Goscor Lift Trucks (GLT) , a key player in the industrial warehousing equipment sector, is delighted to announce the rebranding of their premier forklift brand, Doosan, which will now be supplied under the iconic Bobcat livery in line with the global Doosan Bobcat rebranding strategy. Bobcat forklifts have a rich history dating back to 1968 when the first forklift was manufactured in South Korea under the Daewoo brand. In 2005, Doosan acquired the company, leading to the formation of Doosan Industrial Vehicle (DIV) in 2011. In 2021, Doosan Bobcat took over the entire organisation, including manufacturing facilities in Incheon (Korea), Yanta (China), and Lübben (Germany). Presently, the company operates in over 90 countries.   As a prominent member of the Goscor Group, GLT has been a trusted provider of industrial warehousing equipment solutions since 1984. “Recognised for its extensive range of electric and diesel-powered forklifts, along with exceptional after-sales service, GLT has established itself as a dynamic forklift company offering comprehensive warehousing solutions with the lowest total cost of ownership. Today, GLT is a leading supplier in the South African materials handling industry,” affirms GLT Business Development Director, Patrick Barber.   GLT has a history of supplying world-renowned brands such as Crown, Bendi, Dec, Doosan, and, as of mid-year 2023, Movexx range of electric tugs, along with Sunlight batteries and energy solutions.   Barber, who has been with Goscor for over two decades, asserts that with his involvement in the conversion of Daewoo forklifts to the Doosan brand in 2005, GLT is well-acquainted with the process of forklift rebranding, drawing from firsthand experience in this domain.   In the earlier part of this year, GLT underwent its own corporate rebranding, aligning with the Goscor Group’s commitment to enhancing customer uptime across various industries.   As of January 1, 2024, Doosan Bobcat (DIV) forklift trucks and warehouse equipment will proudly carry the well-known Bobcat colours. With the transition of Doosan to Bobcat forklifts, Goscor Lift Trucks is proud to be part of the renowned Bobcat family, known globally for its compact machines used in construction and agriculture industries across South Africa.   Under the Goscor umbrella, Bobcat loaders and telehandlers, will continue to be sold through Goscor Earthmoving Equipment business unit, reinforcing Goscor Group’s commitment to providing Trusted Equipment Solutions and positioning itself as a brand that is professional, on-point, vibrant, and engaging for the future.

UKZN has been given R20 million by the Moses Kotane Institute (MKI) to assist in providing debt relief for students. The cash injection came from MKI and the newly established merSETA Skills Development Fund which helps ease the problems of skills gaps and the student debt burden within KwaZulu-Natal. Various other higher education institutions, including the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), Durban University of Technology (DUT), and the University of Zululand (UNIZULU), will also benefit. The debt relief assistance is a beacon of hope, particularly for students from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, helping alleviate financial constraints and open doors to brighter futures. merSETA is committed to enhancing workforce employability, fostering economic growth, and promoting social inclusivity and equity. The merSETA Skills Development Fund, championed by MKI, reflects a collective ambition to close the skills gap as well as upskill and reskill individuals - a crucial component of the economic reconstruction and recovery plan. The initiative not only holds the potential to drive KwaZulu-Natal’s economic resurgence but also promises sustainable growth in the long run. Commenting on the funding, Acting Executive Director of the UKZN Foundation Mr Steve Camp said: ‘Philanthropic support from UKZN partners such as the Moses Kotane Institute and merSETA lifts a weight from our students in tough economic times, freeing them to get into the job market, to lead healthy, joy-filled lives and find purpose in work, play, family and more. It is a gift beyond measure.’ Acting CEO of the Moses Kotane Institute, Ms Thembelihle Mapipa, emphasised the Institute's unwavering dedication to addressing challenges faced by students from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. ‘Our focus over the years has been on making a significant contribution to improving the skills development of KZN’s younger generation. In approaching merSETA, we sought support to develop strategies that not only enhance employability and productivity but also contribute to economic growth and promote a more inclusive and equitable society,’ she said. KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs Mr Siboniso Duma said he supported the initiative, recognising it as a testament to MKI's commitment to empowering the youth and fostering a stronger, more equitable society. ‘This programme is a significant step in the right direction for our province,’ said Duma.

This Week@Work, effective delegation is critical to release your time to focus on growth. And as we head into a bumpy 2024, it will be imperative that your time and attention are spent on your business, not in it. Your prosperity is largely in your hands. It's also in the wellbeing of your suppliers, customers, friends and family who run their own businesses. You're welcome to share This Week@Work with them. Pavlo Phitidis www.aurik.com

Sumitomo Rubber Industries, the Japan-based parent company of Dunlop manufacturer, Sumitomo Rubber South Africa, has announced it will release next-generation all-season tyres in late 2024 equipped with a new technology called Active Tread that can adapt to sudden changes in all weather conditions. President Satoru Yamamoto made the announcement recently at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 held at Tokyo Big Sight (Koto, Tokyo). “Active Tread is a technology in which a special material is mixed with rubber, so that the tyre becomes soft when it meets water and adjusts itself to temperature changes such as wet road, snowy or cold weather conditions, but returns to its original hardness in sunny or hot weather. We challenged the industry's conventional wisdom that tyres become slippery on wet road conditions or snowy days,'' he explained. Based on the technology that took six years from its conception, the company will develop tyres for electric vehicles (EVs) and other applications, ensuring uninterrupted safe driving even during automated driving. President Yamamoto emphasised: “Achieving both low energy consumption and optimal wet-weather handling in electric vehicles presents a challenging engineering paradox. With Active Tread, we can achieve both and be ahead of the rest of the world.'' The company also boasts Sensing Core technology, which transforms tyres into sensors by gathering real-time data on road conditions, tyre wear, load, and air pressure, using data such as tyre rotational speed and the amount of tyre slip on the road surface as key indicators. “In the future, we aim to create tyres that can be used continuously regardless of region or season and are less susceptible to weather changes. Additionally, by reducing the need to replace tyres, we will reduce the burden on the environment and contribute to the realisation of a more sustainable society,” added President Yamamoto. The specific features, prices, and availability of the new tyres with Active Tread will be announced in 2024. Issued by  Sumitomo Dunlop - BIZCOMMUNITY

Arçelik's continuous commitment to sustainability has resulted in the company achieving the highest score for the fifth year in a row. ISTANBUL, Nov. 28, 2023 /CNW / -- Arçelik A.Ş. (ARCLK: IST, "Arçelik"), the global leading consumer durables and electronics manufacturer, scored 86/100 (Score date: 22/09/23) in the 2023 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA), which evaluates the world's largest companies and assesses their sustainability performance and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts. Arçelik, the parent company of local appliance manufacturer Defy, achieved the highest score out of 46 companies assessed in the DHP Household Durables Industry. This announcement highlights the company’s continuous commitment to a sustainable future and places the company once again as the benchmark brand in the manufacturing industry. Arçelik’s mandate to implement ESG best practices in its global territories is reflected by Defy South Africa’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly manufacturing processes and the overall minimisation of the business’ ecological footprint. The recognition follows the 2023 United Nations Global Assembly Conference (UNGA), where the company has joined the Forward Faster initiative to support acceleration of 2030 goals and made significant commitments in three key areas: Climate Action, Water Action, and Sustainable Finance. Arçelik has also pledged its commitment to the Science Based Targets Initiative, aiming to become a net-zero company as of 2050 in line with the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) Corporate Net Zero Standard. This means that Arçelik will take a more ambitious step and update its near-term approved science-based targets and set a long-term target according to 1.5-degree scenario. These net-zero targets will lead Arçelik to reduce its global Scope 1- 2 and Scope 3 emissions by 90% by 2050, using 2022 base year. This will be realised through innovative actions in across its entire value chain. Investing in qualified nature-based and/or technology-based carbon removal projects will address the 10% residual emissions in line with the SBTi Corporate Net Zero Standard. Commenting on Arçelik's consistent inclusion in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices, Hakan Bulgurlu said, "It is a privilege to have achieved the highest score on the DJSI for the fifth consecutive year – this recognition is a significant accolade for our business. Arçelik's efforts towards building a more sustainable future, not only for our company but also for our customers, are consistently evolving. Sustainability is deeply ingrained in every aspect of Arçelik's value chain. Our actions are aimed at creating a positive domino effect; it's about encouraging consumers to make more sustainable purchasing decisions and to incorporate habitual changes into their daily lives. Together, these changes will help shape the future of our planet, society, and health for the better. I am excited about what lies ahead, fueled by our company's successes to-date, with an everlasting passion to deliver even more positive changes for the future, including fulfilling our science-based targets to reduce our Scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions." With its impressive ESG score and ongoing commitment to sustainability, Arçelik continues to inspire other companies to prioritise environmental responsibility, social impact, and good governance practices. By setting high standards and leading by example, Arçelik is making a significant contribution towards building a more sustainable future for all.

With us it’s more than just installing your solution. We provide professional after-services and maintenance on your solution. We believe in building a long-trusted relationship with you.

With a dedicated team and a commitment to sustainability, Dolphin Coast Solar Solutions strives to provide cutting-edge solutions, empowering both individuals and businesses to harness the power of the sun for a greener future. Dolphin Coast Solar Solutions is voted the best solar installer in The North Coast Courier’s Best of Ballito Readers’ Choice Awards and attributes their success to a personalised approach. Only founded in 2022, the company has already garnered a reputation for its high quality workmanship and dedication to customer satisfaction with a vision to promote clean and sustainable energy solutions. The Ballito company focuses on primarily residential solar panel installation, helping homeowners ease the burden of loadshedding as well as reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs. “As demand for renewable energy grew, we expanded our services to cater for commercial clients, too,” said owner Isabeau du Preez, who has worked on large-scale solar solutions with big businesses, schools and other public institutions. With a dedicated team and a commitment to sustainability, Dolphin Coast Solar Solutions strives to provide cutting-edge solutions, empowering both individuals and businesses to harness the power of the sun for a greener future. “We not only service locally, but across the country with installations as far as Cape Town,” said Du Preez. With a personalised approach, the company understands their clients have unique needs and goals. “We thoroughly assess the site, consider requirements the customer has, and then design tailored solutions to maximise energy production and efficiency. This approach ensures the system is optimised for the specific location and the needs of the client.” She said winning best solar installer was an exciting achievement. “This serves as a testament to the results of hard work and dedication. We have an enormous appreciation of, and gratitude for such an honour,” said an elated Du Preez. Dolphin Coast Solar Solutions remains committed to excellence, prioritising superior quality and performance as the trusted go-to for solar solutions. For more information visit www.dolphincoastsolarsolutions.co.za

In an era marked by growing environmental concerns and a pressing need to transition towards sustainable energy sources, solar energy has emerged as a beacon of hope. Harnessing the power of the sun, solar energy has proven to be a key player in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. This article delves into the world of solar energy and its pivotal role in advancing sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Solar Revolution The sun, the ultimate fusion reactor, shines down on our planet every day, offering an abundant source of clean and renewable energy. Solar energy, the conversion of sunlight into electricity or heat, has been harnessed for centuries, but recent technological advancements have significantly enhanced its efficiency and accessibility. Solar panels, or photovoltaic cells, are at the heart of this transformation. These panels, typically made from silicon, capture photons from sunlight and generate direct current electricity. Inverters then convert this DC power into alternating current, making it suitable for household and industrial use. Environmental Impact One of the most compelling as fossil fuels, release harmful emissions like carbon dioxide, which contribute to climate change and air pollution. In contrast, solar energy production is emission-free, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Moreover, solar installations can be integrated into various environments, including urban areas, without causing significant disruption or harm to the ecosystem. This adaptability underscores its compatibility with sustainable development and ecological conservation. Economic Advantages Beyond its environmental benefits, solar energy offers a compelling economic case. The falling cost of solar panels and the availability of various financial incentives, like tax credits and rebates, make solar installations an increasingly viable option for homeowners and businesses alike. These incentives can help offset the initial investment in solar technology and result in long-term cost savings. Job Creation The solar industry is also a source of job growth. The installation, maintenance, and manufacturing of solar panels have generated employment opportunities worldwide. As the demand for solar energy continues to rise, so does the potential for job creation, particularly in regions with abundant sunlight. Technological Advancements The efficiency of solar panels has improved significantly over the years, thanks to ongoing research and innovation. Thin-film solar cells, for example, offer a more of applications and reducing manufacturing costs. Additionally, breakthroughs in energy storage solutions, such as advanced batteries, enable excess energy generated during the day to be stored and used at night or during cloudy periods. This further enhances the reliability and appeal of solar energy. Grid Integration Solar energy’s integration into the existing power grid is a critical component of its sustainability. Excess energy generated by solar installations can be fed back into the grid in the near future, reducing the burden on traditional power sources during peak demand. This process, known as net metering, not only benefits individual solar users but also contributes to the overall stability and reliability of the electricity supply. Challenges and Considerations While solar energy has made remarkable strides, several challenges and considerations remain. Variability in sunlight due to weather and time of day can limit the consistency of solar power generation. To address this, energy storage solutions and grid infrastructure improvements are essential. Another challenge is the environmental impact of solar panel manufacturing. While solar panels produce no emissions during their operation, the production process involves the extraction of raw materials and the consumption of energy. Recycling programme and advancements in sustainable manufacturing practices are emerging to mitigate. C: +27 (0)73 615 5068 E: info@dolphincoastsolarsolutions.co.za W: www.dolphincoastsolarsolutions.co.za

Founder of The Busy Bookkeeper and Partners Magdelene (Mags) van der Walt is the founder of The Busy Bookkeeper and Partners. Her company is a virtual firm that provides accounting, tax, payroll, and secretarial solutions, as well as advisory and finance assistance to small businesses across South Africa. She has established partnerships to meet certain of clients’ needs with brands such as Rison Financialist, Sage, Merchant Capital, and IronTree, to name a few. The Busy Bookkeeper started out as a sole proprietor back in 2015 until Mags decided to formalise the business in 2017 as a registered company. Mags is very proud of her company’s achievements, which include being awarded third place in the Best of Durban, Readers’ Choice Awards 2023. She commented that this award, “Just lets me know that we’re doing something incredible; it was fantastic that people chose to honour us.” In April this year, after a near nervous breakdown due to overwork, Mags reached out to her partners at Rison Financialist and asked them to take on a more active role in the company. At the same time, she hired her first assistant. Sheer determination Mags explained that she got the business to this point by sheer determination. She said, “It’s been a real challenge for me to get to where I am today; from being a teen mum to a high school dropout, to having to study something that I didn’t really want to.” Mags went back to school in her early 20s, stuck with her subject choice through ups and downs, and has built a career around bookkeeping. At the point in life when she was unhappy at the company she was working for and recovering from a divorce, Mags decided that she needed to ‘break up’ with every toxic thing in her life. She explained, “I used my final bonus from my final job to purchase some office equipment with no capital and sheer determination to buy back my life. I don’t drive, so I built a virtual firm. I have worked – often – more than 12 hours a day, seven days a week to build a business from scratch with every single free resource that I could find on the internet because I had debts to pay, erratic income, and children to feed so I couldn’t qualify for any credit. I have often questioned my own sanity, but sheer determination and creative thinking have gotten me through every single challenge that I have faced. Failure isn’t in my vocabulary. I either win or I learn. And despite the challenges, the depression and struggling with imposter syndrome, the hair loss, and sleepless nights, I wouldn’t change a single thing because it refined me.” Mags decided that the business would have a few clients, and some affiliates and that she would have a blog. The company, however, laughed Mags, had its own mind. More and more people started coming to them, and while she said it’s just been hard work, the company has continued to grow. Immediate family Her motivation to achieve success has always been her immediate family. Mags said that her biggest dream was to own her life; to be able to fully support herself and her family and not have to rely on anyone. “It’s a simple dream, but simple doesn’t always mean easy,” she explained. Mags added, “I only ever want them to be proud of me and to inspire them. I want them to know that they can achieve anything in life simply by working hard and being committed to their goals.” A solid why The advice that Mags would give is that you need to set yourself a real solid ‘Why’ to revisit when life gets tough. In her case, giving her family and herself a better life was the driving force behind every decision she ever made, which got her through some really dark periods. “You know if you really want to get to where you want to be in life, you’ve got to be prepared to sacrifice. You have to do things that others won’t. You can achieve whatever you set your mind to if you are committed enough. You also have to be flexible about your methods, but obstinate about your goals.” And added Mags, “Try to be grateful, always. The universe will bless you with more reasons to be grateful if you foster this attitude.” A safe culture Providing a safe culture for female entrepreneurs is a key driver for The Busy Bookkeeper. “We hire young moms. I give them flexible hours so that they’re able to work whenever they need to around raising their children in a safe environment.” Commenting on the future, Mags says her goals are to make more of an impact by expanding The Busy Bookkeeper’s reach. She says, “I want to serve more small businesses, both local and global, and offer them access to affordable, quality services. I have plans to start other ventures when things settle down at The Busy Bookkeeper based on some current needs that I have identified as well.” Mags added that she always wanted to be an author as a child, which was realised during the Covid-19 pandemic. She participated in a book project with another 120 female entrepreneurs across the globe on navigating the pandemic. Mags has also written some e-books on starting a small business in South Africa. Relaxation for Mags is meditation, spirituality, and spending time with her family. As a spiritual person, she would like to take time out to travel to sacred locations across the globe, starting with Adam’s Calendar in South Africa. Mags would also like a guilt-free holiday as she hasn’t had a holiday in over seven years. Top Business Women In reflecting on her participation in KZN Top Business Women, Mags says it’s been absolutely amazing. “It lets me know that despite the circumstances, if you really work hard enough and you focus on being a decent human being, people will recognise your achievements.”

In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, building a business based on your passions can be an exhilarating and rewarding journey. When you're deeply passionate about something, it's not just a job; it's a calling, a labour of love that can lead to long-term success and fulfilment. This article explores the steps and strategies for turning your passions into a profitable business venture. 1. Identify Your Passions The first step in building a business around your passions is to identify what truly drives you. What activities, hobbies, or interests make your heart sing? Your passion doesn't have to be limited to conventional subjects; it can range from a love for cooking, writing, fitness, art, travel, or even niche areas like vintage collectables or sustainable fashion. The key is to find something that genuinely excites and motivates you. 2. Validate Your Passion While passion is essential, it's equally important to validate its potential as a business idea. Conduct market research to understand if there is a demand for products or services related to your passion. You can use online surveys, social media polls, and industry reports to gather data that supports your business concept. 3. Create a Business/Strategy Plan Once you've confirmed the feasibility of your passion as a business, it's time to develop a comprehensive business/strategy plan. This plan should outline your business's mission, vision, target market, competition, pricing strategy, marketing approach, and financial projections. Having a well-thought-out plan can help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. 4. Leverage Your Expertise Your passion is your expertise. Use it to your advantage. Whether you're a chef starting a restaurant, a writer launching a content creation agency, or an artist selling your artwork, your knowledge and enthusiasm will set you apart from the competition. Your expertise will shine through in the quality and uniqueness of your products or services. 5. Build Your Brand To create a successful business, you need to build a strong and recognizable brand. This involves designing a compelling logo, creating a professional website, and crafting a consistent brand message that resonates with your target audience. Your brand should reflect your passion and values. 6. Network and Collaborate Networking and collaboration can be invaluable for a passion-driven business. Attend industry events, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and seek opportunities for partnerships or collaborations that can help you expand your reach and grow your business. 7. Embrace the Learning Curve Starting a business based on your passions may come with challenges and a steep learning curve. Embrace this curve as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Be open to learning from your mistakes and continuously improving your business. Reach out and ask. 8. Stay Committed and Persistent Building a business on your passions may take time to gain traction and become profitable. Stay committed and persistent, even during the tough times. Your passion will be your guiding light when faced with obstacles. 9. Adapt and Innovate The business landscape is ever-changing. Be prepared to adapt and innovate as needed. Listen to customer feedback, stay updated on industry trends, and be willing to adjust your business model to meet evolving needs and expectations. 10. Find Balance Finally, while building a business based on your passions can be incredibly rewarding, it's essential to find a balance between work and personal life. Don't let your passion consume every aspect of your life; ensure you have time for family, friends, and self-care. In conclusion, building a business on your passions is not only possible but can also be highly fulfilling. When you're driven by your heart and driven by what you love, the journey becomes a labour of love, and success is often the natural outcome. Embrace your passions, create a solid plan, and turn your dreams into a thriving business.

The R288 million investment that was announced by home appliance producer Defy Appliances at the fifth South African Investment Conference in April this year, is aimed at effecting improvements through the modernisation of facilities in its KwaZulu-Natal manufacturing plants to ensure business continuity in the company’s production processes. This was said by the Chief Executive Officer of Defy, Mr Mustafa Soylu. Pledges made at the conference, which was hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa, contributed in bringing the total value of investment pledges over a five-year investment mobilisation period to R1.51 trillion. “We are rolling out this investment in the modernisation of factory infrastructure and plants, as well as in the upskilling of our employees. The project includes automatic retrieval of stock, high speed production lines, monitoring system, introduction of new products, upgrading of network infrastructure, and upgraded warehouse system. The objective is to improve production efficiency,” says Soylu. He adds that Defy is also investing in the improvement of quality control by implementing additional automatic controls and integrating them into their new high speed manufacturing lines. Recently, Defy announced that it will be manufacturing environmentally friendly fridges and freezers that operate on solar energy only. Issued by: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) Posted: October 23, 2023

This Week@Work, if relationships build and grow a business, but you’re not the one who holds those relationships – you’ve got to start building your own . Your prosperity is largely in your hands. It's also in the wellbeing of your suppliers, customers, friends and family who run their own businesses. You're welcome to share This Week@Work with them. Pavlo Phitidis www.aurik.com