Life-changing win opens up new opportunities for tuckshop owner

Patrick Dlamini, an experienced tuckshop business owner in Mtubatuba South, KZN, has clinched the opportunity of a lifetime to transform his business into a modern, growing enterprise after emerging as the winner of the annual Power Play Bizniz in a Box competition, sponsored by Boxer Superstores, Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA), and Power Play.

Dlamini has won the following prizes: a Bizniz in a Box container from CCBSA, a brand-new bakkie, courtesy of Power Play/Monster, as well as R20,000 worth of grocery stock from Boxer to boost his business.

Dlamini was all smiles at the handover event, saying the win would allow him to achieve his dream of growing the business, which he inherited 20 years ago from his parents.

“Running a small business comes with many challenges from limited resources, stock shortages to rising operating costs and access to infrastructure. It’s not always easy to keep going, but it’s important to stay committed,” said Dlamini. “I am truly grateful for this incredible opportunity. It is a blessing not just for me, but for my family and community. This win will help me expand, modernise and run my business more efficiently.”

The competition, which ran from January to March 2025, was managed by Boxer.

CCBSA Key Account Manager Sifundo Mthembu said, “Affordability is a key element in our effort to provide our consumers with their most loved brands, supported by best-in-class execution and a robust route to market. Working with and supporting entrepreneurs like Mr Dlamini demonstrates our clear commitment to partner and work closely with our customers to meet their consumers’ needs. This disciplined mindset enables us to offer our consumers high-quality products at the most affordable prices.”

CCBSA says Mr Dlamini’s business is already registered as a vendor of CCBSA products, and the intention is to develop an even stronger business relationship with him into the future and to support his growth ambition. “Our aim is to build a mutually beneficial relationships with all our customers, including Mr. Dlamini to enhance their overall performance. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play an incredible role in the growth pf our township economies and we are committed to working closely with them to build resilience and inspire excellence. We want to build strong strategic partnerships within our value chain and network”, added Mthembu.

Dlamini encouraged others to keep themselves informed and engaged with business opportunities: “You really do miss all the chances you don’t take. Whether it’s a competition, a grant, or a supplier promotion, I would encourage other entrepreneurs to take the time to learn about what’s happening around them. These opportunities are out there, but you need to be present, curious, and ready. If I hadn’t entered, I wouldn’t be standing here today with this new bakkie, stock, and my new container. If it can happen to me, it can happen to you too.”