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Showing posts with the label female business owners

New survey reveals what drives and hinders female entrepreneurship in SA

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Access to new markets and funding are the biggest barriers to developing or taking female-owned businesses to the next level, according to a South African Entrepreneurship survey by Standard Bank . Jobs and growth in Africa will be dependent on innovation and entrepreneurship, but the survey of 130 South African female entrepreneurs found that most women are still pressured to pursue a traditional career. Yet, if they do, they are then pressured to be the “perfect business woman and homemaker”. According to the survey, which was conducted in October to coincide with the inaugural Lionesses of Africa Annual Conference in Johannesburg, female entrepreneurs are seeking more resources (31%), support (24%) and networking (22%). Interestingly, infrastructure, training and technology were not seen as barriers by this group of women entrepreneurs, but this may be attributed to the sizes of their businesses. Almost all of the respondents had relatively small to medium-sized businesses with...

The Fish and Chip Co. demonstrates black empowerment success

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The Fish and Chip Co. is leading the way in securing black empowerment amongst food franchising companies in South Africa, with 76,57% of its 303 nationwide stores, being black owned. Further, 16,50% of these franchise owners are black women, demonstrating the black economic empowerment success behind The Fish & Chip Co. business model. The company has achieved rapid growth since being established in 2009, with 120 outlets having been opened in 2012 alone, and about 3,300 job opportunities having been created to date. Managing Executive of The Fish & Chip Co., Marcel Strauss notes that the company is proud of its achievements in terms of furthering and creating black owned businesses. “The Fish & Chip Co. constantly strives to be an equal-opportunity employer, and enhance business growth for promising entrepreneurs who were previously disadvantaged. The fact that we have ensured that so many black entrepreneurs have become franchisees within our business over the las...

NEW ZEALAND NATURAL ICE CREAM LAUNCHES IN SA

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South Africa may have a fierce rivalry with their New Zealand counterparts on the rugby field, but when it comes to ice cream, it seems the two nations make wonderful things happen. New Zealand Natural Ice Cream has officially launched their very first parlour in Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, Food court, Upper level 38, Entrance six.  This opening brings to South Africa a range of New Zealand made premium ice creams, sorbets & frozen yoghurt, as well as a range of smoothies, sundaes, delicious pancakes, gourmet waffles and fresh fruit juices. However, the story actually begins a long time ago and is closer to home than you might think.  It took a South African twist of fate for the brand to really get off the ground. The Company began as a small ice creamery in Christchurch, in New Zealand’s South Island, in 1984. New Zealand has perfect conditions and dairy pastures for making the finest ice cream.  The brand quickly became famed for ice cream with no artificial...

The importance of leadership in the franchisor/franchisee relationship

Effective leadership can mean the difference between success and failure.  By Gerhard van Wyk While many theories and definitions as to the nature of leadership exist, for leaders to be successful they must be able to exert influence and also motivate and inspire a productive working environment. In the context of the franchise environment, leadership refers to the influence a franchisor exerts over franchisees and the franchisor’s ability to persuade franchisees to willingly work towards achieving the franchisor’s organizational objectives. To successfully manage the individuals and groups that comprise a franchise network, effective communication is essential. Effective communication requires that the franchisor communicates the company’s vision, mission, goals, strategies and expectations to the franchisees, but also that the franchisor will listen to the franchisees’ problems and expectations. Closing the gap between goals and planning requires that the franchisor takes ...

The Fish & Chip Co. female franchisee on mastering the franchising model

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The franchising industry has always been an enticing business prospect as it offers entrepreneurs a tried and tested formula that is backed by training and support which will assist in managing a business with less risk. Entrepreneurs who are dedicated and hands-on will assuredly have what it takes to make any franchise business a success. Although the concept of franchising has enticed business men and women, the industry has shown remarkable growth amongst female ownership in recent years, proving that franchising is a viable business option for all. A study conducted by Pricewaterhouse Coopers and the International Franchise Association revealed that female business owners account for roughly 25% of franchise unit ownerships to date, with figures rising continuously. Lindelwa (Lindy) Jali is a great example of a female franchisee who has successfully applied the franchise business model to achieve success within The Fish & Chip Co. family. With two stores located at Stone T...