Businesses need staying power
According to Willi Riedel, President of the Greater Boksburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GBCCI), a lot of people have guts to start their own company, but have no staying power to see the business through to become a success.
This is not the case with Dan Gumede, owner of Luvuno Precision Engineering in Jet Park, who says as an engineering company they face many challenges as the competition in Boksburg is demanding to be a success.
Gumede’s company specialises in manufacturing and repairing mechanical engineering equipment.
After saving for a few years, in 2005, Gumede bought one machine and started operating his business alone for two years.
The company now has 10 employees but is still struggling to secure a big permanent contract.
“People don’t give us jobs, because they don’t trust our capabilities and ability to deliver quality service,” he says. Gumede, however, says the GBCCI has assisted his company immensely, as through membership, he has gained clientele and the company has grown.
“They facilitate network business breakfasts and lunches where we interact with other businessowners, and share ideas as well as meet potential clients,” he says.
Riedel says the Chamber creates employment opportunities through networking, as well as offers business skills tutoring and advice on aspects of business to entrepreneurs.
The Chamber has 125 members and also acts as a link between the industry and the municipality.
Entrepreneurs are encouraged to join the Chamber at an annual fee of R400, which can immediately be reclaimed from tax.
“During these economically challenging times, we encourage aspiring businessowners not to make spur of the moment decisions, but to thoroughly conduct research in their business fields,” says Riedel.
