March 2017

“While the global economic environment remains uncertain, indications are that we have entered a period of recovery. We anticipate an economic growth rate of 1.3% in 2017,” said President Zuma as he delivered his State of the Nation Address in Cape Town.

This comes as music to the ears of the business community which has been frustrated by economic uncertainty for a long time. Three of our feature companies for March admit that times have been tough. “This is the hardest most challenging time we’ve ever experienced,” says Tyrone Herdman-Grant of Panarottis. “Last year was probably the slowest that I’ve seen since joining the business,” says Nick Mowbray of T Birch & Co. “In 2014, the market was slow and we had to discuss strategies so that we could ensure we remained sustainable,” says Mark Gilbert of Stateline Pressed Metal.

But with Zuma announcing that the country is entering a recovery period, and real growth is expected to return to the economy (albeit slowly), businesses can begin to plan for the future. 2017 looks set to an interesting year; we’re just three months in and already big announcements have been made.

Take leading fleet management firm Afrirent for example (featured on page 68). This is a company that is committed to growth and is announcing a number of new projects and strategies that are set for completion this year. It will create jobs, wealth and opportunities in the economy and this is exactly the sort of positive news that is needed.

This edition is full of positive news and, even for those who have found times tough, determination and a commitment to quality business practice has helped most overcome the challenges of a weak economic environment.

Tell us how your business has combated the cold economy. We’re online @EnterpriseAfri1