Choosing the right body armour is a critical decision that should be based on information and a clear understanding of your specific needs. In a world with a wide array of options, this guide provides a professional and factual approach to help you determine the appropriate ballistic protection for your threat environment, ensuring you make an informed and confident choice. The Foundation of Ballistic Protection Ballistic body armour is designed and tested to resist the penetration of specific types of bullets under controlled conditions. Its effectiveness is measured against established international standards, such as those from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). For products sold in South Africa, compliance with local standards from the South African National Standards (SANS) is a key factor. Understanding these standards is the first step in selecting the right gear for your needs. Determining the Right Body Armour for Your Threat Environment Key Factors in Selecting Body Armour Making an informed decision about body armour requires careful consideration of several key factors: 1. Threat Assessment: The first and most important step is to assess the threats you are likely to face accurately. This determines the type of armour you need. Threats are generally categorised into two main groups:  Handgun Threats: These involve lower-velocity rounds, such as 9mm, .40 S& W, or .44 Magnum. Rifle Threats: These involve higher-velocity rounds, such as 5.56mm, 7.62mm, or .30-06. Your operational environment dictates the most probable threats. 2. Armour Type: Body armour is primarily classified into two types based on its construction and intended use: Soft Armour: This type is typically made from woven materials like aramid or polyethene fibres. It is lightweight, flexible, and designed to defeat handgun threats. Soft armour can wrap around the body and may be worn for concealment. Hard Armour: This type consists of rigid plates made from materials such as ceramic, steel, or polyethylene. Hard armour is designed to defeat rifle threats and is typically worn in plate carriers at the front and the back of the torso. 3. Area of Protection: The level of coverage required is another critical factor. Body armour is available in various configurations to protect different parts of the body. Your operational role and threat assessment will determine the necessary coverage, which can range from: Basic protection for vital organs (front and back). Extended coverage includes the front, back, and sides. Full tactical coverage, which can include the front, back, sides, neck, and groin. 4. Distance to Threat: The distance at which the armour is tested to defeat a threat is a crucial consideration. NIJ-certified hard armour is tested to stop projectiles from 15 metres, while soft armour is tested at 5 metres. SANS-tested hard armour plates, such as those we offer, are tested to 10 metres. Understanding these distances helps you match the armour’s performance to the likely engagement ranges in your environment. 5. Certification and Standards: To ensure a product’s reliability, it’s critical to verify that it has been tested and certified by an accredited body. These standards define a series of protection levels, each corresponding to a specific set of ballistic threats. NIJ-Tested Levels & their Capabilities: NIJ Level II and NIJ Level IIIA: Both levels are for soft armour and are designed to protect against various handgun threats. NIJ Level III: This level is for hard armour and is designed to protect against a range of rifle threats. NIJ Level IV: This is the highest standard level of body armour and is designed to protect against armour-piercing rifle rounds.  In addition to the official NIJ Levels, you may see products designated as NIJ Level III+. This hard armour product is typically tested to stop a wider range of ballistic threats than the standard NIJ Level III, often including higher-velocity rounds or ammunition types not covered by the official NIJ standard. Additional Levels (Imperial Armour): In addition to the official NIJ and SANS standards, we offer products with enhanced capabilities to address specific threat profiles. These are designated with manufacturer-specific levels. NIJ Level III+: This hard armour is designed to stop a wider range of ballistic threats than the standard NIJ Level III, including higher-velocity rounds or ammunition types not covered by the official NIJ standard. Level IIIA+ (SANS): This hard armour product is designed to protect against handgun rounds and specific rifle threats like the AK-47. It is tested to stop a wider range of ballistic threats than the official SANS Level IIIA, including higher-velocity rounds. Level III+++ (SANS): This hard armour is designed to protect against an extensive range of rifle threats. This product is tested to defeat a broader spectrum of ballistic threats than the standard NIJ Level III, including multiple higher-velocity rounds not covered by the official SANS standard. It is essential to match the certified rating of the armour to the specific threats identified in your assessment. All products offered by Imperial Armour hold their own tested certification, and we encourage clients to always ask for the specific documentation to confirm the product’s capabilities. Once you know your threat, ask the right questions: Before purchasing body armour, engage with your supplier to gain a complete understanding of the product that has been recommended according to your threat determination. Ask these crucial questions: What specific NIJ or SANS level is the product certified to? Always ask for the exact level and verify that it corresponds to your threat assessment. Is it soft armour or hard armour? Ensure you are purchasing the correct type for the threats you face. What specific ammunition types has it been tested against? A reputable supplier should provide a clear list of calibres and projectile types. Does it have third-party certification and documentation? Request to see the official test reports from an accredited ballistic laboratory. Is the armour within its service life? All body armour has an expiry date, after which its protective capabilities may degrade. What is the warranty and return policy? A reputable company stands behind its products with clear policies. Ultimately, choosing the right body armour is not about buying the most expensive product. It is about selecting gear that is certified to protect against the specific threats you face, backed by third-party testing and a supplier you can trust. Did you know? While the term “bulletproof” is commonly used, the industry standard is bullet-resistant. This is because armour is designed to resist specific threats rather than providing an absolute guarantee against every possible projectile.

By: KwaZulu-Natal Joint Municipal Pension / Provident Funds (NJMPF) We are pleased to invite all our valued members and pensioners to the NJMPF Annual Information Meeting (AIM) 2026 - a key gathering focused on pension education, accountability, and reflection. Join us on 27 March 2026 at the Durban International Convention Centre for an engaging and informative experience designed to empower, educate, and strengthen members understanding of their Fund. As an organisation, we remain firmly committed to serving our members with dedication, transparency, and integrity. In the coming weeks, we will unveil a distinguished lineup of speakers and key industry role players who will contribute to this important conversation on governance, accountability, and financial literacy. This initiative forms part of our CEO’s ongoing mission to promote clear, accessible, and reliable financial information for every member and pensioner. We look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be an insightful and impactful gathering. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E66A5wLEwG4 LinkedIn post can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/njmpf_annual-information-meeting-2026-invitation-activity-7431636057978441728-UIdd?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAADy0-kEBcP9ap-4qPZeTAq3_4r7PayoMc-E NJMPF Annual Information Meeting (AIM) 2026

The Biggest Workplace Safety Risk Hidden in Plain Sight When workplace risk is discussed, attention almost always turns to physical hazards: Forklifts, rotating equipment, conveyors, electrical switchboards, blades, and heavy machinery dominate risk registers and safety meetings. These risks are visible making them easy to identify, easy to measure, and easy to blame. Machines carry calculated, remarkably consistent and predictably dangerous risk. Machines are mentally absent and emotionally untainted. Their hazards do not fluctuate with mood, fatigue, or pressure. A grinder does not lose focus or shape unless it is forced to do so. Conveyors do not take shortcuts. Skill saws do not lose their patience. Humans are in fact the greatest safety risk. And when human behaviour shifts, even well-controlled hazards become dangerous. When physically present, but mentally far away, there is incalculable risk. The Drift Before the Incident Employees do not arrive at work unencumbered. They bring stress, fatigue, financial pressure, family concerns, health issues, poor sleep, and loads of emotional baggage with them. These invisible factors directly affect attention, reaction time, and sound judgement, and as employees’ mental presence declines, situational awareness follows. Familiar tasks feel safe. Known hazards feel manageable. Procedures feel negotiable. Speed starts to matter more than caution. Phrases like “just quickly” or “I’ve done this before” begin to replace deliberate risk-based thinking and the consequences of tragedy evaporate like an early summer mist. The equipment has not changed. The user has. The Behaviour Behind the Incident Most organisations invest heavily in engineering controls, Personal Protective Equipment, and compliance systems. And while these are necessary, they are not sufficient on their own. Controls reduce exposure, but it is culture that governs behaviour. In strong safety cultures, people pause, question, and intervene. Unsafe acts are challenged, and concerns are raised timeously. Safety is understood and even welcomed as a shared responsibility. In weak cultures, different patterns emerge. Production pressure outweighs procedure. Shortcuts are tolerated. Near misses go unreported. Silence replaces accountability. At this point, investigations often focus on equipment, when the real issue lies in mind of the employee. Machinery suddenly fails without warning, and the root cause analysis reveals the truth: Someone was rushing, was distracted or skipped a step. Someone assumed that it would be fine, and someone else saw it coming and chose not to speak up. These are human failures. A complex task performed by a focused employee can be completed safely. A simple task performed carelessly can have severe consequences. Culture Watches When No One Else Does Procedures guide action, but culture determines whether they are followed when no one is watching, and therefore becomes the first line of defence. A strong safety culture promotes mental presence. It gives people permission to slow down, to question, and to protect one another. Safety becomes a value, rather than an obligation or a grudge purchase. When this happens, risks are identified earlier and managed proactively, rather than reactively. The Human Factor Always Wins Machines will always be hazardous – that is why safeguards exist – but culture determines whether those safeguards are respected or bypassed. A healthy culture can make high-risk environments controllable. A poor culture can turn routine work into a serious threat. The most effective safety strategy begins with humans which is why a poor workplace culture can be more deadly than any piece of machinery. T: +27 (0)31 266 6570 C: +27 (0)82 786 7480 E: johanvd@labournet.com W: www.labournet.com The Biggest Workplace Safety Risk Hidden in Plain Sight- LABOURNET

By: Dylan Naidoo   Richards Bay is a coastal city situated on a 30 square km lagoon off the Mhlatuze River. The once small fishing village has transformed into one of South Africa’s largest harbours and boasts one of Africa’s largest coal export terminals, exporting an estimated 65 million tons per year. The coastal city is not without its attractions, however, as Richards Bay remains a popular holiday destination in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), with features such as the Enseleni Nature Reserve and the Pelican Island. As such, Richards Bay remains a staple destination for both industrial experts and holiday travellers, and recent developments of the city may spark interest with investors.   Highlights from the Tourism Investment Forum Africa (TIFA) for Richards Bay On 27 August 2025, TIFA was held at Richards Bay, outlines areas of investment and tourism opportunities. Here is a list of the events, and what it means for investors.   ● The redevelopment and relocation of Richards Bay Airport : This development is expected to create economic growth and investment. Redevelopment of the airport is expected to cost R1.25 billion, providing opportunities for investment in aviation, logistics and commercial real estate.   ● The Central Industrial Area (CIA) : The CIA is slowly being recognised as a prime investment location. The location has light industrial sites supporting manufacturing, logistics and warehousing. Planning has been approved, and phase one of planning has been funded with R172 million. This new infrastructure allows businesses to expand their capacity and meet demands. As such, the investment potential in this growing hub for businesses is forecasted to be quite big.   ● The Richards Bay International Conference Centre (ICC) : This development is more than just a conference centre, but will feature a hotel, resort, casino, retail, residential property, and water-based sports activities. The project is situated at the waterfront, part of the Waterfront Master Plan, which includes improving tourism, business and recreational activities. The Richards Bay ICC provides an opportunity to invest in a growing high-value waterfront hub.   ● The Ridge : This area is expected to be a landmark destination for Richards Bay, featuring a big 15,000m 2 residential area, a 9600m 2  hotel, and a 7700m 2  commercial hub. The Ridge aims to “redefine urban living, hospitality, and business.” To do this, premium retail and office spaces, restaurants alongside lifestyle amenities will be developed. The project is expected to bring long term economic benefits and community impacts. As such, investors are encouraged to have a look into The Ridge.   Major developments in Richards Bay suggest that current times offer a great opportunity for investors to take notice. The big developments announced at TIFA is a great start for investors, forecasting many opportunities of economic growth in Richards Bay. Upcoming projects announced at TIFA 2025 show major investment opportunities. Image source here .

By: Dylan Naidoo   Transnet recently announced that the dry bulk terminal at the Richards Bay port is up for bidding. The news was shared via a press release on 20 February, detailing the selection process for a Private Sector Participation (PSP) of the Richards Bay Dry Bulk Terminal (RBDBT). The bid is not for complete ownership, however, as Transnet will still retain 51% ownership of the port. Instead, the private sector buyers will operate and manage the terminal, whilst Transnet will operate as an observer over the operations.   The RBDBT is already a critical exporter for many bulk commodities in South Africa, such as chrome and magnetite. Transnet states that PSP allows Transnet to leverage the expertise of a private sector company to improve the efficiency and reliability of the terminal, whilst also gaining oversight into operations. Transnet further claims that the project also provides opportunities in “supplier development, local participation and community upliftment, particularly within the Richards Bay region.”   Terence Creamer from Creamer Media’s Engineering News  provided further context to the dry bulk terminal, stating the terminal can handle up to 16.7-million tons of dry bulk per year. However, Transnet’s decision to transition to private control of operations is to potentially increase export production to 26.9 million tons. These improvements are attractive to investors, as once private sector participation is underway, improvements in infrastructure could benefit Transnet profit-wise.   Private entities part of the Request for Qualification (RFQ) are required to demonstrate technical abilities and financial capacity in compliance to Transnet’s requirements. They are also required to drive community upliftment with this project. Once companies meet the criteria, they “may be invited to participate in a subsequent Request for Proposal (RFP) phase.”   Closing date for the bidding is expected to be 31 August, The full press release statement can be viewed here , under February 2026.” https://www.transnet.net/MediaCentre Richards Bay Port Terminal

By: Tinman Tri-Series We are beyond excited to announce an inspiring new partnership between the Rare Diseases South Africa and the TINMAN Series — and it’s going to be powerful! Together, we’re bringing Rare Warriors to the start line, uniting athletes, families and supporters to race for something bigger than medals and finish times. This partnership is about courage, community and turning every swim stroke, pedal revolution and running stride into a symbol of hope. The TINMAN course is about to become a sea of purpose, where determination meets awareness and sport meets heart. Whether you’re chasing a PB or simply crossing the finish line, you’ll now be racing to make a real difference in the lives of those affected by rare diseases across South Africa. Let’s rally together, race together and make every moment — and every movement — truly count. Tinman Tri-series in partnership with Rare Diseases South Africa

By: GreenHill Laboratories Supporting Dairy Farmers During the FMD Outbreak The current Foot & Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak is placing enormous pressure on dairy farms — from movement restrictions and strict biosecurity requirements to heightened herd health risks. We recognise the challenges you’re facing and want you to know we’re here to support you. As Synergy Udder Health and GreenHill Laboratories, your herd health and business sustainability remain our priority. In response to these difficult circumstances, we’ve introduced temporary relief measures to help ease the burden. How We’re Supporting You • Reduced sampling fees: 30% discount to help manage costs • Lower laboratory testing fees: An additional 10% reduction, giving Synergy clients a 30% total discount under the herd sampling agreement These measures are about partnership, ensuring essential mastitis monitoring and testing can continue during this critical time. Our Commitment to Biosecurity To protect your herd and limit further disease spread, we follow strict protocols: • Dedicated vehicle based at GreenHill Hilton (never from a dairy or beef farm) • One farm per day, followed by a rest day between farms • Full disinfection after every visit using Ecolab products supplied by ABS Why Mastitis Monitoring Matters More Than Ever During FMD outbreaks, mastitis risk increases significantly. Monitoring and antimicrobial susceptibility testing help you: • Use the right treatment the first time • Protect milk quality and remain compliant • Reduce unnecessary treatments, control costs, and limit antimicrobial resistance We are committed to standing with dairy farmers through this crisis and beyond. Need assistance or want to arrange sampling? Shaun (GreenHill): 033 343 1844 |  admin@greenhilllabs.co.za Matt (Synergy): 076 430 7888 |  matt.seesam@gmail.com Strong herds start with informed decisions — even in the toughest times. LinkedIn post can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/greenhill-laboratories_southafricandairy-dairyfarmingsa-safarmers-activity-7429419505652527105-fire?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAADy0-kEBcP9ap-4qPZeTAq3_4r7PayoMc-E The current Foot & Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak is placing enormous pressure on dairy farms

By: Ewaste Africa South Africa’s light bulb ban is a win for the grid, but is it a win for the environment? At EWaste Africa, our lab analyses show that "energy-efficient" doesn't always mean "toxic-free." While LEDs are marketed as the safe successor to mercury-filled tubes, there is a hidden side: cheaper, low-quality lamps are often loaded with heavy metals. Our data reveals that many budget LED modules contain:  Lead  Arsenic  Mercury (in specific components) The Reality: We are often just swapping one hazardous waste stream for another. Because of these components, LED modules must be classified and handled as hazardous waste. Before you buy based on price alone, consider the long-term risk. True sustainability requires quality components and a specialized recycling plan. Is your lighting upgrade actually "green"? Let’s manage your waste responsibly. Link to the LinkedIn Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ewaste-africa_phase-two-of-south-africas-big-light-bulb-activity-7432020988617359361-q8py?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAADy0-kEBcP9ap-4qPZeTAq3_4r7PayoMc-E Link to the MyBroadband  article the post refers to: https://mybroadband.co.za/news/energy/630417-phase-two-of-south-africas-big-light-bulb-ban-begins-soon.html What the lightbulb ban really means for the environment

By: eThekwini Municipality Durban’s tourism landscape is set for renewed growth as eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba intensifies efforts to unlock hidden heritage assets and expand the City’s tourism infrastructure. Recently, Mayor Xaba visited Stainbank Castle on Coedmore Road in Yellowwood Park Game Reserve. Built in 1885 by the Stainbank family, who owned a dairy farm in the area, the castle was later donated to the provincial government. The historic property remains structurally intact and showcases rich architectural heritage. It is currently home to the Wilderness Leadership School and also houses an art gallery. Mayor Xaba described the property as a “hidden gem” with significant potential to become a major tourist attraction, further expanding the range of tourism offerings available in the City. “My visit to the castle was aimed at assessing the condition of the property and exploring how it can be utilised to expand our tourism offerings. Since assuming office, I have consistently called for the expansion of tourism infrastructure. To this end, I convened a tourism stakeholder breakfast where I urged the business sector to collaborate with the City in developing more tourism products,” said Mayor Xaba. He added that government must lead with urgency in driving tourism development. In this context, the City is moving forward with plans to invest in new tourism products, including the unveiling of statues honouring two struggle icons. President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the unveiling ceremony on 6 March. Regarding the castle, Mayor Xaba said he was pleased that, despite maintenance challenges, the building remains intact and has not been vandalised. “I strongly believe this is a hidden gem that should form part of our strategy to expand tourism products and open the site to visitors. It will also promote our heritage and increase visitor numbers. I will engage the provincial government to establish whether there are existing plans for the property,” he said. Mayor Xaba reaffirmed his commitment to accelerating the process, noting that the property holds immense tourism potential for the City.

Love filled the air at Oceans Mall on Saturday, 14th February, as Gagasi FM hosted the unforgettable LUV N U event at Black Lounge. This glamorous celebration of the month of love brought together music, romance, and fun in a way that left guests with memories to cherish. From a live performance by Mafikizolo to expert love advice and delicious treats, the night was packed with moments that captured the spirit of Valentine’s Day. A Night Designed for Lovers Gagasi FM’s LUV N U event was more than just a party. It was a carefully crafted experience aimed at celebrating love in all its forms. The venue, Black Lounge at Oceans Mall, was transformed into a romantic setting where couples and singles alike could enjoy an evening filled with music, laughter, and connection. Guests arrived eager to soak in the atmosphere, with the lounge decorated to create an intimate yet lively vibe. The event kicked off with smooth tunes and a welcoming ambiance that set the tone for the night ahead. Love Tips from Alex Mthiyane and Dr Shabalala Gagasi FM also brought in relationship experts Alex Mthiyane and Dr Shabalala to share practical advice and tips for couples and singles. Their sessions were engaging and insightful, covering topics such as communication, trust, and keeping the spark alive in relationships. Attendees appreciated the opportunity to learn from these experts in a relaxed setting. The advice was easy to apply and sparked meaningful conversations among guests, helping them deepen their understanding of love and connection. Food, Drinks, and Sweet Treats No celebration is complete without good food and drinks, and Gagasi FM ensured that guests were well catered for throughout the night. A variety of delicious dishes and refreshing beverages flowed freely, keeping everyone energized and satisfied. Magnum was the official sponsor of the dessert, adding a special touch to the evening. Guests enjoyed indulgent Magnum ice cream treats, which perfectly complemented the romantic atmosphere and added a sweet ending to the night’s festivities. Memorable Goodie Bags for Couples As the night drew to a close, couples received thoughtfully prepared goodie bags from Gagasi FM. These bags included keepsakes and treats designed to remind them of the wonderful time they shared at the LUV N U event. The goodie bags were a nice gesture that extended the experience beyond the event itself, allowing couples to take a piece of the celebration home with them. Why Events Like LUV N U Matter Events like Gagasi FM’s LUV N U play an important role in bringing communities together to celebrate meaningful moments. They offer a space where people can connect, enjoy quality entertainment, and learn valuable lessons about relationships. By combining live music, expert advice, and a welcoming environment, Gagasi FM created a unique experience that resonated with attendees. It showed how radio stations can go beyond broadcasting to build real-life connections with their audience. Looking Forward to More Celebrations The success of the LUV N U event at Oceans Mall sets a high standard for future celebrations. It demonstrated the power of music and shared experiences in creating lasting memories. For those who attended, it was a night filled with joy, learning, and love. For anyone looking to celebrate special moments with friends or loved ones, events like this offer a perfect opportunity to enjoy great entertainment and meaningful interaction. Gagasi FM LUV N U A Night of Love Music and Memories at Oceans Mall

By: Jeffrey Madkins | Marketing Manager: Unilever Professional When Cleaning Is Treated As Operational, Not Strategic In 2026, cleaning standards are no longer a facilities issue. They’re a governance issue. For many corporates, what was once a line item in the facilities budget now appears on the corporate Risk Register. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this shift, and over the past few years, large South African companies have increasingly moved hygiene into the realm of compliance, risk and ESG oversight. Today, it is tracked, audited and reported — no longer an operational afterthought, but a measurable accountability standard. But what about the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) space? “It’s often still treated as a grudge purchase,” says Jeffery Madkins, Marketing Manager for Unilever Professional. “We know this because we call on these businesses every week. Cleaning is frequently seen as a cost to minimise, not a risk to manage. And, that gap is becoming expensive for many.” For Madkins, it’s not about negligence, but perspective. “When margins and cash flow are tight, business owners can’t help but put all their focus on revenue generation. Cleaning is simply operational. But when you strip away emotion and look purely at risk, the numbers tell a different story.” He outlines the tangible hygiene-related risks for non-compliance that SMEs often underestimate: Fines of up to R50,000 under the OHS Act Temporary closure following health inspections Lost supplier contracts due to failed hygiene audits Increased absenteeism linked to poor sanitation practices Civil liability from slip-and-fall incidents Reputational damage amplified through online reviews “For a small or medium-sized business, even a short closure period can be catastrophic,” Madkins notes. “A few days without revenue can undo years of hard work, a few weeks can close doors.” He adds that the real shift in 2026 is not about intent, but about evidence. “It’s no longer enough to claim you clean. You have to prove you clean. Documentation, safety data sheets, proper chemical storage, staff training; these are increasingly expected, not optional.” Cleaning has moved into the realm of governance. So, what can business owners do? Madkins offers some practical steps: 1. Conduct a Hygiene Risk Audit Identify high-risk areas: kitchens, bathrooms, warehouses, shared equipment. Not sure where to start? Begin with a walkthrough. Ask yourself: Where is food handled? Where do people touch most? Where is there water or moisture? Where could someone slip? Where are chemicals stored? Those are your high-risk zones. 2. Document Cleaning Schedules Set up daily, weekly, and monthly checklists per area, assigning a responsible person with a checkbox, signature, and date. For example: Bathrooms: Clean and disinfect twice daily Kitchen surfaces: Wipe down after every shift Floors: Mop daily Drains: Deep clean weekly Remember to file them because if it isn’t recorded, you can’t prove it was done. 3. Verify Chemical Compliance Know what products you’re using. Every cleaning product on your premises should have a Safety Data Sheet. These are supplied by the manufacturer or distributor and explain safe handling, dilution and storage. Then check: Are chemicals clearly labelled? Are they diluted correctly? Are they stored away from food areas? Are they kept out of reach of unauthorised staff? Incorrect chemical use is one of the fastest ways to fail an inspection. If you can’t immediately access the safety information for a product, that’s a compliance gap. 4. Train Staff Cleaning is only as good as the person doing it. Ensure staff understand: What needs to be cleaned How often Which product to use How to dilute it correctly When to wear gloves, masks or other PPE Remember, an hour product training session is better than none — staff can’t meet standards they don’t know. Cleaning standards are no longer about appearance. They are about protecting the business you’ve worked hard to build. For SMEs juggling cash flow, staff, customers and growth, hygiene can feel like just another operational task. But the risk doesn’t shrink simply because the business is smaller. “Most SME owners are doing their best with limited time and resources,” notes Madkins. “This isn’t about adding complexity. It’s about simple systems that protect your people, your reputation and your right to operate. In 2026, hygiene is no longer invisible. It is measurable, auditable and expected. And with the right structure, it is entirely manageable,” he concludes. THE SME BLINDSPOT - Unilever Professional

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Cox Yeats Shortlisted for Business Rescue and Turnaround Transaction of the Year 2025 at the DealMakers Awards 2026 The DealMakers Awards are among South Africa’s leading recognitions of excellence in corporate finance and restructuring. The shortlisting underscores the strength and depth of Cox Yeats’ restructuring capability  Partner, Gareth Cremen and Senior Associate Steven Saunders led the matter. Johannesburg, 20 February 2026 – Leading South African law firm, Cox Yeats,  was shortlisted for Business Rescue and Turnaround Transaction of the Year  2025 at the 2026 DealMakers Awards for its role in the Concor restructuring, a matter recognised for its execution complexity, stakeholder coordination, and commercially sustainable outcome. Concor is a construction, project development and opencast mining services contractor. The DealMakers Awards are among South Africa’s leading recognitions of excellence in corporate finance restructuring and turnaround transactions. Shortlisted transactions are evaluated by an independent panel against criteria including complexity, impact, value creation, and overall market contribution. Gareth Cremen, Partner in the firm’s Business Rescue, Restructuring and Insolvency practice, led the Concor matter, supported by Senior Associate Steven Saunders. The team navigated significant commercial pressure and competing stakeholder interests within the framework of Chapter 6 of the Companies Act. The transaction demanded disciplined execution, careful negotiation, and alignment across creditors, management, practitioners and affected parties to secure a viable path forward. Cox Yeats’ Business Rescue, Restructuring and Insolvency team combines legal precision with commercial clarity in moments of financial distress. Advising boards, creditors, business rescue practitioners, turnaround specialists, liquidators and listed companies, the team’s experience spans sectors including construction, retail, logistics, financial services, manufacturing and mining. Its approach is structured around three core phases of recovery — Recover, Restructure and Resolve — enabling the delivery of integrated solutions ranging from informal workouts and business rescue proceedings to strategic restructuring, asset sales, insolvency and debt recovery. While the firm did not take home the award this year, the shortlisting reflects the strength of its restructuring and turnaround capability and its continued role in complex, high-impact matters that preserve value and support long-term sustainability. Congratulations to the winner in this category, Langeberg & Ashton Foods. Cox Yeats remains committed to providing commercially grounded, technically rigorous advice to clients navigating financial distress, restructuring and insolvency challenges, and to supporting businesses in restoring stability and confidence in demanding circumstances. ENDS  Issued by:  Cox Yeats Media Enquiries:  Lerato Ramango, National Marketing & Brand Manager Email:   lramango@coxyeats.co.za   Website:   www.coxyeats.co.za About Cox Yeats  Founded by Graham Cox in 1964, Cox Yeats is a full-service South African law firm with offices in Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. The firm is known for its partner-led, collaborative approach and its ability to deliver legal advice closely aligned with clients’ commercial objectives. The firm and several of its professionals have also been recognised in national, continental, and international legal directories, including Legal 500, PMR Africa, the African Legal Awards, and Best Lawyers ® . This includes being named the 2023 Insurance Law Firm of the Year by Best Lawyers®. Through its membership of TAG Alliances , Cox Yeats also supports clients on cross-border matters across more than 100 jurisdictions worldwide. For more information, visit  www.coxyeats.co.za  and https://www.linkedin.com/company/cox-yeats . Cox Yeats Shortlisted for Business Rescue and Turnaround Transaction of the Year 2025 at the DealMakers Awards 2026