Dunlop already has a network of over 80 Dunlop Container Outlets across the country, employing around 400 people.
- Dunlop launched its Store Container Project in 2012 to drive sustainable township entrepreneurship, create job opportunities and promote road safety.
- The company is now expanding the program.
- Successful candidates will own a fully fitted 12-metre container with tailor-made, equipment, retail software, startup stock and point-of-sale materials.
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Tire manufacturer Dunlop is expanding a container store project it started in 2012 to empower young entrepreneurs to start their own tyre-fitting businesses.
According to Itumeleng Mojafi, enterprise development group manager of Japan-listed Sumitomo Rubber SA (SRSA), it is now rolling out the program nationwide with a special focus on rural and township areas.
Company will provide start-up support to suitable candidates to run their tire fitment center in their local community.
Shortlisted candidates for the “Dunlop Business in a Box” concept will be approached by the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) to apply for funding.
Successful candidates will own a fully fitted 12-metre container with tailor-made, equipment, retail software, start-up stock and point-of-sale materials. The container has a reception area, a workshop with tire changing equipment and a storage facility with tires to enable business from day one.
There is already a network of over 80 Dunlop Container Outlets across the country, employing around 400 people.
The Dunlop Container Project began in 2012 with three main goals: to drive sustainable township entrepreneurship, create job opportunities and promote road safety, said SRSA CEO Lubin Ojax.
“The Dunlop Container Project has enabled informal tire businesses, often trading from temporary, roadside facilities, to transform into proper Dunlop-branded fitment centres, where they can offer high-quality and affordable tires and tire services to their communities, while creating jobs. ,” Ozoux said.
According to Mozafi, the youth program has been well received.
“We are getting support and encouragement from the public and private sectors. So far, we have not yet finalized any youth application, but are getting more than 20 inquiries on an average every day,” said Mozafi. “The ideal candidate is someone with an entrepreneurial background, willingness and ability to learn, and a great business attitude.”
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 advice.
Victor Mtshali, owner of Dunlop Containers in Mondlo Township, Zululand District Municipality, said it makes owning a business easier when you have a strong brand backing you.
Applications for the Dunlop Business in a Box program can be made online. Applicants must be South African and 18 years of age or older. The deadline for submission of applications is 30 June 2023 This is to give applicants enough time to meet the minimum requirements, Mozafi said
