Claire Binneman, resource developer: Durban Children’s
Homes and Mpume Mbambo, training manager.
Theo van Zyl, divisional managing director of
says Olivier. “As a committee member at the Old
Mutual Sub Aqua Club (OMSAC), I requested
sponsorship from Wayne Bowen, managing director
tirelessly to transform its programmes, ensuring
they are relevant and in line with existing policies.
to show that they care about the environment,”
at the right time”, according to Claire, speaking on
Cape Coastal, to assist with the clean-up in the
behalf of Durban Children’s Homes.
Cape Town area. This was approved and staff and
equipment were allocated from the western Cape
Prestige, offered the services of the South Coast
region to ensure the smooth execution of this
And in Cape Town
peninsula region, under direction of Mark Hulley, to
project. Four cleaners were provided, led by Elaine
Bidvest Prestige helps take care of the environment,
assist at the V & A Waterfront clean-up while I was
Smit and with training manager, Mpume Mbambo.
cleaning not only above the ground, but underwater
involved with the clean-up at Robben Island.”
Armed with chemicals and cleaning equipment, the
too. So when the international annual coastal clean-
team spent the day enthusiastically cleaning.
The home was so grateful to Prestige that it
offered to publish an article in the Berea Mail,
thanking and acknowledging such a gift “that came
It was the first time that recreational scuba divers
up day took place last year, avid scuba diver, Alan
were allowed to dive around Robben Island. A total
Olivier, decided to get involved.
of 55 divers participated. Numerous items were
“Divers and enthusiasts clean up beaches and
harbours around the world on one day of the year
removed from the sea bed, including trolleys, ropes,
a crayfish cage and signage.
Prestige creates some happiness
On World Aids Day, Prestige Hospitality and Healthcare divisions visited an
orphanage called Love in Action, situated in Mabopane, Pretoria. Headed up by
Prestige’s training department, staff members arrived with food, clothes, sweets,
chips and toiletries.
The team prepared a delicious lunch of rice, chicken, potatoes, mixed
vegetables and beetroot for the children. Says Marie Meiring: “The kids were so
happy when they saw all the goods we brought, it was actually heartbreaking.
We spoke to some of the kids and played with the little ones. They were
laughing, giggling and enjoying themselves.”
Meiring says the children have very little and share a few mattresses on a
cement floor. Their clothes are donated and their playground consists of sand
with no grass or paving. Prestige was happy to make a difference, even if only for
one day.
52
REACHING OUT
Making a difference in the
lives of our children
To commemorate World Aids Day,
the Prestige Cape coastal division
decided to spend the morning with
an extraordinary group of children at
the SOS Children’s Village, Thornton,
Cape Town.
More than 30 Prestige employees
offered their cleaning services to this
organisation, which provides a home
to 110 orphans. These are children
who have been affected by or infected
with Aids. Chatting to the house
mothers looking after the orphans,
it was emotionally overwhelming to
hear the life history of each orphan.
The team photograph: Mico Botha (GM) led the hospitality team, dressed in red.
Mark Hulley (GM) led the peninsula team, dressed in white. Vas Vassilev (GM) led
the commercial team, dressed in blue, and the support team (sales, admin, audit
and training) dressed in green. Also in the photo is Nandisa Sigwili (child and youth
coordinator) and the director of the SOS Children’s Village.
Each team eagerly adopted a specific area: village hall, youth hostels
and a house. The expertise and the immaculate end result almost brought
“We must never forget all those who have lost their lives to the
tears to the eyes of the director of SOS Village. She stated that Prestige’s
devastating illness of Aids. It is in their honour that we worked together side
assistance was an answer to her prayers. Priceless moments were captured
by side as a team, to make a difference to the lives of these orphans,” says
and the spirit and workmanship were awesome.
a volunteer.
Boston Laundry donates books
Grade 12 learners at Phomolong Secondary School
were the recipients of textbooks from Boston
Laundry when the company decided to adopt the
school during 2010.
Factory manager Pule Sibanda explains that they
chose Phomolong because many of the parents
whose children attend the school work for Boston
Guest Laundry.
“We donated 53 textbooks and study guides
for teachers and learners. By doing this, we try
to encourage learners to work to the best of
their ability in order to pass with high marks. The
donation is part of the company’s socio-economic
development programme. We are hoping to donate
more books in the future,” he says.
From left: School teachers Thandi Gadebe and David Seroke
with Grade 12 learners and Boston Laundry’s Pule Sibanda,
showing the study guides donated to the school.
53
REACHING OUT
Nkululeko Primary School learners will soon be able to enjoy the benefits of the trees planted at their school.
Trees in East London
In addition to its environmentally conscious polymerised toner,
Konica Minolta is taking proactive steps against global warming by
contributing trees to disadvantaged residents in East London.
In partnership with South Africa’s national greening and food gardening social
enterprise, Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA), 20 trees each were planted at the
Nkululeko and Valumzi Primary Schools and a further 860 trees were distributed to
the community during February.
“Through the distribution of these trees, we are contributing to improved properties
for the learners in dusty settlements and are also spreading awareness about climate
change and environmental issues,” says East London branch manager, Sharon
Roux. The company also gave each learner a box made out of bamboo and recycled
cardboard, containing colouring-in pencils, at the tree-planting ceremony.
She adds: “As part of our corporate social investment initiative, we have
committed to the FTFA Carbon Offset programme in an effort to further offset
our carbon emissions, and one of the best ways to do this is by planting trees.
In addition to absorbing carbon dioxide, one of the most important greenhouse
gases, these trees will provide many other environmental and social benefits such as
preventing water run-off and erosion, settling the dust, providing shade and shelter,
lessening noise and beautifying neighbourhoods.”
Nkululeko Primary School has also been adopted by the Konica Minolta South
Africa East London branch as part of its CSI strategy, and the company has donated
a Konica Minolta copier with a full service package to the school.
54
Planting the first tree at
Nkululeko Primary School
are, from left: Robin Hills,
representing Food & Trees
for Africa; Mrs Ngamtwini,
representing Nkululeko Primary
School; and Sharon Roux,
Konica Minolta South Africa,
East London branch manager.
REACHING OUT
A special project
in Nelspruit
Situated 112 kilometres from Nelspruit in a rural area of Dumphries B village,
Bushbuckridge, is Mahlahluvana School. The school consists of just over 500
children, including 50 orphans.
Mbali, Sir Richard Branson, Prince (yellow T-shirt), Simphiwe and Sue
Ludick.
With the school being so far from the nearest shops, many of the children were sharing broken
pencils and note books. Lithotech Sales in Nelspruit stepped in and donated stationery.
This special project is close to area sales manager Sue Ludick’s heart. Her adopted son, Prince,
attended school there before joining her family. The school is adjacent to Ulusaba, Sir Richard
Branson’s private lodge.
Sue and the children had an opportunity to meet with Richard Branson, a meeting she will always
cherish. They also had a large group of entrepreneurs visiting the school from the UK and USA, who
were looking at sustainable partnerships in uplifting communities, with the focus on HIV and childled households.
Says Sue: “When I asked Mr Branson for advice, he said we should look for people with
The deputy Principal accepting the donation from divisional director Mel
Haines and Sue Ludick.
the right attitude
and self-discipline,
because attitude and
self-discipline cannot
be taught. One can
however upskill people
to do a job and never
give up on what you
believe in. He gave me a
signed copy of his latest
book, Business Stripped
Bare. It was an honour
and a privilege meet
Lindsey Hannekom, Pride and Purpose, the deputy principal; Mel Haines; and Papa
David, Pride and Purpose, with some of the delighted children.
an icon. He is such a
humble man.”
Some of the Virgin Group staff and donors at the school’s new library with
the kids.
Wheelchair donation
Annetjie Desmet’s wheelchair was falling apart. When its middle axle broke, she knew
that to remain mobile and do her job efficiently, she required a new chair.
“Eight years ago, I was selling promotional items from the boot of my car when I first approached Konica
Minolta South Africa for assistance in purchasing a wheelchair. They generously bought me one and even
had it fixed three years ago, but through wear and tear it had become flimsy and was in need of a trade-in.
I again asked Konica Minolta South Africa whether they could help,” says Annetjie.
Janine Ferreira, public relations officer at Konica Minolta, says that the company immediately purchased
a new chair so that Desmet could continue her current work.
“The new chair benefits my life in every possible way – from my posture to moving about more easily.
The way the donation was facilitated by Konica Minolta South Africa’s personnel is incredible.”
Left: Annetjie Desmet with Alan Griffith.
55
REACHING OUT
Floods in Australia
2011 started tragically for many thousands of people who have seen
roads turn into rivers, and rivers turn into raging walls of destruction.
Both south-east Queensland and rural Victoria have fallen victim to the devastating effects
of La Niña. While it is dry at present, the prediction is for most of the Australian eastern
seaboard to have its wettest summer in decades.
Take some time to look at the photos of the Bidvest branches that sustained either
isolation, loss, or both. These pictures tell the story that words cannot possibly express.
Bundaberg and Emerald were hit the hardest, with stock losses incurred at both sites.
We also pay tribute to those family members who have sustained personal losses in the
floods but who have soldiered on. Well done to those who have battled the elements and
survived to tell the story.
In spite of the extent of the water damage across Queensland and Victoria, Bidvest
has sustained only minor losses compared to the many businesses that lost everything,
including their buildings, and in some cases, the very land where the buildings stood. In
reality, Bidvest is in good shape and continues to make further gains in building its position
as Australasia’s leading foodservice distributor.
North Rockhampton Golf Club.
Field 7 at Queensland University, Sir Fred Schonell Drive, St Lucia.
56
Sir Fred Schonell Drive, St Lucia.
REACHING OUT
Thank you from Grantham
Clinton and Sue Williams send a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to their fellow AIV
franchisees (Australia Independent Vendors are ‘sales van’ franchise vendors
who call on the smaller ships, cafés and schools for Bidvest Australia) in
Brisbane, on behalf of the residents of Grantham.
The township of Grantham is home to Clinton and his family and was
severely damaged in the recent floods. Fortunately, Clinton and his family
were away on holiday at the time of the floods, and his family home was also
spared from serious damage. But a number of his friends and neighbours
were not so lucky.
So in the great Aussie spirit, Clinton, along with the support of Gary Elder,
AIV Brisbane manager, called out to his fellow Brisbane franchisees for
help – and help he got!
Rockhampton airport.
Within days, Clinton had received more than AU$2 500 in donations, and
with this he was able to supply the local families with a range of cleaning
products, toiletries and frozen foods, which were really appreciated. One of
their frozen meal suppliers, Il Pasaio, donated 240 kilograms of prepared
meals to the community. John and Kim Hagan also kindly donated a trailer
full of furniture, which was much appreciated by the Grantham community.
Congratulations to all those generously supported Clinton and the
community of Grantham. This is Proudly Bidvest in action.
Above: Brisbane Street and below: Sandford Street in St Lucia.
Michael West and Guy de Sylva from Bidvest presenting the AU$45 000 cheque to
MP Di Farmer (state member for Bulimba).
Bidvest donation
Bidvest’s AU$45 000 donation to Queensland Premier’s Flood Appeal
During March 2011, Corporate Brisbane hosted an afternoon tea at which
Bidvest presented a cheque for AU$45 000 to member of parliament,
Di Farmer (state member for Bulimba), for the Queensland Premier’s flood
appeal. The cheque was made up of donations by Bidvest’s generous
employees and matched dollar-for-dollar by the company.
57
REST AND RELAXATION
Stress in the workplace
` Unplug. Don’t allow technology to blur the
Keeping your life manageable is essential
in dealing with day-to-day stress. But
sometimes other people’s stress can get
to you, too. How can you reduce stress in
the workplace?
Reduce worry
Stress is one of the most common problems in the
Manage your time well
they are. Get opinions from trusted colleagues if
workplace, regardless of the type of work you do.
It’s important to leave your job at the office, even if
you ‘can’t see the woods for the trees’.
Even someone else’s stress level in the office can
your office is a room in your home. Your free time
affect their co-workers. So, how do you bring your
is your own. If you give up free time to get more
We place a lot of stress on ourselves at work –
job stress to an acceptable level?
work done, you may pay for it with stress-related
especially in areas we don’t need to. Be realistic
Meet with your immediate boss regularly to
boundaries between your time and your
talk about your performance and your job. If a
employer’s time. Leave your mobile phone off
performance review is already part of your job,
when you can, or during times you have set
treat it as a chance to clear up issues that may be
aside for yourself or your family. Avoid checking
causing stress.
Become more assertive at work.
work e-mail at home.
` Try changing your thinking. Stopping negative
or irrational thoughts helps you to see things as
symptoms. If your employer offers a flexible work
about deadlines. Don’t promise things in the next
Symptom relief
schedule, take advantage of it. Get to work earlier
hour that you know are going to take three hours.
Take short breaks fairly often. Try stretching,
and leave yourself free time in the afternoon, or get
Be honest. The stress created by trying to
walking, brief meditations and other relaxation
to work later and spend some quiet time at home in
remember what you told whom is not conducive to
techniques. Protect your break time and lunch hour
the mornings before work.
relaxation – or efficiency. Try to be calm, regardless
of what is going on around you at work – and
from work interruptions.
Find a support system
Try these tips for time management:
don’t get involved in issues that don’t concern you.
` Be on time for meetings. If you know it takes
To paraphrase Rudyard Kipling: “If you can keep
Make friends at your workplace with whom you can
you exactly 30 minutes to reach your destination,
your head while all about you are losing theirs…
share your feelings and concerns. Avoid people
leave a little earlier to avoid rushing at the last
you obviously don’t understand the situation!”
who reinforce any negativity.
minute.
Sometimes, ignorance is bliss.
58
(courtesy ICAS)
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Simmer down to
prevent injury
Dr Mahmood Jagat (OccuMpilo – Occupational Health services to Bidfreight Port Operations)
Anger is a natural emotion. But when anger is mismanaged or hidden, it can cause health problems or increase the risk of injuries.
Learn how to deal with anger before small annoyances build up to a raging fury. Next time you lose your temper, keep in mind that
you could end up in hospital. Anger, researchers say, is not only bad for your heart, blood pressure and immunity; seeing red also
increases your risk for injuries.
A recent study, published in the journal
“These persons basically have an emotional
Annals of Family Medicine, found that
disability,” says Dr Glazer. Nonetheless, the
people who described themselves as feeling
great paradox in anger management is many
‘hostile’ before getting hurt, faced twice the
people think they should not express anger.
risk of injury. And compared to women, men
` Just say no: One basic anger control
were more likely to injure themselves when
technique is learning to say “no”; to set
angry. So before taking on a physical task,
boundaries and stand by them. Other
count to 10, breathe deeply and approach
exercises may include using a louder-than-
your project with a sense of calm to reduce
normal voice to express negativity, jutting
your risk of injury.
out your jaw, and making a fist and using
More and more research suggests that
arm motions that strike out. But the only
chronic anger is bad for your health. Although
thing you actually hit is air or pillows.
` Count it out: Thomas Jefferson once
everyone experiences temporary bouts of
anger, people who have an enduring hostile
advised when you get mad, count to 10
or angry attitude may have an increased risk
before speaking. But he also said when
of arterial ageing, high blood pressure, heart
you are really angry, count to 100. Deep
attack, stroke and a depressed immune
breathing also often works, because it
system.
can slow the heart rate and lower blood
pressure.
When you feel you’re getting a little hot
under the collar, try the following ways
to simmer down:
` Vent on paper: If somebody ticks you off,
` Turn on the waterworks: “Cry,” says
` Just say so: Communication also works
many experts advise writing a long poisonpen letter and then tossing it out.
cardiologist Stephen T. Sinatra, assistant
to clear the air when somebody pushes
clinical professor of medicine at the
your buttons. Pull them aside and tell them
University of Connecticut School of
in frank, unemotional language exactly
Medicine and director of the New England
why you are so upset. For example: “You
Heart Centre in Manchester, Connecticut. “Men
create a little tap in your bucket that lets anger
probably didn’t realise how you being late
and women who cry develop far less heart
seep out, little by little,” Dr Glazer says.
threw my schedule off kilter for the rest of
disease. Tears are the best remedy for detoxifying
the body of hostility and excess anger.”
` Deal with the little things: Dr Howard Glazer,
the day.”
The typical lists of exasperating things include traffic,
rude people, toxic bosses, incompetent co-workers
You could also try exercising, laughing, listening
clinical associate professor of psychology at
and other seemingly trivial items. Research at Colorado
to music or meditating to diffuse angry feelings.
Cornell University Medical College, often tells his
State University reveals that about 75%of anger is
If you have a chronic problem controlling your
anger management patients to keep notes on
caused by interactions between people.
anger, consider seeing a counsellor to learn how to
minor irritants and low-level annoyances. “When
you deal with little irritants as they occur, you
Some people have so much unresolved anger that
any small irritation causes them to blow their tops.
decrease hostility and protect yourself from longterm health consequences.
59
REST AND RELAXATION
Bidvest Athletics Club
Bidvest Athletics Club in Cape Town was launched in January, inspired by employees watching Bidvest Gauteng runners coming
in at Comrades 2010.
“This was very exciting as it was a proud
moment to see runners finishing one of
the greatest races in South Africa,” says
Michael Schouw, divisional director, Lithotech
Manufacturing, Cape.
The necessary channels were followed
and, by November 2010, Bidvest AC became
a member of Western Province Athletics
(WPA). At its first general meeting, committee
members were elected and the wheels were
set in motion. There was great interest shown
from Bidvest employees as well as nonemployees, and by early January the club had
25 adults and five juniors.
In January 2011, the club participated in
its first-ever race, with 10 runners in the 10
kilometre event and eight in the five kilometre
run/walk. As an affiliated club of WPA, Bidvest
AC was well received amongst the clubs.
The chairman of WPA Road Running also
welcomed Bidvest into the athletics fold.
Croxley golf day
The Croxley golf day has been going strong for the past 35 years. Major sponsors are Silveray
Manufacturing and Silveray Statmark. The February competition was held at Amanzimtoti and
attended by 46 participants. The overall winner was Duncan Goschen on 41 points, playing off a
12 handicap. Anyone interested in joining or wishing to offer sponsorship can contact Debbie on
+27 (31) 452 5410 or e-mail: debbieh@silveray.co.za.
Bidvest and FYD’s Big Walk
Last summer, Bidvest New Zealand was an integral part of the Foundation for Youth
Development’s (FYD) epic adventure, The Big Walk.
The project saw groups of young people, led by FYD’s Graeme Dingle and adventurer Jamie Fitzgerald,
traverse New Zealand’s 3 000 kilometre Te Araroa trail from Cape Reinga to the Bluff – all fuelled along the
way with food donated by Bidvest.
The Big Walk has been reformatted and is now set to become FYD’s annual fundraiser, with plans well
underway for 2011.
See edition 3 for more information on the event and some exciting photographs of the participants!
60
WINNING STREAK
COMPETITION TIME 2 /11
Win 1 of 5 R1 000 cash prizes
A transfer of cash to you
Question 1: Name the new Bidvest
division
(Hint page 1)
Question 2: When will the 2011
Bidvest Unity Walk
be held?
(Hint page 1)
Bidvoice 1/2011
winners
Entry form
Ivy-Rose Bennet Machado, Clockwork
Giant Clothing – Swaziland
DEADLINE: Wednesday, August 31 2011
Only employees of Bidvest companies may enter. Only one entry per person. Prizes not claimed after one month will be reallocated.
Haroon Boghania, Cabstrut
– Johannesburg
Answers:
Hermanus Jacobse, Sprint Packaging
– Bloemfontein
1: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Your details:
First name and surname:____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Name of company (indicate whether head office or branch and location):___________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Work street address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Loretta Terblanche, Safcor Panalpina
– Port Elizabeth
Thembi Memela, CCW Catering Supplies
– Pietermaritzburg
Send your competition
entries and full name
and address to:
The Editor, Bidvoice
(by any of the following methods)
Facsimile: +27 (86) 600 3482
Telephone and fax: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
E-mail: noelene@bidvestcommunications.com
E-mail address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Post: PO Box 87274, Houghton 2041,
South Africa
61
Each piece counts in building our green puzzle
As a Proudly Bidvest global family, we all have a part to play.
Your role in ensuring our future is essential.
Reduce; Reuse and Recycle

- Bidvest

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