Building a profitable business

How to build a successful and profitable business.

START YOUR OWN PROFITABLE CATERING SERVICE

                                  

South Africans love of dining and entertaining has created a tremendous market for off-premises caterers all across the country. A wide range of social and business events are providing an opportunity for caterers to cook up tasty dishes. Social catering has seen some of the strongest growth in the overall food – service industry in recent years, and that trend is expected to continue.

From a cost – to – entry perspective, catering is probably the most flexible of all food businesses. While you need a commercial location, you can start small and build your equipment inventory as you need to. You may even find an existing commercial kitchen that you can rent and operate from till you can move into your own premises.

The catering industry attracts a broad range of entrepreneurs. If you’ve been wondering how to stat a business in catering you’ve got plenty of options. Maybe you’re an excellent cook, maybe you love throwing parties, or maybe you’re interested in event planning and want to get the ball rolling by catering.

If you want to be successful in this type of business start by following these steps:

Step one Choose Business name and type.

Once you have decided on the type of catering business you want to start, you can move on choosing a suitable name for your business. Make sure your business name is available by checking the name with the applicable authorities.

Step 2 – Write a Business Plan.

This will take some time and work to do, but it will pay off in the long run because if you have a plan to fall back on it can help you to know what to expect while running your business. If you struggle in this area you can always make use of the services provided by experienced consultants.

Step 3 – Obtain license and clearance to start.

You need to obtain a business license from the authorities local government, as well as a food handling license. You also need to pass the required health inspection, so consider looking for a commercial kitchen that has already been approved.

Step 4 – Decide on Pricing.

Pricing your work/services depends on where your business is located and what type of catering you do. Pricing will varies when you do buffets, plated dinners, simple appetizers and events where you just drop of food and customers served it themselves.

Step 5 – Employ Staff.

It’s highly unlikely you can cater an event all by yourself, so some staff will be a requirement. You may be able to find staff easily, either by word – of – mouth, or your own network. But you might also need to reach out on food service – oriented job seeking sites, or look into how your competitors find their staff. You also need to ensure that all your staff receive proper and ongoing training.

CONTACT US NOW IF YOU NEED HELP IN ANY AREA OR WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN – (27)84 583 3143 – (27)11 704 1248 EMAIL – money@global.co.za

                        

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HOW TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL CITRUS FARMER

                                    

Citrus production (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit) continues to grow, averaging more than 100 tons every year. More cultivated land in environmentally climates and society’s passion/demand for these fruits, drinks and medicinal uses make this a viable enterprise for anyone wishing to start and grow a new farming business.

THINGS TO CONSIDER:

  • First of all you must have a Business Planbefore starting the farming operation. Basically, a business plan provides a comprehensive guide about the input costs, projected return and profitability.
  • Citrus crops demand irrigation. So, you will need proper irrigation facilities.
  • Alike any other fruit farming business, you will not get any return before harvesting the fruits. That is why you must have the financial preparation to carry on till the cultivation.

SOIL

Citrus grows over a wide range of soils. However, the light, well-drained (sandy) soils are most ideal. For good production citrus products require well-distributed rainfall or supplementary irrigation throughout the year. Therefore, a good source of water is essential in citrus farming. Generally, water requirements vary according to weather conditions, but as a whole, the ideal range is between 450mm – 2700mm per year

Citrus trees can vary in height from 5m to 15m. They are evergreen with spiny shoots and green leaves. Depending on the variety, the flowers may occur singly or in branched clusters. Flowers are usually between 2cm and 4cm in diameter with five petals. Citrus fruit has a tough and leathery rind with a juicy interior. Citrus fruit can be eaten fresh, pressed for juice, or preserved in marmalade’s and pickles.

For marketing and production purposes in South Africa, citrus is divided into four main groups:

  1. Oranges.
  2. Grapefruit.
  3. Lemons and
  4. Soft citrus (e.g. mandarins).

All citrus contains Vitamin C, a water – soluble vitamin with immune- enhancing effects. The Eastern Cape produces the most citrus in South Africa, followed by Limpopo, Mpumalanga, the Western Cape and KZN. The harvesting season is usually from May to October.

NEED TO KNOW MORE OR NEED HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL FARMING PLAN CONTACT US – (27)11 704 1248 OR (27)084 583 3143.

                                

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ANIMAL FEED PRODUCTION – HOW TO START

                     

Animal feed is a kind of feed prepared for oxen, cows, sheep, goat, poultry etc reared for their milk, meat and eggs. It contains protein, minerals and other nutrients which are useful fr milk, eggs, and beef production as well as survival and growth of the animals. Animal feed can be prepared from agro-residues, cereals, molasses, minerals and vitamins etc.

With the increased demand for livestock products for domestic consumption as well as export, farmers realize the importance of maintaining the health of their animals with proper feeding and management. The proportion of crossbred animals increased over the years. This has necessitated higher demand for balanced feed. Feed supply could not keep pace with the growth in various species of cattle and other animals.

Steps to start a Feed Production Business

1. Market Research – You need to do thorough research on your local market. At, first, you should identify the demand of the livestock and other farmers in your area and then select a particular category of animal feed with which you will continue further. Also, look at your competitors who are formulating the same type of animal feed. Study their strengths and weaknesses.

2. Business Plan – Next you should craft an effective and comprehensive business plan to get success in your venture. You need to consider every aspect of your business like objectives, start-up expenses, financial and marketing plans etc.

3. Feed Formulation – There is a specific formula of animal feed for each type of animal and you have to identify the right one for the feeds you are going to produce. If it is not properly produced by mixing the raw materials in exact ratio, you will lose your customers as they would not get the expected results after using the feed.

4. Raw Materials – After generating the appropriate formula or feed, you should buy the essential raw materials that you will need to use.These ingredients may comprise of maize, wheat offal, corn, noodle wastes, minerals, common salt etc.

5. Equipment – The next step is to purchase the equipment that are necessary for the production process.The equipment might include blenders, choppers, cooker, conveyors, weighing machine, bag sewers, pulleys, packaging bags etc.

6. Advertising – The final step is to do proper advertising and promoting of your production business by following effective marketing tactics. This step is quite challenging to perform if you are a beginner. You can hire a sales representative who can help you in promoting your business. You can also make use of the internet by means of a professional website to promote your business.

NEED HELP IN THIS AREA OR ASSISTANCE WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN CONTACT US NOW AT: (27) 84 583 3143 OR EMAIL: money@global.co.za

                   

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CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS – HOW TO START

                                  

The construction industry is growing steadily from year to year. Starting a construction business is an excellent way of enjoying long-term returns on your investment. A construction business is capital intensive simply because of the type of heavy duty equipment that is required to carry out various construction projects and also the cost of managing a large workforce. Despite the fact that the construction industry requires huge start – up capital the industry is highly profitable, especially if you have the expertise and capacity to deliver quality jobs.

The success of a construction company to a larger extent depends on their relationships with the biggest clients in the industry, the government of any country. No doubt there is always enough construction contracts to go around (even small ones) as long as a construction company is competent and well positioned.

The construction industry can comfortably boast to be responsible for the infrastructural development of the world. As such, the development of any community, city or country can be said to be the handiwork of construction companies and other stakeholders. In other words all the bridges, dams, roads, estates, shopping malls, office complexes and massive structures that you see around are all products of the construction industry.

 STRATEGIES TO EXPAND

Bring your business online

The construction business is no doubt an offline business; you cannot provide your services online ever. But you need to come online because your customers are spending most of their time online. Therefore, you will need a professional website design.

Build a Brand

Your website gets more credibility by customers as well as search engines if you present yourself as a brand. To build a brand name you need to get help from a professional graphic design service.

Advertising

Don’t get overwhelmed while creating an advertisement for your construction business. Advertise one of your skills at a time. Advertising in small fractions keeps your audience engaged and increase their chances of turning to you for availing your services.

Similar to any other start up business you will need a solid and well structured business plan when establishing an construction business. A business plan allows you to lay down the blueprint for your company from start to finish.

IF YOU NEED HELP IN ANY AREA OR WITH A WELL STRUCTURED AND BANKABLE BUSINESS PLAN CALL US NOW FOR PROFESSIONAL HELP AT: (27)84 583 3143 OR EMAIL: money@global.co.za

                     

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CAN ANOTHER SECURITY CO IN SOUTH AFRICA WORK?

                          

Basically, a private security company is any company that provides both armed and unarmed security related services and expertise to both private and public clients at an agreed fee. The security industry is an integral part of our world especially in periods such as this when crime and terrorism has been taken to an all-time high.

More and more businesses look for ways to keep their properties and interests safe from violence, robberies, and other crimes. With security concerns rising in South Africa , there are more business opportunities opening up for entrepreneurs who want to start their own security company.

HOW TO START SUCCESSFUL

1. Decide on what type – When starting a security company you should pick a category of services that will fit in with your target market. Do not start offering an entire gamut of services for which you do not have sufficient funds and other resources. It is very important to pick the right type of security business you want to start.

2. Get Permits and Licenses – You will need some crucial licenses and permits to operate your security business successfully. You also need to be registered with PSIRA and complete their training for all security staff.

3. Business Logo – Your business symbol plays a crucial role in building a brand identity of your company. Therefore, ensure that the logo design of your security business start – up is unique, memorable and stunning.

4. Business Plan – Your  business plan should give a clear picture of the market and your customers. Furthermore, it should tell how you would be moving forward in establishing your security business. If you struggle in this area rather get help from a professional business plan consultant.

5. Secure Income – Security companies tend to have a range of prices, depending on the services they’re offering. The best way to ensure a stable monthly income is to obtain security contracts that will include both short and long – term contracts from established businesses, government, local government etc.

The average private security company can go as far as providing advanced special operation services for special clients when they demand it.

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VERMICULTURE FARMING

                                                   

Vermicompost (vermiculture) is the product of the decomposition process using various species of worms,usually red wigglers, white worms and other earthworms, to create a mixture of decomposing vegetable or food waste, bedding materials and vermicast. Vermicast (also called worm castings, worm humus or worm manure) is the end product of the breakdown of organic matter by earthworms. Vermicompost contains water – soluble nutrients and is an excellent, nutrient – rich organic fertilizer and soil conditioner. It is used in farming and small scale sustainable, organic farming.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VERMICULTURE & VERMICOMPOSTING

Vermiculture” is the culture of earthworms. The goal is to continually increase the number of worms in order to obtain a sustainable harvest. The worms are either used to expand a vermicomposting operation or sold to customers who use them for the same or other purposes.

“Vermicomposting” is the process by which worms are used to convert organic materials (usually wastes) into a humus-like material known as vermicompost. The goal is to process the material as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Potential Benefits:

Why should an organic farmer be interested in vermiculture and/or vermicomposting?:

* Vermicompost appears to be generally superior to conventionally produced compost in a number of ways;

* Vermicompost is superior to most composts as an inoculent in the production of compost teas;

* Worms have a number of other possible uses on farms, including value as a high-quality animal feed;

* Vermicomposting and vermiculture offer potential to organic farmers as sources of supplemental income.

Vermicomposting is increasingly being adopted by businesses, institutions, farms, and municipalities for managing organic waste. Organic materials can be vermicomposted on-site or transported to a centralized facility.

Any aspiring entrepreneur having knowledge of the manufacturing process can initiate a vermicompost organic fertilizer production business. Rural areas with a predominance of agriculture suburbs of cities and peri -urban villages are considered ideal locations for setting up of vermicompost units on a large scale from the viewpoint of availability of raw material (cow dung) and marketing of the produce.

Based on the high-end trend of vermicompost technology it is getting increasingly popular among local entrepreneurs for the reason that it is considered profitable maximizing the yield.

INTERESTED IN SETTING UP YOUR OWN PROFITABLE VERMICOMPOSTING BUSINESS AND NEED A BUSINESS PLAN TO START CONTACT US NOW : (27)84 583 3143 or EMAIL US AT:

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STARTING PAPAYA/PAWPAW FARMING

                     

Papaya (pawpaws) have a creamy, custard – like flesh with a complex combination of tropical fruit flavors. They are most commonly described as tasting like banana combined with mango, pineapple, melon, berries, or other fruit. There is a considerable variety of flavors among wild pawpaws, ranging from awful to sublime.

SOIL

Pawpaw (papaya) need a light, well-drained soil. They are easily killed by excess moisture. The soils need to be moist in hot weather and dry oin cold weather. Pawpaws do not tolerate salty water or soil. While doing best in light, porous soils rich in organic matter, the plant will grow in scarified limestone, marl, or various other soils if it is given adequate care. Optimum pH ranges from 5.5 to 6.7. On rich organic soils the pawpaw makes lush growth and bears heavily but the fruit are of low quality. It is recommended that no herbicides are used due to the little woodyness of the paw paw tree stem which may end up damaged.

SEEDS

Seeds may be planted directly in the field, or seedlings raised in beds or pots may be transplanted when 6 weeks old or even up to 6 months of age, though there must be great care in the handling process. The longer the delay the greater the risk of dehydrated or twisted roots; also, transplanting often results in trunk-curvature in windy locations.

PLANTING

The pawpaw/papaya is a tropical and near – tropical species, very sensitive to frost and limited to the region between 32° north and 32° south of the equator. It needs plentiful rainfall or irrigation but must have good drainage. Flooding for 48 hours is fatal.

FERTILIZATION

The fast – growing pawpaw requires regular applications of nitrogen fertilizers but the exact rates have not been established. Feed monthly and adjust according to the plant’s response. They can take fairly hot organic fertilizing such as chicken manure if used with deep irrigation after warm weather has started.

POLLINATION

If a pawpaw plant is inadequately pollinated, it will bear a light crop of fruits lacking uniformity in size and shape. Therefore, hand – pollination is advisable in commercial plantations that are not entirely bisexual. Bags are tied over bisexual blossoms for several days to ensure that they are self- pollinated. The progeny of self-pollinated bisexual flowers are 67% bisexual, the rest being female.

Fruit farming is a profitable business that has evolved over the years from small scale – backyard gardens to a global industry in all countries where it’s carried out. If you want to start your own successful farming operation and create some jobs for people, the best way is to start with a proper and well-structured business plan.

NEED ANY HELP OR PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE IN ANY FARMING AREA CONTACT US NOW AT : (27)84 583 3143 or Email: money@global.co.za

                 

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HOW TO START A GRAPHIC DESIGN BUSINESS

                    

Over the years, the graphic design industry has experienced tremendous growth; from the use of crayons, colors, paints, markers and pencil, to the use of desktop publishing and graphic art software. Beyond every reasonable doubt, a graphic designer cannot be effective and efficient in this dispensation without the use of computers and computer software applications.

Everyone will quite agree that the graphic design industry has come to stay and of course it is one industry that plays key roles – not only in the business world, but also in nearly all the aspects of what goes around in our world today. For instance; organizations with top notch logos hire the services of a graphic artist.

PORTFOLIO

Creating a strong portfolio is the best possible way to attract clients in the graphic design industry. It’s a chance for you to display some of your best work and get recognized by people who need the services your business offers. However, in order to get there, you first need to do some graphic design work and create graphic’s you can feature in your portfolio. It’s a good idea to do some pro – bono work or come up with your own projects that’ll allow you to showcase your skills.

FINANCE

You can’t start a business without money, simply as that, graphic designers now use expensive equipment and investing in the finest tools is a must if you want to stay ahead of the pack. The best way to obtain finance for your business is by developing a professional business plan to enable you to obtain a business loan for your business.

CONTRACT

According to the pros, some clients take work and don’t pay the graphic designer who did it. This happens even more now since the most or all communication with your clients is done through the web. Therefore, make sure that you design a contract that includes all variables, key dates, and payment terms before you even start doing any work, specially if it includes using expensive equipment.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media is the perfect place for graphic designers to showcase their work. After you’ve done creating your website, we recommend creating pages on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, and using them to attract new clients.

The graphics design business has really opened up over the years and this can be especially attributed to the advent of the Internet. A whole lot of things have really caused the business to boom and in turn attract people to start the trade as well.

NEED HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN AND ADVICE IN SETTING UP A PROFITABLE BUSINESS? DON’T DELAY CONTACT US NOW: (27)84 583 3143 or money@global.co.za

                           

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HOW TO START A PURIFIED WATER BUSINESS?

                                 

A water purification company is a business that converts waste or impure water into clean, crystal clear water that is healthy for drinking, cooking and useful for other uses. A water treatment business offers a lucrative way to improve health and quality of life. The residential water purification market is a multi-billion dollar industry that has grown and diversified over the years, as water softeners, media filtration systems and carbon filters are common fixtures in South African homes.

Clean water is essential for every human being, for drinking, cooking and other daily uses purposes like: bathing, brushing, washing clothes etc. It not just make our life healthier but also fulfills the hygiene purpose.

There is a growing demand for purified water. Apart from the initial cost of setting up a water purification business, you spend less on the everyday running of the business. This is because water which is your number one raw material can be sourced from anywhere at a very cheap cost or even free, depending where you source it from.

BENEFITS OF PURIFIED WATER

Better flavorSome contaminants can effect drinking water flavor, like a metallic taste or other unpleasant taste. Purified water removes contaminants and enhances the flavor of drinking water without the need to boil it. Moreover, most water delivery services offer flavored bottled water as well.

Lower risk of diseases – Chemicals and toxic materials can find their way inside water sources, thereby increasing the risk of getting cancer or some other diseases. Getting rid of these by purifying your drinking water will go a long way in lowering the chance of getting cancer associated with these chemicals and toxic materials. 

Save Cost – Buying bottled water gives households the assurance that the water you are drinking doesn’t have contaminants. Technically, if you choose to install a purification system, there might be costs of maintenance and replacement etc.

Studies have shown that the global water purification market has been growing at a steady pace and will continue doing so.  The industry is powered mainly by the growing needs of a burgeoning world population.

HOW DO I START AND RUN A SUCCESSFUL WATER PURIFICATION BUSINESS? START BY COMPILING A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN

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HOW PROFITABLE IS COFFEE FARMING IN AFRICA?

                        

Coffee farms and plantations cover approximately 9,600 square miles of the continent and roughly 25 countries in Africa benefit economically from coffee production. For nearly 10 million African households, coffee is the primary source of income.

Coffee beans grow on an attractive little plant with glossy green leaves and a compact growth habit. In their native habitat, they like to grow into medium sized trees, but the coffee plants are regularly pruned to a more manageable size by coffee plantation growers.

COFFEE PLANT VARIETIES

There are more than 120 species of plants in the genus. Arabica accounting for about 60-80 percent of all the consumed coffee in the world. Another popular coffee bean comes from the Canephora plant, which is also known as Coffee Robusta. These species comes from sub- Saharan Africa. It’s plants are more robust, however, the coffee beans are less favored because they tend to have a stronger, harsher taste. Arabica coffee beans tend to be sweeter with undertones of sugar, berries and fruit.

SOIL

A rich, peat-based potting soil with excellent drainage is beneficial. Coffee plants do not like limey soils, so if the plant is not thriving, add some organic matter like peat. Coffee plants can grow in soil that has a pH of 4 to 7. The ideal soil pH is closer to 6 – 6.5.

HARVESTING

Ripe coffee cherries are usually picked by hand. The main exception is Brazil, where the relatively flat landscape and immense size of the coffee fields allow for machinery use. Coffee trees yield an average of 2 to 4 kilos of cherries and a good picker can harvest 45-90 kilos of coffee cherries per day, and this will produce 9-18 kilos of coffee beans.

                   

COFFEE IS HARVESTED IN ONE OF 2 WAYS:

1. Strip Picked –  All the cherries are stripped off the branch at one time, either by machine or by hand.

2. Selectively Picked – Only the ripe cherries are harvested and they are picked by hand.

Coffee in Society

After water, coffee is the most popular drink worldwide with over 400 billion cups being consumed each year. It is enjoyed as part of a healthy, balanced diet and the pleasurable experience. Coffee drinking plays a key role in many cultures around the world, providing an occasion for friends, family and colleagues to connect.

HOW CAN I START A SUCCESSFUL AND PROFITABLE COFFEE FARMING OPERATION? CONTACT US NOW FOR A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN AND ADVICE: (27)84 583 3143 or money@global.co.za

               

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HOW DO I START A LAUNDROMAT BUSINESS?

           

Given the constant and growing need for clean clothes this is a very lucrative business to get involved in. Laundromats make it easier to get laundry done when customers either don’t have a washing machine at home, need to wash more clothing than their machines can handle at home or have to cope with severe weather conditions. Laundromats also sell detergents and soaps, dryer sheets, and other related items to help customers get their laundry done.

CUSTOMERS

Preferred clients are businesses and government institutions with long term services contracts. However, a laundromat also service the general public that provide a stream of revenue. Ideal customers are those living in apartments or poor neighborhoods where there are no on site laundry service or washers and dryers for self service.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

One of the best ways to make your business more profitable is to offer additional services like:

– Shoe repairs;

– Dry – cleaning;

– Sell detergents;

– Sell dry cleaning bags; and

– Laundry bags.

You can also offer free or discounted wifi internet services for customers to help them ipass the time while they wait for their laundry.

LOCATION

Your location can make or break your laundromat operation. Being too near other laundromats could effect your ability to attract customers. In addition, being near a major road, having visible signage, offering lots of parking and located in a busy shopping centre will help you gain attention. Also consider the demographics of the area. A neighborhood of wealthy families is less likely to need a laundromat than an area with many apartments and young people.

MANAGEMENT

If your laundromat isn’t well maintained, you will battle attracting new customers and gaining any repeat customers. So, it is vital to hire staff that can clean and maintain your laundromat daily, or do it yourself. Furthermore, it is important to attend to all customer complaints personally and promptly.

ADVERTISING

You won’t be profitable if customers don’t know that your laundromat exist and that you offer great services. Consider placing advertisements and building an online presence to attract attention and to communicate with your customers. To maximize your laundromat’s profitability, create a smart business model and business plan. With hard work and prudent planning, you’re sure to find success.

NEED TO KNOW MORE OR NEED HELP WITH A WELL STRUCTURED AND BANKABLE BUSINESS PLAN CONTACT US NOW AT:

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SUCCESSFUL SUGAR BEAN FARMING

                                            

Sugar beans have a very huge market because           they are consumed by almost every household and large institutions such a boarding schools and prisons. Sugar bean farming can be a very rewarding venture if the appropriate crop is planted in the right regions and at the right time with the right inputs. Sugar bean farmers should follow proper procedures on growing the crop starting from land preparation to harvesting.Like any other crop, sugar beans need basal fertilizers and respond to basal manure and fertilizer application.

Beans may be grown on a wide range of soils, but they generally prefer soils with some clay (>15%), and they are sensitive to soil acidity.. Beans are best grown during the cooler months of summer (January to April) on the Highveld or in winter in the Lowveld with irrigation. In the Highveld, sugar beans can be grown after frost occurrence.

VARIETIES

A number of varieties are available, from speckled sugar beans ( S.C. Bounty & S C Sharp types) to white broad beans. It is important to select the right variety for the intended market, as there are definite market preferences. The most preferred is the speckled type.

PLANTING

Plant when the soil is moist. Planting in rows has many advantages like:

 – you use the correct plant density;

 – weeding is easier; and

– harvesting takes less time.

1. Plant in rows which are 20 – 30cm apart. Within a row, plant seeds at 5 – 7cm apart.

2. Plant seeds at a depth of about 5cm.

3. Fill gaps one to two weeks after planting and when plants have emerged.

                                                                                 

APPLYING FERTILIZER

Sugar beans needs phosphorus at planting. Good fertilizer types for sugar beans are SSP or compound L. Although sugar beans can fix nitrogen, it often benefits from a small starter dose of nitrogen from fertilizer. Fertilizer types that supply both phosphorus and nitrogen are compound L, compound D or NPK.

HARVESTING

Start harvesting sugar beans when the leaves and pods are dry and yellow brown. Harvest by handpicking dry pots or by cutting the plans at ground level using a sickle. Leave the roots on the farm to improve soil fertility.  Dry the pods or the plants with pods in the sun on a clean surface like a mat, plastic sheet or tarpaulin, or on a raised platform. Dry for about one day and do not dry the pods on the soil.

LAND SELECTION.

Select fertile to moderately fertile land with no water logging. Sugar beans does not tolerate acidic soils. Think about the rotation scheme for the field you want to plant. To prevent diseases do not plant beans in the same field you used for beans last season.

TO START AND RUN A SUCCESSFUL AND PROFITABLE SUGAR FARM OPERATION YOU WILL NEED A PROFESSIONAL AND BANKABLE BUSINESS PLAN. CONTACT US NOW FOR MORE INFORMATION AT – (27) 84 583 3143 OR EMAIL: money@global.co.za

                       

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HOW TO GROW CHILLIES- PEPPER VEGETABLES

                                                                

Chillie – Pepper farming is part of a fast – growing industry and pretty much active in all countries of the world. With the recent advancement in technology, farmers can now comfortably grow chillie – peppers and a variety of vegetables in a country where such crops can hardly survive.

Chillie – Peppers is one of the most consumed vegetables in the world simply because it has so many valuable medicinal properties due to the nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and organic compounds contained in them. Chillie- Pepper reduces LDL cholesterol levels in obese people and fresh chillie peppers, red and green, are a rich source of Vitamin C.

There are many chillie cultivars but to name a few: Anaheim, Inchanga, Long Red Cayenne, Trinidad, Long Slim Cayenne, Pendent, Scotch Bonnet, Serrano Spitfire, Habanero, Super Cayenne, Ristra, Super Chillie, Skyline. However, the four most popular types of chillie peppers include: Ghost Peppers, Habanero, Jalapeno, and Poblano peppers.

                                                                                 

Soil Requirements

They prefer a sandy soil that is well drained. The roots are concentrated in only the top 30 to 40cm of soil so irrigation needs to be very well managed to prevent moisture stress in the soil, to which the plant is very sensitive. The organic content must be high in the soil, otherwise organic material and compost must be mixed into the soil prior to planting. The ideal pH of the soil must be between 6.0 and 7.0.

Climate

Chillie is a warm climate crop that is sensitive to cold, frost and growth is severely hampered by temperatures below 15ºC but also by temperatures over 35ºC. They do best when the daytime temperatures fluctuates between 24ºC and 30ºC. Once the fruit is starting to ripen it prefers dry weather without rain, as rain creates disease and irrigation management problems. It also hampers the drying out of the chillie on the plant for those varieties that are stored dry for later sale or dry processing.

Irrigation

Chillies require about 600mm of water during the growing season in the form of rain or irrigation. During flowering and fruit, set water should be sufficient and water-logging should be avoided as the crop is sensitive.Too much water may inhibit flowering and fruit formation and too little lead to flower drop. Furrow and drip irrigation are mostly recommended. If overhead irrigation has to be used, it should not be scheduled for late in the evening because wet leaves and fruit promote diseases. Plants should be dry before nightfall.

Fertilization

In order to realize acceptable yields in peppers, fertilizers must be used and before applying fertilizers, soil tests should be conducted to determine the type and the quality of fertilizer in the soil to ensure optimum plant growth. It should be fertilized with a combination of organic and/or chemical fertilizers. 

Uses

Chillies are used as ingredients to add flavor and color to most dishes. They are high in Vitamin A and C, calcium and iron and can be used as a medication to treat asthma, coughs and sore throats.

                                                                         

NEED TO KNOW MORE OR NEED HELP WITH A BANKABLE AND WELL – STRUCTURED FARMING BUSINESS PLAN CONTACT US NOW FOR HELP AT: (27)84 583 3143 or money@global.co.za

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HOW PROFITABLE IS A CONTAINER SMALL BUSINESS?

                                                                               

Containers are made of steel and built to withstand all kinds of weather, heavy stacking etc. A typical container work lifespan is approximately 10 years. Containers are designed specifically to be portable. You can transport almost any container and place it just about anywhere. A container is cheaper than building a brick and mortar building from scratch. A used container is the least expensive option, although for a better look, a new container is recommended. Either way, a container can easily be painted to blend with your surroundings.

Due to high construction costs more and more companies are turning to non- traditional facilities for their business operations. Containers in particular can be very utilitarian and cost effective.

CONTAINER BUSINESS IDEAS

Coffee Shop – The container and space can be used as a coffee shop where you can serve a variety of beverage options as ell as take away food.

Clothing Retailer – Containers can provide the space you need to run any kind of small retail business like a clothing boutique. If you need more space you can even stack the containers.

Restaurant – An increasing number of enterprising business owners are housing restaurants in remodel led containers. They serve as cost – effective premises that are easy to modify and transport.They’re secure and weather resistant, and provide novelty value.

Meal Prep Service – Another very popular type of food business is to create prepared meals that can be sold directly to consumers on site or as take away.

Hair Salon – Simply, one-on-one service businesses can also work in containers. Containers and the space necessary could be used to set up your own hair salon operation.

Office Containers – Whether you are looking for additional office space or temporary on-site offices containers can provide an affordable solution. These can be fully customized and fitted with the required amenities. Containers are also ideal for student accommodation and school facilities as can be seen below.

                                                                                     

Furthermore, “container homes” are quick to set up, sturdy, and much cheaper than building your average brick – and – mortar houses. If successfully implemented, container houses might decrease the significant housing shortage problem currently faced by so many families across the country.

Even though container homes have been around for years, it has only been the last 5 years that the building technique has become a viable alternative option. Through innovative insulation techniques, latest building materials and expertise built up over years, the container home is now a beautiful sustainable way of building your dream house.

Container homes are fast becoming a popular and more affordable to normal housing, which is priced beyond what the average South African can afford. A customizable and transportable container home can start from as little as ZAR 100 000. It also create huge opportunities for real estate developers/entrepreneurs to enter in a very lucrative market.

IF YOU NEED HELP IN THIS AREA OR WANT TO KNOW MORE HOW YOU CAN START AND RUN A SUCCESSFUL CONTAINER BUSINESS CONTACT US NOW AT: (+27) 84 583 3143 or Email – money@global.co.za

                                                                                       

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HOW TO START A MANGO FARM OPERATION

                                                                            

Mangoes are grown over a wide area in South Africa. However, the main production areas are in the Northern Province with Tzaneen, Hoedspruit, Phalaborwa, Letsitele and Trichardsdal area accounting for 60% of the total production. Mango trees will grow and produce well in areas with very high temperatures (45 degrees C). However, when the maximum temperature exceeds 46 degrees C vegetative growth ceases, especially if it is accompanied by low humidity. In South Africa the average relative humidity should preferably be 55% or less, from October until the fruit is harvested.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS

Mango trees grow on a slight slope which enables runoff of excess water and prevents water-logging. Depressions or basins are poorly drained and plantings on these sites should be avoided. The roots will turn black and become desiccated in over-saturated soils as a result of a lack of aeration. Under such conditions the parts of the plant above the ground will wilt and show symptoms of chlorosis. Mango trees do not row and produce well in soils with impermeable layers and also do not thrive on very steep slopes because excessive drainage could lead to water shortages and soil erosion.

PLANTING PROCEDURE

Although mango orchards are planted throughout the year (especially in the warmer production regions) the best time is August to September after the risk of cold weather had passed. After proper soil preparation the holes for planting should be large enough for the bag containing the tree to fit inside. Cut the bags open before planting to ensure that the trees have well developed root systems and that the roots are undamaged. Irrigation systems should already be installed before planting the trees. As soon as active growth is observed after planting, each tree should receive 4 applications of 25g LAN at intervals of 6 weeks, i.e. a total of 100g for the first year.

HARVESTING

Local Market – If mango fruit is to be marketed locally, it can be allowed to mature for longer periods on the tree. This will give it a better color and flavor. However, if the fruit is left on the tree for too long, it will drop in a process known as spontaneous ripening.

Export – Only the best quality mangoes is suitable for export, as it has to undergo transport and cold storage for 28 days in order to reach foreign markets buy sea. Fruit packed too green will never ripen properly whereas overripe fruit will spoil as a result of softening and the development of various diseases. It is therefore important to start picking at the correct stage.

TREE SELECTION

When you’re buying mango trees, you’ll need to look for signs that the tree is in good health. Take a look at the signs of a quality tree:

– Green and gleaming foliage;

– Long inter-nodes;

– Healthy graft union and blossoms;

– Containers should be a minimum of 10L as a precaution against stunted root growth.

NEED TO KNOW MORE OR NEED A PROFESSIONAL, BANKABLE FARMING BUSINESS PLAN CALL US NOW AT: (27) 84 583 3143 or EMAIL: money@global.co.za

                                 

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SUCCESSFUL PINEAPPLE FARMING

                                                                                   

Pineapples are sweet, nutritional and can be used in a variety of ways in home cooking. Moreover, pineapples are regularly purchased in bulk by food manufacturers who turn the fruit into various beverages, sweets, baked goods and other food products.

Pineapples rank second on the list of the most consumed fruits in the world and constitute up to 20% of the world’s production of all tropical fruits. Since the 1960’s, the level of pineapple farming has increased dramatically. The fruit popularity in the world can be explained by the breeding of new species, in particular one that is referred to as “Gold“. The fruit is now prepared, canned and consumed in various forms such as pineapple chunks, slices, juices, jams, marmalade, crushed and dried pineapples. Pineapples are also used in cereals and as a snack food. Pineapple fruits are also a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin B6, Copper and Manganese.

SOIL

The soil for pineapple farming should b well drained and slightly acidic in nature with pH levels around 4.5 to 6. The soil has to be light and can be sandy, alluvial or lateritic but not heavy clayey soil. The fruit is suitable for cultivation either near the seacoast or inland areas but the minimum temperature ranges should be in between 15.5 to 32 degrees C. The plants flower from February till April and bears fruit from July till September.

                                                                     

HARVESTING

Pineapple plants get ready for harvest in 2 to 2.5 years. Flowers appear after 12 months from planting and fruits appear after 15 or 18 months. The ripening of fruits occur after 5 months from flowering. The fruits for table use are harvested when completely ripe whereas the fruits for canning are harvested at an early stage. Each variety has a different eye color in the fruit indicating its maturity or ripening level.

PINEAPPLE VARIETIES

Kew – It is a leading commercial variety valued particularly for canning. Its fruits are big sized (1.5 – 2.5 kg) oblong and tapering slightly to the crown. The fruit with broad and shallow eyes becomes yellow when fully ripe.

Gian Kew – The variety is synonymous with Kew except for the size of plant and fruit which are larger than Kew as the name signifies.

Charlotte Rothschild – The fruit is similar in taste and other characters to that of Kew.

Queen – Its fruit are rich yellow in color, weighing 0.9 – 1.3 kg each. The flesh is deep golden – yellow, less juicy than Kew, crisp textured with a pleasant aroma and flavor.

Mauritius – It comes medium in size, its fruits are deep yellow and red. Yellow fruits are oblong, fibrous and medium sweet compared with red ones.This is ideal for table purposes.

Jaldhup & Lakhat – Both are under the Queen group with fruits smaller than Queen. Lakhat is markedly sour in taste, whereas Jaldhup has its sweetness well- blended with acidity.

Generally, commercial pineapple farming demands sufficient area of land and proper irrigation facility. In addition to that, the farm must have proper arrangements for plant protection. In this business, you can expect a substantial ROI and quick payback but you will need a well-structured farming business plan to get you going.

IF YOU NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH A BANKABLE FARMING BUSINESS PLAN AND BUSINESS ASSISTANCE CONTACT US NOW AT +27 84 583 3143 OR EMAIL – money@global.co.za

                  

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GROWING CROPS UNDER SOLAR PANELS

                                                                                        

As countries make the switch to renewable energy, solar power is a major player. All you need is sunlight and land to use for solar panels. It’s that easy. Over the course of a year, a study in “Nature Sustainability” analyzed what is known as “Agrivoltaics”. This is a land-sharing process tat integrates agriculture and solar energy int a symbiotic system; meaning that vegetables are planted in the shade of solar panels.

The agrivoltaics system assisted crops by regulating air temperatures, reducing direct sunlight, and increasing moisture in the air. Panels also protected the crops from intense winds and sunlight. Not only did the panels help the plants, but the plants also increased the efficiency of the solar panels by cooling them via transpiration. In mixed crop solar farms, the skin temperature is 18 degrees cooler than in open fields. This can create a much safer work environment as some farm laborers are at risk of heat stroke and other heat – related dangers.

A team of French scientists lead by Christopne Dupraz were the first to use the term “Agrivoltaic”. It basically means when solar panels and food crops are combined on the same land to maximize the land use. It’s an idea to maximize the land use. It’s an idea which could bring food producing to the next level. Researchers from the University of Arizona have claimed growing crops in the shade of solar panels can lead to two or three times more vegetable and fruit production than conventional agriculture.

The scientists said that their measurements showed how shading from the panels had a positive impact on air temperature, direct sunlight and atmospheric demand for water. The shade provided by the PV panels resulted in cooler daytime and warmer nighttime temperatures than the traditional, open-sky planting system they said. There was also a lower vapor pressure deficit in the agrivoltaics system, meaning there was more moisture in the air.

                                                             

Solar farming is a field filled with hundreds or maybe thousands of solar panels oriented into the sun. Instead of potatoes, beans or tomatoes planted in the soil, solar panels cover that land, while energy is being produced. It is obvious that traditional farming is a relatively risky business because one is very much dependent on weather conditions. If there is just the right amount of sun, rain and if there no extreme storms, strong winds etc. Thus, not to worry about all these environmental factors and still get income is really uplifting and a bit too good to be true. Therefore, next to power generation, solar farms found another niche “agrivoltaics” – or in other words APV-. It is an amazing idea for a environmentally conscious world, both agribusiness and society.

METHODS

There are three types of agrivoltaics that are being actively researched:

1. solar arrays with space between for crops;

2. stilled solar array above crops; and

3. greenhouse solar array.

All three of these systems have several variables used to maximize solar energy absorbed in both the panels and the crops. The main variable taken into account for agrivoltaic systems is the angle of the solar panels – called the tilt angle. Other variables taken into account for choosing the location of the agrivoltaic system are the crops chosen, height of the panels, solar irradiation in the area and the climate of the area.

TO ENABLE YOU TO RUN SUCH A OPERATION SUCCESSFULLY, YOU WILL NEED ASSISTANCE WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN.

CONTACT US NOW FOR PROFESSIONAL/PERSONAL ASSISTANCE AT 084 583 3143 OR money@global.co.za

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HOW TO START A PET GROOMING BUSINESS

                                                                                  

Starting a pet grooming business is not only a relatively easy business to start up, it can also be quite profitable especially if you have strategies in place that make you stand out from your competitors. The demand for other pet services have grown as owners now also want their pets to live long, stay healthy as well as happier.

Popular Pet Services:

* Dog training.

* Pet behavioral consulting;

* Pet portrait photography;

* Pet Sitting; and

* Upscale and holistic spa services.

Another very popular service is “Mobile Pet Grooming”. This service involves the use of specially equipped vehicles that travel to pet owners homes. It allows groomers the ability to perform a full range of services right outside the customer’s door. This is a very in -demand service because:

It’s convenient for the customer.

– It reduces potential stress on the pets.

– It’s perfect for home – bound older people who have companion animals.

On the downside, initial start – up costs for such an enterprise are hefty. Those in a position to make an investment in this are virtually guaranteed high business growth dividends.

                                                                                            

Pet Health Insurance

Sales of pet policies have begin to accelerate in recent times. This trend is expected to proliferate dramatically and offer the enhanced potential for pet business growth due to a number of factors:

* People increasingly regard their pets as beloved family members;

* Pets (like people) are living longer, requiring more complex and extended medical care.

* Advances in the veterinary technology have resulted in more costly medical care.

Considering that pet parents are expected to spend even more on their companion animals in the future, the sky’s the limit for those who have a good head for business and genuine love of animals. Remember that for the most part, customers will be entrusting a beloved pet to your care so you should always make sure that you treat their animal with respect at all times and never make any negative remarks about its condition or appearance.

Your Market

Customers are likely to include:

– Owners of breeds that require regular grooming. Many owners will have neither the necessary skills not the time to groom their pets regularly and so prefer to have a professional do it for them.

– Professionals and enthusiasts who breed and show animals – particularly dogs and cats.

– Owners who are not physically able to groom their own pets.

– Owners of animals that need flea or other parasite treatments.

– Owners of animals that have been referred to you for grooming by a vet.

IF YOU WANT TO START THIS LUCRATIVE TYPE OF BUSINESS YOU WILL NEED SOME HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL AND WELL STRUCTURED BUSINESS PLAN. CONTACT US NOW FOR PROFESSIONAL HELP AT (27)84 583  3143 OR email – money@global.co.za

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CHICORY FARMING – IS THIS PROFITABLE??

                                                                                                    

Chicory is a woody, perennial herbaceous plant and it is a member of the daisy family of plants called “Asteracease”. Chicory produces tubes or roots in the first year and develop a flower only in the second year.

Chicory root has a lot of health benefits on the human body, because of its ingredients. Chicory is an excellent source of potassium, Vitamin C and Vitamin A. In South Africa, Chicory is grown almost solely for the root. This is cut into cubes which are dried, roasted and milled and used for blending with coffee. Chicory is also consumed fresh, usually in salads or as a cooked potherb. The leftover parts of the root which are too small to be cubed are sold as stock feed.

Growing Chicory

Chicory prefers fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic malter. Loams, silt loams and clay loam soil often produce higher yields than lighter textured sandy soil as the latter has lower water retention ability and the crop suffers moisture stress sooner. Chicory is a cool – season plant. It grows fastest when conditions are warm and the monthly temperature does not exceed 25 grade Celsius. The plant can survive moderate but not severe frost.

Cultivars

There are 3 main types of Chicory gown for their leaves:

1. A bitter – tasting loose – leaved form is grown as a green winter vegetable, especially in southern Italy.

2. A narrow – leaved, witloof or Belgian form has a compact, elongated head (chicon) which is blanched for use in salads or cooked dishes.

3. A broad – leaved (usually red) form produces cabbage – like hearts. These are generally less bitter than the other forms and are eaten raw or cooked. These forms are often used as a winter salad crop.

                                                                                                    

Water Requirements

Chicory requires 75 to 90 mm of water per month for 160 000 to 180 000 plants per hectare, and then increasing 120 to 140 mm per month during the last 2 months before harvesting.

Planting

The best time to plant Chicory is in the spring season. Seed should be sown in a fine-textured seed bed, at a depth of not more than 6 cm in rows spaced 45 – 60 cm apart. When the plants reach the four-leaf stage they are thinned to stand 20 to 25cm apart in the row. The plant density is about 150 000 plants  per hectare. Ideal planting time for sandy coastal regions (dry land) is from Feb. to May. Up country dry land plantings can be planted from March to middle September.

Irrigation

Chicory irrigation periods should not be longer than 4 hours at a time; 3 to 4 hours are ideal. Some more irrigation is needed for Chicory in drier areas.

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SUCCESSFUL BARLEY FARMING

                                                                                              

Barley is mainly produced in the Western Cape under dry land conditions. Two-thirds of our barley is produced in the areas around Caledon, Bredasdorp, Napier, Swellendam, Heidelberg and recently, patches of the Swartland region too. The remainer of the barley production is in the Northern Cape under irrigation – Vaalharts, Douglas, Barkley West and Modderrivier. Barley is also grown by some small-scale farmers at Taung in the North West Province.

The barley marketing season in South Africa commences on 1 October and ends on 30 September the following year. After wheat, barley is the most important small grain in South Africa. Its main uses includes:

* production of malt – used for the brewing of beer;

* animal feed; and

* pearl barley.

Planting

The planting equipment used for wheat is also suitable for barley. Do not plat barley seed too deep, as this can affect seedling emergence. Planting density can range from 65kg/ha to 100kg/ha depending on the state of the seedbed, planting date, irrigation method and planter used. The average recommended planting density is 80kg/ha, given a 100% germination capacity as well as a 1000 kemel weight of approximately 40kg. Aim to establish 130 to 140 plants/m2 at harvesting. Between 65kg/ha and 80kg/ha seed ought to be sufficient under centre pivot conditions with optimal seedbed preparation.

In -expensive and easy to grow, barley provides exceptional erosion control and weed suppression in semi – arid regions and light soils. It also can fill short rotation niches or serve as a topsoil protecting crop during droughty conditions in any region. It is more  salt tolerant than other small grains and can sop up excess subsoil moisture to help prevent saline seep formation. Barley prefers cool dry growing areas. As a spring cover crop, it can be grown farther north than any other cereal grain, largely because of its short growing period. It can also produce more biomass in a shorter time than any other cereal crop.

BENEFITS

Weed Suppressor

Quick to establish, barley out-competes weeds largely by absorbing soil moisture during its early growing stages. It also shades out weeds and releases allelopathic chemicals that help suppress them.

Pest Suppression

Barley can reduce incidence of leaf-hoppers, aphids, army-worms, root – knot nematodes and other pests, a number of studies suggest.

Nurse Crop

Barley has an upright posture and relatively open canopy that makes it a fine nurse crop for establishing a forage or legume stand. Less competitive than other small grains, barley also uses less water than other covers crops.

NEED TO KNOW MORE OR NEED A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN TO APPROACH AVAILABLE INVESTORS CONTACT US NOW AT: money@global.co.za or (27)84 583 3143.

                                                                                          

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Canola Farming – Sustainable or not?

                                                                                                                   

Canola is an oil-seed crop grown mainly in the winter rainfall regions of the Western Cape, although it is also farmed in the North West, Limpopo and Northern Cape provinces. Canola is widely grown for its high quality oil for human consumption.

Although it is among the least discussed, canola seed is a crop experiencing significant growth in South Africa. This particular crop has seen tremendous progression over the past 18 years – from just 17 000 ha in 1998 to 68 075 ha in 2016 and still growing. In line with area plantings canola seed production increased from 21000 tons in 1998 to 108 860 tons in 2016.

Canola is an organic health crop which falls below olive oil, but it is more affordable. It has various health benefits which help alleviate heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Not only is it edible, it is also used by the pharmaceutical industry in their products because it contains omega oil. Oil-seed is harvested and crushed for oil. The by – product will be used for animal feed because it is protein rich.

                                                                           

Canola should ideally be planted after the first autumn rains (15 April – 15 May) once there is sufficient moisture to ensure good germination. One of the most important factors in ensuring an optimum canola yield is to achieve a uniform sized and evenly spaced seedling stand. An evenly space stand will contribute to weed control as the canola plants rapidly shade out later germinating weeds, often a major problem in many other crops. Uniform sized plants assist in making management decisions regarding time to spray, top-dress, swath etc much easier.

Canola should be planted between 15mm and 25mm deep. Ideally a stand of 40 to 50 plants/m2 should be target.. This can be achieved by planting hybrid seed at 2kg/ha to 3kg/ha. Canola is small seeded, thus it is important that the seeds make good contact with the soil to promote germination.

It is vitally important to monitor the canola regularly (every 2 – 3 days) from planting up to the five-leaf stage. Many pests and diseases can cause severe damage in a short space of time to young canola seedlings.Make sure to correctly identify the pest causing the problem and use the chemical registered to control it.

Overall, South Africa’s canola seeds and products market is growing and increasingly becoming interlinked with the global market. It is therefore, important that domestic producers are aware of these emerging global production trends, and plan according.

Interested n starting your own successful canola farming operation?

YOU NEED TO START WITH A WELL STRUCTURED BUSINESS PLAN BACKED BY STRONG FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS. NEED HELP – CONTACT US NOW FOR PROFESSIONAL HELP AT – (27) 84 583 3143 OR EMAIL: money@global.co.za

                                                                                            

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FREE – RANGE DUCK FARMING

                                                                  

Duck meat is a high-value niche product in South Africa. Duck farming is part of poultry farming systems. However, there is a huge difference between duck farming and poultry especially in habits and habitats of duck farming in shelter and population.

Ducks can be raised for meat and eggs. In mos parts of the world, duck ranks next to chicken in terms of egg ad meat production. Starting a duck farming business has numerous advantages as mentioned below:

– Ducks need not only less expensive but simple and non-elaborate housing facilities.

– Ducks need less care or management as they are a very hardy bird.

– You’ll get fresh eggs from ducks as they lay eggs either at night or in the morning.

– As ducks grow faster, you need comparatively less space for raising ducks.

– Ducks are highly resistant to the common avian diseases.

– Ducks eat a wide variety of foods than other birds.

– Along with a less mortality rate, ducks have a longer life than chickens.

Duck Breeds

Duck Breeds for Egg Production:

* Indian runner;

* White and Grayish Indian runner;

* Khaki Campbell.

Duck Breeds for Meat Production:

# Maskovi;

# Aylesbury;

# Sweden ducks.

Feeding

Feeding is the main task for getting better fertile eggs in commercial egg production of a duck farming business. According to duck breeders , on your farm, you can provide nutritious feed. And usually, ducks eats large amounts of food and water than other poultry birds. As legume grain feed works very well, the quantity of feed supply depends on breed, bird age, and purpose (egg layers) or meat producers.

                                                                                                                        

Housing / Shelter

Whether its an intensive or extensive raising system, ducks need safe and secured housing. Although you can use the locally available material to build the shelter, you should ensure proper cross – ventilation of the house along with fresh air flow. Not only require a duck 2 to 3 square feet of floor area, but the house can also be built in high, low dry and wet areas.

As ducks like wet and watery areas, provide both entry and exit points of the house. If you want to keep your duck house secure then you should fence it as well. Also, your building should be floor cemented and keep it deep littering, which should be not less than 5/6 inches.

Breeding

As ducks don’t mate without water, it’s a must for breeding purposes. For 10 female ducks, 1 male duck is enough for breeding. When five months of age, a high quality and productive duck breed start laying eggs. Instead of ducks, you can use hens for hatching the eggs. Sprinkle the eggs with water occasionally (2 or 3 times per week) during the hatching period.

TO ENABLE YOU TO START A SUCCESSFUL DUCK FARMING OPERATION YOU NEED TO START PUTTING ALL YOUR PLANS/IDEAS ON PAPER WITH A WELL – STRUCTURED AND PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN.

NEED ANY HELP WITH THIS CONTACT US NOW AT: (27)84 583 3143 OR SEND US A EMAIL TO: money@global.co.za

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LOGISTICS / TRANSPORTATION – CAN THIS WORK?

                                                                                       

The Freight Packaging and Logistics Services Industry is an industry that is responsible for providing packing and crating services for the transportation sector of the economy. The industry comprises of businesses that provide consolidation of freight consignments, trade document preparation, packing, crating and otherwise preparing goods for transportation and logistics consulting services.

Some of the key factors that will contribute to growth in this industry include the growth in the manufacturing sector, consumption, international trade and also the increase in technology reliance will provide new opportunities for logistics consulting and advisory services, particularly for distribution chain networks and logistics.

While a fair amount of investment is being made by various stakeholders to upgrade the country’s rail networks so as to be sufficient to meet future demand, currently the transport of goods and services is still largely reliant on the road transport  – and this is a massive opportunity for FMCG logistical and transport companies.

One of the most important things to do to run a successful logistics and transport company is to understand your costs. Don’t take any short cuts and remember quality controls as well as stringent maintenance to all vehicles is crucial.

Besides the capital outlay for equipment and vehicles, other expenses have also to be considered:

– Garage or other facilities for vehicles stored;

Additional security features;

– Routine servicing and maintenance of all vehicles;

– Repairs to scratches, wear and tear (tyres);

– Fuel costs;

– Cleaning of all vehicles;

– Parking costs for business use;

– Toll charges for business use;

– Traffic Fines;

– Marketing and Advertising costs.

TO ENABLE YOU TO START AND RUN A SUCCESSFUL LOGISTICS/TRANSPORT BUSINESS YOU NEED TO START WITH PUTTING TOGETHER A WELL-STRUCTURED AND PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN BACKED BY PROPER FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. NEED MORE INFORMATION OR PROFESSIONAL HELP CALL US NOW AT (27)84 583 3143 OR SEND US AN EMAIL TO: money@global.co.za

                                   

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Recycling – Can I make money from this?

                                                                                 

The recycling industry has become an integral part of modern society not only due to its social and economic impact but also because it plays a vital role for the future of our planet.

Most people think a recycling business is all about collecting soda cans, bottles and old paper, but in fact, most profitable recycling businesses concentrate on other items and materials, such as the gold found in computers and cell phones, used tyres, or re-selling household goods.

The current growing population and economy, results in increased volumes of waste generated. This puts pressure on waste management facilities, which are already in short supply and cannot handle the demand for service provision. Inadequate waste services lead to unpleasant living conditions and a  polluted, unhealthy environment.

Recycling Business Ideas:

Recycling of Aluminum Cans.

Recycling of Scrap Gold.

Recyclable Waste Collection Centre.

Recycling of Construction Waste.

Garbage Recycling.

Cartridge Recycling.

Electronic Waste Recycling.

Cooking Oil Filtration & Recycling.

Home Items Recycling.

The waste management sector evolves every year as South Africa makes steady steps towards a greener and more sustainable future. Opportunities for businesses and investors are constantly growing and appearing as new technologies and methods of waste management are discovered.

The recycling business is very competitive, and much of the competition is from large, established businesses. Therefore, market research is absolutely essential. You need to investigate what and how many recycling businesses already exist in your area where you will be able to sell your products and for how much etc.

The amount of money that you will need to start your recycling business will vary greatly depending on what kind of operation you planning to run. Expenses might include:

Vehicles to haul recyclable’s;

A  space to store/sell recyclable’s;

Machinery to process recyclable’s;

Money to pay people for their recyclable’s;

Working capital.

All of the research you have done to plan your business will come together in your business plan, which is a formal document that outlines how you will develop and run your business.

NEED TO KNOW MORE OR HELP GETTING A PROFESSIONAL AND BANKABLE BUSINESS PLAN TOGETHER CONTACT US NOW – (27)84 583 3143 OR EMAIL: money@global.co.za

                                                                                                     

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FIG FARMING – WHY SHOULD I START?

                                                                                                    

Figs are an ancient food source and were one of the first fruit trees cultivated along with the olive and grapevine. It is known for its adaptability and high productivity whilst being easy to prune and maintain. This make the fig tree a valuable addition to farming and a rewarding long-term investment. There is almost no limit to the use of figs; figs can be eaten fresh, canned, dried, and made into an assortment of preserves. Foodies find them lovely with cheese and figs could also be roasted and added to coffee for an interesting twist.

CULTIVARS

Black Mission

This is a classic pear – shaped fruit with a purple to black skin and red flesh.

Adams

One of the oldest fig cultivars in South Africa. Large fruits, with purple skin and dark red flesh when ripe, ripen late in the season.

Cape White or Kaapse Wit

Very sweet french fig. The small flat fruits with green-yellow skin and straw – colored flesh ripen early.

Kaapse Bruin

One of South Africa’s oldest figs. It ripens early to mid-season with a uniformly brown skin and pink flesh. Resists the attentions of flies well.

 Eva

A unique South African cultivar with small, egg-shaped fruits, greenish purple skin color and straw-colored flesh.

Cape Black or Koffievry

Another unique South African cultivar and popular in domestic gardens. It is a small, black early fig with straw- colored flesh. Can be eaten with the peel.

Tiger or Tiervry

Striking yellow and green stripy fig, fun to grow in the garden. The flesh is reddish pink.

Kadota

An old Italian cultivar with a prominent, fleshy stalk and typical drop of sugar in the “ostiole” or bottom opening when ripe. The skin is greenish yellow with white flecks and the flesh yellow-pink.

White Genoa

This is an early fig that ripens end of January to early February, with an abundance of large, sweet fruits. Skin is yellow-green and the flesh pink.

Brown Turkey

These figs ripen late in the season with light brown to red skin and dark red flesh.

                                                                                                          

HEALTH BENEFITS

Figs are nutritious, calorie- dense fruit and contain high levels of potassium, calcium, vitamins B & E, as well as dietary fiber. Eaten fresh or dried, figs are an ideal food source for increasing energy, strengthening immunity and aiding the digestive system. 

SOIL

The fig can be grown on a wide range of soils; light sand, rich loan, heavy clay or limestone, providing that there is sufficient depth and food drainage. Sandy soil that is medium- dry and contains a good deal of lime is preferred when the crop is intended for drying. Highly acid soils are unsuitable.

HARVESTING

The fruits may be picked from the tree or gathered normally or by mechanical sweepers after they fall on the ground. Harvested fruits are spread out in the shade for a day or two so that the latex will dry a little. Then they are transported to processing plants in boxes.

WANT TO START OR KNOW MORE – YOU WILL NEED PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE AND A WELL STRUCTURED BUSINESS PLAN – CONTACT US NOW – (27)84 583 3143 or money@global.co.za

                                                                                                          

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MORINGA FARMING – HOW PROFITABLE IS THIS?

                                                                                                                     

Moringa is frequently referred to as “the miracle tree” because all of its parts – from the leaves to flowers, seeds, bark and roots – have nutritional and medicinal uses. Seed pods are oil-rich, yielding 38% to 40% of buttery yellow oil. The oil is highly sought after by cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies, and can be used in cooking, for engine lubrication, and more importantly, as biodiesel.

Even when grown for  biodiesel, Moringa adds for food security. It’s one of the top three most nutritious vegetables in the world and was identified by the World Health Organization as a famine- busting plant.

Moringa oleifera leaves contain  more Vitamin C than oranges, more potassium than bananas and more protein than eggs and milk. The plant has primarily been used for its medicinal and nutritional benefits. For example, in Africa, Moringa has been used by breastfeeding mothers as a supplement due to its ability to increase lactation and to assist them in managing childhood malnutrition, thus decreasing the mortality rate amongst young children (Saambou 2001).

Moringa oleifera is a deciduous tree which within the first year of planting can grow up to 3 meters in height and can subsequently grow as tall as 15 meters. During the first 6-12 months, the Moringa tree can produce fruit, however, on average, it takes a period of 2 years to produce seeds. The favorable conditions under which to grow Moringa oleifera are temperatures between 25 – 30 degrees C, although the plant is capable of withstanding temperatures of up to 48 degrees C.

                                                                                                                              

The Moringa pods are a good source of calcium and phosphorus. The oil extracted from Moringa oleifera seeds contains a approximately 13% saturated fatty acids and 82% unsaturated fatty acids. It is also has a particularly high level of oleic acid (70%) in comparison to other vegetable oils, which usually contain approximately 40% oleic acid.

The roots of the Moringa oleifera are characterized to have medicinal properties. However, consumption in high dosages can be fatal due to the presence of spirochinalkaloid, a fatal nerve paralyzing agent (Nellis 1997).

Several studies have been conducted in exploring the use of Moringa for various industries. The most well-studied and exploited uses of Moringa oleifera are medicinal and nutritional in nature. However, in recent years other uses of Moringa oleifera have been studied and their application explored in other industries such as water treatment and animal feed.

The Moringa oleifera leaves are harvested once a week. During harvesting, care is taken to minimize contamination and remove any residue that may have accumulated on the leaves by washing them three times with clean water. The leaves are then dried and farms employ different drying methods. When the drying process is complete, the Moringa oleifera leaves are milled and then packaged as various products such as capsules, tea and powder.

                                                                                                                            

WANT TO KNOW MORE OR NEED HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN TO START YOUR FARMING OPERATION CONTACT US NOW – (27) 84 583 3143 or money@global.co.za

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AFRICAN HAIR & BRAIDS – HOW TO START SUCCESSFUL

                                                  

Hair extension retail stores includes stores that mainly specialize in selling wigs, hairpieces and hair extensions for both aesthetic and medical purposes. Just like most businesses in the retailing industry, it depends on strong consumer spending to spur the demand for industry products.There are hair businesses that someone with little education and no serious business background and training can start. One of such businesses is to open a “hair extension” retail store. The major things you need to succeed in this kind of business is a good location, easy access to wholesale supply of quality “hair extensions” and good customer service skills.

The truth is that if your store is located in an good area with good human and vehicular traffic, and you have quality hair extensions, wigs and related products from different brands, you will not struggle to get customers visiting your store and make a purchase.

                                                                                                          

The wig and hair extension retail store industry is a very profitable industry and it is open for any aspiring entrepreneur to come in and establish his or her business. You can choose to start on a small scale on a street corner or you can choose to start on a large scale with several outlets in key places.

In setting up any business, the capital needed will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting/leasing a big facility, you then would need a good amount of capital because you need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conductive enough for workers to be creative and productive. This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for the business.

According to a documentary aired on hair extensions, it was found that the reason why more people were wearing hair extensions was due to the fact that the extensions helped add volume and length to one’s hair and could also dramatically change one’s look. This is why customers are willing to spend thousands of rand’s at  one spot, just so they could get a hair extension.

The demand for hair extensions has increased dramatically especially as celebrities have now joined the target market. The reason for the boom asides from the celebrity factor is due to the fact that new technologies for applying these hair extensions have emerged for users.

A well-structured business plan is a very important business document that you should not take for granted when launching your own hair extension retail business. Should you need professional help and assistance in this area contact us now at: (27)84 583 3143 or money@global.co.za

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HOW TO SET UP AND RUN A COMMERCIAL FARM

                                                                                         

The Agriculture industry of which “commercial farming” is a subset of, is no doubt amongst the leading industries in most countries of the world. Commercial farming is all about mass-cultivation of crops and rearing animals, fish etc for the sole aim of making profits. In most cases it is referred to as mechanized farming.

With the recent advancement in technology farmers can now comfortably grow crops in a country where such crops can hardly survive and in places where there are few farming land. People can even make use of the rooftop (basement) of their houses to cultivate crops even for commercial purposes.

One thing is certain about commercial farming. If you are able to conduct your market research and feasibility studies; you are more likely not going to struggle to sell your farm produce because there are always food processing companies and consumers out there who are ready to buy from you.

With commercial farming, you can afford to combine crop cultivation and animal husbandry or you can decide to only specialize in the cultivation of crops or rearing of animals. The bottom line is that if you have enough land (space) and you are interested in maximizing commercial farming, you are sure going to make huge profits from your business.

                            

Commercial farming/Agriculture, or otherwise known as agribusiness basic characteristics is that high doses of modern inputs are used for higher productivity such as high yielding varieties, fertilizers, insecticides, pesticides, weed killers and so on. In commercial farming, crops that are in high demand, i.e. crops that need to be exported to  other countries or are used as raw materials in industries are produced mainly. In addition, the extent of agriculture marketing differs from region to region.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO START A COMMERCIAL FARMING BUSINESS?

After all that has been done, there will be the need to draw u a “farming business plan” . Starting your farming operation with a business plan in place is one of the best things that could possibly happen to any business. This is so because of the clear cut direction which a business plan gives. It enables you to follow a guided path that is growing and surmounting business business challenges. Writing a professional business plan might not come easy as it requires that one goes technical/financial in some sub sets of the business plan document. This is the areas where an expert comes in. There are business plan writers who are specialized in the business of helping rookies draw up business plans.

IF YOU NEED EXPERT HELP IN THIS ARE CONTACT US NOW AT – money@global.co.za OR (27)84 583 3143 FOR PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE.

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Growing Guavas Successfully

                                                                                     

Although guavas are found throughout the country, the growing regions are in the Western Cape and Mpumalanga. The “Fan Retief” cultivar, created in the Western Cape, currently accounts for 90% of the commercial plantings.

Various Cultivars

* Fan Retief – the fruit is pink inside.

* White guava – the fruit is white inside.

* Cherry or Chinese guava – this variety grows into a small bush.

Guavas are eaten as a fresh fruit, dried fruit, are canned, or processed into pulp and concentrate, or even juiced.

Cultivation

The guava is successfully cultivated in a wide range of growing conditions. It is fairly well adjusted to different rainfall while soil pH ranging from 4.5 to 8.2 is proper for desirable plant performance. While guava trees tolerate poor soils, fruit production is substantially enhanced when grown in rich soils under proper management. As a general rule, guavas require very little attention. Nevertheless, guava trees can be grown as cordons on wire fence. Trees can be planted from 2.5 to 8m in any combination of rows and tree spacing.

Pruning & Fruit Thinning

Regular pruning of bearing guava trees are essential. Most guava trees, whether propagated from seed or grafts, produce an abundance of suckers which should be removed from trunk up to 50cm above ground. A framework of four branches representing four quarters of the tree should be established. The crotch angles between the branches and the main stem should be wide enough to facilitate adequate light penetration and provide physical strength to support fruit load at maturity.

Harvesting & Storage

Immature guavas do not ripen off the trees; fruits may soften, but never develop abundant color, and typical flavor associated with good eating enjoyment. Over-ripe fruits drop. There are no visible physical appearances or chemical indices of fruits that consistently reflect the appropriate stage of fruit maturity for harvest. Fruit harvesting should be carried out when the fruit is fully developed, matured, and began to show signs of color change from green to yellowish. Guava fruits should be packed in the natural posture (with the pedicel end of the fruit kept upward) in order to retain better quality for longer periods of time.

A clever marketing campaign for guavas has helped remind consumers about the health benefits of this unpretentious fruit, and opened new opportunities for farmers by reviving the demand for fresh guavas in supermarkets.

TO ENABLE YOU TO START AND RUN A SUCCESSFUL AND PROFITABLE GUAVA FARMING OPERATION YOU WILL NEED A PROFESSIONAL FARMING BUSINESS PLAN AND PROPER ASSISTANCE. CONTACT US TODAY IF YOU NEED HELP AT: (27)84 583 3143 or email: money@global.co.za

                                                                                            

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Sweet Potato Farming – Will this work?

                                                              

Sweet potatoes are easy to plant, need little looking after and deliver high yields. They are usually grown in sandy soil, which makes them easier to dig up. But they also do well in most soils, even heavy clay.

Production Areas

Currently, sweet potato is cultivated in more than 100 countries, mostly throughout tropical and subtropical Asia. In South Africa Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KZN and Western Cape provinces are the major production areas.

Cultivars

There are two broad categories of sweet potato:

1. The staple type with white flesh and white or purple skin has a high starch and dry-maltier content.

2. The desert type with orange flesh and orange skin with a high sugar and beta-carotene content.

Soil Requirements

A well-drained sandy loam is preferred and heavy clay soils should be avoided as they can retard root development, resulting in growth cracks and poor root shape. Lighter soils are more easily washed from the roots at harvest time. Wet season green manure cropping with sterile forage sorghum is recommended and should be thoroughly incorporated and decomposed by planting time.

Planting Period

Planting time of sweet potatoes is mainly determined by the climate of a location. Sweet potato plants are damaged by light frost  and the plants required high temperatures for a period of 4 to 5 months to yield well. In areas with mild frost , mid-November to mid – December is the best time to plant, and usually the crops get ready for harvest from April to May. Cold spells during winter can be a risk, depending on the climate of the specific area. In very hot areas, planting should be avoided from November to middle February as storage root formation is reduced by high temperatures.

Spacing

Optimum plant density depends on the cultivar, but is usually around 40 000 plants per hectare. Rows may vary from 1 to 1,25m apart; in-row spacing it is usually 25 to 30cm.

Irrigation

Requirements for water vary with soil type but can be generally estimated as 18 to 20mm per week early in the season, 40 to 45mm per week during the middle part of the season when storage roots are enlarging rapidly and a reduction to about 20mm late in the season. Excessive moisture early in the season delays storage root development and enlargement; late in the season, it induces cracking and for rotting of roots.

Health Benefits:

* Rich in complex carbohydrates, fibre, Vitamins A,C, and B6.

* Pink yellow and green varieties are high in carotene, the precursor of vitamin A.

* Dark orange flesh have more beta carotene than those with light colored flesh.

* Beneficial food for diabetes because it stabilize blood sugar levels.

NEED TO KNOW MORE OR NEED A PROFESSIONAL FARMING BUSINESS PLAN CONTACT US NOW – (27)84 583 3143 OR EMAIL – money@global.co.za

                                            

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Successful Cassava Farming

                                                           

Cassava is grown as a secondary crop in South Africa by farmers and small holders and is utilized for the production of starch (commercial and food grade starch) as well as various other products.

Production Areas

In South Africa the crop is cultivated in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and Northern KZN.It is produced on a large scale in Limpopo, mainly for industrial purposes.

Cultivars

“Bitter” and “Sweet” are the two general types of cassava. The sweet type is more commonly grown because of its greater yields.. The color and texture of the root peel are often the only factors used in separating clones in the market.

Water

The cassava plant produces best when rainfall is fairly abundant, but it can be grown where the annual rainfall is as low as 500mm but well-distributed and where it is as high as 5000mm. The cassava plant can stand prolonged periods of drought in which most other food crops would perish. This makes it valuable in regions where the annual rainfall is low or where seasonal distribution is irregular.

Soil Requirements

Cassava grows best on light, sandy loam’s or on loamy sands which are moist, fertile and deep, but also does well on soils ranging in texture from sands to clay and on soils of relatively low fertility. In practice, it is grown on a wide range of soils, provided the soil texture is friable enough to allow the development of the tubers.

                                                              

Harvesting

In regions with seasonal rains, cassava can be harvested throughout the year when the tubers reach maturity. Harvesting usually takes place in the dry season, during the dormant period of the plant. In areas where rain prevails all year round, the crop can be harvested throughout the year. Maturity differs from one variety to the next. The tubers can be harvested between 6 months and 3 years after planting, but for food purposes harvesting can take place at almost any age below 12 months. Harvesting may be delayed until market, processing, or other conditions become favorable.

Marketing

Cassava spoils easily and it is costly to transport in its raw form as it consists mainly of water. Therefore, most of the processing takes place on the farm. Processing results in products such as gari (a type of pickled vegetable), lafun (a fibrous powdery form of cassava) and fufu (a thick paste made by boiling) which all have a longer self life than cassava tubers do.. These products are consumed in the household or sold in the local market. They are sold in South Africa or traders in Swaziland and Mozambique.

Cassava has a high content of fermentable substances. This makes it appropriate for the production of alcohol. the fresh tubers contain about 30% starch and 5% sugars, and the dried tubers contain approximately 80% fermentable substances.

TO ENABLE YOU TO START AND RUN A SUCCESSFUL CASSAVA FARMING OPERATION YOU NEED TO START WITH A WELL-STRUCTURED  AND BANKABLE FARMING BUSINESS PLAN – CONTACT US NOW FOR PROFESSIONAL HELP AT:

(27) 84 583 3143 or email: money@global.co.za 

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PROFITABLE & SUSTAINABLE BANANA FARMING

                                          

Farming with banana is an easy and simple process and you can earn good profits. However, to achieve the desired amount of banana production requires:

* dedication to your banana farm;

* good yard management skills; and

* some basic knowledge about banana farming like sit selection, irrigation, care and management.

A banana tree produces at least 20kg banana fruit minimum per each blossom of banana, in a very short time period (approximately 150 days).

Health benefits of bananas:

1. Good for weight loss.

2. Banana fruits is good for the health of heart.

3. Bananas are excellent source of energy.

4. Excellent source of fiber.

5. Bananas are good for eye health and bones.

6. Long time consumption of banana fruit helps in stopping kidney cancer.

7. Banana fruit is also an excellent source of minerals and vitamins.

8. Bananas are rich in vitamin B6 and potassium.

Apart from this, banana tree raw materials are also in high demand and have plenty of application in our day to day life – banana leaves are used in preparing plates, seat pads for benches, umbrellas, clothing fabric, fishing lines and as cooking material in the kitchen.

The main feature of the banana fruit plant is that it can be cultivated throughout the year. The high technology methods for banana farming can improve both the yield and profit. The price of bananas does not fluctuate much in the market , but they tend to increase during important festivals and programs. Due attention and encouragement can help banana farming produce great wealth.

Factors Limiting Production:

There are a few factors that limit production of bananas in most countries. Some include inadequate farm lands and poor maintenance. Others are:

* pests;

* droughts;

* low rainfall;

* infestation;

* low access to organic fertilizers; and

* poor farming techniques.

Marketing

There is a huge market for banana produce locally and internationally. The fruit is used in manufacturing companies, restaurants, fruit markets and stalls. It has both domestic and international demands. The amount of money you make depends on the size of your harvest, quality of produce, price and location.

Land Preparation

Land development for banana plantation is followed by land preparation. This includes: ploughing, disking, harrowing, and planting. Bananas are susceptible to wind damage. Hence, it is highly desirable to plant wind breaks surrounding the plantation blocks. The tall ducasse banana variety is excellent wind breakers for commercial banana farms.

Weeding and Pest Control

Generally, weeds suppress the growth  and reduce the total production by competing for water and nutrient. Hence, banana plants should be protected from weeds. Shallow cultivation in young plantation is advisable to control weeds. Pesticides spraying to minimize crop damage by various pests need to be carried out by daily laborers.

Irrigation

Irrigation is compulsory during dry months. Severe water stress limits the production and quality of fingers. In a hot low land area, irrigating the field in 8 – 10 days interval is accepted by growers.

Fertilization

Heavy applications of organic manures or fertilizers are considered necessary in order to get high yields and to extend the life of the banana plantation. DAP and Urea are the two most important in organic fertilizers which are commonly used in banana production.

IF YOU WANT TO SUCCEED IN THIS TYPE OF FARMING OPERATION YOU NEED TO START WITH A WELL STRUCTURED AND PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN – NEED HELP IN THIS AREA CONTACT US Now at: (27)84 583 3143 OR money@global.co.za

                                                             

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Green & Renewable Energy. Is this SA Answer?

                                            

Some renewables already supply cheaper and sustainable electricity than the newest coal power plants. Renewables will get cheaper and coal and nuclear likely more expensive. Investment in renewable energy in South Africa can provide decent jobs and increase skills. South Africa is a solar rich country with one of the highest solar resources in the world.

South Africa’s program to introduce green renewable energy into its energy mix has been hailed globally as one of the most advanced and successfully renewable energy programs.Despite the success of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Program (REIPPPP). Eskom refused to sign the full amount of contracts which were awarded as part of the program in 2016. This effectively put the brakes on renewable energy potential and its many benefits for South Africans.

South Africa is falling behind on renewable energy project implementation, even as other countries accelerate their plans for green energy. According to data from “Green-byte”,  a renewable energy management system manufacturer, SA lags far behind fellow BRIGS country China which has 188 232 MW (megawatts) of wind power capacity and 106 921 MW of solar energy capacity.

                               

Solar energy systems have a high initial cost, but typically return the investment within 5-8 years. The use of solar energy in South Africa is driving the use of other renewable energy sources including: wind, hydroelectric and biomass.

Some known renewable energy sources are:

1. Solar Energy (both heating and electricity generating).

2. Wind Energy.

3. Geothermal Energy Sources.

4. Hydro Power.

5. Bio-gas or Bio-fuel.

ADVANTAGES OF RENEWABLE ENERGY

(a) Potentially unlimited supplies.

(b) Clean energy without production of greenhouse gasses.

(c) Cost of creating energy besides of initial investment is low.

(d) Renewable energy projects can also bring economic benefits to many regional areas.

(e) Renewable energy can bring power to remote areas due to smaller scale of operations.

Renewable Energy will become an economic driver and generator of employment for future generations as well. Currently demand is still low due to cost factors, but rising energy cost, improved technology and lower cost will see demand for renewable energy improving.

CONTACT US NOW IF YOU NEED HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL AND BANKABLE RENEWABLE ENERGY BUSINESS PLAN OR PROJECT AT (27)84 583 3143 OR money@global.co.za

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Sunflower Oil Production. How to start?

                                                       

Starting a sunflower oil farming or production business is capital intensive, but it is a money spinning business if it is well located and if you are able to create a robust distribution network.

Why start a Sunflower Oil farming/production business?

It is almost certified that no entrepreneur would want to go into any business that has slim chances of making a profit, hence the need to start a business whose products or services is accepted and used by all. One such business is the production of sunflower oil. It is a fact that all homes, restaurants, hotels and related businesses make use of oil on a daily basis.

Sunflowers are large plants and are grown throughout the world because of their relatively short growing season. Sunflower plants reach various heights, but most are from 1.52-2.1m tall. The diameter of the flower heads is relatively large, typically between 7.62 and 15.24cm, although some can measure more than 30cm. A common characteristic of sunflowers is a tendency for their flowering heads to follow the movement of the sun during the day. This phenomenon, called heliotropism, has the benefit of reducing damage from birds and preventing the development of disease.

Sunflowers are used to make oil, meal and confectionery products. Oil and meal are processed from the same sunflower seed varieties. The seed variety used for confectionery products has a lower percentage of oil. The seed is usually black with white stripes and is larger than the seed cultivated for oil extraction; the hull is heavier and less firmly attached to the kernel, and its oil content rarely exceeds 35%. Sunflower oil manufacture involves cleaning the seeds, grinding them, pressing and extracting the crude oil from them, and further refining. In extracting the oil, a volatile hydrocarbon such as hexane is used as a solvent to extract the oil.

                                        

Production Areas

Sunflower seed is produced mostly in the 6 provinces out of the 9 provinces excluding Western Cape, Eastern Cape and KZN. North West and the Free State produce a significant number of approximately 85% of sunflower seed. Sunflower seed can be planted from the beginning of November to the end of December, which is almost the same time for maize plantings..

Processing

Sunflower seed provides 40-50% of oil, which is mostly processed to cooking oil. The cooking oil is used on a daily basis in households, restaurants, and various food industries. Sunflower is the basic raw material for the preparation of margarine and spreads, used daily by millions of people. Some pet food also contains oil-seed raw material. In desperate times sunflower oil can also be converted to diesel for use in diesel engines as bio-fuel.

Opportunities

Sunflower seed production is very suitable for the South African climatic conditions and is performing well for income generation to the rest of the agriculture sector. There is  a big lack of black economic empowerment in this industry and also in the seed trade industry in general. The fact that the growth season of sunflower is short, added to its drought tolerance; it can serve as an ideal alternative crop on low potential soils when it is late to plant maize.

INTERESTED IN THIS TYPE OF FARMING/BUSINESS OPERATION OR NEED MORE INFORMATION AND HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN TO GET FUNDING CONTACT US NOW AT:

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Starting & Running a Transport/Trucking Business

                                    

Truck owner operators operates in the trucking/transport industry and it is a known fact that the transportation/trucking industry plays a very important role in the economy of the world. They provide essential services to the economy by transporting large quantities of raw materials, machines, equipment, dirt, rocks, building materials and finished goods over land – typically from manufacturing plants to retail distribution centers and from warehouses to construction sites. As a matter of fact heavy duty trucks are indispensable in the construction industry.

Why start a transportation/trucking business?

The transportation/trucking industry is responsible for the majority of freight movement over land, and they are a major stakeholder in the manufacturing, transportation and warehousing industries. The trucking/transportation industry is not restricted to trailers or large trucks hauling goods from distribution to another via highways, it also involves smaller trucks that help transport smaller quantity of goods from one destination within a city to another destination within the same city. Transportation/trucking businesses is not only about transporting goods over long distances.

The following represent some of the many possible types of transportation/trucking businesses you could decide to start. It all depends on what your personal interest is and what skills you want to employ in your business:

1. Owner/ Operator trucking

There are two basic forms of operating, with the key difference being how you get drivers to fulfill those contracts:

(a) Subcontract drivers – Drivers in this case, are independent contractors who likely own their own equipment. You’ll spend your time on two key coordination pieces – getting the contracts and accounts with the manufacturers who needs goods transported and then finding drivers who can fulfill those contracts or schedule.

(b) Privately owned drivers – In this scenario , you own the trucks and the drivers work for you. You have total control and retain all the profit – and you pay all of the expenses of employees and equipment, which means higher start p as well as higher operating costs.

2. Moving van business

Starting a small moving business is relatively easy – which also means you need to keep in mind that you’ll likely b competing with some college students who use a rented box truck. Your ace card will be that you’ll set up and conduct your business professionally, perhaps offering add-on services such as space for temporary in between moves storage facilities.

3. Specialty Transportation

Specializing in a specific kind of unusual transportation – extremely large items such as airplane parts, or modular houses, or refrigerated perishables – can provide a healthy income. You’ll likely have fewer clients but can charge higher fees for the expertise you have or gain from specializing.

4. Livestock Transportation

Although you don’t need any specific licenses for transporting animals for customers, you will effeminately need equine or bovine experience for potential clients to trust your ability to transport their animals, and you need to familiarize yourself with the livestock transport regulators.

5. Medical Transportation

Medical transport is an important business in the transportation arena. There are several ways to focus on in this business. Some requires no more than a regular vehicle, drivers license, and a solid driving record. You could focus on transporting seniors to medical appointments or driving people long distances to specialist appointments at big hospitals.

CONTACT US NOW IF YOU NEED HELP IN ANY AREA OR WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN FOR FUNDING AT: (27) 84 583 3143 OR money@global.co.za

                                                          

 

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How profitable is a Computer Training Center?

                                               

The computer training services industry is made up of centers that offer vocational and technical courses. They also provide courses in computer programming, which includes curriculum’s for software packages, computerized business systems, computer electronics technology and local area network management. It is important to state that computer training centers also train their students via online platforms.

Why start a Computer Training Center?

If you are interested in starting a business in the ICT industry, one of the options open to you especially if you are interested in imparting knowledge is to open a computer training center. In order to capture a fair share of the available market in your location, you would need a good website that is Search Engine Optimization (SEO) compliant. The truth is that your website ensures that your business remains visible to your customers. You can even ensure that your customers get to book online so as to make it more convenient to them.

With the right experience, a computer training business can be a great option for someone looking to start a business. Setting up a computer training center is not a daunting task once you have become aware of what you need to prepare. The requirements for a computer training center are not as complicated as you might think. Here are the important things to consider when starting a computer training center:

1. Computers & Software

You would need at least 10 personal computers in order to start a computer training center. The number of computers actually varies according to the space you have available, as well as your budget. Aside from computers, you need to have the necessary software in which your students will come to learn about. The computers should also be up to date with the latest processors and operating systems as much as possible.

2. Good Teachers

Teaching is a talent, not a skill that is learned at school. In a computer training center the knowledge level of your students range from the ignorant to those with background but wish to learn more. Because of this, you need good teachers that have the skill to deal with different kinds of students.

3. Business Registration

This is very important. You need to properly register your computer training center with all the relevant authorities. You need to show that your business is qualified to teach the skill of using computers to the public.

4. Find a facility

Once you’ve got the training center established on paper, you can find a facility to serve as its physical location. If you don’t have enough capital to lease or purchase your own center, you can find out if local colleges or community centers with computers can allow you to train people on computers in their facilities.

5. Market & Advertise your training center

It’s important that once your business is established you inform the community about all the services that you provide and what back up will be available for them.

CONTACT US NOW IF YOU NEED MORE INFORMATION OR HELP IN ANY AREA OF SETTING UP YOUR PROFITABLE COMPUTER TRAINING CENTER – (27)84 583 3143 OR money@global.co.za

                                                                                 

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How successful is a Internet Cafe?

                                                        

Since the invent of the Internet, a lot of other big things have happened to the information technology (IT). More and more people have taken to trades that revolve around this industry. You too can begin to look at ways to tap into vast opportunities that exists in the information technology (IT) industry.

The “internet cafe” line of business is one business that irrespective of the change in trends, is still managing to survive especially when the business is well positioned in a location like airports, campus, public facilities, hotels etc. Simply put, an internet cafe, which is also known as a “cyber cafe”, is a place which provides internet access to the public, usually for a fee. Most internet cafes usually provide snacks and drinks, ence the cafe in the name. In an internet cafe, the fee for using a computer that is connected to an internet facility is usually charged as a time-based rate.

An internet cafe may be a great opportunity for you to combine your passions and turn your skills into earning money in an enjoyable and profitable way by following and implementing the following ideas/tips:

1. Planning your Internet Cafe

Write down the different amenities and services you want to offer and the audience you wish to cater to. Visit other internet cafe’s in your area and in other cities to help form your ideas.

2. Feasibility

Investigate the area in which you hope to open your internet cafe business. Look specifically at the demand for an internet cafe and competitors in the area.Make a rough estimate of how much money you will require as an initial investment for computer equipment, furniture, software and amenities.

3. Create a Comprehensive Business Plan

Enumerate every detail for your internet cafe from the computers that you will need to purchase to long-term operational costs. Incorporate the results from your previous market research and explain in your business plan how your internet cafe will stay profitable over time. If you struggle in this area you should rather use the services of a “professional business plan consultant”.

4. Start Up Capital

Using your financial plan, determine your projected annual expenses and gross income. You’ll need to have enough capital to cover both your start-up and operating expenses. If you do not, you will need to take out a loan.

5. Find a suitable Location

You will want a place that is likely to attract stable as well as casual customers. Locating near a school or college may attract younger customers, or if you locate near other food cafes or small shops you might be able to catch pedestrians i the area.

6. Choose a name for your internet business

Establish a unique identifier that resonates with customers and sets you apart from other businesses. Do some research and find information about other business names so you don’t choose one that is already taken.

7. Choose an Internet Service Provider (ISP)

Your cafe’s internet connection will most likely need a higher grade, more robust connection than a normal household set up. Negotiate with your ISP as they may offer special deals for businesses, especially internet cafes.

IF YOU NEED MORE INFORMATION OR HELP IN THE SET UP OF YOUR PROFITABLE AND SUSTAINABLE INTERNET CAFE BUSINESS CONTACT US NOW AT: (27)84 583 3143 or money@global.co.za

                                                                                              

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HOW TO SET UP AND RUN A SPA/BEAUTY SALON

                                                              

One of the ways through which you could capture the hearts of all and get them coming over and over again, is by helping them de=stress from the hectic day to day schedules. This is one of the things that those who already run a spa and beauty salon have at the back of their minds.

A day spa is a frequently visited place by people who need some relaxation from their stressful life. Day spas facilities offer many services featuring several relaxation techniques and traditions.

Spa and beauty salon businesses is booming all over the world, but entrepreneurs should consider a wise business strategy to start and establish a spa or beauty salon. Here are some tips of starting a successful spa and beauty salon:

1. Select your business structure.

You can choose from structures such as Sole Proprietors, Partnerships, Companies. If not sure get advice from a business consultant or your bank. You should also visit a insurance agent who is an expert in liability issues.

2. Define your brand.

After evaluating your spa/beauty salon competitors and their strengths and weaknesses, make an effort to put something unique on the plate for the customers as any extras will always attract them. In the day spa business, you can offer authentic treatment classes, wellness tips, or it can be as simple as a cup of herbal tea in the hospitality section.

3. Find a suitable location.

Search for a strategic location and get it on a lease. Make sure that your spa location is easy accessible and that it has a good parking place. Then, hire an experienced interior designer. The designer will suggest the right color scheme for your spa/beauty salon to give your customers a pleasant and soothing environment.

4. Find your customers.

Take a look around and identify your potential clients. Make sure that your services target the right customers. Determine if your day spa will look to attract neighborhood residents, or will it be a destination day spa/beauty salon for the affluent and celebrities upmarket.

5. Estimate start up costs.

Proper budgeting is the most vital element for any start up spa/beauty salon business. So keep this in mind and estimate the entire costs to be incurred while getting your feet wet in the day spa/beauty salon business.

6. Get an impressive Logo.

You day spa/beauty salon business will draw the attention of potential customers easily if it has a unique logo. The importance of a business logo is catching the attention of a business and the spa logo design will become the identity of a business.

7. Know your Competition.

A successful business owner knows his competitors in the field very well. Find out all day spa/beauty salons in your area and then develop marketing strategies to pout smart the competition.

THERE ARE ALSO VARIOUS OTHER IDEAS TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR SPA BUSINESS. IF YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE OR NEED HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN OR INVESTORS PITCH CONTACT US NOW AT: (27)84 583 3143 or money@global.co.za

                                         

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Successful Lucerne Farming

                                                            

Lucerne’s extensive root system enables the crop to produce good yields even under relatively dry conditions. Lucerne perennial nature means that once successfully established reliable production could be expected for at least the following 3-4 years.

With a lower cell wall content than grass lucerne is highly digestible and intake tends to be high. Protein and mineral contents are also high making lucerne a valuable alternative forage. It is particularly suitable as a complementary feed when feed alongside maize silage.

Soil Preparation

When lucerne is to be established under irrigation, it is especially desirable to prepare a fine and firm seedbed. As the soil will be irrigated for a number of seasons, well laid out beds save costs and ensure high yields. As efficient weed control is practically impossible in new established lucerne lands, the preparation of the soil must be such that the seedbed is practically weed free at the time of establishment. It must always be kept in mind that lucerne usually remains on the land of a number of years and that good soil preparation before establishment is of the utmost importance because this will eliminate future problems.

Establishment

1. Choose a area that is well drained and spray out to eliminate all weeds.

2. Soil test to determine crop time and nutrient requirements.

3. Cultivate to achieve a fine, even seedbed with no compaction layers.

4. Plant high quality, certified seed.

5. Avoid sowing lucerne seed into dry soils.

6. Plant coated seed and sow at 12 – 18 kg/ha.

Planting Depth

Lucerne is a small seed with a limited supply of stored energy to support the developing seeding. Therefore, correct seeding depth is very important. Placing seed in a moist soil at a uniform relatively shallow depth maximizes germination an emergence.

Plant lucerne no deeper than 25mm with the optimal soil depth ranging from 6-12mm on clay and loam soils and 12-25mm on sand. Lucerne seedlings that do emerge from deeper than 25mm are weaker because of the energy expended during germination. Use the shallow depth for early spring seedlings when moisture is more abundant.

Lucerne Silage

Cutting fresh lucerne at the optimal stage of maturity and feeding it directly to animals year round would supply the highest quality and most palatable feed possible. In addition, field and storage losses would be minimized. However, fluctuations in seasonal growth and plant maturity as well as changing animal feed requirements may make it necessary to harvest and store the lucerne crop to maximize both quality and quantity.

Silage compared to hay:

1. Lower field losses when harvested as silage.

2. Less leaf loss resulting in more nutrients for feeding.

3. Consistent forage quality.

4. Greater ability to harvest the crop at ideal maturity as less rain-free weather is required for silage.

NEED TO KNOW MORE OR NEED HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL, BANKABLE FARMING BUSINESS PLAN CONTACT US NOW AT:

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Pepper & Cucumber Farming

                                                                                                

Peppers are great fun and much easier to grow successfully than some other crops. Chili and sweet peppers are a diverse bunch; they are colorful crops and the assortment of shapes and sizes is a treat to behold in any greenhouse (tunnel) or on the open plot. The flavors are just as diverse, ranging from mild and sweet to eye-watering hot so there is sure to be something to suit everyone’s taste among the hundreds of varieties available from seed catalogues and specialists.

PROPAGATION

Peppers require a reasonably long growing season to produce best results and sowing early will give them that. Sow seeds in or cell trays (modules) using fresh multipurpose or seed compost. Since, peppers particularly the chilies, can be quite prolific, prolific, why not sow just a few seeds of each variety; each has its own unique flavor and it can be great fun to try lots of different ones to be able to pick fruit in a range of shapes and colors.

FEEDING

Although peppers are not as hungry as tomatoes, they do need regular feeding to keep them healthy and productive. Feeding with a high polash liquid fertilizer mixed at half strength watering ensures that plants always have plenty of nutrients. Feeding need not start until 3 weeks after potting on, since the compost will contain all the minerals your plants need until then.

HARVESTING

You can choose to harvest the fruit when unripe and green or fully ripe and colored up. It’s at this stage that chilli peppers are at their hottest and sweet peppers their sweetest. Peppers can be stored in a number of ways – slowly dried in a cool oven (or in sunshine), sliced, roasted and stored in oil, frozen or of course used fresh. If dried and stored in airtight jars they should last for up to a year – in time for the next harvest.

                                           

CUCUMBERS

The cucumber plant is one of the most famous and widely cultivated vegetable plants. Cucumbers belongs to a gourd family of “cucurbitaceae, genus of “Cucumis”. This is basically a creeping wine that bears cylindrical shaped fruits that are used as vegetables. Cucumber is an important summer vegetable crop grown all over the world. Cucumber seeds can be used in oil extraction – this oil are used for most peoples daily cooking’s and an be eaten raw or with salt in salad.

Throughout the world, there are three main varieties of the cucumber veggie cultivated. Out of these, other types of the cucumber family have emerged. Cucumber first originated in Southern Asia before the cultivation spread to other parts of the world. The plant can be grown in hydroponic systems, greenhouses and poly-houses as well.

A recent research shows that cucumbers ate the 8th most grown veggie crop around the globe, followed by maize, cassava, watermelons, dry onions, sweet potatoes and sugar beet.

WANT TO KNOW MORE OR NEED HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL, BANKABLE FARMING BUSINESS PLAN CONTACT US NOW AT:

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How profitable is Bamboo Farming?

                             

Bamboos does not have a hundred uses: Studies done by IDC (Industrial Development Corporation) and other role players show over a “thousand”. Clearly there is a lot more to bamboo products and bamboo processing than than would immediately occur to the reader. Not only does bamboos have many uses, it is a non- invasive crop that can help develop agriculture and contribute towards lifting human beings out of poverty by creating jobs in rural areas.

Bamboo – the highly versatile giant grass that can grow in almost any kind of climate and thrive in the poorest of soils – has been in existence for hundreds of years in Asia, Latin America and parts of Africa. Yet, for a long time the potential of this fastest- growing plant on earth, with recorded growth rates of up to one metre per day for some species, remained largely unexploited.

Bamboo – is used to make a long list of high-value products. In fact, according to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), the plant has over 2000 different uses. China reckons there are nearly 10 000 uses and can fetch even more money if processed.

“Commercially” Bamboo is used for furniture and a variety of building and roofing materials, from fencing poles to veneer, floor tiles, panels for walls and ceilings, scaffolding material, door and window frames and window blinders.

In the “paper & pulp industry”, Bamboo can be made into newsprint, toilet paper and cardboard. The textile, food and chemical industries convert bamboo into fabrics, T-Shirts, wine, vinegar, biochemicals and pharmaceuticals. Domestically bamboo is used to make mats, baskets, canoes, fishing kits, bicycles, fences, toothpicks, school desks, pencils and rulers, to name just a few products.

Bamboo is also a source of bio-energy”. As the population in Africa increases, the massive harvesting off firewood and charcoal will be unsustainable and bamboo provides a clean and renewable energy alternative in the form of charcoal briquettes and wood for domestic and industrial use.

Bamboo Benefits

1. Can be planted as noise barriers and windbreaks.

2. Provides a habitat for wildlife and improved biodiversity.

3. Contributes to economic development and creation of jobs at a local level.

4. Can be a grower as a living fence to keep animals in or out.

5. Provides shade and creates windbreaks for food crop.

6. Creates opportunities for communities to enter the “New Green Economy” and so creates rural wealth instead of the standard poverty relief programs.

If you need help in setting up a successful and profitable bamboo farming operation or need more information contact us now at: 084 583 3143 or money@global.co.za

                   

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HOW TO START A NURSERY OR COTTAGE SCHOOL

                             

Nursery schools provide preschool education services for children aged 3-5 years, combined with day care. Most businesses in the nursery school industry are private but may get funding from a variety of sources, including state grants.

Getting affordable, quality child care, especially for children under the age of 5, is a major concern for many parents, particularly in recent years with the rise in families with two working parents. As the need for child day care has increased, the child day care services industry began to fill the need for non-relative child care.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LOCATION

If you are going to open your business on a commercial site, it should either be close to where parents work or where they live. This could be in a residential neighborhood near a school , a concentration of office parks or sharing a facility with another community organization.

OPERATING FROM YOUR HOME

There are may role-players that must be consulted if you decide to operate your business from home. First and foremost will be your own family who will have a business operating around them and possible encroaching on their space. The neighbors will also have to be consulted about the potential noise and extra traffic. Its important to explain how you will keep the inconvenience and disruptions to a minimum. You may also have to find out from your local municipality whether your home needs to be zoned for business rights or special concessions.

RULES & REGULATIONS

If you are going to accommodate six or more children , you have to register your business with your local municipality, who follows the rules set out by the Department of Social Development.

Your application must contain the following:

Your particulars – identity number, address and telephone numbers.

The physical and postal address of the operation.

The number of children that will be accommodated.

Your qualifications, skills and experience.

A description of the programs and services to be offered, including the aims and objectives.

You must also submit:

1. A business plan containing:

– the business hours of the facility;

– the fee structure;

– the day-care plan;

– the staff composition; and

– the disciplinary policy.

2. The constitution containing the:

– name of the care facility;

– composition, powers and duties of the management.

3. An original copy of the approved building plans.

4. An emergency plan.

5. A tax clearance certificate.

6. A health certificate from the municipality.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

A safe playground that meets the requirements of your municipality.

Insurance – At the very least, you should have public liability insurance, accident and equipment liability insurance.

Compliance – Once you are set-up, the local authority will come assess the premises and the playground.

To serve food you will need a Certificate of Compliance for Food Preparation.

                      

STARTING AND RUNNING A COTTAGE SCHOOL.

Unlike home schooling, a cottage school is where a group of children gathers at a venue and receives education together from one or more teachers. Contrary to popular belief, these are not the same as home schools. “Cottage Schooling” – often called “cooperative schooling” – is an alternative form of education in which children are taught by one or more teachers at a location outside the home for a limited time during the week. Cottage schools can be started by a group of parents or by a teacher.

If you are considering a cottage school but are unsure where to begin, here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Figure out all the legalities – just as public school curriculum vary from state to state, so too do the rules about cottage schools;

2. Decide on an approach.;

3. Tap into your school community;

4. Be patient.

CONTACT US NOW IF YOU NEED HELP IN THIS AREA OR WITH A PROFESSIONAL BANKABLE BUSINESS PLAN – 084 583 3143 OR EMAIL: money@global.co.za

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POULTRY – FREE RANGE EGG FARMING

                                                           

Many South African consumers are beginning to factor in the welfare of animals as well as the conditions in which they were raised, when making purchasing decisions on what animal products to purchase.

On the surface, egg production from caged layers seems like a profitable and highly efficient poultry production system and it is. Farmers using this mode of production still produce most of the eggs locally at a fairly low cost of production. While the drought and feed shortages have put some pressure on the industry, it is still a highly efficient production system.

However, the conditions in which these birds produce eggs is not always humane. They are raised in an environmentally controlled environment where their only purpose is to eat and lay eggs. They are like egg laying machines. This is generally done in a very tiny space that is barely the size of an A4 paper. Some farmers use antibiotics indiscriminately in order to improve the productivity of the chickens in the cage environment.

Chickens raised in a barn environment fare slightly better depending on the farmer’s stocking density. If the conditions are good, they will have the room to move around and express a bit of their natural behavior. While most farmers consider the barn- based environment as “free range” it is not sufficiently so and with proper legislation and standards.These chickens may not be considered free range unless the farmer provides reasonable access to the outdoors for a designated number of hours per day via peepholes. Still, in some countries such as Australia, barn-raised chickens are often considered as free-range. Many SA farmers who use the barn system also label their chickens as free-range products.

However, true free-range poultry production is when the chickens are allowed access to the outdoors and given a well managed outdoor range in which the chickens can forage and feed on the grass, legumes, worms, and grubs to supplement their formulated poultry diet. 

RULES & REGULATIONS

When starting a free -range chicken egg farming operation in South Africa, it is important to familiarize yourself with the various rules and regulations governing the industry. Talk to the local authorities and determine if you will need any permissions. A static housing may require certain permissions which might not be the case with mobile chicken houses for your free-range chickens.

SET-UP COSTS

There are various initial costs that you will grapple with when launching your free-range egg farming business in South Africa. However, what you eventually get to foot will depend on the scale of your ambition as a farmer. There are the costs associated with the setting up the static building and buying various poultry equipment such as the poultry feeders, drinkers and nest boxes. Some SA poultry farmers prefer to mechanize a bit. They do that by introducing mobile sheds or “egg mobiles” which allow the free-range hens to graze over a vast piece of land and glean all the nutrients found therein.

WORKING CAPITAL

If you are rearing the commercial egg-laying varieties such as the Hayline Brown and the Hyline Silver Brown layers in SA, then it is advisable to purchase those that are ready to start laying and which are generally aged at about 16 weeks. This will help you cut down on the high cost and high-risk process of rearing your layers from about day old to 16 weeks of age. By the time you begin seeing a positive cash flow, the hens should be aged anywhere from 35 to 40 weeks. When buying your hens, you can start by placing a provisional order earlier on before the start date. Many breeders will require that you book your hens weeks in advance.

                                                                               

DO YOU NEED CAPITAL OR ADVICE IN STARTING YOUR EGG FARMING OR ANY OTHER FARMING OPERATION? YOU WILL NEED A PROFESSIONAL FARMING BUSINESS PLAN.

CONTACT US NOW FOR PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL HELP AT –

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ASPARAGUS FARMING

                                         

Asparagus, unlike most vegetables, is a perennial; the same plants grow and produce food year after year – 15 years or more, in some cases. It’s dioecious, meaning there are both female and male plants. Female plants usually produce larger spears, male plants a greater number of smaller, more – uniform spears.

New asparagus plantings needs two years to fill out, during which time they require periodic weeding and mulching. In the third year plants produce enough spears for picking, though its still important to leave behind enough fronds so that the plants become dense with foliage by midsummer.

HOW TO GROW ASPARAGUS

Asparagus is planted in beds in a row, with enough space between each plant to allow it to grow.The spears then burst through the soil, becoming green through photosynthesis, before they harvest. You don’t need a large garden to try growing the vegetable yourself though as they will also grow in pots or containers.

They should be planted in spring, and it is easiest to plant one-year- old dormant plants than seeds. Asparagus should be planted in a manure – covered trench, with plants staggered evenly with wide spaces in between adjacent rows.

USES

Asparagus is eaten as a vegetable boiled, steamed, fried or raw in salads. It is also rich in Vitamins A,B6,C, E& K and also contains high levels of folate, calcium, iron and protein. Is said to help prevent kidney stones. Asparagus is also blanched and sold in cans.

SOIL PREPARATION

Asparagus does best on sandy and sandy loam soils. It can be planted on soils with a pH of between 6 and 7.Soil preparation is very important. A month before planting soil should be ripped to a depth of at least 600mm to loosen the soil. If soil are too acid and the pH must be adjusted, then lime should be added to bring the pH to above 6.

The soil are now deep ploughed and turned to between 400mm and 500mm. Pre-plant organic fertilizer can now be worked into the soil as well as the lime. A month later when you are ready to plant, pre-plant chemical fertilizer and mix need to be applied  into the top 20cm of soil with a disc plough. This also cleans and levels the planting area and get rid of any weeds that have taken hold. You are now ready to draw your planing furrows and start planting your asparagus crowns.

PACKAGING

Freshly cut spears are washed, graded, bundled and cut into uniform lengths. Spear length may vary from 23cm to 25 cm. Bundles weighing approximately 250g are stood upright in cartons that sometimes contain water – absorbent pads. Asparagus is usually sold on the domestic market in 6kg cartons, or on the export market in 10kg wooden boxes. Pre – cooling is essential to maintain quality. Asparagus cooled to 0 degrees C will remain saleable for approximately 2 weeks if stored at that temperature.

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How Profitable is Macadamia Nuts?

                                                    

Macadamia nuts are quickly becoming an important crop in South Africa and are possible the fastest growing tree crop industry in the country.

OPPORTUNITIES

The volume of Macadamia nuts exported has grown tremendously over the past few years and is expected to increase in the future. South Africa is tapping into new markets in China and Hong Kong. A number major growers have already received accreditation for Global GAP and the rest of the industry is aware of the need to follow fast in their footsteps. Worldwide demand for Macadamia nuts exceeds supply and the market is expected to even grow further. The use of Macadamia nuts in as an ingredient in confectionery and baking presents a huge opportunity.

PROFITABILITY

Macadamia nuts are hard to beat when it comes to the most lucrative crop per land area used in South Africa. According to statistics from the SA Macadamia Growers Association (SAMAC), the average export price for macadamia kernels in 2017 was R224.15/kg. The price for nuts in a shell was an average of R75.58/kg. 

A single mature macadamia tree can produce anything from 16 kilograms to 32 kilogram of nuts in the shell depending on the variety. That is a yield of R1200 per tree – at a minimum. At around 312 trees per hectare, that should deliver R374 400 per hectare.

CAPITAL NEEDED

Apart from the land and housing you will also need money for the following:-

* trees, land preparation and tree establishment;

* a shed for storage, post harvest handling and drying;

* an irrigation system including piping and under-tree sprinklers;

* a tractor – about 90hp;

* a slasher;

* a  trailer: and

* a boom sprayer for herbicides.

SOIL

Macadamias grow on a a wide range of free-draining soils but perform best on deep, well-drained soils, rich in organic matter. For successful commercial production, a minimum depth of 0,5m of friable, well-drained soil is essential. A depth of 1m is preferred, as this minimizes the risk from trunk canker disease and tree decline. However, be aware that extremely well-drained spoils may be a problem in drought years, if not irrigated. Avoid soils with heavy clay or rock bars within 1m of the surface.

WIND PROTECTION

Protection from strong winds is desirable, either through natural forest surrounds or planted windbreaks. Macadamia trees are brittle and breakages occur easily, particular during storms in highly exposed sites. Wind can also slow growth in young trees and may cause premature fall of young, immature nuts.

FIRE RISK

As macadamias are highly susceptible to fire damage, take the fire risk of surrounding bush-land into account when purchasing land. This can be minimized by preventing the build up of long grass in dry years.

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SOYA BEAN FARMING

                                                

Soybean production surpassed sunflower in 2012, becoming the country’s most important oil-seed crop (BFAP 2016). Soybeans are mainly cultivated under dry-land conditions., and grown primarily in Mpumalanga and the Free State. Over two-thirds of the country’s soybeans is grown here (DAFF 2015), KZN and Limpopo are also significant soy bean growers, followed by the North West and Gauteng.

Depending upon local conditions, soybeans are typically planted in November through December. The plants react to day/night length ratios which stimulate the reproduction process. Planting in January will result in a shorter plant with lower harvest potential, as the days shorten during growth. On ripening, the leaves turn yellow and the moisture content of the seeds drops – from about 65% to 14% within 14 days – given that the weather is dry and hot

REASONS FOR SOYBEAN GROWING:

  • Diversification away from maize.

  • The growing animal – feed demand.

  • Growing production of soy-food.

  •  Bio-diesel plant from soybeans.

  • Soybeans is one of a few crops that can be planted in rotation with wheat to ensure two crops per annum.

  • Crop rotation benefits include increased yields for both crops, and simplified weed and pest control.

  • Since South Africa has to import soy, marketing is not a problem.

                                

RAINFALL REQUIREMENTS

Rainfall of 500 to 900mm is required for better yields and better seed quality, depending on growth condition. Soya beans are susceptible to drought during the flowering and pod formation stages. They can also do well in warm, dry areas under irrigation.Excessive rainfall prior to and during flowering can result in luxuriant growth and increased lodging. Water logged conditions have a negative effect on the crop yield.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS

Deep, well-drained soil with a fine but firm seedbed that is high in fertility and has good water-holding capacity is needed for good soya bean yields. Soya beans are better adapted to soil types with a lower pH lower than 5.2 impedes nitrogen fixation. Compacted soils should be avoided because the hypocotyl of the soya bean breaks easily during emergence if under pressure. It is preferable to plant in moist soil.

MARKETING

There is a growing interest in soya products in South Africa because of the health benefits attached to them. Soya bean consumption in the country is estimated at 25% for oil and oil cake, 60% for animal feed and 20% for human consumption. The marketing of soya beans has moved away from single-channel marketing to a free market system. The system complies with a free marketing economy, where the producer markets has his own product to his own advantage.

The local price of soya beans is derived from world price levels of oil seed products and if a net local deficit applies, large quantities of these products must be imported. The largest price determinant, however, is the international price level of oil and oil cake. Because of the fluctuation of world prices, one can expect the trading of locally produced oil seeds to be increasingly linked to international prices. The bio-fuel industry will also open doors for the soya bean market.

Food security concerns and the growing global population are particularly highlighted as the main soy bean development agenda. Soy beans present farmers a cover crop that could assist in reducing soil erosion, improving soil fertility as well as diversifying income opportunity and food resources.

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AQUAPONICS FARMING

                                                     

Aquaponics is the combination of aquaculture in a recirculating system and hydroponics (the soil-less cultivation of plants). The plant crop utilize the waste (nutrients) released by the farmed fish to grow hydroponically and the crops in turn purify the water for reuse by the fish or other aquatic creatures. Simply put, aquaponics is growing fish and plants together.

START – UP COSTS

The aquaponic tunnel system will cost anything between R300 000 – R500000 to erect. However, the running and maintenance costs are relatively low. Only one manager and a laborer is needed. Plants and fish are produced from the same fish feed, and the system requires only 1.62kw of electricity, excluding heating costs. A 3.3kw heat pump can be installed, but will only be used during winter times. Water usage is relatively low at about 2000L per week in summer and approximately half of that in winter. Little space is needed to erect a facility.

IS AQUAPONICS APPROPRIATE TO THE SA MARKET?

The SA climate suits this type of farming, thanks to high average solar energy and appropriate mean temperatures. The challenge of relatively mild local winters can be met with low energy-requirement heat pumps to maintain aquaculture tank temperatures. The development of ever-cheaper solar power with storage for small systems will effectively benefit the agro- industry, particularly smaller-scale operations.

IS AQUAPONICS ORGANIC?

Aquaponics is totally organic. The Aquaponics process is a natural interaction between fish and the plants that produces no toxic waste, and does not use any chemical fertilizers or nutrients. Both the plants and the fish contribute to the cycling process of Aquaponics, with the grower using this interaction to their benefit – the fish provide the nutrients for the plants and the plants filter the water so that the fish are able to live.Natural chemicals and the fish food are the only additives to the aquaponics system.

DOES AQUAPONICS NEED A GREENHOUSE?

A greenhouse is not an essential part of an aquaponics system, although it provides enormous protection for the system compared to being exposed to the elements (rain, hail, wind etc). If you live in an area where it gets cold during winter, a greenhouse is needed for the protection of the fish and plants during the colder months. Aquaponics systems can also be set up indoors, using grow lights over the plants instead of using sunlight. However, this system uses more power than a greenhouse system due to the cost of running the lights.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AQUAPONICS?

  • Reduced water use.

  • Reduced chemical use.

  • Reduces pesticides use when set up in a greenhouse.

  • Reduces erosion by eliminating the need to plough the soil.

  • Reducing running costs compared to conventional horticultural farming.

  • Can produce fish and plants for the family/grower all year round, using a greenhouse.

TO ENABLE YOU TO SET UP A AQUAPONICS FARMING SYSTEM YOU WILL NEED A PROFESSIONAL AND BANKABLE FARM BUSINESS PLAN.

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START AN EVENT PLANNING SERVICE

                                                   

The special events industry has grown enormously during the past decade. According to resent research conducted by Dr. Joe Goldblatt (Certified Special Events Professional) spending for special events worldwide is $500 billion annually. “Suffice it is to say, the market is large enough to support and sustain your endeavor”, says Goldblatt. If you’re working in one special events area, there are many directions in you can expand. If you’re just entering the profession of special events, there is a lucrative market awaiting you on many fonts.

WHAT IS EVENT PLANNING?

This question actually breaks down into 2 questions: What kind of events are we talking about? and what is event planning? Generally speaking, special events occur for the following purposes:-

Celebrations – fairs, parades, weddings, reunions, birthdays, anniversaries.

Education – conferences, meetings, graduations.

Promotions – product launches, political rallies, fashion shows.

Commemorations – memorials, civic events.

This list isn’t an exhaustive one, but as the examples illustrate, special events may be business related, purely social or somewhere in between. Second Question: What is event planning? Planners of an event may handle any or all of the following tasks related to that event:-

  1. Conducting research.

  2. Creating an event design.

  3. Finding a site.

  4. Arranging for food, decor and entertainment.

  5. Planning transportation to and from the event.

  6. Sending invitations to attendees.

  7. Arranging any necessary accommodations for attendees.

  8. Coordinating the activities of event personnel.

  9. Supervising at the site.

  10. Conducting evaluations of the event.

WHY DO PEOPLE HIRE EVENT PLANNERS?

The question has a simple answer: Individuals often find they lack the expertise and time to plan events themselves. Independent planners can step in and give these special events the attention they deserve.

TARGET MARKET

Broadly speaking, there are two markets for event planning services: Corporate and Social. The term corporate includes not only companies but also charities and non-profit organizations. Charities and non-profit organizations host gala fundraisers, receptions and athletic competitions, among other events, to expand their public support base and to raise funds.

SOCIAL MARKET

Social events include weddings, birthdays, anniversary parties, sweet 16 parties, children’s parties, reunions and so on. You may decide to handle all of these events or just specialize in one of more of them. The market for social events, especially birthdays and anniversaries, is expected to continue to increase over the next few years, as baby boomers mature. This group has children getting married, parents celebrating golden anniversaries, and their own silver wedding anniversaries to commemorate. 

                        

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WHY TUNNEL FARMING?

                                              

Tunnel farming has been around in South Africa for almost 4 decades. In the 70’s it was found that vegetables could be successfully grown without soil by using nutrient based solutions. Furthermore, great success was achieved by covering the plants with a plastic-clad semi-circular structure, dubbed a “tunnel”.

Tunnels may also be called, high hoops, high tunnels or poly tunnels. Tunnels are some times confused with “greenhouses”. The key difference is that tunnels are not heated and provide less climate control and are also less expensive. In South Africa, heating is not as critical as other climates such as in European countries. This immediately gives tunnel farming a competitive advantage over establishment costs.

There are many advantages to using this method of cultivating plants. The plants are grown in plastic tunnels in a growth medium other than natural soil. The plants get a constant flow of nutrients as they are dissolved in the irrigated water system thus creating large and high quality crops.

ADVANTAGES OF TUNNEL FARMING:-

  • High quality products.

  • No soil is needed.

  • Plants get a constant supply of nutrients through an automatic irrigation system.

  • Able to produce larger yields of vegetables on a small area of land.

  • Soil borne diseases are reduced or eliminated.

ADVANTAGES OF VEGETABLE PRODUCTION:-

     * Soil preparation and weeding is reduced or eliminated.

      * One does not need good soil to grow vegetables.

     * Water is used efficiently.

     * Pollution of soil with unused nutrients is greatly reduced.

     * It is possible to produce very high yields of vegetables on a small area because  an environment optimal for plant growth is created. All the nutrients add water that the plants need, are available at all times.

The most important issues to consider before constructing a tunnel are the location, available budget and potential crops. When considering where to locate your first tunnel, it is wise to plan for expansion. Also consider the market area and the number of plants you expect to grow. Include space for roadways, parking lots, packaging, storage and sales.

Other considerations include orientation, airflow, shading, windbreaks,weeds, drainage and other pests. Make sure to consider how irrigation and power will be delivered to the tunnel, including during winter months if winter production is intended.

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HOW TO START YOUR OWN GARLIC BUSINESS

                                                      

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a hardy crop that can survive low winter temperatures. While temperature and day length influence bulb formation, this is to a lesser extent than demonstrated by onions. Most conditions suitable for onion production also apply to garlic cultivation, with the ideal growth temperatures between 13oC and 24oC.

THE MARKET

The market is not just South Africa. Exporters can handle everything produced here for export to Germany, Australia etc, especially large cloves which travel well and have long shelf- lives. Locally, it can be sold to traders either whole, chopped, minced or flaked. Great strides have been made in the field of medicine and garlic is featuring in antiseptics and pain killing drugs. Normal garlic consumption has increased tremendously over the last few years.

PLANTING

Space the divided cloves 8cm to 15cm apart in rows 30cm to 40cm apart. Plant the cloves approximately 50mm deep in raised beds or on level ground, by hand or mechanically. While the ideal planting date varies from one area to another, the general recommendation in South Africa is from February to May.

IRRIGATION

Garlic is successful under furrow, sprinkler, or drip irrigation. Its relatively shallow root system makes it sensitive to moisture stress throughout the growing season. While soil type determines the frequency of irrigation, it does not affect the total amount of water needed, and by using mulch will reduce moisture less from the soil surface.

LAND REQUIREMENTS

Initially, in order to plant 10 000 cloves, approximately 600m2 is required. The yield from this land should be approximately 15tons/hectare, depending on the soil type, local conditions etc. Sandy soil makes for easier weeding, growth and harvesting, but any type will produce a good crop should the right additives, fertilizer etc be employed.

WATER REQUIREMENTS

This will vary according to the soil type. A reasonable borehole will suffice.

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TABLE GRAPES & RAISIN FARMING

                                                                

Table grapes are grapes intended for consumption while they are fresh, as opposed to grapes grown for wine production, juice production, or for drying into raisins. Table varieties usually have lower sugar content than wine grapes and are more flavorful when eaten. The Orange River; the valleys of the Hex, Berg and Olifants Rivers; and Limpopo province are the main producers of table grapes.

Planting Tips

Follow these easy tips for growing delicious grapes:-

Soil Preparation: Choose a sunny place for your grape plant to grow, where the soil drains well. Prepare a 60cm x 60cm hole. Mix some rich, compost into the topsoil removed from the hole and put this mix back into the hole. Compost also helps soil retain water.

Plant Correctly: Plant the root and stem of the vine about 400mm deep, leaving about 50mm of stem above the ground level. Cover the exposed stem with loose soil. New shoots will force their way through the mound of soil and do not need to be covered.

During the summer, allow it to grow unchecked. Remember to fertilize regularly but try to keep soil fertility at a moderate level – too much fertilizer will cause excessive vegetative growth, while too little will decrease the plant’s productivity.

Always mulch your plants – mulch conserves soil water and is Water Wise.

Pruning

  • In the first winter, choose the strongest branch of your plant and cut it back to two eyes.

  • Remove all other branches and when the two eyes send out new shoots, choose the most vigorous one and tie it to the support fence or pergola. Cut of the other shoot.

  • As the stronger shoot grows, tie it to the support fence and pinch off side shoots at every 25cm interval.

  • When the selected shoot reaches the desired height, cut it off at this height. The two side shoots which develop are now trained to grow horizontally outward on each side of the main stem.

Grapevines are not difficult to grow- they like gravel and stony soils, where the soil drains well. They do not respond well to over- or under watering. As they are woody climbing vines you will need to provide a strong support for your grape plant, such as a pergola or strong fence.

RAISIN PRODUCTION

25 years ago, a raisin was a raisin. All raisins were made from Thompson Seedless grapevines and all were tray dried in the field. Research and Development work has now given us more than six different seedless varieties of grapes that can be made into raisins and three different commercial techniques that can be used to provide raisins.

For the last 80 years, the vast majority of raisins have been made from Thompson Seedless grapevines, using a traditional drying process where field workers manually harvest clusters of mature grapes and lay them on paper trays, between the vine rows, to dry. This traditional approach to producing raisins is very labor intensive and research efforts began in the 1950s to develop mechanized raisin harvesting.

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CATTLE & SHEEP FARMING

                                          

CATTLE FARMING

Beef farming slots in well with other agriculture enterprises, especially grain. Cattle can feed on resources that have little other use, such as crop residue and land not suitable for crops.

Before entering the cattle business, though, you should consider your resources, the land available and your level of interest and skill. You should know why you want to rear cattle, and be able to set yourself goals to achieve the most constant economic return or personal satisfaction.

A small-scale cattle enterprise can involve a growing and feeding system (calves or weaners are either raised or bought and then fattened for slaughter), breeding herds, or a combination of growing, feeding and breeding herds.

Growing/ Feeding

In a weaner operation you acquire calves after weaning at 10 to 15 months of age. They can then be fed and marketed in less than a year from the time of purchase. Thus, the investment on each calf is returned within a comparatively short time. This type of operation not require much land, but you will need adequate facilities to keep the animals comfortable and under control. Working with calves requires a good deal of patience, as they are easily excited and stressed, and a health program should be discussed with a vet.

Commercial or Registered?

Establishing a breeding herd is a long-term objective. You need to decide whether to run commercial cattle or registered purebred cattle. Income from a commercial beef herd comes mainly from the sale of calves and old or cull animals, whereas income from registered cattle comes mostly from sale of breeding stock.

Breeding registered cattle to supply breeding animals to other cattle producers usually needs a large capital investment in stock. You also will have to keep accurate records and register the purebred calves retained for breeding stock.

SHEEP FARMING      

                                                           

Sheep husbandry is mainly practiced in the Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Free State and Mpumalanga, with the other provinces having smaller numbers. The domestic sheep is produced for its wool, meat and milk. Other byproducts are:-

  • Clothes, footwear, rugs, and other products are made from sheepskin.
  • Sheep tallow can be used in candle and soap making.
  • Sheep droppings, which are high in cellulose, have even been sterilized and mixed with traditional pulp materials to make paper.
  • Of all sheep byproducts, the most valuable is lanolin: the water proof, fatty substance found naturally in sheep’s wool and use as a base for innumerable cosmetics and other products.

Small can be profitable

A small sheep farming operation calls for dedication, discipline and a genuine concern for the animals. Sheep farming is not simply about numbers. A small number of well-managed, productive animals may make you more money than a larger number of animals on poor condition.

GENERAL

Inoculation

It is crucial to follow a proper inoculation and dosing program. Keep record of the dates of dosing or inoculation and the quantity used on each sheep.

Hooves

Trim the animal’s hooves regularly, especially if they have to walk long distances to and from grazing.

Clean Wool

To ensure good clip prices, keep the wool on the sheep free from thorns and grass seed.

Keep Records

In addition to keeping records of inoculations, newborn lambs, the sale of ewes and so on, it is extremely important to keep proper records of expenses and income to determine the profitability of the operation. Without this, you cannot run a business successfully.

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SUCCESSFUL PECAN NUT FARMING

                                      

Pecan Nut production is a lucrative industry. “Income harvested from 2 pecan nut trees is equivalent to that from 1t of maize” says Phillip Antrobus pecan nut farmer. Pecan nut trees are fast growers and can become very tall. The nut has a high nutritional value because it is rich in protein, vitamins, carbohydrates and nut oil.

Climatic Requirements

  • The pecan nut tree is well adapted to subtropical areas.
  • It also grows well in areas with short, cold winters and long very hot summers.
  • Low temperatures and even frost during June to August are required for successful budding and flower formation.
  • During the summer months (October to April) the tree requires high temperatures for fruit growth.
  • Trees are successfully established in valleys and along rivers where the winter temperature is low and frost occurs.

Soil Preparation

Examine the soil regarding depth, drainage and compacted layers.

* The soil should be at least 2m deep.

* The physical suitability of a soil can only be evaluated by digging holes in the ground and examining the soil profile.

* The soil should be prepared carefully and well in advance of planting.

Planting

The pecan nut tree is deciduous and can therefore only be transplanted during winter. The best results are obtained when establishing orchards with trees planted during July and August.

Planting in Orchards

  1. Loosen the topsoil to a depth of 1m before planting.
  2. The depth of the hole must be deeper than 1m, or at least 200mm deeper than the length of the tap root.
  3. Some loose soil should be replaced, so that the cut end of the tap root is in loose soil. This promotes vertical root growth during the first season of establishment.
  4. Well-rotted compost (plant material) can be added to the hole.
  5. Zinc fertilizer (22%Zn) should be added and mixed well with the topsoil. No other fertilizer should be applied at planting.

Aftercare

  • Newly planted trees must be irrigated immediately.There after, irrigation should be applied carefully because too much water given before the tree start growing, may cause the roots to rot.
  • They should be treated against possible termite attacks by timeously destroying all termite nests in the vicinity.
  • The trees should be white-washed to prevent sunburn damage. It is advisable to put a straw mulch around the base of the young tree for better moisture conservation and to protect the roots against high temperatures. After planting , the trees must be topped to encourage branching to form a framework. A height of 1m is recommended.
  • Inspect young trees regularly during the first season after planting.

To set up a successful pecan nut farming operation you’ll need a professional and well- written farming business plan.

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SUCCESSFUL POTATO & ONION FARMING

                          

POTATOES

Potatoes are recognized as an important foodstuff worldwide and is seen as a key component in the worldwide fight against hunger and malnutrition and the creation of food security. Potatoes are packed with vitamin B3, B5, B6, C and fibre. They are ranked after rice, wheat and maize as the world’s 4th largest food crop.

Planting

Mid August to mid October (depending on the area) is the ideal time to plant sprouted potatoes in the open ground. Late varieties can be planted during December. Plant main crop potatoes about 35cm apart, in rows which are 75cm apart. Where you are planting more than one row, the rows should (ideally) run from North to South to allow each plant its full share of sun.

Growing

Frost damage is the first concern during the early stages. If shoots emerge above the soil level and frost threatens, draw a little soil from the bed edges over them. After the plants have grown to about 20cm, rake up some soil from in between the rows and cover the plants with it, leaving only a few cm of the top of the plant still showing. Repeat this exercise again in 2-3 weeks time.

During the growing season, ensure that the weeds are removed regularly. A month or so after planting, the dense foliage of the plant should then block out sufficient light to deter all but the most vigorous weeds.

Harvesting & Storage

Potatoes are ready for harvest when the foliage first starts to die and turn yellow. Early (new) potatoes can be lifted earlier to get the very tastiest potatoes. In this case, harvest them about a week after the potato plant flowers first appear. New potatoes only produce a couple of handfuls of potatoes per plant, so dig up the whole plant.

If you don’t need all the potatoes from a plant at one time or if you want a few early in the season, simply burrow around the roots with your hands and remove the potatoes you need. The remaining potatoes will continue to grow. Store potatoes in boxes or sacks, checking them every few days, removing all but those in good condition. Damaged or blemished potatoes should be eaten immediately. 

ONIONS

Onions are part of the Allium family which also includes garlic and shallots. They are grown world-wide and form an important part of many national diets. Onions have been cultivated since ancient times and are a commercially significant crop on all continents.

Although onions are essentially a cool season crop and in South Africa they are planted virtually all year round. In the Northern regions of the country sowing is normally from February to April. In the Central region from April to July and the Southern regions transplanted from July to October.

Soil Preparation

It is essential that soil is well-prepared for an onion crop. It should be loose to a depth of at least 75cm and if heavy rain is expected in the early stages of growth, raised beds will reduce the effect of any water-logging. Where seed is to be direct-sown a fine even seed bed is vital in order to produce an acceptable stand.

Irrigation

The soil profile should be wet to a depth of 50-60cm. The amount of water applied will vary according to soil type, irrigation system temperature and growth stage of the crop. Many growers now make use of monitoring systems in order to make the best use of available water. Dry-land production of onions is not recommended.

Harvesting & Marketing

Once the onions have fallen they are lifted and left to dry in windrows or heaps until cured. The curing process allows for development of scale leaf color and firming of the bulbs. The bulbs are then either cleaned by hand or machine and sized, sorted, graded, and packed. Most onions are marketed in 7 or 10kg bags through municipal or other markets. A medium size bulb is preferred but there is also demand for smaller and larger bulb sizes. The largest demand in South Africa is for yellow or brown onions but there is a small market for red and pink varieties.

Let us help you with a professional farming business plan and assistance. Call us at (27) 11 704 1248 or email money@global.co.za

                                                    

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HOW TO START A BERRY FARMING OPERATION

                                         

WHY GROW BERRIES?:

Berries are a high-value, nutrient – dense crop. Farmers grow them for the market to bring in extra cash. Berries are the cherished fruit of every farm, and once planted, they often produce for seasons to come. Find out which berry types will give you instant gratification and which are easy to care for.

BLACKBERRIES

They are easy to grow once you get the hang of the pruning routine, and the large, juicy berries will yield their first harvest in the second summer. Although they are delicious, they are farther down on the popularity ranking and fewer farmers are growing them.

Be aware that raspberries, strawberries, blueberries and blackberries are all perennial fruits.. This means that you only get one chance to set up their site properly. You should plant them 2 1/2 feet apart in rows. Clear the planting area of weeds and work in compost and other spoil amendments before planting. Spring and fall are the best times to plant perennials.

BLUEBERRIES

Blueberry shrubs are slow-growing and usually take about three years to begin bearing fruit. If you’re busy setting up a new farm, this is one crop that you can plant right away and then get on with other tasks while they get established.

For the best harvest, choose a site that is in full sun. Blueberries will enjoy a north – facing slope or the north side of a building in order to prevent damage from late- spring frosts, and it’s essential that the site be well-drained. Blueberries have specific soil needs. The pH must be between 4.5 and 5.0, and the soil must be amended if it doesn’t meet this requirement. They grow well on slopes or in raised beds where drainage is ideal. Plant them either in spring or fall, spaced about 4 feet apart.

STRAWBERRIES

Strawberry plants will produce a heavy yield in the late spring of their second year. June – bearing strawberries should be planted in full sun for the maximum yield. They like rich, loose soil that drains well. For this reason, they are often planted on slopes or in raised beds. Plant them in the early spring, after the soil had dried a bit, spaced 12 inches apart.

In the first year, remove runners and flowers, in order to encourage the plants to put energy into developing strong root systems. Keep plants well-watered in the first year.

GROUND CHERRIES

Ground Cherries or husk cherries, strawberry tomatoes, or husk tomatoes- are an annual in the nightshade family that will produce heavy harvests like other nightshade vegetables, such as tomatoes. They’re golden, tart – sweet berries with a strawberry pineapple- like flavor. They are reminiscent of cherry tomatoes except that they grow inside a paper – like husk. They can be eaten fresh and are popularly used to make jams, preserves, baked goods or salsa. Unfortunately, because they’re frost sensitive they’ll need to be replanted each year.

Try “Aunt Molly’s”, a heritage variety from Poland known to be prolific and super sweet. Practice good crop rotation, as ground cherries are susceptible to many of the same diseases as other nightshades.

RASPBERRIES

Raspberries are one of the most popular berries to grow, and some varieties produce two crops – one in spring and another in fall. This type is called ever bearing or full-bearing. Ever-bearing raspberries that are planted in the spring will usually produce a harvest in the fall of the first year. No waiting – outside of the usual growing season, that is!

Raspberries are self- pollinating, so you can grow a single plant or a whole stem of them. Site your raspberries in full sun spaced 2 feet apart in rows with good drainage. They’ll enjoy a north – facing slope or the north side of a building in order to protect them from late-spring frosts. Keep the plants well-watered in their first year, and use a trellis system to keep canes and berries off the ground and to make the canes more manageable.

ELDERBERRY

Elderberry (European Black Elder) is a truly multi-purpose plant and can be used for a hedge, wildlife attractant, landscaping and for their abundance of fruit. This Elderberry plant is easy to grow, care for and can grow up to 6m high. This variety is self pollinating, but will bear even better quality fruit when pollinated with another Elderberry plant. Elderberry fruit is a glossy dark purple to black berry, 506 mm in diameter, produced in drooping, sometimes numerous clusters in late summer.

Like most other berries, Elderberries are full of antioxidants and contain high amounts of Vitamin C which aid your immune system in preventing and fighting off colds and flu. The Elderberry is easy to grow. The plant should be placed in full sun, but tolerates party shade. A soil PH level of 5.5 – 6.5 is optimal. The plant prefers loamy to sandy soil, but will also tolerate clayey soil.

Planting any edible perennial requires patience, as they usually take from one to three years to begin producing a monthly yield. Luckily, there are a few quick-yielding crops to note that will help take you over.

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GOAT FARMING IN SOUTH AFRICA

                                               

Goat Farming in South Africa can be a very lucrative business if done right. Choose the right breeds of goats for your location and you could raise superior livestock. Goats are hardy animals and can survive under harsh environments. They have survived centuries of periodic drought’s and harsh temperatures. They also have the reputation of being resistant to the majority of tropical diseases and parasites.

Goats are a great source of income. Because of their small size, adaptive feed behavior and low management, goats are a viable option in improving cash flow.

Types of Goat Enterprises

Goat farming in South Africa is a diverse business. Goats produce dairy and have delicious meat, can be bread and even their skin can be used. As a business owner you need to explore these avenues where you can make the most money.

Decide on which area you want to focus:-

1. Meat Goats;

2. Dairy Goats;

3. Fibre Goats.

You can choose one type or combine all three systems in your operation. Your interest and abilities and physical resources on your farm should determine which type of enterprise you choose.

Goat Farming Products

  • Goat’s meat;
  • Goat’s milk;
  • Goat’s cheese;
  • Goat skin and fibre;
  • Goat milk soap.

Additional sources of income:-

  • Breeding Goats for sale;
  • Sales of excess males from dairy operations;
  • Leasing out goats to clear brush;
  • Goat manure for fertilization.

How big should I start?

Determine the number of goats you want to begin with. Pick a number that would be sustainable enough to get things moving, depending on the purpose of your farming in South Africa. It might be 300 or 500 depending on the size and location of your pasture and type of goat breed. Fewer than 150 is usually not enough to support one person or a small family.

Goat Breeds

There are many types of goats, but the breed you choose will depend on your enterprise and what products you want to sell. Carefully decide on the breeds of goats you want to farm.

Meat

Goat meat is in high demand. The meat is widely consumed and accepted as an edible meat by people all around the world irrespective of tribal or religious differences.

Dairy

Goat’s milk is enriched with many necessary nutrition elements and is easy to digest. Many consumer markets are currently shifting from the consumption of other dairy products in favor of goat’s milk.

Fibre

If you want to produce fibre from your farm then Cashmere and Angora goats will be most suitable.

Location and Housing

Buy a sizeable expanse of land to comfortably accommodate your goats. You will need to fence the land for security purposes. If you are near a consumer population, consider farm tourism as part of your income. If your goal is to sell milk, then there is an advantage in decreasing trucking costs when you are located close to a milk purchaser. Goats are very adaptive animals and don’t need an elaborate goat barn. A simple three-sided shed facing away from prevailing winter winds will suffice.

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SMALL SCALE DAIRY FARMING

                                     

As the fifth-largest agriculture industry in South Africa, milk production provides a regular income for thousands of small and large producers. Commercial dairy farming is a demanding and complex operation. To succeed at it, you need to understand dairy cattle. Highly sophisticated equipment is used for milking, and it is essential to employ skilled well-trained workers and also adhere to strict quality control regulations.

Buying a Dairy Farm

Buying a dairy farm is not a decision you should make without talking to experts and considering various factors, as it involves investing a huge amount of money. Not only do you need enough money to buy the farm, you will need money to maintain farming activities and develop the farm in future. The neighbors, local vet, and agriculture expert at your bank can all provide valuable information and advice.

You should find out more about the following important factors:-

  • Availability of dependable electricity;
  • Existing milk facilities and equipment;
  • Distance of the farm to the nearest town;
  • Existing milk route of milk buying companies;
  • Condition of the roads to the farm;
  • Existing contract with a company that buys milk;
  • Availability of sufficient water;
  • Existing pastures and types of soil.

Getting the basics right:-

According to Milk SA preparing adequate infrastructure and establishing a market for your products are crucial for success:

1. Make sure that there is a co-op, shop, school, processor, or even a clinic that will buy your milk;

2. Find out the type of packaging your customer prefers. Some clients for example, want plastic bottles, while others may bring their own containers;

3. Refrigeration is crucial. Your customer will not want warm milk that will sour quickly;

4. If a buyer or processor collects milk from your farm ensure that the access roads are good and your reception area is up to standard;

5. A collection center will only buy milk that has been tested.

Understand the Dairy Market

Before you can sell your milk, it is necessary that you understand some basic principles. Once you understand these principles, you will be able to expand your milk sales with confidence. The production of milk follows a process that basically consists of four steps:-

1. Rearing Animals – feeding, breeding and caring for them.

2. Collecting, Chilling and Bulking – transporting your milk to the collection center or to your customers or the collection of milk on your farm.

3. Producing – milking your cows.

4. Marketing – the sales of your milk, directly to the public or to a buyer or co- operative.

Testing

Once you start selling your milk to a collection center, you will have to agree to the testing of your milk. A center will not buy milk if they are not sure that the milk is hygienic. If you are selling to a shop or to the community, it is your duty to supply safe, clean, fresh and hygienic milk.

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ROSE FARMING PRODUCTION

                               

There are more than a hundred species and thousands of cultivars. The flowers vary in size and shape and are usually large and showy. Colors range from white through yellows and reds. Rose plants range in size from compact, miniature roses, to climbers that can reach 7m in length. Different species hybridize easily, and this has been used in the development of the wide range of garden roses.

Temperature Requirements

The optimal temperature for spore germination is between 10 OC and 18 OC. Germination does not take place at temperatures below 5 OC and the spores are killed off when temperatures are above 27 OC. Spores survive on dried, fallen leaves for as long as one month.

Pruning

Pruning took place during July and August and De-budding whenever necessary through the summer months. The reason for De- budding is that the stems grow longer and the plant doesn’t waste nutrition on buds that cannot be cut for bunches. It is important to leave three or four branches per plant, depending on the size and strength of the plant. To ensure better growth, the branches must not lie over each other and they should encircle the base of the plant. Pencil- thick stems are cut away to stimulate growth and length.

Cutting & Bunching

Cut roses are carried directly to the sorting table and grouped according to length, as this makes it easier to put the stems through the stripping machine, which removes leaves and thorns. Stems are then sorted into colors and similar lengths, and immediately placed in buckets of fresh water in the cold room. From here, they are bunched and wrapped in paper for delivery.

Cultivation & Propagation Methods

Rose plants are mainly propagated by the seeds, layers, by budding and cuttings. Budding is considered to be one of the best methods for propagating rose plants. They can be planted in the circular pits about 60 to 90cm across and 60 to 75cm deep. Remove all the broken and bruised leaves while planting is important in rose farming. Roses require at least 8 hours of direct sunlight for the growth. The rose plants requires Organic malter which include Farm Yard Manure (FMY) and some fertilizers at the time of planting.

If you are planning to start flower farming then a Rose Farming Business is the most profitable business for farmers to start. Roses are the king of all flowers and it is a very pretty flower which is grown in all around the world. Rose flowers and Rose Oil are very popular in the local market as well as in the global market.

Selection of the right variety of Rose is an important factor in Commercial Rose Farming. Production of quality roses are important to win in the international flower market. Roses have various uses depending on the species and varieties. They may be used as garden plant-sand cut flowers. They can also used in making rose water, rose oil and gulland.

Start your Rose Farming operation in a professional way by preparing a well-planned business plan or make use of a suitable consultant to assist you in the process.

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HOW TO START A HUNTING & GAME FARM

                    

   A Hunting and Game Farm is normally run as a joint enterprise, the one supporting the other. Game animals are farmed for the purposes of meat, skin and horn off-take (culling) and tourist viewing. The culling is usually combined with sport- hunting. Game farming may also yield benefits in term of photographic safaris, fishing and many others.

The Game Farm business concept is critical to the future of the hunting industry because game farmers supply the animals that populate the nation’s preserves. In some cases, game farm entrepreneurs also engage in the process and sale of game meat or the delivery of bred game stock to individuals and commercial growers.

BUSINESS REQUIREMENTS  

Requirements for the efficient management of a game farm include:

  • A facility for slaughtering, processing and packing of meat;
  • Trophy processing;
  • Accommodation;
  • Vehicles for hunting;
  • A likely minimum of 1000 ha of land;
  • Wildlife Management;
  • Marketing of carcasses and live game; and
  • Research on the needs of the species of game that will survive in the area, water sources, soil type and the like.

In terms of economics, the value of game ranching can be summarized as follows:-

1. Game ranching works essentially on four levels. The first level is the “sale of hunting trips and venison”, the second level is the “sale of live game at auctions”; the third level is the “processing of animal products”; and the fourth level is the “provision of game lodges, conferences, facilities and related services”. Job opportunities open at all 4 levels.

2. The Eco- tourism industry accounts for at least R2.5 billion. There is a huge potential for future growth in Eco-tourism on game ranches, mainly because its market share of the total tourism industry is relatively small in South Africa.

3. The percentage income derived from auctions, hunting and Eco-tourism differs widely between the different regions and depends on the distance from the big cities and the availability of the Big Five.

One of the biggest mistakes aspiring farmers make is that they forget that while a farm is a lifestyle, it is also a business. Making a farm profitable requires planning and business savvy. Luckily there are professional consultants that can help writing a sound and professional business plan for you.

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RABBIT FARMING – HOW TO START

                                

Rabbit meat is considered a “niche” product and as a result the producer can expect a better price than most other industries. According to Pieter Keyser, a rabbit farmer from Colicky in the North West Province, the South African market has not even started to fully experience this industry due to substantial exports to Europe, feeding the unsatisfied market.

Why Rabbit Farming?

Rabbit meat has been put in the same category as Chicken meat (Poultry). Rabbit meat has been dubbed as the most nutritional meat known to men. This emanates from the following facts about rabbit meat:-

  • Rabbit meat has the highest protein content of all meats;
  • Rabbit meat has the lowest fat content in meat as compared to other meats. In addition, 63% of rabbit meat’s fat is unsaturated fat, which is regarded as good fat.
  • Rabbit meat is also low in calories compared to all similar white meat i.e. content per gram.

Other than the aforementioned health benefits, the rabbit business itself is financially profitable when high standards are maintained in the rabbi try, which results in high meat quality being produced.

How to Raise meat Rabbits

Prepare your facilities.

Rabbits need very little space. Banks of cages can be installed in a shed, or barn. Covered hutches are all that is necessary. Decide how many rabbits you intend to keep as breeding stock, and prepare enough cages for all of them.

Raising.

You need to decide whether you want to raise pure bred rabbits or if you are more concerned with producing the most efficient rabbits.

Food.

Choose a high protein food that will sustain breeding stock, but also will lead to fast growth rates. 14% – 16% feed should be sufficient, and will cause kits to grow at their fastest rates.

Breeding.

Breed rabbits regularly. Always take the doe to the buck’s cage so that they will not be distracted by the new environment of the doc’s cage. The gestation period for rabbits is about 30 days.

Feeding.

Feed kits all that they will eat. You want the kits-to grow as quickly as possible to butchering size. You can butcher kits at 8 weeks old, and they will be “fryer” size. Typically you want your kits to reach about 4-5 pounds by the time the kits are 8 weeks old.

Health.

Always keep rabbits healthy. Watch for diseases, and watch for bad teeth. Both of these can be detrimental to your herd.

To set up a rabbit farming business doesn’t need much money like every farming do, rather it takes a lot of knowledge about the animal husbandry and how best to raise animals, You have to start with a profitable rabbit farming business plan in order to gain high profit in the short term.

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HOW TO START PIG FARMING FROM SCRATCH?

        

A Pig Farmer has 2 options:

  1. Intensive farming; or
  2. Free – Range Farming.

Intensive Pigs are kept in a high-density, closed housing system.

Free RangePigs are running in smallish camps, foraging on feed crops such as oats, barley, lucerne and even grass.

Both systems have their advantages and disadvantages, but pig farmers should also consider other factors before taking the plunge.

To breed or not :

Do you plan to breed pigs, or to buy young pigs (weaners) to grow and sell? It better to start with weaners, grow them and sell them a few times before attempting to breed them. You will get to understand pigs better and be better able to develop management protocols. Your management skills should be sound when you start breeding, as this process is far more complicated and difficult than rearing pigs.

Infrastructure

Pigs are strong animals but are easily stressed by factors such s insufficient feed and water, and severe weather if not housed properly. This will decrease productivity, leading to losses. Pigs need solidly built infrastructure including housing, water troughs and fencing.

Feed

  • What feed will you use?
  • Will it be pigswill or leftovers from restaurants or supermarkets?
  • Pigs grow more slowly on a unbalanced diet, or will you feed pigs a commercial balanced pig ration, which is more expensive?

Before buying your first pigs, make sure you can afford to vaccinate and feed them until they are market ready.

Water Availability

Will you have a reliable supply of clean, cool water available? Water is often called the ” forgotten nutrient”, and an unreliable supply can lead to serious loss in productivity, disease and even mortality. A young, growing pig will require at least 10L of water a day while an adult pig can drink 25L – 50L a day.

Genetics

Buy good pigs; never purchase pigs just because they’re cheap. Poorly bred pigs may carry a disease, be genetically inferior or take longer to grow to a marketable size. They may also have poor body conformation or a poor meat-to-fat ratio. The market may not be satisfied with such pork, and this will affect your good name as a supplier.

Other Information

Other factors to consider include:

  • providing enough shade in a free range set up ( pigs are susceptible to sunburn).
  • access to straw or sawdust for bedding.
  • a reliable market for your pigs.
  • transport available to take pigs to the market.
  • do you see your pig operation as a long-term hobby, or one you plan to grow into a full-time business?

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HOW TO SUCCESSFULLY START A POULTRY FARMING BUSINESS

                    

Many opportunities to start a successful and profitable poultry business exist as long as you start in the right way. How do you start? It is very important to decide upfront which sector of the industry you want to serve. 

The following options are available to suitable farmers:-

Option 1: You can hatch and sell day-old chicks to big producers. You will then only be involved at the first stage of the process and not concerned with the growing of the chicks at all.

Option 2: You can buy day-old chicks and grow them, and then selling them as fully grown chickens.

Option 3: You can become involved in the entire process, including slaughtering.

Option 4: You can build, manage and maintain your own affordable household egg production unit on a small scale. Later on you can increase the size of your unit in order to sell eggs in the community, if the demand for eggs is big enough. Eggs provide a valuable yet affordable source of high quality protein and vitamins required for normal growth, especially for children, when meat is too expensive or unavailable. If you want to start a successful poultry business (small or big) and even if you need money for funding your project or not, the best way is to put all your ideas/plans in a well-structured and bankable farming business plan that any investor can look at. We can help you with this.

Over the next decade the growth in the consumption of chicken meat is projected to outpace the growth for all other types of meat, mainly due to its competitive price related to other proteins. With an increase of 47% (compared to 84% over the period 2002 – 2012) over the next decade the total consumption of chicken meat is projected to reach almost 2.56 million tons by 2022. This implies that the per capita consumption of chicken meat will exceed 48kg by 2022.

WHAT REGULATIONS TO COMPLY WITH

A start-up poultry business must comply with health regulations but does not require a permit or license to start a poultry production business. These differ from area to area, and you should check regulations with the local authority or associations in your area.

OTHER REGULATIONS:-

Abattoirs for broilers.  As the establishment of an abattoir is expensive and complicated to install, it is best for new members to market and sell their broiler chickens live.

Transport Regulations. If you wish to transport slaughtered poultry, you should obtain and study the “Meat Safety Act” No. 40 of 2000 for all the rules. All other regulations including these will be found under the General Regulation of the Public Health Act, 1919.

Animal Welfare. It is essential to ensure that birds are well tended to, that cages are not overloaded and high health standards are maintained. A shower and a disinfectant foot bath is a must before anyone is allowed to enter a broiler house.

Halaal and Kosher Certification. To obtain certification to sell Halaal and Kosher poultry products, your business has to have official certification from the Beth Din (Kosher) and the South African National Halaal Association to produce and sell products for Kosher and Halaal use. Businesses that produce for these religious entities are evaluated and inspected and audits take place regularly.

THE EGG INDUSTRY

The Egg Industry comprises of 3 distinct sectors:-

  1. Day old chick production;
  2. Layer replacement hen production;
  3. Egg production.

Some large companies are integrated and involved in all 3 sectors.

Egg Production Process

Production begins with the breeder stock, at the “fertile egg production facilities” . Good quality eggs are sent to the hatchery for incubation. Those eggs that are not good are sold as by-product to consumers or entrepreneurs. The fertile eggs will produce day-old pullets that will be reared at the rearing facilities until they are ready for laying. At the egg laying facility, the pullets will produce eggs that will be packaged and sold to consumers or be sent for processing.

The Marketing Process

The following tasks are involved in the marketing of eggs:-

  • Collection of shell eggs from farms;
  • Transportation to a grading or packing plant;
  • Grading and standardizing of eggs;
  • Processing and packaging into useful forms that are stable and convenient;
  • Provision of storage facilities;
  • Movement of eggs through wholesale and retail channels;
  • Final delivery of products to consumers at a convenient place and time.

Get funding for your poultry farm

Setting up a poultry farm requires a lot of money, as poultry farming requires an expanse of land a hectare or more wide. You would also have to procure a large herd of chickens that are more than hundreds in number in order to generate the proper returns in income. Fortunately, you can avail yourself of loans that are offered to those that are starting or even those that are already in business. The loans can be used to cover aspects of the business like:-

  • Buying the land to farm on;
  • Start-up costs for the farm;
  • Construction expenses;
  • Animal feeds;
  • Vehicles or Trucks;
  • Operational expenses that need to be paid urgently;

It is also easy to apply for these loans, as long as you can provide the investors  with a well-structured and professional farming business plan. Some investors will also offer you advice from experts in the poultry business, aside from the monetary aid that you will be getting.

Getting your Poultry Farm Compliant

Another important preparation is to comply with regulations. If you plan on engaging in free range farming, then you have to make sure that the operations of your farm and the treatment of your chickens comply with regulations that are formulated for businesses like yours. Check with your local government agencies regulating laws and regulations promulgated for poultry farms.

Adequate Medical coverage for your chickens

Chickens are just like your children and other animals. To ensure continuous production of chicken and eggs, your chickens should be regularly checked by veterinarians to ensure their health. Sick chickens will negatively affect your production, so it is important to have adequate medical coverage for your poultry animals.

SOME QUESTIONS:-

  1. How much floor space will be required per chicken? – It depends on the chicken type. 3 sq feet needed for light chicken and 4 sq feet required for general purpose chicken.
  2. How many types of chicken sheds are used these days? – Most popular ones are the cage sheds and floor sheds.
  3. What is the shed area required for 10 000 birds? – A 30 000 sq feet house is needed for 10 000 chickens. If you prefer a cage type shed then the built up area should be 4000 sq feet depending on the type of cage you use in your poultry farm.

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HYDROPONIC CROP PRODUCTION – Tomatoes, Capsicums, Cucumbers, Lettuce.

                                                    

TOMATOES

Tomatoes are one of the major food crops of the Western world, yet breeders are still trying to improve the fruit’s disease resistance, shape flavor and color. The tomato is a member of the Solanaceae family which also includes peppers, capsicums, eggplants, potatoes and tobacco. While many consider the tomato to be a vegetable, it is in fact a berry fruit. There are many varieties and they are used in many different ways. Some are eaten fresh in salads, others used in cooking. Some varieties are firm and have a large amount of fiber (i.e. they have a low solids content). Firm varieties are preferred for salads and sandwiches. Hence selection of the correct variety is important.

When deciding to start growing tomatoes commercially it is very important to find out what your market wants. If you are seeking to establish a new market then you should do some research into the market size. It is also important to produce quality fruit. The tomatoes should have a uniform color, and fruit showing uneven or blotchy areas should be discarded, as well as bruised, split or misshapen fruit.

Varieties

It is very important to establish the market you are intending to sell to and then produce for that market. While the grower may be proud to produce large prize-winning tomatoes, the normal consumer buys tomatoes that are 65 to 75 mm diameter and weigh 120 to 150 grams. Tomato varieties can be placed in four main categories according to their method of production and market use:

  1. Canning tomatoes.                                                

  2. Greenhouse tomatoes.

  3. Outdoor tomatoes.

  4. Specialty tomatoes. 

Spacing

Plants should not be crowded. Close planting tends to favor leaf diseases and development of smaller fruit. At the same time there must be room to work along the rows and the plants open enough to allow light to penetrate and air to move through the plants. The optimum space per plant is between three and four plants per sq. metre of growing area, and if rows are 30cm wide then the spacing per plant is 45cm or 23,000 plants per hectare with aisle widths of 900 mm in the greenhouse. The density of planting may be increased in spring to give 30,000 plants per hectare of shed.

Fruit Development

Fruit color development is also temperature sensitive, the best red color forms when the average daily temperatures are 18degrees C to 24degrees C. Yellowness increases as temperatures rises above 26 – 29 degrees C. If the temperature rises above 40degrees C, the mechanism for producing the red pigment is destroyed. The affected areas on these fruit are yellow or sun burnt. When the fruit is maturing it is best to reduce the amount of watering to minimize leaf spot damage, as well as fruit damage such as star cracks. Restricting watering also helps to improve the fruits’ keeping qualities.

Harvesting

All produce should be suitably mature when harvested. Maturity must not be confused with ripeness. Maturation can only take place on the vine, whereas ripening (fruit softening and color development) can continue on or off the vine.During vine ripening, sugars, acids and other flavors move into the fruit and the texture is improved. Tomatoes are ready for harvesting about three months after they are transplanted. Optimal color development for tomatoes occurs between 15 – 21 degrees C.

Tomatoes are harvested for the local market at the “breaker” stage which is when the blossom end shows a pink coloring. If you are supplying distant markets the fruit should be green but mature, i.e. the seeds will be fully developed and surrounded by jelly-like flesh that has just started to color, and the fruit surface is a light green color. In warmer weather fruit will need to be picked about two to three times per week; under cooler conditions fruit my be picked less frequently. The stems should be trimmed flush with the top of the fruit to prevent bruising during storage and transit.

CAPSICUMS

Capsicums also called “peppers and chilies” are a rich source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Green capsicums and red chilies have very high levels of Vitamin A; red capsicums are very high in ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). They are a warm season vegetable, requiring a relatively long frost-free growing period for maximum production and perfect for growing in a “tunnel farming” type of operation.

CUCUMBERS

During the last ten years continental cucumbers have grown in acceptance from being a novelty vegetable to a major vegetable crop in a number of areas. They are ideal for tunnel farming type of operations. The techniques used for hydroponic cucumber production often involve a poly-house – tunnel. This will protects the plants from rain, wind, hail, extreme temperatures etc.

LETTUCE

Lettuce is an indispensable part of most salads. It is a summer flowering plant which produces vegetative growth in the cooler months and flowers under conditions of long, warm days. In hot dry weather or when the plant is under stress the plant is inclined to run to seed. The gap between peak maturity and starting to run to seed may be as soon as one week. It is therefore very important to know exactly when to harvest to achieve high quality, well-developed lettuce. We can help in various aspects of setting up a profitable farming operation including farming plans, farming marketing plans etc.

CONTROLLING THE ENVIRONMENT

The major factors that influence plant growth are the interaction of the plants genetic makeup and the environment. The grower has very little control over the genetics of the plant but he can exercise some control over the environment. Most growers show no originality when looking to provide protection to their crops. They tend to move from growing outdoors without any protection to poly-houses which fully enclose their crop.

Windbreaks

The first stage in protecting crops is the use of a windbreak. The material used should allow air to pass through it and simply reduce the velocity of the wind. The barrier must be high enough and strong enough to do its job effectively. Many lettuce growers build windbreaks 7m or more in height, using commercial wind break fabric meshing. Other growers plant trees and bushes to reduce the effects of the prevailing winds.

Rain and Hail

Thew next stage is providing protection from rain and hail. This allows the grower to work with a degree of comfort and at the same time prevents the nutrient solution from being diluted or changed, resulting in crop damage. Many lettuce growers have installed clear plastic covers 5-6 metres above the crops, in the form of a pitched roof.

Temperature Control

In areas where frosts or low temperatures occur, full enclosures such as poly-houses (tunnels)  can be used to help maintain better growing temperatures. However, a problem with poly – houses is that humidity tends to increase and fungal diseases may be encouraged. Moisture condensation inside the poly-house can also lead to water droplets falling on the plants, particularly flowers, as soon as the shed starts to warm up in the morning.

NEED FUNDING? YOU NEED A FARMING BUSINESS PLAN – 084 583 3143 OR EMAIL: money@global.co.za

HYDROPONIC CROP PRODUCTION – Tomatoes, Capsicums, Cucumbers, Lettuce. Read More »

HOW TO START A SUCCESSFUL BAKERY

                    

In order to start a successful bakery you need to possess the qualities of an artist, an ingenious financial manager and a marketing wizard. Should any of these qualities be lacking in your make-up, then the only way to succeed is to bring in people who are rich in the areas where you are lacking. This is according to Pierre Malan who heads up the bakery at 7- Eleven’s Head Office in Epping Cape Town. The most essential ingredient in starting a successful bakery is a love and passion for the industry. It is a tough business that has been complicated by the fact that until now there has been nowhere for people to study and qualify for baking in South Africa.

The South African Chamber of Baking is putting together training courses that will be offered in technicon’s around the country. This will give the Industry a much needed boost. Highly qualified people will be more readily available. Therefore, it will be possible to maintain  high standards in the industry. When starting a bakery, like any other business, it is vital to understand exactly who your target market is. Is the focus of your production going to be in up-market confections, mass production of bread or perhaps something in -between. Once you have a clear understanding of the direction you wish to take it is time to profile your market. This will also help in selecting a good location.  

As with any retail outlet the importance of a good location cannot be over-emphasized. In choosing a location, a number of  aspects need to be taken into account. Not only is it essential to have a high level of passing trade, it must also be thew right kind of passing trade. An upmarket confectionery for example, cannot be successful in a low-income area. Common sense must be exercised when selecting a site. No doubt a confectionery store situated between weight loss outlet and a gym will not be very popular. If the focus of your bakery is the mass production of bread then the best location will most likely be in an industrial area, at a railway station or taxi rank or any other position that is close to the population you wish to service and can be seen by them. An excellent location may not be enough. You cannot always rely on passing trade. It is too dependent on the time of the month. You have to look for business elsewhere to supplement your turnover.

Coffee Shops, food factory shops, wine farms, guest houses and tea gardens are all potential clients for an upmarket confectionery. With an active sales drive and one driver it is possible to more than double the turnover of an outlet. This can make the difference between success and failure. If the focus of a bakery is bread production, the turnover could possibly increased by supplying more exotic breads in addition to the standard loaves.” South Africans are becoming more and more adventurous when it comes to bread”, says Malan. People are starting to experiment with some of the continental breads.

Display counters, fridges, and lightning are all critically important. This is the important place to invest your money. If your products look good and are well displayed you will feel the impact on your bank account. Once the bakery is up and running the quickest way to chase all customers away is to try and save money by using low quality ingredients or selling products that have passed their expiry date. Word of mouth can be the best advertising but also has the power to destroy your business. Every single client must be delighted. For people who have always dreamed of starting a bakery, but do not have the necessary experience and knowledge in either baking or business, there is a range of franchise opportunities available.

BAKERY REQUIREMENTS

Marketing

Generate interest in the “bakery” before opening by putting up a sign and distribute pamphlets as soon as possible. This way you can promote the opening by offering a special offer for opening day and also promote the products you are planning to sell.

Health Requirements

  • No business can sell prepared food to the public until they have a health certificate.
  • During a health inspection the council will check:-
  1. Sinks and tables in the food preparation area – these should preferably of stainless steel, which is easy to clean and does not harbor dirt and bacteria.
  2. Ceilings, walls, and floors (for cracks where bacteria might breed).
  3. Ventilation and lightning. (to avoid damp and dark).
  4. Storage facilities like fridges and deep freezers – to ensure everything operates at the right temperature – bacteria thrives between seven and 65 degrees.
  5. Clothing and equipment – such as headgear, overalls and gloves – to be worn by staff who prepare and handle food.

Equipment

  • Mixers and ovens depending on what you intend to bake.
  • Wrapping material, bags, boxes etc for customers who buy goods to take home.
  • Cooling racks for the food.
  • Display cases so that your customers can see all of the goods you have available.
  • Baking dishes and pans in different shapes and sizes.
  • Mixing bowls to accommodate any job.
  • Chemical detergents and sanitizers to keep your kitchen clean and safe.
  • Various cutlery and utensils that you will need to make the baked goods.

Buying Ingredients

Look for local Wholesalers for goods such as flour, sugar, eggs, milk, chocolate and other baking ingredients. Once you find a few, give them a call to check prices. You can also set up accounts with the wholesalers or pay cash on delivery. If you want a successful operation, do not compromise on quality. The cheapest ingredients may not have the quality you want.

Setting the right price

Ongoing costs, such as ingredients and raw materials, packaging and promotional expenses must be factored into your budget. Prices should take into account things such as employee labour and the cost of the premises including rent and utilities such as water and electricity in addition to the cost of the goods to make the finished product.

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LAND & PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT: How to get involved.

            

LAND DEVELOPMENT

Before you invest in a piece of land, look carefully at the total expenditure you will be incurring and assess your financial requirements. These go beyond the simple purchase price of the land: there will be other costs like transfer fees, legal costs and many other items that will inflate the capital sum needed.

Purchasing the Land:

The first item of mayor expense is the land itself. Before making an “offer to purchase” investigate the prices obtained in recent sales in the same area and compare them with the amounts that sellers were originally asking. Do not base your assessment of the land on the official municipal valuation, as this is used only for purposes of estimating rates and taxes and has no bearing on the actual market value. 

RURAL DEVELOPMENT

The majority of people in South Africa are located in the rural areas, and the majority of them being women and children. Women, especially those in the rural areas, are marginalized in the development process regardless of the new focus on women in development literature. Most women are not involved in the decision-making process, and the few that are involved only appear at the implementation stage where there is need for manpower. Development projects which are geared towards poverty alleviation are planned by men for men and women are very seldom in the planning stage. Women are therefore objects and not subjects of the development process. Most policy makers are not gender sensitive and women often find themselves left behind.

Rural Development projects also seem to be devoid of the attention to local needs and local preferences are therefore sometimes irrelevant. Many rural development projects do not achieve their intended objectives and others even produce unwanted results and perpetuate the existing socio-economic bottlenecks experienced in the rural areas. It is believed that rural development projects will not reach their intended objectives if women continue to be marginalized.

 PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

What often intimidates the first-time owner/builder is the very thought of taking the first step and taking sole responsibility for all major projects. But you will not be alone: you will need to assemble a team and work closely with it over a period of time. This is the real challenge. As the head of that team you will have to organize, co-ordinate, control, motivate and, ultimately, success will depend on your personal leadership qualities. Whatever activities you get involved with, some of the basic guidelines that apply are:-

  • Prepare or ask a “professional consultant” to prepare a proper business plan that will also include a strong financial plan.
  • Be realistic in terms of what you can afford.
  • Plan all your projects in as much detail as possible.
  • Do not begin construction work until the land has been registered in your name and the building plans have been approved.
  • Undertake a thorough cost analysis, or have a computer costing prepared before you start ordering material and building.
  • Supervise the construction work closely, or have an experienced person (i.e. project manager) do this on your behalf.
  • Be careful not to overpay for work done, or to pay for work that has not been started.

Construction Schedule

A detailed schedule will help you to plan – indeed, it is essential to – the administration and execution of the planned projects. The more thoroughly and accurately the program is drawn up, the better the chance of minimizing delays. Among the specific advantages of the schedule are that it:-

  • Makes you think the job through in a logical manner;
  • Helps you schedule the ordering and delivering of materials;
  • Helps you co-ordinate labor, subcontractors, plant hire etc.

Order of Work

Begin by listing all the major stages in the entire program, as follows:-

  1. Procurement of the land.
  2. Obtaining sketch plans.
  3. Obtaining detailed drawings & approval.
  4. Making finance arrangements.
  5. Construction.
  6. Fencing, garden etc.

The construction phase will thereafter have to be broken up into various segments, in enough detail to enable you to co-ordinate the work effectively. The precise sequence will differ slightly from project to project according to individual needs and circumstances. Consider having the schedule drawn up with the aid of a computer, using either the Critical Path Method (CPM) or the Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT). These programs will calculate the “critical path” and identify the critical activities on this path.

 REMODELING & RENOVATION

Remodeling and renovation of old homes could be another option but can be expensive and time consuming, but with some perseverance and patience it can be done. If you interested in following this route keep the following in mind:-

  • Dream. – Dream simple, recognize your needs and estimate the simplest solution.
  • Research – Go to the library/ local bookshop and look at magazines appropriate to your needs.
  • Hire an Architect.
  • Knew your strengths – and your limitations.
  • Don’t delay decisions.
  • Don’t change your mind (too much).
  • Think “restore” not “redo

 STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

There is now an expanding market for private, comfortable off-campus student residences. These offer state-of-the-art facilities such as WIFI, Internet access, laundry, gym and entertainment lounge. Thousands of students registered at higher education institutions search for such accommodation to reside for the duration of their studies but can’t find them. The demand for student accommodation with the right facilities in the right areas still outstrip supply.

Key Factors

Before investing in a student housing property certain key factors should be taken into consideration. It is very important to properly evaluate students’ day-to-day essential requirements. Key factors to consider are:-

  • Location –   Students prefer accommodation that are not too far away from campus.
  • Accessibility – Most students do not own cars and rely on public transport to get around. The property where they reside, therefore, needs to be close to main routes for access to public transport.
  • Security – A secure property is of utmost importance so that students can be assured of a safe environment.
  • Maintenance – Regular maintenance is vital and it is therefore better to have a full-time caretaker on site to handle any minor issues.
  • Other Features – Going the extra mile to ensure tenants are taken good care of is critical as this goes a long way towards ensuring that good tenants renew their lease.

If you are going to need funding for your project it is always better to obtain the services from a “professional business plan consultant” to ensure that your chances in getting finance are much better.

NEED HELP IN ANY AREA – CALL 084 583 3143 or email: money@global.co.za

LAND & PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT: How to get involved. Read More »

DO YOU WANT TO START UP IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY?

                

The local motor industry is accepted by all as a cornerstone of the economy as a well-organized sector. It has grown over the years, while general manufacturing has shrunk. Government is committed to ensuring that this sector grows and develops. Starting an automotive business does not necessarily require experience in this field, although it is helpful. Above all, you should have a passion for cars. In some parts of the automotive aftermarket, there is a significant advantage in purchasing a franchise rather than going it alone. There could be a high standard of technological innovation required or benchmark standards for quality, reliability and performance that have taken an established brand many years to work towards. As with all franchising businesses, the greatest benefit is the opportunity to be be your own boss without the risk involved in starting your own business. Bear in mind that most automotive franchise businesses involve a busy atmosphere and a lot of interaction with people, so this kind of environment should suit your personality. Picking the right opportunity comes down to what you want out of the business, so be sure to do thorough research into the options available and also scrutinize the franchise document of the business you are keen to invest in. A successful franchise requires demand from the market, the ability to attract and retain customers and, but not least, a good location.

WHO ARE YOUR CUSTOMERS?

At some time during the life of a vehicle, various parts are going to wear out and will need replacing or fixing. Operators in the auto aftermarket look to supply the solutions either by targeting consumers directly, or by supplying independent workshops and specialist repairers, garages, fleet operators, or retail and wholesale parts stores.. No matter the client, the focus is always on keeping their vehicles on the road, and finding a quality, cost-effective solution to any problem that arises. The automotive industry is not going anywhere soon. As the trend continue, there will be both old and new business prospects on offer, so it’s worth keeping abreast of the market to spot any gaps. At the end of the day, as long as people drive cars, there will be a demand for maintenance, repairs and body service, and an array of opportunities for potential auto-entrepreneurs.

WHAT YOUR CUSTOMERS WANT?

To set your business apart in this highly competitive marketplace, operators should pay special attention to customer needs and provide customer service levels above expectations. The good name of the industry has been tarnished over the years by fly-by-night operators and dodgy dealers looking to cut corners by supplying inferior parts. Know your products so that you can speak knowledgeable to your customers and steer them in the right direction if they ask your advice. Develop clear procedures that all employees must adhere to when dealing with customers – from greeting them to how to handle complaints. This will all help to create and establish relationships with your customers that will hopefully not only result in a purchase, but will see them coming back time and time again. Extra touches can make all the difference and will influence how your customers view your business. So, after the repairs or service has been carried out; return the seats to their correct positions, and make sure that the car is clean. Stock control is important too. By ensuring you have the right parts on hand you will be able to provide a quick and effective service.

HOW TO START YOUR CAR REPAIR BUSINESS

If you’re mechanically inclined and skilled at troubleshooting mechanical malfunctions in automobiles, you may be interested in starting your own small car repair business. By having the knowledge and abilities for car repair work, the most significant needs of such a business are already met. The steps that remain are mainly organizational and administrative tasks.

1. Scope

Determine the scope of your business. Some mechanics specialize in particular types of automobile repair. Consider whether or not you wish to limit your business to what you’re most skilled at or prefer to do and open it up to all types of repairs. For example, some repair businesses specialize only in transmission work or engine rebuilds. Some shops do only oil changes and basic tune-ups. Other shops work exclusively on exhaust issues or brake systems. However, many individual mechanics who own their own businesses choose to work on all types of issues.

2. Business Plan

Write a business plan that not only includes the scope and direction of your business, but also provides detailed information about financing, number of employees, planned operating hours, plans for supply/parts ordering and any other details that show your garage will be a viable business. If you are having trouble with this step, make use of a reliable and competent consultant that can assist.

3. Permits

Be sure to acquire all necessary permits in order to open a shop. These will vary from region to region, so you’ll need to investigate local laws and make sure you’re covered with all the permits you need.

4. Location

Find a suitable location for your car repair business. If you already have a garage set up that suits your initial purposes for start up, don’t relocate your business. However, if your location doesn’t suit your needs in size, (drive by traffic counts) or any other aspects, consider moving to a new spot. Your new location should be accessible for customers, provide a waiting area and a restroom they may use, and have enough room for you to work and store your tools.

5. Organizing

Organize your garage to fit your needs. Create proper storage for your tools and supplies, along with an organized parts room for spare parts. If you need additional tools or new equipment for your new business to function efficiently and effectively, purchase them. Be mindful of your budget and do not exceed it with extravagant and unnecessarily items.

6. Office

Establish an office for your business. Set it up so that you can keep detailed records about your customers, jobs and billing. Keep in mind that not only do you need a functional accounts receivable bookkeeping system, but you also have to have a reliable accounts payable system. Purchasing accounting software, a computer, telephones, filing cabinets and other office tools that will help you keep things organized.

7. Marketing

Create a flyer with your business name, address and contact information. Hang the flyer up around town on free bulletin boards, hand it out at a parade and distribute it as a insert with your newspaper or local free shopper, if your budget allows. Advertise on the radio and in the newspaper. One cost-effective way to advertise is to buy an add in the classified section.

8. Stay Current

Stay current on auto repair. As new makes and models of vehicles come out every year, the technology for them increases more and more. If you stay up to date by attending workshops and reading material about the new technology, you help to ensure you are able to work on new vehicles, as well as older ones.

GET HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN – 084 583 3143 or email us: money@global.co.za

DO YOU WANT TO START UP IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY? Read More »

WHY IS MOBILE VENDING SUCH A POPULAR CHOICE?

             

The basic premise behind mobile vending is that you take your business on the road with you, going to where the people and likely consumers are. Sport events, beaches, flea-markets – these are all popular venues, especially when considering the types of products franchisor’s sell.There’s the summer refreshers, such as frothy juices and flavored ice; the winter warmers, such as pancakes and coffee;and, of course, the all year rounders, such as hot dogs, chicken, pies, french fries and even pizza. Most of these tasty treats are combined with unique sauces to tantalize the taste buds. It doesn’t stop there, however, other products include traditional meals such as Pap ‘n Vleis, or even toasted sandwiches and salads, which enable vendors to widen their scope to the city areas, where business folk may pass their stalls during lunchtime.

As a potential operator, there is a huge variety of rewarding mobile businesses – service or product-oriented – to choose from. You can set up just about anything from an ice cream cart to a car wash, landscaping or vehicle repair service. Container – based businesses are also a growing sector, especially in our informal settlements. Old shipping containers are used to house small businesses – anything from hairdressers to cellphone shops. They’re cheap and sturdy, though not as mobile as the carts mentioned above. While there’s nothing new about operating from a kiosk or cart, those available today can be sophisticated as you want and can come fully kitted with the storage and equipment needed to run just about any type of business.

FRANCHISING OPTION.

Many franchisor’s today sell a combination of vending options, to enable the franchisee to earn profits both winter and summer, as well as to offer a wider variety of products. This is why fast food is such a hit as a mobile vending opportunity – the product is in demand and the meals sold are easy to prepare on the move. One of the key aspects to mobile vending is, of course, the customized trailer. Trailers vary in size, depending on the type of business, but most are made from lightweight, but durable materials, to ensure that they are easy to hook up to a car and take on the road. A few companies are concentrating on the design and manufacturing of these customized trailers and caravans for the mobile vending industry. They assist new and established franchises and businesses to enter this market.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR?

If you’re interested in mobile vending it is very important that you look at the trailer’s technical specifications – i.e. whether it is equipped to serve the food you will be selling. For example, do you need a stove, icebox, cooler, generator, fridge, microwave, plug points, grill or storage space? Another key aspect to consider is branding and signage. Branding is very important as it will draw the crowds and create product awareness. Mobile vending is a low -investment option for those looking to enter the fast food market. Many franchisors request a once-off investment payment only, covering the purchase of the trailer, initial stock, use of the brand name, training etc, without expecting any royalties. It’s a cash business, as the money you make goes directly into your pocket. You don’t need office space, employees or have hefty expenses, that would raise the running costs of the business.

WHY GO MOBILE?

Consumers who are looking for convenience and on-site service are your target market. Time-poor consumers opt to purchase from vendors near their workplace, public transport or on their route to or from work, and will even pay a premium for this convenience. You can also target prime consumer locations such as universities, schools, hospitals, parks and trade shows.

IS THIS FOR YOU?

If you’re looking for a full-time operation that offers flexibility, or a part-time venture, mobile vending may just be right for you. Bear in mind that your income is directly dependent on the amount of hours you work. If you don’t go on the road, you won’t make any sales. This opportunity is low risk, affordable and fun!!!

FOOD TRAILER BUSINESS BOOM

For the person who wants to open a restaurant, the brick and mortar issue can make it an impossible dream, with property and rentals being so expensive and risky. For many years, we have seen food trailers that park on street corners, in events grounds and parking lots as well as business parks. These business people run low overhead operations that are less expensive than rent and easily moved where the revenue will be best. It is like embracing a new food culture. The creativity and personal style of cuisine and the design of these rolling restaurants is a lifestyle which appeals to many a family.Some of these are brightly painted to match the food they’re selling. Investing in one of these little mobile restaurants would present a multitude of opportunities.

What may be a great venue this year fade in time but now you are not stuck with rent and overheads. Pack up and move to the next venue and if this fades down the line there’s the venue somewhere else. People willing to work late hours can profit from the nightclubs too. A well-planned coffee trailer can reap many profits through morning peak hour business. The start-up investment for a trailer is around R25 000. It is possible to do it for less. Then you need to get  proper licenses and permits where required. Look for auctions where you can find great bargains on catering equipment. Keep it as simple as possible – simple menu and manageable productivity and profits.

Mobile food vending offers everything from hot-dogs, burgers, chicken, Chinese, Thai, Mediterranean as well as coffee-on-the-go from a trailer to a fully equipped van. What about more variety of wraps style mobile stalls, for people who eat while they are driving, mobile curry stalls, healthy alternatives, organic variety, salads, Mediterranean style kebabs, soups and ice cream parlor mobile stalls? What about offering decent espresso and a selection of quality pastries, in the mobile market? The options are endless, and there are more than enough experts who can tailor design and manufacture mobile trailer units. Don’t wait for the mega trends from overseas to dominate the market. Follow through on your own ideas and meet the needs of the eating population.  

Where to start? Well, like everything else, it starts with a proper plan. The  bigger the outlay the more detailed the business plan should be. Rather ask a professional consultant to assist.

STARTING YOUR MOBILE FOOD BUSINESS

Many people dream of a work style that gives them independence, enjoyment and, at the same time, a decent income. But it still takes effort, careful planning and diligence. A few things to ponder in your planning:-

  • What are you selling? (ice cream, candy floss, burgers etc).
  • Develop a menu.
  • Who is your target market? (general public or business, trading times etc).
  • Who will operate the stand?
  • Due diligence and evaluate various venues/locations.
  • Select the menu (seasonal or general).
  • Design the correct trailer and research ides.
  • Cooking, serving and storage space requirements?
  • What catering equipment will you require?
  • Source your regular and reliable suppliers?
  • Enquire if you require licenses or permits?.
  • Make sure you are costing correctly.
  • How much capital do you require before turning a sustainable profit?.
  • Do a dummy run.
  • Create a operations procedure.
  • Make sure you comply to Health & Safety regulations.
  • Brand your trailer well.
  • Let the community know of your location.
  • Will you require seating?.
  • Will you require insurance?.

With all this information you should be ready to roll.

 GET EXPERT HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN – 084 583 3143 or email: money@global.co.za

WHY IS MOBILE VENDING SUCH A POPULAR CHOICE? Read More »

SHOULD I START A COFFEE SHOP?

                     

Today’s coffee shops offer a variety of coffee’s from latte’s to espresso’s, mocha’s to Irish coffee’s. Some also offer a variety of light meals, for the breakfast, lunch or late-night crowd. A coffee shop requires a lot of work, as your hours are from early morning to late evening, depending on where your site is located. If in an office block, you’ll probably be open to welcome the earliest of workers who want to enjoy a cup of coffee before starting the day. If you’re in a shopping mall, or near local clubs you’ll probably stay open till late at night to cater for the late-night movie goers or party animals.

Coffee shops could be very rewarding. There is a quick turnaround on tables during the breakfast and lunchtime sessions, though late at night your crowds will be more relaxed. Quick turnaround means that your kitchen staff and waitrons need to be efficient and speedy workers, but it also means that you will have more customers coming through your door per average, than a restaurant. Of course, this all depends on how popular your shop is, so here you need to market and offer the best quality in terms of product and service.

You also may wish to investigate Franchised Coffee Shopsfirst because you will have the benefit of an established brand, concept and support structure. You can visit their shops and see how busy they are, on average, as it will give you an indicator of what you can expect in a similar location in your area. Also find out how many other competing coffee shops are located in your area and what you will be providing that they don’t in order to pull in the customers.

If you bare doing it on your own, remember to use only the best in terms of equipment and, more importantly, coffee beans. There is nothing as horrid as a bad, cold cup of coffee when you have been longing for it all day. Thin, overheated, flavorless or bitter – these are all unacceptable. Why not take a sip from each new pot, to ensure quality every time. If held in machines , ensure that coffee is replenished, as it’s rather frustrating for customers to try and pour their favorable blend, only to find the machine empty. Your first cup should make them want to come back for more. Coffee shops have a certain vibe that enable customers to relax and enjoy, even when grabbing a quick cup or coming in alone for a working lunch. They are not as pricey as restaurants, even when ordering a meal, and provide quick and speedy service. The coffee sector is taking off in South Africa and is being greatly influenced by overseas coffee concepts, and this could be a great business opportunity for you.

“Nestle” dominates the South African coffee market, followed by National Brands with its House of Coffees brand which is the leading brand within fresh coffee. Other coffee brands are Kenna and Ciro (Swiss Brands) and Jacobs (Kraft Foods). Convenience as well as value for money will continue to be key drivers of growth in South African coffee. The trend towards more premium instant coffee among the upper income groups will continue. There may also be a move towards organic coffee among these consumers as the health and wellness trends takes hold. We are seeing a change in the local coffee culture as South African consumers become more adventurous in trying out new options. More and more coffee drinkers have “bean- grinders” at home, indicating a growing shift away from drinking instant coffee. A number of new independent coffee shops with their own in-house coffee roasters have appeared in the past few years.

The Coffee Shop is determined to become a daily necessity for local coffee addicts, a place to dream of as you try to escape the daily stresses of life and just a comfortable place to meet your friends or to read a book all in one. Based on recent experience good coffee is finally become the norm in offices and boardrooms across the country heralding the dawn of a blue chip, coffee culture that appreciates the best life has to offer. This means that coffee has come a long way from the instant, chicory-laden coffee types of old which has seen South Africa going through something of a caffeine revolution in the last few years which has seen a definite move from over-roasted, milky “cappuccinos” topped with mountains of cream and chocolate sprinkles, to cinnamon roasts of flat-whites and cortados.

SOME THINGS TO CONSIDER

1. Ownership

Determine whether owing your own business is for you. Most coffee shop owners are driven by a passion for what they do. This carries them through the hard times and the risk of failure that accompany all small business ventures. In addition to having a passion for your business, you should make sure that your personality is a good fit for the uncertainties of business ownership.

2. Environment

The environment in which you open your coffee shop has a significant effect on it’s success. It is very important to consider factors such as the location, how fast you can grow the business, and what makes your business different from your competitors.

3. Networking

Talk to other small business owners in the area. Networking with other owners of coffee shops will help you understand more about the process from a first-hand source:-

  • It is a good idea to ask about the challenges and difficulties they face as well as what strategies they use to overcome these challenges;
  • Remember that networking is a two – way street. Make sure you thank all the people who talk with you for their time and input.

4. The Market

You need to decide exactly who your target audience is. Even though most people drink coffee on a regular basis there is no way that you will appeal to everyone. Trying to do so is actually a recipe for failure. Focus on the niche that your coffee shop can appeal to.

5. Set – Up Decision

Determine whether you want to start from scratch or by buying an existing business. Owners of coffee shops frequently look for a new owner to hand the business to. If the business is already fairly successful, taking over an existing business could be a good idea. Another option to consider is franchising.

6. Budget

Starting a coffee shop requires start up capital. How much money you’ll need can vary dramatically, depending on your location, the scale of your venture, and how much investment your property requires.

7. Write a Business Plan

A fully developed business plan will make sure there are no nasty surprises once you begin the process of opening your coffee shop. A Business Plan has many elements. Make sure you have a very clear idea of your shops identity, including what products it will serve, the location and the short term/long term goals.

8. Secure Funding

Once you have a solid business plan in place, you’ll need to secure funding. Starting a coffee shop can be done with just a few thousand rand or it can require several hundred thousand Rand’s. Don’t borrow or spend more than you need. Speak to a professional consultant.

START SUCCESSFULLY – GET A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN – 084 583 3143 or email us: money@global.co.za

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FRANCHISING – IS THIS FOR ME OR NOT?

                                                        

Franchising is represented in most of the economy and the scope of opportunities is vast. It is not vital that a potential franchisee be experienced in all the technical aspects of a particular franchise system. Although a potential franchisee should posses some basic managerial expertise and industry knowledge, he is entitled to rely on the franchisors  expertise and ability to train him and all of his staff.

Some questions you should ask yourself before even thinking of starting a franchise should be:-

  • Does franchising have what it takes to satisfy your ambition?

  • Do you, and your family, have a fair understanding of what franchise ownership will demand and offer?

  • Will owing a franchise, and the growth opportunities within the network, be aligned with your financial and career expectations?  

Some other important questions to ask (your own research will always remain your most important tool in assessing a franchise opportunity)according to Simone Cooper – Head of Franchising – Standard Bank:-

Do you have strong people skills?

Successful franchisees always have excellent interpersonal skills and can effectively interact with their employees, customers and the franchisor. These skills are integral to building a sustainable business.

Do you have a stable support system?

Managing a franchise is a full-time job. You will have to sacrifice a great deal of your personal time with family and friends to ensure that your business is run efficiently.

Will you enjoy the franchise?

Many people view a franchise as a quick way to make money without actually considering whether the type of business they are entering into suits their personality and aligns with their passions. You need to have a natural affinity with the applicable franchise brand that you select so that you are able to enjoy what you do.

Can you afford the franchise?

Although the franchisor will be able to guide you in terms of start-up and running costs, these will vary due to building rental leases and other acquisitions you will require to run your business effectively. Ensure that you have sufficient start – up and working capital to sustain  you for your first year in business, as you typically will only see a return on your investment after the first year.

Are you able to work within the boundaries of a set system?

A good franchise company has invested years of trial and error to find the best model for operating a sustainable business. The franchisor also has spend some time investigating various systems and processes to find what works best. They are not looking for prospective franchisees who want to come in and re-invent the wheel.The key to a successful franchise is the consistency in the product or service that customers find from one franchise store or restaurant to the next. Buying into a franchise and displaying the logo tells customers that you prescribe to a certain brand’s set values and standards.

 Are you willing to take full responsibility and manage your own business?

One of the misconceptions about franchising is that buying into one and running it is easy. This is simply not true. Although the franchise system will offer start-up training and full support, as the owner you must be willing to run and manage the business properly. Most successful franchises have owners who are hands-on. You will probably work harder, longer hours, doing everything from managing staff to dealing with customers and even mopping floors.

Are you willing to pay royalty/management service fees to the franchisor?

Buying into a franchise system, means that you are buying into a proven concept with an established brand. The franchisor has spent years developing and building the brand. In order for you to trade under their umbrella, you will have to agree to pay a certain amount in royalty fees to the franchisor. This is an ongoing arrangement for as long as you are using the franchisor’s brand.

When investigating a franchise, don’t forget to speak with Franchisees already in the system to get the real picture. Make sure to check out the following important issues:-

  • Initial Training Programs.

You need to determine how well the initial training programs prepare the franchisees for opening and running their new business.

  • Opening Support.

Find out how easy the Franchisor made the process of getting the first unit open  and operating. Was there assistance in the site selection, lease negotiation, construction and design assistance etc.

  • Marketing Programs.

Most Franchisors collect marketing rand’s from every franchisee to put into a pool spent to promote the brand. You need to determine whether the franchisees are happy and supportive of the way this process is handled.

  • Purchasing Power.

Does the Franchisor use the collective buying power of the total system to get discounts on supplies and inventory beyond what an independent operator could achieve?

  • Relationships.

Determine how the franchisees feel about their relationship with the franchise company in general. Is the franchisor supportive, caring, focused on their success, responsive, effective, organized and trustworthy?

To start any  franchise operation  successfully or to obtain funding from an Investor it is vital to develop a “Professional” Franchise Business Plan that you can present to any lender. We can help you with this and also want to warn you against the services of some “cheap” so called business plan writers. Also see our FAQ’S section for more information on this issue.

Purchase an Existing Franchise.

With the downturn in the economy a number of existing franchises are for sale. One’s initial reaction is if a business is for sale it must have problems. While this may be true in many cases, there are some good opportunities to purchase a viable existing business at good value. If you are contemplating purchasing an existing business/franchise you need to carefully consider the following:-

Why is the business for sale?

Just confirm that the business is for sale for a valid reason. Some valid reasons are that the owner wants to retire or immigrate or the owner has an illness that stops him being able to run the business. Often a new franchisee purchases the business with new enthusiasm and the hard work results in increased sales and profit.

Is the site still optimal?

Geographic areas change, and often a site changes. Town centers have become ghost towns as the shopping node moves out of town. Shopping centers also change the flow when they make additions and changes to the center. Assuming the site and position in the centre are still correct you must study the lease. How long has the  lease got left, is there a renewal clause and what will the rent be increased by?

Position of the Franchisor

You won’t be able to purchase a franchise unless the franchisor approved you as a new franchisee. We suggest that you visit the franchisor and discuss the purchase with him. Reputable franchisors will want you to be successful so will make sure you don’t over-pay or buy a bad franchise. However, be careful of bad franchisors who will encourage the sale to get rid of problem franchises. Check the position regarding a revamp that can cost in excess of R1 million.

Financials

Make sure the business has a good set of audited financials and that all debtors are up to date. Also check that the VAT payments are up to date. Get an experienced accountant to review the financials with you or get a financial analysis be done by a professional consultant.

7 TIPS FOR PROSPECTIVE FRANCHISEES

Bernard Schoeman of the “Tax Shop” has the following advice for prospective franchisees:-

Look for Commitment.

This should be evident from the franchisor and other franchisees. All parties in the relationship should be fully committed to its success.

 Back up and support.

This is crucial. Most people who buy into a franchise do so because of the support on offer.

Ongoing training.

Ongoing training is necessary. Your franchisor should offer regular training to ensure that franchisees remain ahead of the competition technically and in terms of service delivery.

Financial standing of the Franchisor.  should be sound. A sound franchise system should be backed by a franchisor with the financial ability to weather difficult times.

Continuity of the franchise provides peace of mind. The franchise should be able to continue operating in the event that the franchisor is changed or discontinued.

Technical knowledge of the franchisor and franchisee should be adequate. No franchise system can thrive if its people are under-qualified.

Franchise culture should not be foreign. For a franchise to be successful, franchisees should be comfortable within the framework of the franchise and its culture.

GET PROFESSIONAL HELP AND BUSINESS PLAN – CALL 084 583 3143

 

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HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN THE PRINTING INDUSTRY

                                                

No matter what type of printing business you want to set up or run, the client’s requirements remain the same:

  • quick turnaround times;

  • competitive pricing; and

  • professional service.

Your client’s loyalty will depend on meeting the above demands as well as the quality of your prints.

SERVICES YOU CAN OFFER:-

Many exciting opportunities exist in the printing industry that include:-

  • Textbook printing;

  • Magazines;

  • Marketing Documents;

  • Printing of Business Cards;

  • Printing Invitations;

  • Advertising Pamphlets.

Value Added Services:-

  • Designing;

  • Binding;

  • Laminating;

  • Embossing;

  • Couriering.

To accomplish this companies started offering:

  1. signage printing;

  2. poster printing;

  3. photo printing; and

  4. t-shirt printing.

Although you could start and run your printing business on your own or with a partner, a better option might be to go the franchise route. Franchise Companies built up a good reputation in the printing industry. They also sourced the best deals for quality machinery and paper products, have good support systems in place and offer training on equipment and even business management. Furthermore, work can be outsourced between various branches and provinces thereby keeping it in the group and building on the group’s reputation as a professional unit.

Technology has enabled printing companies to speed up processes. They can receive material from clients, via email during day/night and then printing directly from the applicable file. The ability to receive files via electronic mail also means that services can be extended nationwide, with turnaround times remaining high. Your best chance and sometimes the only one in securing a job is during the quotation stage. To enable you to calculate a competitive price, you need to know certain facts upfront:-

  • number of pages;

  • whether double- sided printing is necessary;

  • type of paper (weight, grade, color and finish); and

  • if binding is required.

It is also important to enquire if any value added services such as lamination or couriering, is required. The printing industry is a creative one and there are no room for errors, therefore an eye for detail is vital. Furthermore, a prospective printer should be able to work tight deadlines, be able to cope with stressful situations and enjoy working with people.

OFFERING PROFITABLE SERVICES

Choose a Business Location

To start a profitable and successful printing business, you’ll need to choose a location that will work for you. Look for a place that is within your budget and that is easily accessible to customers. You can look at locations online or hire someone to help you find the perfect location for your business.

Turn printed items into products by creating a menu of what you offer.

When it comes to printing, most people or business owners don’t know exactly what they need. For example, a food manufacturer might think they need a traditional vinyl banner for an event but they don’t understand the pitfalls of using it in various scenarios. What they really need is a portable tabletop sign that can be utilized at events, sales meetings, and other public awareness activities. The more customers understand what a product can do, the happier they will be with the finished product.

Promote your new print shop.

Once you start a printing business, you need to get the word out to bring in sales. Join your local chamber of commerce, sponsor community events, and advertise in your local newspaper. Also, don’t forget to promote yourself online by building an effective website, participating in  industry forum discussions, and taking steps to distinguish yourself from local and nationwide competition.

 

NEED HELP WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS PLAN – CONTACT US NOW AT – 084 583 3143 OR money@global.co.za

 

 

 

 

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HOW TO START A GUESTHOUSE OR B&B

                                  

1. FORMULATE THE CONCEPT.

Clarify in your own mind the type of establishment you would like to develop.

Decide on your objectives:

  • Is the objective to be host to visitors from abroad?

  • Will local tourist be welcome?

  • Will children be welcome?

  • What kind of accommodation do you intend to offer?

  • Is your objective primarily to make money by taking in guests or are you also interested in the social aspects of the venture?

Factors to be considered:

  • Changes to your daily routine.

  • Intrusion upon your privacy.

  • You will have to be available 24/7.

  • As the entire family will be affected by a business of this nature, canvass the support of family members.

Location of Establishment.

Location is of major significance and factors influencing this include:

  • Proximity to popular tourist attractions, conference facilities etc.

  • Location along tourist routes.

  • Proximity to alternate affordable accommodation.

  • Easy access.

  • Good visibility.

2. CONDUCT FEASIBILITY RESEARCH.

Thorough research should be undertaken before deciding whether to embark on the project. A concise, well formulated feasibility analysis serves a dual purpose –

(1) It marshals the thought and ideals of the developer -:

  • Does the prospective developer have the right temperament to run the enterprise?

  • Were all organizations approached for relevant information?

  • Did the developer carefully consider the cost and other implications of admitting overnight guests to his/her home?

  • Are calculations of expenditure versus envisaged income realistic?

  • Is trained staff readily available or will additional tasks be handled by the developer?

(2) It serves as a document to convince others of the viability of the project:-

  • To obtain financing if necessary.

  • To convince suppliers and possibly a partner/s.

  • To convince the family who will be affected by the enterprise.

The following elements should be included in the feasibility analysis:- (We strongly suggest you approach a small business institute or advisory bureau to assist you)

Competitive Analysis.

  • Do similar facilities exist in the immediate vicinity?

  • Where are they located?

  • At which markets are they targeted?

  • Could there be a market overlap with your envisaged establishment?

  • Is there a market need for your establishment?

  • What percentage of the overall market do you expect to draw?

Financial Analysis.

Clearly determine the objective of the business – project income and expenditure scenarios – investigate the availability of trained staff, if required – approach small business consultants to provide you with advice if at all possible.

3. DRAW UP A WORKING PLAN.

After researching all aspects pertaining to your project draw up a working plan and include the following:-

  1. Daily running of the establishment.

  2. Financing the facility.

  3. Legal Matters.

Daily Running of the Establishment.

In the daily running of the establishment acceptable standards should be maintained. Particular attention should be paid to the following:-

  • Staff must be well trained.

  • Neatness is of the utmost importance.

  • Quality equipment – towels, bedding etc must be provided – also consider extras such as special soap, shampoo etc.

  • Furniture, fittings and fixtures must be of good quality and in working order.

  • Building must be well maintained.

  • Rest rooms and other public amenities should be cleaned regularly and kept tidy.

  • Provision must be made for guest parking. This is of utmost importance to the business and self-drive traveler.

  • Bath and toilet facilities must be serviced daily.

Handling of guests.

  • Aspects such as welcoming, friendliness, warmth and hospitality are the cornerstones and key features of the hospitality industry.

  • Cultural differences must be considered.

  • Language proficiency is an advantage.

  • Knowledge of tourist attractions in the immediate vicinity is an important requirement.

  • Telephone numbers of emergency medical services must be readily available to guests.

  • There must be no confusion with regard to meal times, coffee and tea times, provision of keys and other relevant matters.

  • Courtesy and punctuality are very important.

Financing of the facility.

Three possibilities for which financing may be required:-

1. If the property is suitable for the purpose and meets the requirements, only a small capital expenditure may be needed for furnishings and refurbishing, including linen.

2. If the property does not meet the requirements, structural adjustments may be necessary such as outbuildings, outer doors, etc. It may also be necessary to enlarge or improve the kitchen and dining room facilities and to build additional parking facilities.

3. If the property must still be purchased or developed, a large capital expenditure may be required.

Where necessary, provision must be made for:-

  • Transfer fees.

  • Bond fees – registration etc.

  • Attorney fees.

  • Property Valuation Fees.

  • Inspection Fees.

  • Insurance.

  • Issuing Guarantees.

  • Cost of Drawing up contracts.

  • Purchasing furniture, linen and fittings.

Beware of an unprofitable investment. The potential income must be weighed carefully against the interest on the investment, both in the short and long term.

DO YOU NEED HELP IN ANY AREA OR A PROFESSIONAL BANKABLE BUSINESS PLAN CONTACT US AT : 084 583 3143 or money@global.co.za

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