South African industries across the board uttered a collective sigh of relief yesterday (17 October) when the week-long Transnet strike was finally resolved.
The strike brought ports to a standstill and severely affected imports and exports. This was particularly acute at Durban, serving Toyota and other major exporters, and Gqeberha, which serves Volkswagen and other major exporters.
On Monday, Transnet reached a three-year wage deal agreement with the United National Transport Union (UNTU), which represents more than 50% of unionised staff. It is expected that the other unions will follow suit, and news reports already indicate that many workers are returning to their stations.
The deal includes a 6% increase in year one, a 5.5% increase in year two, and a 6% increase in year three, as well as medical aid and housing allowance increases.
Some analysts were surprised by the fact that the union, which until recently demanded a 12% wage increase, settled for a below-inflation deal.
The deal will apply to all workers in the sector (including non-unionised employees) with effect from 1 October.
Jeanne Esterhuizen, who leads the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has issued a compelling appeal to the wider automotive aftermarket sector to sustain and strengthen its commitment to safety excellence, environmental responsibility and superior operational standards. These are cornerstones she believes are vital for developing a resilient and ethically sound industry.
The Chinese automotive company, the Harmony Motor Group, which originally focused on luxury and ultra-luxury car dealerships, has shifted a gear with the overseas distribution of Chinese new-energy vehicles, particularly BYD.
Given the ongoing discussions about logistics efficiency, diesel price volatility and the broader freight performance outlook in South Africa, Dealerfloor publish commentary from Banie Claasen, Managing Executive for Specialised Lending Products at Absa Business Banking on this important topic.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Jeanne Esterhuizen, who leads the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has issued a compelling appeal to the wider automotive aftermarket sector to sustain and strengthen its commitment to safety excellence, environmental responsibility and superior operational standards. These are cornerstones she believes are vital for developing a resilient and ethically sound industry.
Given the ongoing discussions about logistics efficiency, diesel price volatility and the broader freight performance outlook in South Africa, Dealerfloor publish commentary from Banie Claasen, Managing Executive for Specialised Lending Products at Absa Business Banking on this important topic.
The South African motor industry continues to defy expectations by posting another month of exceptional growth.
