Dunlop currently has a network of 80 Dunlop Container branches across the country, employing around 400 people.
- Dunlop launched its Shop Container Project in 2012 to create sustainable entrepreneurship in cities, create job opportunities and promote road safety.
- The company is now expanding this program.
- Successful candidates will own a 12m container fully stocked with equipment, retail software, launch stock and point of sale materials.
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Tire manufacturer Dunlop is expanding the Container Store project that began in 2012 to empower young entrepreneurs to start their own tire fitting businesses.
According to Itumeleng Mojafi, Group Development Director of Sumitomo Rubber SA (SRSA), the program is now being implemented across the country with a special focus on rural and urban areas.
The company supports suitable candidates to set up tire fitting centers in their local communities.
Shortlisted candidates for the ‘Dunlop Business in a Box’ concept will be contacted by the Small Business Finance Agency (SEFA) to apply for funding.
Successful candidates will take ownership of a fully fitted 12m container with equipment, retail software, launch stock and point of sale materials. The container includes a reception area, a workshop with tire changing equipment, and a storage area with tires to get the business up and running from day one.
Currently, there is a network of more than 80 Dunlop Container branches across the country, employing about 400 people.
The Dunlop Container Project was launched in 2012 with three main goals: to create sustainable entrepreneurship in the townships, to create job opportunities and to improve road safety, says SRSA CEO Lubin Ozoks.
“The Dunlop Container Project will enable informal tire businesses that often trade from temporary, roadside facilities to become Dunlop-branded convenience centers where they can purchase high-quality, affordable tires and tire services. provide value to their communities while creating jobs, says Ozox.
According to Majfi, the youth program has been well received.
Majfi says: “We are supported and encouraged by the government and the private sector. So far, we have not finalized any requests for youth, but we receive more than 20 requests on an average daily. The ideal candidate is someone who has an entrepreneurial background, willingness and ability to learn, and a great business attitude.
Young entrepreneurs will be trained at one of SRSA’s technical, educational and retail centers to acquire the necessary business skills. They will also receive legal and regulatory support, marketing support and business guidance.
Victor Mtshali, owner of a Dunlop container in Mondello township in the Zululand regional municipality, says it’s easier to run a business 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 submitting applications is June 30, 2023. According to Majfi, this deadline is to give applicants enough time to meet the minimum requirements.
