October 2020

With the country still recording thousands of new Covid-19 cases each week, and unfortunately hundreds of deaths, it is now crystal clear that businesses have a long-term issue to deal with. The thought that the situation might abate as time passed has proven to be false. Now, companies must plan for the much longer-term with their reactive and recovery strategies. Yes, vaccines are close, but they remain rushed and uncertain. Even when the roll out begins, it will be some time before adoption is large enough to consider the problem solved.

However, it’s not all bad news. At its core, the problem is simply another challenge that businesses must adapt to. This is something that every entrepreneur quickly becomes adept in. Juggling different issues while problem solving and jumping hurdles is the life that every business faces – now is no different.

With that in mind, we talk to some that have done things right. Those that have turned the corner and are now starting to operate in a more normal way, with more normal projections. Crossfin Technology is a great example. A fintech provider across southern Africa, this business was fast to change strategy and is now reaping the benefits.

COO Anton Gaylard tells us that the year is actually looking like it will end up quite positive. Alligator, custom product specialists, adapted its operations to assist South Africa with the problem. MD Stephen Marks tells us that the company produced more than a million face masks during lockdown and is now planning to grow as demand returns. Art, design, manufacturing and fashion business Carrol Boyes was already reeling after losing its founder and CEO in 2019, but the company picked up two international awards in the first half of 2020, proving that by focussing on quality there can be some light in these dark times.

While it will remain tough for some time, there are always opportunities in southern Africa, and many businesses are already taking advantage. Let us know how your company is changing. LinkedIn and Twitter is where you’ll find us.