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Gamification boosts loyalty in South African fashion retail

MARELIZE SANTANA — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 12:31:10 +0000

Gamification boosts loyalty in South African fashion retail

MARELIZE SANTANA Thu, 11/07/2024 - 14:31

South Africa’s fashion retail industry is witnessing a shift as gamification emerges as a potent tool for improving customer loyalty, retention and brand recall.

In an increasingly competitive digital environment, retailers are turning to gamified experiences to engage customers. A recent study led by Prof Roland Goldberg from the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the North-West University (NWU), published in the Malaysian E-Commerce Journal, explored the potential of gamification to transform consumer behaviour within the South African market.

The rise of gamification

The fashion retail landscape has evolved rapidly over the past decade, largely due to technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences. With more shoppers gravitating towards online platforms, retailers are finding it challenging to stand out in a crowded market. As a result, many have embraced gamification – integrating game-like elements into non-gaming environments to enhance the shopping experience.

Gamification can take various forms in retail, from mobile apps offering rewards and loyalty points to social media challenges that encourage customer interaction. By making shopping fun and engaging, retailers hope to cultivate emotional connections with customers, leading to increased loyalty, repeat business and stronger brand recall.

While gamification has gained traction globally, research on its effectiveness in South Africa has been limited. South Africa’s retail sector is unique, blending modern digital trends with diverse consumer demographics. Understanding how local consumers interact with gamified experiences is key for retailers aiming to remain competitive.

Loyalty, retention and brand recall

Prof Goldberg’s study involved focus group discussions with 25 participants, all of whom had interacted with gamified retail applications. Using thematic analysis, the study identified three core themes: the impact of gamification on loyalty, retention, and brand recall.

Participants in the study expressed enthusiasm for gamified shopping experiences, describing them as fun, interactive and engaging. Gamification allowed them to feel more connected to brands, and many indicated they were more likely to continue shopping with a brand that offered such experiences. Participants also noted that they were more inclined to recommend a brand to friends and family if they found the gamified experience enjoyable.

The research concluded that gamification positively impacts customer loyalty by fostering deeper emotional bonds with brands. However, the study also warned that gamification strategies need to be regularly updated to prevent them from becoming stale and losing their appeal.

Customer retention, or the ability to maintain ongoing relationships with customers, is critical for long-term business success. Prof Goldberg’s study found that gamification effectively promotes retention by encouraging habitual engagement with a brand. The use of rewards, incentives and challenges was particularly successful in keeping customers coming back.

Brand recall, or the ability of customers to remember a brand when prompted, is vital in today’s competitive retail environment. The study found that gamification enhances brand recall by creating memorable experiences. When brands featured prominently in gamified interactions, participants demonstrated strong recall of logos, colours and slogans. Interactive features further reinforced brand memory.

Implications for retailers

The study suggests that gamification can help brands differentiate themselves in a crowded market, making them more likely to be remembered by consumers during purchasing decisions.

Prof Goldberg’s study provides valuable insights for South African fashion retailers looking to enhance customer engagement through gamification. In a digital age where customer attention is increasingly difficult to capture and local retailers are facing steep competition, gamification offers a powerful tool for fashion retailers looking to foster loyalty and retention.

Prof Roland Goldberg

As future leaders, it is key for students to know the role of the Reserve Bank, says Deputy Governor

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 07:40:04 +0000

As future leaders, it is key for students to know the role of the Reserve Bank, says Deputy Governor

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 10/23/2024 - 09:40

Visiting universities is a critical step towards empowering students, as future leaders, to understand the role of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB).

Dr Mampho Modise, Deputy Governor of the SARB, made this observation during her prestige lecture on 21 October 2024, at the North-West University (NWU), Potchefstroom Campus.

In her lecture, Dr Modise outlined the role of the SARB and spoke about the importance of monetary policy, financial stability and economic statistics.

The lecture, arranged by the university’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, was a platform for the SARB to interact with the academic community and highlight how its decisions impact the lives of South Africans.

“As part of the Reserve Bank’s transparency and sharing of information in getting people to understand what the Bank does, its mandate, and why it makes certain decisions, platforms such as prestige lectures provide such opportunities,” Dr Modise said.

“We have structured programmes such as Talk to the SARB, the Monetary Policy Forum and the Schools Challenge, but coming to universities is one critical factor of achieving our objective of getting students to understand the role of SARB as future leaders,” she said.

Student engagement with decision-makers

Professor Linda du Plessis, acting deputy vice-chancellor: Teaching and Learning and vice-principal introduced Dr Modise, who was recently appointed as Deputy Governor by President Cyril Ramaphosa. She has a wealth of fiscal and economic experience, having previously served as Deputy Director-General at the National Treasury.

“A prestige lecture such as this one provides students and staff with new perspectives, opinions and personal experiences that reinforce teachings in the classrooms, and also provides students with an opportunity to engage in their disciplines from their perspectives,” said Prof du Plessis.

Professor Babs Surujlal, executive dean of the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, commended the university management for endorsing initiatives that facilitate direct engagement between students and prominent decision-makers. He expressed his appreciation for the Deputy Governor's high-level insights, which were presented in a manner conducive to student engagement.

At the conclusion of her lecture, Dr Modise restated the SARB's unwavering commitment to upholding price stability.

“As emphasised previously, we are continuously monitoring price developments and stand prepared to take necessary action to fulfill our mandate. Operating as an independent central bank within a flexible inflation-targeting framework, SARB’s principal objective is to steer inflation and inflation expectations toward the midpoint of the target band.”

Dr Modise said it is widely acknowledged that low and stable inflation is a fundamental prerequisite for fostering a conducive business environment, thereby promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth. “Our steadfast commitment remains focused on ensuring price stability,” she concluded.

Dr Mampho Modise, Deputy Governor of the SARB.

From Left to Right: Prof Babs Surujlal: executive dean of Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, Prof Linda du Plessis: acting deputy vice-chancellor: Teaching and Learning and vice-principal, Dr Mampho Modise: deputy governor of the South African Reserve Bank, Mr. Clement Manoko executive director: Corporate Relations and Marketing, Prof Raymond Parsons: professor at the NWU Business School and Prof Useh Ushotanefe: deputy dean: Community Engagement and Stakeholder Relations.

Attendees listen intently during the prestige lecture.

Prof Babs Surujlal: Why we celebrate Transport Month

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 12:48:16 +0000

Prof Babs Surujlal: Why we celebrate Transport Month

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 10/22/2024 - 14:48

Transport is the backbone of any thriving economy, and in South Africa it is a lifeline that connects people to opportunities, businesses to markets, and communities to essential services. Transport Month, celebrated in October, provides a moment to reflect on the critical role transport plays in our daily lives, our economy, and our future. It is also an opportunity to renew our collective commitment to building an efficient, safe, and accessible transport system for all. This month is not just about recognising the importance of transport; it is about motivating us to see it as a powerful tool for empowerment and transformation. Our roads, railways, ports and airports are not just infrastructure – they are enablers of progress. They provide vital links between rural and urban areas, enable small businesses to access larger markets, and connect millions of South Africans to the global economy.

Many South Africans continue to face the challenge of unsafe, unreliable and costly public transport. Transport Month encourages all citizens, regardless of their background or status, to work together to improve our transport networks. Whether it is by investing in public transport infrastructure, promoting non-motorised options such as cycling and walking, or prioritising road safety, we all have a role to play.

This year’s theme, "Doing More Together: For Universal Accessibility to Public Transport", inspires us to dream bigger about our country’s potential. It reminds us that a reliable, sustainable transport system is not just about moving people – it is about moving the nation forward. Together, we can create a future where everyone has the freedom to travel safely, affordably, and with dignity. As we celebrate the progress made and acknowledge the challenges that remain, let us commit to transforming South Africa's transport landscape for future generations. Transport is the key to unlocking our country’s growth, and with every journey, we move closer to a better future.

Prof Babs Surujlal

Executive Dean Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences

Investing in transport infrastructure for long-term economic recovery

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 06:49:11 +0000

Investing in transport infrastructure for long-term economic recovery

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 10/16/2024 - 08:49

Investing in transport infrastructure is critical to South Africa’s post-pandemic economic recovery. This is according to Dr Alexander Samuels from the North-West University’s (NWU) Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. By modernising highways, ports, railways and airports, the country can enhance supply chain efficiency, attract foreign investment, and stimulate job creation, all while positioning itself more competitively in global markets. Expanding transport networks will also strengthen South Africa’s links with regional economies, boosting trade and economic diversification, and building a more resilient future.

Samuels: “A key approach to promoting long-term economic recovery, especially in the post-pandemic era, is to invest in transport infrastructure, which includes highways, railways, ports and airports. In South Africa, significant investment in these sectors not only meets urgent recovery requirements, but also strategically positions the country within regional and global markets. Infrastructure development acts as a catalyst for economic growth by improving supply chain efficiency and reducing transaction costs, thereby attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). In addition, improved transport infrastructure enables better market access, improves connectivity between urban and rural areas, and supports the establishment of new economic corridors. As a result, it can significantly improve the diversification of South Africa’s economic base, moving away from a traditional reliance on primary sectors to more value-added, service-oriented sectors that are resilient to global economic fluctuations.

Transport infrastructure is essential in the context of economic integration, particularly in the context of improving South Africa’s connectivity with other economies in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and beyond. Improved and expanded transport networks facilitate the more efficient movement of goods, services, and individuals. This not only stimulates intra-regional trade, but also increases South Africa’s participation in global value chains. Improving rail and port infrastructure can alleviate bottlenecks that delay the efficient export of minerals and other commodities, thereby increasing throughput capacity. Modernising airports and improving air connectivity can simultaneously boost tourism and create new business opportunities, thereby contributing to economic diversification and resilience.

In addition, there is a direct correlation between job creation and investment in transport infrastructure through construction and maintenance activities, as well as an indirect link through the growth of ancillary industries such as manufacturing and services. The multiplier effect of these investments can be significant, stimulating wider economic activity and creating sustainable employment opportunities. Furthermore, infrastructure projects can serve to improve the skills of the local workforce, thereby elevating the nation’s human capital index. This facilitates immediate post-pandemic recovery through job creation, while preparing the workforce with skills pertinent to future economic challenges and opportunities. Nevertheless, strong policy frameworks and strategic planning are necessary for the effective stimulation of economic recovery through transport infrastructure investment. South Africa should prioritise initiatives according to their likely economic impact, viability, and sustainability. This includes the use of innovative construction methodologies and technologies that reduce costs, improve efficiency and mitigate environmental impact. The government must also ensure transparency and effective governance in the implementation of infrastructure projects to attract private investment and promote public-private partnerships. These collaborations can leverage private sector expertise and funding, alleviating the fiscal burden on the state while improving project efficiency and innovation.

Investment in strategic transport infrastructure is the key to unlocking South Africa’s economic potential in the post-pandemic era. By optimising supply chain efficiency, generating employment, integrating with regional and global markets, and promoting sustainable development practices, South Africa can recover from the economic downturn and establish itself as a competitive entity on the international stage. Aligning these investments with overarching economic, social, and environmental objectives is key to maximising their impact and sustainability, thereby advancing South Africa towards a prosperous future.”

Dr Alexander Samuels: Why studying transport infrastructure is a worthwhile choice for prospective students

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:06:29 +0000

Dr Alexander Samuels: Why studying transport infrastructure is a worthwhile choice for prospective students

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 10/15/2024 - 12:06

October is Transport Month in South Africa. Alexander Samuels, from the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the North-West University (NWU) and lecturer in the Department of Transport Economics and Logistics Management, explains why studying transport infrastructure is a worthwhile choice for prospective students, especially at the NWU.

Samuels: “Transport infrastructure and its management is a critical area of study in South Africa and offers a strategic and dynamic option for prospective students. This academic focus is relevant not only because of its direct impact on the country’s economic stability and growth, but also because of its key role in social development and environmental sustainability. Participation in this discipline enables students to contribute to significant national initiatives that can transform the lives of millions of people and make a tangible impact through their professional endeavours.

Firstly, the study of transport infrastructure provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to address some of South Africa’s most pressing issues, such as economic revitalisation, regional integration and job creation. The country’s strategic geographic location as a conduit to southern Africa, coupled with its sophisticated industrial infrastructure, indicates that improving transport systems can significantly improve economic activity, optimise trade routes, and increase supply chain efficiency. This field provides students with a direct opportunity to engage in high-impact projects that contribute to national development and have the capacity to influence regional economic conditions.

In addition, promoting sustainable development requires a strong focus on transport infrastructure. South Africa faces particular challenges, including urbanisation, environmental preservation and the need for innovative, sustainable development methodologies. Students in this field will acquire the ability to develop, execute, and supervise transport solutions that strike a balance between environmental stewardship and economic expansion. This involves the study of sustainable practices and green technologies, including the development of eco-friendly port and airport operations, green freight and electric public transport systems. These skills are increasingly in demand as the world moves towards sustainability, giving graduates a competitive edge in the global job market.

The field is also directly associated with the improvement of societal inclusiveness and quality of life. Efficient transport systems improve access to education, healthcare, and employment, especially in rural and marginalised areas. Transformative work that breaks down barriers to social services and promotes equitable economic opportunities across diverse communities can be undertaken by students through the study of transport infrastructure.

This makes the field not only academically fulfilling, but also provides a sense of purpose and societal contribution to one’s career.

The field also offers a wide range of career opportunities in a variety of sectors, including government planning agencies, private infrastructure companies, consultancy firms, and international development agencies. Graduates may seek positions in project management, logistics analysis, policy development, and sustainability consulting. This diversity allows students to discover niches that match their personal interests and professional goals, whether they are attracted to hands-on engineering positions, strategic planning, or policy advocacy.

In conclusion, the study of South Africa’s transport infrastructure is not only significant, but also essential to the country’s future. It offers prospective students with a compelling combination of challenge and opportunity, positioning them at the forefront of initiatives to strengthen economic competitiveness, promote sustainable development, and improve the quality of life for all South Africans. It is therefore a field that offers both a rewarding career and the opportunity to make a significant, positive impact on the nation and beyond.”

Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki: ‘Transport remains the lifeblood of our economy and society’

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 08:03:22 +0000

Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki: ‘Transport remains the lifeblood of our economy and society’

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 10/15/2024 - 10:03

As South Africa celebrates Transport Month this October, Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the North-West University highlights the crucial role of infrastructure in economic development. Efficient transport systems are essential to stimulate growth, reduce inequality and promote sustainable development.

Dr Baikgaki: “Infrastructure is the fundamental pillar on which economic development and competitiveness are built, along with institutions, the macroeconomic environment, health and primary education. An extensive and efficient infrastructure is critical to the effective functioning of the economy, as it is an essential factor in determining the location of economic activity and the types of activities or sectors that can be developed within a country. Transport is essential for well-functioning economic activity and a key to ensuring the social well-being and cohesion of populations. Transport provides people with their daily mobility and is essential for the production and distribution of goods and services. Adequate infrastructure is therefore a fundamental prerequisite for transport systems. However, in most cases, there are impediments such as insufficient or inadequate transport infrastructure, bottlenecks, missing links and lack of funding to remove such barriers. Solving these problems or barriers is a challenging task.

Infrastructure is critical to a country's economic development and prosperity. Investment in infrastructure contributes to higher productivity and growth, facilitates trade and connectivity, and promotes financial inclusion. Global demand for infrastructure is very high, with an estimated annual cost of USD 3,3 trillion between 2016 and 2030 to keep pace with projected global economic growth, 60% of which is in developing countries such as South Africa. As the developing world’s population grows, the world urgently needs high-quality, sustainable infrastructure that increases economic activity, creates new jobs, reduces income inequality and empowers gender participation. Quality infrastructure is at the heart of the sustainable development goals as it supports inclusive growth and improves access to all.

The role of infrastructure in promoting sustainable economic growth has been recognised over the past two decades. After the financial crisis of 2008 and the COVID era of 2019, infrastructure investment has been promoted as a driver of economic recovery and growth. However, investment gaps are widening, and inequalities are increasing. At the same time, land use policies are ailing and the ecological footprint of human activities is growing faster than ever.

Transport remains the lifeblood of our economy and society. Our roads, rail networks, and logistics hubs at airports and ports are the arteries that breathes life into our economy and our people. The transport sector is an important part of the economy, and a standard tool used for development due to its intensive use of infrastructure. This means that transport infrastructure and economic growth are closely intertwined, which is why it is important to invest in transport infrastructure to support economic recovery. Across the board, there has been a tremendous increase in the economic opportunities arising from the mobility of people and freight and information and communication technologies. Studies have shown a positive relationship between the quality and quantity of transport infrastructure and the level of economic development. That is, a high-density transport infrastructure and highly connected networks are generally associated with high levels of development.

Accordingly, when transport systems are efficient, they provide economic and social opportunities and benefits that lead to positive multiplier effects, such as better access to markets, employment, and additional investment. Conversely, when transport systems lack capacity or reliability, there can be economic costs in terms of reduced or missed opportunities and lower quality of life. Transport infrastructure, such as roads, railways, airports, ports, and other associated facilities, is ubiquitous and critical to the economic and social well-being of modern society, providing personal mobility, access to services and the movement of goods, and facilitating economic activity and social interaction.

A well-developed transport infrastructure makes a country attractive to investors and helps to:

Reduce distances between regions.
Increase economic opportunities.
Reduce income disparities and poverty.
Facilitate the integration of markets at national, regional, international and global levels.
Afford less developed communities' access to core economic activities and services.
Enable workers to access suitable jobs and get to work on time.
Increase economic efficiency by enabling the rapid and free flow of information.
Facilitate business communication and informal decision making.

The challenges of the modern world, such as urbanisation and the urgent need to improve access to infrastructure, are forcing many countries to look for new solutions to support economic growth and a sustainable development agenda. At the same time, there is the problem of the infrastructure investment gap, where government development institutions are in desperate need of funds to implement long-term infrastructure projects. According to the Global Infrastructure Outlook, investment needs across 50 countries and seven sectors could reach $97 trillion by 2040. To solve this problem, the active participation of private companies through the PPP framework is proposed.”

Universal access to transport: A call for inclusivity amidst South Africa’s inequalities

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 08:08:22 +0000

Universal access to transport: A call for inclusivity amidst South Africa’s inequalities

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 10/11/2024 - 10:08

As South Africans celebrate Transport Month in October, we should broaden our focus beyond infrastructure and modernisation to the more nuanced and pressing issue of universal access to transport. This annual observance is a time to reflect on how transport systems impact everyone, especially those who are marginalised by their physical or financial limitations. While President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the need for universal access to transport, significant challenges remain, especially for the most vulnerable commuters.

Karen Visser, Transport Economics and Logistics Management programme leader at the North-West University (NWU), warns that despite government recognition of the issue, universal access to transport is far from being a priority for many South Africans. "In a country still grappling with the legacy of apartheid-era infrastructure decisions, we see that 82% of commuters in Gauteng rely on taxis for their daily transport needs," says Visser. "For those without physical or financial challenges, transport-related issues are often just an inconvenience. However, for a large proportion of the population, they are an unavoidable reality.”

Visser highlights the plight of "captive users" – commuters who have no choice but to use public transport such as taxis due to a lack of alternatives. This includes people with disabilities, who make up approximately 2% of taxi passengers but are often neglected by the system. "No special provision is made for disabled passengers," she says. "Each additional piece of equipment that could assist a disabled passenger takes up space that could be used by another fare-paying passenger. This means less income for the taxi driver, whose income depends on keeping the vehicle full and moving at all times."

The profit-driven structure of South Africa's taxi industry, according to Visser, creates little incentive to accommodate passengers with disabilities or other special needs. “Any delay at a stop to assist a disabled passenger means lost income, and for drivers every minute counts,” she adds. This system disproportionately affects the very people who need it most, creating a cycle of exclusion that undermines the idea of universal access.

But the issue of accessibility extends beyond lower-income groups or public transport systems. Visser offers the example of airline safety procedures to illustrate the broader scope of the problem. "Imagine you are sitting in an airplane during a pre-flight safety demonstration. You see the cabin crew gesturing, but without clear narration or accessibility tools, how is someone with a hearing or visual impairment supposed to understand where the flotation device is located?" she asks. "In an emergency, the lack of accessible safety information could be life-threatening."

Visser's commentary aligns with the broader aims of Transport Month, a time set aside to reflect on and address South Africa's transport challenges. While the country often focuses on issues such as road maintenance, traffic congestion, and the rollout of high-tech infrastructure, Visser urges both policymakers and the public to think more inclusively. "We need to stop viewing transport accessibility as a niche issue. It affects everyone, from the disabled person waiting for an accessible taxi to the frequent flyer who may be unaware of safety procedures due to poor communication," she says.

The conversation around universal access to transport needs to be broadened to ensure that inclusivity becomes a cornerstone of transport policy. "Acknowledging universal access could make a huge difference in improving the travel experience for all South Africans," concludes Visser. "As we observe Transport Month, it's time we start prioritising not just mobility, but equal mobility for all."

Student entrepreneurs win big in Leopards Lair® 2024 final

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 07:39:26 +0000

Student entrepreneurs win big in Leopards Lair® 2024 final

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 10/11/2024 - 09:39

The final round of the sixth annual Leopards Lair® student business pitching competition was hosted jointly by the TTIS, bhive Enterprise Development Centre and the North-West University (NWU) Business School on Thursday, 3 October.

The top NWU student entrepreneurs presented their inventive ideas to a distinguished panel of external judges at the D’Vine venue on the Potchefstroom Campus to compete for the title of Leopards Lair winner and some exciting cash prizes.

The final pitching event not only served as a celebration of innovation and talent, but it displayed the NWU entrepreneurship ecosystem – a multidisciplinary and intercampus effort that aims to stimulate an entrepreneurship mindset among NWU graduates.

Participants have been nurtured through a series of boot camps and mentorship programmes, and their journey to the final pitching stage has been one of growth, learning and development.

Prof Herman van der Merwe, deputy dean for Teaching and Learning at the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the NWU, gave the welcoming address, highlighting the incredible innovation and talent of the finalists.

Side Hustle category

Participants in this category displayed innovative and practical business ventures designed to address everyday challenges, emphasising start-ups that have the potential to grow into sustainable enterprises offering unique solutions to meet real-world needs.

Rudie Haasbroek, who won the Side Hustle category for his Barcode X fashion application, remarked, “This has been a long time coming – I have worked on this for three years. I enjoyed the whole process of learning more about this business as a founder and I am very excited to see where this goes.”

This fashion-tech brand application integrates code technology with clothing, offering personalised outfit recommendations and wardrobe management.

Tshegofatso Chabane secured the second place. Her The Blueprint vending machine business has broad and limitless potential. Banele Ndlovu achieved third place and his Afari’s Driving School simplifies the process of learning how to drive for university students.

Research-Based Ventures category

This category recognised projects rooted in offering solutions that are backed through research and development. The finalists highlighted the potential of their ventures to create a meaningful impact through technological advancements and sustainable practices, reflecting the power of research-based driven entrepreneurship.

The category winner was Carli van der Merwe. Her eco-friendly Helioglo Sunscreen product, which aspires to revolutionise the sunscreen market, offers superior protection without using any harmful chemicals.

“It feels absolutely amazing, it has taken eight years of research. We have put our product out there; we have gotten the reward. We believe this product can change a lot of people’s lives, especially in the healthcare and sunscreen market. Winning this award makes me believe in the product even more,” she said.

The second prize was shared by Thato Phahlane's PharmaFlow application, which seeks to transform medication management in public facilities, and Arlette Nwanmou's Ancient Grain-based food products, which resurrect traditional food through creative grain-based goods.

The third prize went to Rebaona Molefe's Rebalizer, an innovative solution enhancing the efficiency of organic fertilisers, improving crop health and sustainability.

Bongani Foundation Prize for Sustainability

The Bongani Foundation is a Dutch non-profit organisation founded by a group of South African NWU alumni who share a passion for entrepreneurship and giving back. The prize was awarded to the finalist whose venture demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable practices and innovation.

Thato Phahlane was declared the winner in this category, and she definitely gained bragging rights, as she had won two awards in the competition. Her Pharmaflow application streamlines healthcare stock management using image recognition and QR codes to improve patient outcomes in clinics, community health centres (CHCs) and hospitals.

More than 560 viewers tuned in to the live broadcast on YouTube to witness the entrepreneurial talent at the NWU.

Prof Herman van der Merwe during his welcoming address.

The Side Hustle category winner, Rudie Haasbroek, posing with judge Duminsane Mayakhe and Eagi.

Carli van der Merwe, winner of the Research-based category.

Thato Phahlane receives the Bongani Foundation Prize for Sustainability in style.

Prof Leenta Grobler, associate professor of Digitalisation and Digital Economics at the NWU Business School, delivering the vote of thanks.

Thato Phahlane and Arlette Nwanmou, the joint winners of the second place in the Research-based category.

Transport Month: The last-mile delivery revolution

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 06:44:26 +0000

Transport Month: The last-mile delivery revolution

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 10/11/2024 - 08:44

As South Africa marks Transport Month in October, it's an opportune time to reflect on the profound shifts in the logistics sector that have redefined how goods are transported and delivered. The pandemic-induced changes in consumer behaviour have accelerated the rise of last-mile delivery, transforming it into a critical pillar of modern logistics. What once relied on large-scale, long-haul freight systems has now given way to more personalised last-mile solutions that deliver items directly to consumers’ doorsteps.

Last-mile delivery refers to the final step in the delivery process, where a product or parcel is transported from a distribution centre or local hub directly to the end customer’s location, such as their home or business.

This evolution has reshaped the road freight industry, placing new demands on infrastructure, technology, and economic participation, and highlighting the importance of an agile and responsive transport system in today’s digital-first economy.

Karen Visser, Programme Leader for Transport Economics and Logistics Management at the North-West University’s (NWU) Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, explains these and other trends in the transport sector:

“Road freight transport and related activities make life as we know it possible and are the impetus of any economy, giving us access to much-needed goods and services. The Covid-19 pandemic literally brought the world to a standstill. The virus took us al by surprise and caught most industries off guard, as no preparation would have positioned any industry to respond and deal with it sensibly. In a very short space of time, the provision of road freight transport had to be rethought and changed to sustainably adapt to a newly created environment and provide comparable levels of service.

Last-mile delivery quickly became the norm and remains a preferred option for buying just about anything and having it delivered to your doorstep.

In South Africa, Mr Delivery and Uber Eats have been around for years, but the industry has evolved to the point where you can now order anything online and have it delivered to you from the comfort of your own home. Takealot is a South African company that prides itself on secure online shopping and reliable delivery in a very reasonable time. International companies such as TEMU and Sheen have recognised our untapped potential and are steadily infiltrating the market.

The mere expectation that individuals will have access to all kinds of items delivered to them is changing the profile of the road freight delivery industry as we know it. Less emphasis is being placed on longer-distance deliveries of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) items to central points of consumption, and depots are being used as distribution centres not only to outlets but also to end users through last-mile deliveries in smaller, more accessible vehicles. As well as changing the profile of the industry, this has also opened up so many opportunities for individuals to participate actively in the economy as delivery people for a wide range of industries. Many law firms for instance need to deliver original documents to courts or individuals and now use ad hoc delivery services instead of formal courier services at a fraction of the cost.

Bike messengers are a big deal in the USA, but in a country where both the bicycle and the package being delivered are likely to be stolen, this is not an industry that is likely to flourish here. Companies are adapting by using smaller vehicles, e-bikes, and optimising routes to navigate traffic more effectively and safely.

In a country that has yet to find sustainable solutions to poverty, urbanisation remains an issue, as opportunities seem to be in and around urban areas. With a growing urban population and congested city centres that are also home to a high percentage of opportunistically unemployed people, serious challenges remain for last-mile delivery.

The pandemic brought a visible shift in consumer expectations, as it became standard to have almost anything delivered to your doorstep within a very reasonable time. Same-day delivery, precise delivery windows, and seamless returns processes have become the norm. However, last-mile delivery can be expensive, often accounting for a significant portion of total logistics costs. To address this, companies are looking for ways to reduce costs through better route planning, shared delivery networks, and improved operational efficiencies. A growing trend is for companies to collaborate to share resources and reduce costs, creating networks that improve both delivery efficiency and service levels. However, the state of last-mile transport varies greatly from region to region. While developed countries benefit from advanced infrastructure and technology, developing countries face challenges such as poor road conditions and limited logistics capabilities, making efficient last-mile delivery more difficult.”

Karen Visser

Transport Month: Why a career in transport economics and logistics management is worth the journey

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 11:58:44 +0000

Transport Month: Why a career in transport economics and logistics management is worth the journey

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:58

Take a moment to consider these figures. South Africa’s transport sector contributes about 8% of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP). We have a 750 000 km road network that carries 80% of freight and 70% of passenger traffic. We have one of the largest rail systems in Africa with approximately 30 400 kilometres of track. Air transport is facilitated by 90 licensed airports and maritime transport carries 96% of the country’s exports by volume.

And that is only part of the picture. Career opportunities in the transport sector are abundant and the North-West University (NWU) is a gateway to careers that play a crucial role in securing our nation’s prosperity.

Let’s take a closer look. Transport Economics and Logistics Management in the School of Economic Sciences focuses on the efficient movement of goods and people in the global economy. The programme covers the economic principles of transportation, supply chain management, and logistics optimisation. Students engage in real-world case studies and use data analytics and technology to solve logistical challenges. Graduates can pursue careers as logistics managers, transportation planners, or supply chain analysts. Degrees offered include a BCom in Business Operations with Transport Management and a BCom Business Operations with Logistics Management.

Prospective students in NWU’s Transport Economics and Logistics Management programme will be mentored by a diverse and experienced team, including Keletsamaile Motatsa and Karen Visser, who both serve as programme leaders. Then there are Abigail Mooketsi and Nozi Ramatlape, the transport economics boffins; Alexander Samuels, Obakeng Khunou and Nduduzo Ngidi, the supply chain management experts; and Bonolo Modimoeng and Kgosietsile Monnagaaratwe both focus on business management. Together, these educators provide students with a comprehensive academic experience in the field of transport and logistics.