Bargain hunters beware: If a deal looks too good to be true, that ad on social media or online classifieds sites could actually be showing off goods stolen during the looting frenzy that took place in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng this month.

Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (SRSA), manufacturer of the Dunlop tyre brand, said its Durban Westville warehouse was invaded unlawfully and vandalised on Sunday, 11 July 2021 – and the company is aware that much of the stolen passenger and motorcycle tyre stock is now being sold online. In videos circulating on social media, groups of unidentified individuals were seen making off with tyres in the warehouse.

Lubin Ozoux, CEO of SRSA, said, “The loss in stock and assets is estimated to be approximately R90m with 70 000 tyres stolen from our own warehouse from an estimated total of 140 000 tyres known to have been looted from across the tyre manufacturing chain. However, there will be a substantial impact not only for the Dunlop business but for the entire value chain, including employees, the community and the supply chain.”

“We strongly condemn these illegal actions. Looted commodities are being offered at prices much lower than the normal pricing on numerous social media posts. This is a clear indication that these items have been looted. We do not support, under any circumstance, the purchase of goods from anyone other than reputable manufacturers and suppliers,” he added.

Those who know or suspect the possession of looted tyres can report this anonymously to the Looted Tyres Hotline on (011) 418 3056 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Nduduzo Chala, Managing Executive of the South African Tyre Manufacturers Conference (SATMC) said the organisation stands in support of its members Sumitomo Rubber South Africa, Bridgestone SA, Continental Tyres South Africa and Goodyear South Africa.

“As the tyre sector value chain, let us stand together and fight the criminality witnessed. The tyres looted are already being sold on the streets and on social media platforms. We urge customers not to support this and for tyre fitment centres not to fit loose tyres without valid proof of purchase. Together we can stop the cycle of criminality,” he said.

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS) co-chaired by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), South African Police Service (SAPS) and the State Security Agency (SSA) has also issued a warning to those who were not part of the looting spree but are buying stolen property from the looters that they too, will be arrested for being in possession of stolen property.

Socio-economic losses

Businesses across the board have been brought to their knees by the widespread theft, vandalism and arson – from informal traders to large retail chains. The economic impact of the anarchy and destruction will be massive, in a country which was already grappling with low economic growth and alarmingly high unemployment levels.

Many will lose their livelihoods as businesses, big and small, are unable to continue operations. Supply chains have already been affected and many are struggling to access basics such as food, household essentials and medication.

“Thieves prey on people looking for the best price. At a time that there is such a large volume of illegally obtained goods now circulating in the market, people will need to have their wits about them to ensure they do not indirectly support this thievery,” said Ozoux.

He offered the following tips:

• Report known or suspected possession of looted tyres to the Looted Tyres Hotline.
• Tyre fitment centres should not fit loose tyres without valid proof of purchase.
• Approach purchases from unknown retailers and individuals with caution. Purchase only from reputable manufacturers and suppliers.
• If someone is listing items in bulk, that should be a red flag.
• If the item is marked at a drastically reduced price, that is another red flag.
• If the seller is unable to provide proof of purchase on a brand-new item, it could mean it has been illegally obtained.

“Purchasing items known to have been stolen in large quantities during the looting only does further damage to our country’s economy. It is almost the equivalent of stealing these goods yourself,” he added.

Purchasing through informal channels can encourage more criminal acts and further looting.

“As a brand we lead by example, and now is the time to live by our values. We are appealing to the public to refrain from purchasing any suspicious items for sale on social media.  We ask that you discourage friends and family from purchasing the same,” said Ozoux.

Looking to further cement their presence in Kwazulu Natal and following their recent acquisition of Hotel 64 on Gordon in Durban, BON Hotels has announced the inclusion of two additional properties in the region, namely Protea Hotel Empangeni, to be named BON Hotel Empangeni, and Protea Hotel Waterfront Richards Bay, to be named BON Hotel Waterfront Richards Bay.    

Guy Stehlik, CEO of BON Hotels says, “These hotels are exceptional products – they are the best in their class in their respective locations and it’s going to be our job to make sure that we build on that good base.”   To ensure that the hotels do not miss a heart beat, the group’s objective is to ensure that the transition to BON Hotels’ systems and procedures is implemented with minimum fuss with the aim of securing new business and ultimately improving upon the performance of the hotels.  

BON Hotel Waterfront Richards Bay offers 75 spacious, modern rooms, each with spectacular views of the ocean-front and yacht harbour. Facilities include a conference centre with 3 meeting rooms, a restaurant, cocktail bar and lounge, and swimming pool. General Manager, André de Klerk says that Richards Bay is underestimated as a tourist destination but has much to offer in terms of its pristine beaches, fishing, water sports and entertainment, along with its strong corporate offering.  

BON Hotel Empangeni, located in the heart of Empangeni’s business district halfway between Durban and Swaziland, is well situated for the business and leisure traveller.  Combining simplicity with understated style, accommodation comprises of 55 tastefully decorated rooms, an in-house restaurant, bar and 3 meeting rooms seating up to 230 guests.  De Klerk says that this hotel is popular with the Government sector and for conferences, weddings and enjoys some domestic tourism too.  

Owner of both properties and prominent member of the Richards Bay community Freddy Schoonhoven says, “BON Hotels is a young, dynamic and energetic brand that endeavours to exceed guest’s expectations in the true tradition that we as a hotel group have been accustomed to for the past 18-odd years.  This new partnership will be exciting for us and our loyal guests - together we will grow with the BON brand that aims to lead us in a new direction of establishing genuine guest service excellence.” 

BON Hotels has been working hard to develop their property portfolio and sales and marketing presence in KZN and are looking to further replicate the BON experience throughout South Africa for their customers.   Stehlik says that as they are doing in Nigeria and Angola, the group’s strategy is to create inter-city tourism circuits to boost the industry and link important centres across South Africa. “And we are not far off from where we need to be,” he adds with a smile. 

“The retail tenants of the much-anticipated Park Square development on the Umhlanga Ridge are going to change the way the locals see convenience.” This is a big statement from Park Square’s Ken Reynolds, Nedbank Property Finance Divisional Executive, property expert and Director of Nedport Developments, a subsidiary of Nedbank and Park Square developers. As one of the key members behind this important development, Reynolds reinforces Park Square’s focus on keenly bringing together work, leisure and convenience and given his track-record, he knows what he’s talking about. With an offering as attractive and unique – aesthetically and financially - as Park Square, Nedport has absolutely nailed their concept with the acknowledgement that the right retail and commercial mix is vital to the success of any urban hub.

Dedicated to servicing the needs of their commercial residents in addition to the burgeoning surrounding residential suburbs, this prestigious and on-point development is paving the way for Spar to be an anchor tenant in the nearly complete building – and this important tenant will be a game-changer for the greater Precinct. Mark Anderson, who has earned a solid reputation of delivering world-class retail environments (if his magnificent uMhlanga Rocks Superspar - is anything to go by) says, “Park Square is both an ideal environment for us to grow our vision to bring to market the very best concept retail offerings in KwaZulu-Natal, if not the country.” The financial viability of the developments’ location and concept is one that has made the investment particularly appealing and exciting, Anderson also confirmed.Park Square Spar Park Square is set to fulfil the core vision of the development, which will offer seamless integration for a work-play lifestyle. With its considered mix of restaurants, shops and coffee bars, Park Square will offer a connected work culture incorporating a unique leisure offering seamlessly linked to a vibrant and open urban square. The term ‘top-tier’ is not often used to describe a grocery store, but like Ken Reynolds, uMhlanga Rocks Superspar Owner, Anderson believes his new Spar, the retail anchor tenant of Park Square, will reshape how locals view their daily shopping experience.

The Park Square Spar franchise will occupy up to 1 500 square metres of space, of which 150 square metres being a TOPS.Using the reference of the uMhlanga Rocks Superspar, consumers are set to be enchanted and delighted by the offerings Spar Park Square has in store. Walking through the uMhlanga store, one is impressed with the attention to detail that has gone into the planning and daily operations of the store. At every corner you are bound to see someone sweeping, mopping or tidying up. It’s no wonder that Mark can confidently say, “I have the cleanest store in the world.” What is clearly evident when you meet the owners of the soon to be Spar Park Square, is his passion and dedication to creating a destination for the consumer that is not only entertaining but well considered. “Our driving force is to exceed our consumers expectations. People no longer want to merely shop, they want an experience. This is what we are offering to them here – and more.” Great service, convenience and a variety of offerings are the foundation of what will likely be the most talked about store in South Africa. Consumers will have plenty to choose from, from general merchandise, gifting, imported goods and home replacement meals. The home replacement meal section will offer quick, healthy and freshly made food options suitable for an array of dietary needs including but not limited to gluten-free, banting and vegan dietary needs.With convenience in mind With convenience in mind, Anderson is working on an App that will allow tenants of Park Square to order their food, pay online and pick up at the end of the day. Once the App proves successful, it will be open for uMhlanga Rocks Superspar consumers too. However, they are not solely focused on health products, but will also have a delicatessen, a pizza, burger and pita bars. Word on the street is that there will be an exclusive whiskey tasting area for the connoisseur – but this is one secret that is still under wraps for now. “We are giving the consumer the ability to choose. Spar Park Square will be a shop within a shop,” Mark adds. Designed around an aviation theme, Spar Park Square will boast interesting features such as a rickshaw from India and a reception desk made from an aeroplane cockpit, making it arguably one of the first retail grocery stores in the world to have an official reception area.Following in the footsteps of Park Square’s 4 Star Green Star rated development, Spar Park Square, will have fridges with doors allowing for an estimated saving of up 30% on electricity but most importantly, the temperature of the fridges will be kept more constant which helps to prevent bacteria.

“But retail is not just about being functional,” he adds. “The global trend is to have mixed-used development with residential and retail centred around an engaging and multi-dimensional square and this is just what Park Square offers, as the perfect complement to the thriving business hive of the uMhlanga Ridge Town Centre, making it a fully operational hub, servicing all needs,” says Anderson. “We want people “We want people to come here because there is something to see. The visibly appealing Park Square will bring beauty and vibrancy to the area too.”Mark adds, “Customers no longer want to do a grocery shop in large centres due to the long walks. They want the convenience of parking, walking straight in, shopping, and walking out.” The covered on grade retail parking bays allow for this convenience x-factor and the location and access planning of Park Square make for easy accessibility for all customers, with Park Square’s close proximity to the IRPTN bus route as well as the Chris Saunders Park. “Based on the concept and location,” a confident Anderson concludes, “we’ll have everything for tenants and the greater upper uMhlanga neighbourhood, and our opening on the 1st of November this year, can’t come soon enough.” 

To explore investment opportunities email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit: www.parksquare.co.za to find out more. 

Get into gear for one of the best-loved (and well-organised) races on the mountain biking and trail running calendar. The 2017 Husqvarna Classic Mid-Illovo MTB Challenge & Trail Run is happening just less than two weeks before the gruelling Sani2C, making it a non-negotiable for those who are following a ruthless training schedule.  

“The best single track of any single day event” – that is how some riders have described this MTB route.  If that is not enough, the scenery is magnificent.  

Part of the ROAG series, there are various races, each of which run the gauntlet from relatively simple to strenuous.  

If a game viewing ride is on your sporting bucket list, don’t miss the 40km Safire MTB Classic that traverses two picturesque Game Reserves, Gwahumbe Game & Spa and iNsingizi.   

For serious riders, the 60km Husqvarna Classic MTB X-treme will test your resolve, but there are options for the whole family, including the 18km Gwahumbe Family Experience and the 10km Fun Ride.

It’s a great way to get the kids interested in sports and spending more time outdoors and as each of the tracks has different scenery, you could aim to do a different race every year.      

The 18km and the 9km iNsingizi trail runs cover rugged terrain through the game reserve.    

The trail run events will start early – at 6.30am – so that competitors have an opportunity to do a Biathlon by competing in both the run / walk and mountain bike races.   

Do your bit! Give an Uzwelo school bag to an underprivileged Mid-Illovo child, when you add a R130 donation to your entry.  

The first 800 entries will receive an Uzwelo goodie bag. Entries close on 26 April 2017 at midnight, but late entries will be accepted on the day.

Registration begins at 05.30 on the day, with the first MTB race (60km) starting at 07h30.  

Enter online at www.roag.co.za or contact ROAG on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 086 100 ROAG/7624.  

Entry Fees

• 60km Husqvarna Classic MTB X-treme - R190
• 40km Safire MTB Classic - R160
• 18km Gwahumbe MTB Family Experience - R140
• 10km Fun Ride - R70 (free for under 12s)
• 18km iNsingizi Trail Run - R115
• 9km iNsingizi Trail Run - R85  

For more information, visit www.husqvarnaclassic.co.za

Our ongoing efforts to grow out footprint in South Africa and selected countries are bearing fruit.

At our interim results announcement on February 18, we updated the market on the progress we are making.

Here’s a rundown of what’s in the development works.

In South Africa:

• We fully opened the 149-room City lodge Hotel Waterfall City Hotel at Midrand in February
• The 148-room City Lodge Hotel Newtown (downtown Johannesburg) is well underway and will open before the end of 2015
• The 90-room Road Lodge Pietermaritzburg will commence in February and is scheduled to open in November

Elsewhere in Africa:

• Earthworks are expected to begin in the second quarter of 2015 for the 169-room City Lodge Hotel Two Rivers in Nairobi, Kenya, and for the 147-room City Lodge Hotel Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.
• A financial feasibility study is being conducted into the possible development of a 150-room City Lodge Hotel in Kampala, Uganda.
• A memorandum of understanding (subject to conditions) has been entered into for the possible development of a 140 to 150-room Town Lodge in Windhoek, Namibia
• Negotiations are at an advanced stage for the development of 150 to 160-room City Lodge Hotel in Maputo, Mozambique.

The bottom line is that we will soon have more great locations to meet your business and leisure accommodation needs – both in SA and elsewhere on the continent!

The City Lodge Hotel Group will soon start developing the 90-room Road Lodge Pietermaritzburg which is scheduled to open for business in November.

The group announced at its interim results in Johannesburg last week that Road Lodge Pietermaritzburg will commence before the end of February, becoming the 22nd Road Lodge in the country and the 56th hotel in the City Lodge Hotel Group.

Road Lodge Pietermaritzburg will be situated on the corner of New England Road and Hesketh Drive in Hayfields and will employ at staff of 15.

Road Lodge is the budget one star brand within the four brand City Lodge Hotel Group – the other three brands being the four-star Courtyard Hotel, the three-star City Lodge Hotel and the two-star Town Lodge brands.

Targeting both business and leisure travellers, Road Lodge Pietermaritzburg will enable up to three guests to share a room for the single room rate.

October 2014– At the 2014 Diner’s Club Winelist Awards, the 5-star Hotel Izulu, Ballito, has been awarded, for the second time, the impressive Diamond status, gaining a score of over 90%, for its new and extensive wine list.

This is the fifth year that the Hotel has won an award and the second year it has gained the prestigious Diamond status.   States Managing Director, Grant Pringle: “We’re incredibly proud of the team for achieving this and gaining such high results due to our new culinary and beverage experiences.

Based on organic ingredients the extensive menus in Gigi’s Brasserie, the private Chef’s Table, the romantic Wine Cellar and banqueting in the Imbizo Hall have all been created by Executive Chef, Jennifer du Toit.

Our pioneering monthly Wine Markets, in conjunction with leading and award-winning South African Wine Estates, have really gone a long way to uplifting wine awareness in our region.”  

The Twitter Blanket Drive (TBD) is a uniquely South African, community-driven response to the needs of the poor during the winter months of the year. Initiated in 2010 by Founder, Melanie Minnaar, the Twitter Blanket Drive started with a single tweet:

What if each person on Twitter donated a blanket?

Since then, the Twitter Blanket Drive movement has grown exponentially, and thousands of blankets have been collected, and thereafter distributed to a range of social assistance organisations across the country. For 2014, events will be held across the country on 29 May. Through a well-coordinated and objectively managed process, collection points and events are created across the country. Various events are held and take the form of a “Tweetup”, whereby Twitter users tweet about donating their blankets and all enjoy a meal or drink at the collection point. Collection points have generally been restaurants or cafes.

The Twitter Blanket Drive has injected a true sense of community into the South African Twittersphere, as Twitter users across the country join in to help disadvantaged communities keep warm during the winter months.

Official #TBD2014 events will take place at:

Johannesburg – Protea Hotel, Fire and Ice - 22 Whitley Street, Melrose Precinct 

Cape Town – Protea Hotel, Fire and Ice - New Church Street, Tamboerskloof

Durban – Protea Hotel, Umhlanga Ridge – 14 Palm Boulevard, Umhlanga

Drop off Venues Include 

Spiga D’Oro (Morningside)         Spiga D’Oro (Durban North)          St Clement’s (Musgrave)

For people who are unable to attend the main event on 29 May, there are also a number of collection points across the cities – tweet @tbdafrica for a full list! For Durban, blanket collection boxes have been placed at: The Durban Twitter Blanket Drive will collect blankets for Grace Family Church. All blankets donated will be handed over to Grace Family Church, who will distribute them to a variety of social assistance organisations throughout KwaZulu-Natal.

ENDS For more information on events, blanket collection points and beneficiaries, please contact: Durban Twitter Blanket Drive Event Organiser – Fred Felton @fredfelton Johannesburg Twitter Blanket Drive Event Organiser – Serena Grobler @SerenaCG Cape Town Twitter Blanket Drive Event Organiser – Merentia van der Ven - @Merentia Follow the Twitter Blanket Drive on Twitter: #TBD2014 @tbdafrica

Web: www.twitterblanketdrive.wordpress.com

The Upper Room Communion – the leading sexual and gender diversity affirming church in Durban will be celebrating the International Day Against Homophobia & Transphobia 2014. 

A march for free expression will take place along the city’s beachfront on 17 May starting at 09:30, from South beach to the North beach amphitheater.

 As a church and with the LGBT community in Durban, the parade will proceed along the Golden Mile, with all invited to be dressed to the nines in celebration of the international theme “Free Expression”.   They will also walk in solidarity with their brothers and sisters in Zimbabwe, Uganda and elsewhere in Africa where the freedoms taken for granted in South Africa could result in severe punishments and death.  

Even in progressive countries, violence and discrimination against LGBT people still exists in the form of discriminatory laws, unjust representations in the media, unfair treatment by employers, negative social attitudes, and even in everyday interactions with people we care about, and who care about us. On 17 May 2014, protesters will gather around the world to speak out against homophobia and transphobia

The ‘IDAHOT 2014 Beach Walk’ will take place on May 17, from 9.30 am starting at South Beach; and is a free event to which all invited to attend, either as colourful participants or allies walking in camaraderie.  

About IDAHOT 2014 In at least 77 countries around the world today, same sex relationships are illegal, at times involving life-time imprisonment. In 7 countries, same sex acts are even punishable by death. In almost all countries, freedom for people to live out and to express their true gender identities – and to have them rightfully recognised by the state – is harshly limited by transphobic laws and attitudes.  

For key facts on the global movement International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia 2014, visit http://dayagainsthomophobia.org