Audi South Africa has rounded out the updated Audi Q8 model range with the RS Q8 performance, the new flagship of Audi’s SUV offering. Its increased output of 471kW makes the RS Q8 performance SUV the most powerful series-produced combustion model in the history of Audi Sport GmbH. Furthermore, the RS Q8 performance boasts outstanding driving dynamics thanks to an optimised, self-locking centre differential while guaranteeing an equally impressive suitability for everyday use. “The new RS Q8 performance embodies absolute sportiness and elegance. The top model of the Q8 series combines a passion for performance, prestige, and suitability for everyday use to create an exhilarating experience,”…
Author: Staff Writer
Woolworths has assured customers that it is working swiftly to replenish its shelves following supply chain disruptions that have resulted in shortages of fresh produce and meat. The retailer faced challenges caused by supplier issues and severe weather conditions, which significantly impacted product availability. Customers across South Africa expressed frustration after photos of empty shelves surfaced online, particularly in the vegetable and meat sections. The retailer explained that recent heavy rains in key agricultural regions like Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal damaged crops such as lettuce, spinach, and cauliflower. This disruption to the supply chain left stores struggling to maintain stock levels.…
Fourteen female entrepreneurs have successfully completed the Women in Tech (WiT) Accelerator Programme, an initiative run by Standard Chartered South Africa in partnership with WomHub. This cohort marks the second group of entrepreneurs to graduate from the programme in South Africa, further advancing gender inclusivity in the local tech ecosystem. Launched in August 2024, the 14-week programme selected 15 startups through a rigorous process to identify businesses with high-growth potential. Participants received practical training, mentorship from industry leaders, and opportunities to connect with investors and ecosystem partners. The programme culminated in a pitch competition, where five winners were awarded $10,000…
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is proud to announce the arrival of the exciting Fortuner GR-S, now officially on sale. This new variant takes the iconic Fortuner to new heights, blending unmatched off-road capability with refined performance and bold, sporty styling. The Fortuner now boasts its most powerful diesel engine yet and, for the first time, wears the coveted GR-S badge – matching the style and performance of its Toyota Hilux sibling. This marks its entry into Toyota’s growing lineup of GR-S models in the local market, following the Hilux GR-S, Land Cruiser GR-S, and Corolla Cross GR-S. The GR…
Growthpoint Properties has reported solid growth in its distributable income for the six months ending December 2024, largely driven by improved performance in its South African operations. The group’s distributable income per share (DIPS) rose by 3.9% to 74 cents, while its total distributable income climbed 4.3% to R2.5 billion. The company declared a dividend of 61 cents per share, up from 58.8 cents in the previous year. This performance reflects stronger rental growth, lower negative rent reversions, and reduced vacancies in the logistics and industrial sectors. Growthpoint’s South African net property income increased 6.2% to R2.9 billion, with the…
Absa Group reported a 10% rise in full-year headline earnings, driven by improved performance in its South African operations. Total income for the year increased by 5% to R109.9 billion, while headline earnings reached R22.06 billion. The group’s SA division performed well, with earnings climbing 14%, largely due to better credit performance in its Everyday Banking and Product Solutions Cluster. Growth in non-interest revenue also supported these results. Absa’s operations in Africa experienced an 8% rise in headline earnings, although currency fluctuations and Ghana’s hyperinflation impacted overall performance. The bank declared a dividend of 1,460c per share, up 7% from…
Vumatel has secured approval from South Africa’s Competition Commission to proceed with its acquisition of internet service provider Herotel. While the transaction was cleared with conditions, the competition watchdog concluded that it posed no major public interest concerns. This move follows Vumatel’s parent company, Community Investment Ventures Holdings (CIVH), previously obtaining a 45% non-controlling stake in Herotel in 2022. The latest approval now allows Vumatel to assume full control. Herotel, which operates across over 400 towns and cities, has connected more than 150,000 homes and businesses through fibre and fixed wireless services, strengthening its presence in South Africa’s internet market.…
Imagine a company report as a story. In the past, that story might have focused only on the numbers—the revenue, profits and expenses. But integrated reporting paints a fuller picture, weaving together the financial narrative with details about how the company impacts the planet, its workforce and society. This is because business performance cannot be measured solely by financial results. As stakeholders demand more transparency and accountability, companies are increasingly adopting integrated reporting to provide a clearer, more comprehensive view of their performance. “At its core, integrated reporting is not about integrating multiple systems or technical processes,” says Alwyn Pretorius,…
Sanlam has reported strong earnings growth across all its markets for the year ending 31 December 2024, bolstered by strategic acquisitions and partnerships. The insurance and financial services giant recorded a 26% rise in operational earnings per share, with return on equity reaching 19.8%. New business volumes climbed to R420 billion, and net cash from financial services increased by 17% per share. Sanlam’s management remains optimistic about 2025, citing favourable economic conditions in key markets. The company increased its dividend by 11% to 445 cents per share, reflecting its confidence in continued financial strength and expansion opportunities. Key to Sanlam’s…
South Africa has successfully gained market access to export fresh table grapes to the Philippines, marking a significant achievement for the country’s agricultural sector. This breakthrough comes after nearly a decade of negotiations, finally concluding on 26 February 2025. The expansion into this new market is expected to further strengthen South Africa’s position as one of the top global exporters of table grapes, while also boosting economic growth, employment, and foreign exchange earnings. Currently, the European Union and the United Kingdom remain the largest destinations for South African table grape exports, accounting for 75% of total shipments. During the 2022/23…