Although not anywhere near the frequency when load-shedding was in full force, power and especially water cuts have become more and more frequent in the past few months as the drought sets in and infrastructure problems persist.  Even small outages and water cuts can have disastrous effects on unprepared businesses and the Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA) is concerned at the impact that water shortages and cuts is having on its over 700 franchise systems and their over 35 000 franchise outlets. In Ehurhuleni, where water rationing has been implemented, there have been regular water cuts between 9 pm at night and 5am in the morning.  Whilst this on the surface seems logical, this can have an adverse impact on the restaurant and fast food industry, for example, that trades late at night.  This could result in businesses having to close earlier to complete their entire hygiene cleaning procedures before 9pm at night – a move that will lose them valuable rev...