Dunlop already has a network of more than 80 Dunlop Container stores across the country, employing around 400 people.
- Dunlop started its storage container project in 2012 with the aim of promoting sustainable business in the city, creating employment opportunities and promoting road safety.
- The company is now expanding the program.
- Successful candidates will gain ownership of a custom-built, fully-equipped 12-foot container with full equipment, retail software, startup supplies and point-of-sale materials.
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Tire manufacturer Dunlop is expanding a container warehouse project it started in 2012 to enable young entrepreneurs to set up their own tire fitting business.
According to Itumeleng Mojafi, Group Business Development Manager of Japan-listed Sumitomo Rubber SA (SRSA), the program is now rolling out nationwide with a special focus on rural and urban areas.
The company will provide tire set-up support to suitable candidates to operate their tire fitting centers in their local communities.
Shortlisted candidates for the ‘Dunlop Business in a Box’ concept will be linked with the Small Business Finance Agency (SEFA) to apply for funding.
Successful candidates will take ownership of a custom-built, fully equipped 12-foot container with complete equipment, retail software, start-up supplies and sales materials. The container includes a reception desk, a workshop with tire changing equipment and a tire warehouse to be able to trade from the first day of operation.
There is already a network of more than 80 Dunlop Container stores across the country, employing around 400 people.
Lubin Ozoux, CEO of SRSA, says the Dunlop Container project started in 2012 with three main goals: to promote sustainable business in the city, create job opportunities and promote road safety.
“The Dunlop Container project has enabled informal tire businesses, often trading from makeshift roadside facilities, to transform into proper Dunlop brand assembly centers where they can offer high quality, affordable tires and tire services to their communities while creating jobs. ” says Ozoux.
According to Mojafi, the youth program was well received.
“We are getting support and encouragement from both the government and the private sector. We haven’t finished any youth applications yet, but we are getting an average of more than 20 inquiries a day,” says Mojafi. “The ideal candidate is someone with an entrepreneurial background, a willingness and ability to learn, and a great business approach.”
Young entrepreneurs will be trained at one of SRSA’s technical, training and retail centers to acquire the necessary business skills. They will also receive legal and regulatory support, marketing support and business mentoring.
Victor Mtshali, who owns Dunlop Container in Mondlo village, Zululand district, says owning a business is easier when you have a strong brand backing you.
Applications for the Dunlop Business in a Box program can be submitted online. Applicants must be from South Africa and 18 years of age or older. The application deadline is June 30, 2023. This should give applicants enough time to meet the minimum requirements, Mojafi says.
