Issue #7 I December 2019

Konica Minolta plants trees on Robben Island Message from the CEO

ot only the end of Our reputation as Konica Minolta is one of our most another calendar year treasured assets and the foundation on which we have Nbut also a decade built our brand and company. The only way to protect that began with us hosting and improve our sustainability is to exceed clients' the football World Cup and expectations, meet and beat our commitments, be ended with us winning the innovative and inclusive and deliver excellence on all Rugby World Cup. There was fronts. By understanding, and embracing our clients' a lot in between but the most challenges, issues and goals, we will be able to build significant impact came stronger and lasting relationships that will yield short from the political front…with and long term results. a decade of damage that has brought our economy We are very excited about what 2020 has in store to its knees. The reversal of for all of us. This will be a year of growth and new this will only be seen in the opportunities. We appreciate your continued commit- next ten years and taxpayers are tired of funding poor ment to the company and to our growth. We are performance with no accountability. confident we can make this mutually rewarding.

We have seen a drop in demand due to the tough One of our major achievements in the past year has economy and complex RT3 tender process. To compound been our ability to settle into our new lean and mean this a reduction in print volume (clicks) is also putting head office structure, stabilise and strengthen our pressure on our margins and turnover. existing client relationships, define and institutionalise operational processes. In a downturn the pressure is immense, we have to continuously improve all we do incrementally to stay “It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is ahead of the pack. The Japanese call this 'Kaizen', a shaped.” business philosophy of continuous improvement of working practices and personal efficiency. I would like to wish you all a magical festive season and a fabulous new year filled with health, happiness, As you know, we are always investing in our people, spectacular success and time to rethink and recharge! our most important asset. We continuously work on improving our ethos, culture, value system and work environment. We have invested heavily in business Marc Pillay efficiency and automation.

2 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Stand a chance to win a prize by answering the following questions:

Question 1: On which island did Konica Minolta plant trees in September? Question 2: Who is the founder of World Wide Worx and editor of Gadget.co.za?

Question 3: What are the five elements head office is focusing on regarding 'The Connected Office'?

Send your answers to [email protected] by 05 May 2020

JUNE 2019 the BUZZ prize winner !

east london

Anita Money (East London branch) - winner of theBUZZ competition (June 2019)

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 3 Congratulations Willie! Paarl ongratulations Willie Engelbrecht on securing the Breedevallei CMunicipality contract. 'Success isn't always We know how hard you worked to about greatness. make your presentation perfect and you deserve both our thanks and our It's about consistency. congratulations. We are very pleased that we have you on our team. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.'

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Whoever was available helped unload the truck. Thank you for your team work!

Willie Engelbrecht

We hope you view this success not only as part of your job, but also as the personal victory that it is. The biggest truck we have ever Keep up the good work! off-loaded stock from in Paarl

SAPS Limpopo Rugby Team Polokwane by Morne Etchell he annual SAPS Limpopo rugby sponsorship was once again Tavailable, although smaller than usual, we supported the team by sponsoring a set of jerseys and rugby shorts.

They attended the National Rugby Week in Secunda and played in the 'B Divi- sion', which they won on Saturday 15 June against KZN 22-3. JERSEY HAND OVER TROPHY WINNERS l-r: Pepe Moselekwa (team manager), Well done guys! Don Mathapo (vice-captain) Morne Etchell & Mami Lediga & Andries Lediga (head coach) (team member)

4 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Pretoria service ladies team building Pretoria by Wayne Pagel n June, we decided it was our ‘Super Service Ladies’ turn to have some fun out of the office. With stress at an all Itime high, what better way to unwind than with some Ten Pin Bowling at ‘Let's Go Bowling’. As with all sports, the day was filled with much anticipation as to who would be victorious and who would succumb to the gutter ball! There was much laughter as the proceedings In the end, we were given a lesson in bowling as Kgaugelo got underway, with some balls finding their way to the pins took the honours and beat us all. Clearly she has been and some, well let’s say the gutter was calling. Then, we practicing in her spare time! After the bowling, we treated had Edith showing us how to use the mini ramp for those ourselves to a light lunch and a few drinks to celebrate, relax, that were new to the game, however, this did not deter unwind and enjoy the rest of the afternoon amongst great all the ladies from joining in and supporting their fellow work colleagues. teammates.

SERVICE LADIES TEAM l-r: Zandile Thwala, Mapula Mohlopi, Esethu Vuntu, Nthabiseng Sithole, Irma Prinsloo, Rofhiwa Siphuma, Edith Moholane & Kgaugelo Masilela

WHAT A SHOT! 'GIRLS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN'! l-r: Edith Moholane, Rofhiwa Siphuma, Irma Prinsloo, l-r: Kgaugelo Masilela, Rofhiwa Siphuma, Edith Moholane, Kgaugelo Masilela & Esethu Vuntu in the background Esethu Vuntu, Zandile Thwala & Nthabiseng Sithole

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 5 New Financial Year Celebration East London

n Friday 26 July, East London branch gathered to celebrate the start of Othe new financial year.

The afternoon began with a branch meeting where Gary looked back at the previous financial year and celebrated all the achievements. BRANCH MANAGER'S The previous financial year 2018/2019 AWARD BRANCH EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER AWARD Damian Bezuidenhout l-r: Dustin Leibach (service), Janine Jekwa (logistics), was a really great year for the branch and (service supervisor) Shanna Grundlingh (admin) & Inga Freegard (sales) we did extremely well. This was due to the staff pulling together as a team and working really hard. Gary handed out a number of special awards to the following staff: Branch Manager's Award Damian Bezuidenhout (service supervisor) Branch Employee of the Quarter Award Dustin Leibach (service) Janine Jekwa (logistics) Shanna Grundlingh (admin) Inga Freegard (sales) WOW FACTOR AWARD WOW Factor Award l-r: Nomawethu Myoli (sales), Thembela Malawana (service), Nomawethu Myoli (sales) Suraya Chetty (admin) & Noel Noble (service) Thembela Malawana (service) Suraya Chetty (admin) Noel Noble (service) CS Remote Care Award Dustin Leibach (service) Performance Award Lailah Obaray (sales) The day ended with a braai and fun- time playing pool, darts and beer pong.

OTHER AWARDS l-r: Damian Bezuidenhout (Branch Manager's Award), Lailah Obaray (Performance Award) & Dustin Leibach (CS Remote Care Award)

6 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 ITIL successfully completed Nelspruit exhibits at Nelspruit the SAPA Conference Nelspruit

three-day expo was held in conjunction with the national South African Principals Association (SAPA) Aconference, which took place in September at the Ingwenyama Conference Centre, in White River. Nelspruit branch exhibited at the expo which proved to be most successful, drawing huge crowds from Nelspruit, White River and surrounding areas. The energy from the team was phenomenal and a big ‘thank you’ to a super sales-team consisting ofROCK ‘ STARS’. The Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundation is an international service management course offered by Konica Minolta Germany. It is a head office requirement that all service managers are ITIL certified. Pictured above are Peet van Tonder, Keith Labeeuw & Gerhard van Tonder who all successfully completed the course.

Braai time Polokwane

l-r: Zelda Venter, Dirk Myburgh, Shereen Moorad & Trinity Mthembu engage with the visitors ollowing a very busy two weeks, after financial Fyear-end it was time for a well deserved braai at the office.

Meat, bread rolls, sauce and spices were bought and within minutes the fire was lit and the meat was on the grill! As the newest staff member, Wouter Botha was (and will remain) the designated braai-master. The tongs will change hands only when the next new staff member is appointed!

l-r: Gerhard van Tonder, Dirk Myburgh, Zelda Venter, Trinity Mthembu & Shereen Moorad Braai-master, Wouter Botha

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 7 Women's Month

Nelspruit Pietermaritzburg by Gerhard van Tonder he Pietermaritzburg ladies celebrated Women’s Month o celebrate Women’s Month all the ladies in the by spending a fun evening together, having dinner while branch were asked to participate in a fun team- Tmaking their bracelets. 'Girls just love to have fun!’ building exercise, initiated by head office, which T they all enjoyed! On behalf of our branch a big ‘thank you’ to all ladies - these are the special people who not only take care of us, but who cook, clean, lend a listening ear when needed and who are always there for us, regardless. A big thank you to Laetitia for initiating this project for Women’s Day!

back: Lindokuhle Kunene & Bernie van der Bijl front l-r: Thembi Madlala, Carol Jaftha, Sharmain van der Byl, Gaylene Harvey, Kaycee King, Serena Sheik, Jenitha Govender & Nivana Nunkumar

Mthatha

l-r: Billynda Hamman, Shereen Moorad, Zelda Venter, Bianca Casey, Farzanah Shah, Mavis Mnyambo, Donalda Schatz, Lindeni Chiloane, Judith Mbuyane & Bongiwe Moroepane

The Mthatha ladies busy beading

l-r: Fundiwe Libala, Nerees Masella, Lusanda Mkona Bongiwe Moroepane & Judith Mbuyane & Dyomfana Tandiswa showing off their bracelets and necklaces

8 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Pietermaritzburg East London

o celebrate Women’s Month, head office Tsent all the ladies in the company a small gift, it was a packet of beads with instructions on how to make a bracelet. With it came a chocolate and tea bag symbolising a woman’s strength and energy. All the ladies in the branch gathered together in the boardroom to make up their bracelets.

East London branch ladies celebrating Women’s Month

Johannesburg by Edith Makhubu his special get-together photo of the ladies at our branch was taken on TWomen’s Day. We were celebrating women in the workplace regardless of race or background - we were celebrating life because we spend about eighty percent of our lives in the workplace and therefore why not celebrate The Mthatha ladies busy beading women at work. Work shouldn’t just be about computers and paperwork, but also about the joy, tears and laughter we share as women at work. We find our strengths and weaknesses in this journey, called work. The support system is what drives us and this includes Konica Minolta’s commitment to empowering us with opportunities to study further and for this the ladies at JOHANNESBURG BRANCH LADIES Konica Minolta are most grateful. back l-r: Rebecca Mokati, Nonhlanhla Mashinini, Nandi Makhubela & Janiera Thompson Happy women are productive women - middle l-r: Charmaine Ogle, Joey Setlhatlole, Bronwyn Griffith, Edith Makhubu, Sagree Ramalu, Nonhlanhla Ngubeni, Lindi Dlamini & Gillian Schneiderman Women’s day is not only celebrated in August front l-r: Hayley Britton, Althea Zaage, Anthea Zaage, Tracy Lee Stanton-Jones, but all year round at our branch. Lerato Rampai, Brenda Manoko & Desiree Bothe

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 9 MAndelA DAY 2019 18 June

Tree planting Port Elizabeth

ort Elizabeth branch celebrated Mandela Day by giving back to the community and planting trees Pat the Donkin Reserve and St. Dominics Priory School. The branch also went a step further and donated toiletries to the Oosterland Child and Youth Care Centre.

l-r: Gregory Cops (Parks & Cemeteries acting director), Warren Diakos & Idris Rahim at the Donkin Reserve

back: Warren Diakos front l-r: Tarrin Killian, Idris Rahim & Casey-Leigh Felix l-r: Annelie Morton (fundraising assistant), Tarrin Killian at St Dominic's Priory School & Casey-Leigh Felix

10 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 MAndelA DAY 2019

Mthatha by Lusanda Mkona

andela Day has a different meaning for all South As we were driving to Mvezo, it was astounding to see the Africans, however, for Konica Minolta it means number of trees that Konica Minolta has donated over the Manother opportunity to partner up with Food and past four years to this area and what made it even more Trees for Africa in a quest to preserve our environment. rewarding was to see how well these trees were growing. This year was certainly no different. At the end of July This year, our first event was at the Nelson Mandela the Konica Minolta team, together with Food and Trees for School of Science and Technology in Mvezo, where we Africa, embarked on another journey to Mvezo, The Great were welcomed by the school choir, followed by a group of Place, to plant trees in honour of Mandela Day. This has learners who had prepared a dance routine and which was been a longstanding tradition, but for me this year was by absolutely amazing. far the best. We then proceeded to an area which had been designated for the new trees and where a group of learners were eagerly waiting to get started with the tree planting. After a demonstration by Jeminah Mkhize from Food & Trees for Africa, on how to plant a tree and the importance of conserving nature, the learners were quizzed on what they had just been told and all received a prize for their attentiveness. We ended off the day at The Great PlaceKomkhulu ‘ ’ where we planted a tree with Mamu Nolusapho (Mandla Mandela’s mother) who named the tree ‘Mphakanyiswa’ in memory of the first chief. The tree was planted next to the entrance where his servers used to salute him as they entered saying, ‘Ah Chief Mphakanyiswa’. This was their way of showing respect to the Chief. What a great way to end the day! After four years of planting trees in this area, I can honestly say each year keeps on getting better and better. Thank you to Mamu Nolusapho and the Nelson Mandela School of Science and Technology for making this year a memorable one. Gary Eves together with the principal of The Mandela School of Science & Technology We look forward to making next year bigger and better. planting the first Konica Minolta tree

Learners from The School of Science & Technology in Mvezo

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 11 MAndelA DAY 2019

Pretoria by Emerentia du Toit shana Pillay who works in our debtors department rescued a stray cat a few months ago, whom she chose to call ‘Matteo’ . EEshana was unable to keep the cat and needed to find a safe place for him where he would be taken care of, so she contacted ‘Friends of Ferals’ – a cat shelter. Pretoria branch decided that helping the cat shelter would be the perfect initiative for Mandela Day and took on the task of building and painting 50 much needed beds for the cats. We were divided into six groups and throughout the day staff helped paint pallets with recycled toner paint and they also assisted with mattresses for the cats, which were filled with granulated chips from recycled toner bottles.

Once again, Pretoria branch joined hands and after a lot of hard work and fun we know that we changed the lives of the cats at the Friends of Ferals shelter. The staff at the shelter were most grateful for the colourful beds and blankets.

Nelspruit by Gerhard van Tonder or Mandela Day, the Nelspruit team visited FNdlaphu Primary School. Food parcels were handed out to families whose children attend the school. We thanked the school for giving us the privilege of being part of this wonderful initiative and a big ‘thank you’ to the team from the branch for all NELSPRUIT TEAM their hard work and support. l-r: Bianca Casey, Gerhard van Tonder, Farzanah Shah, Keith Labeeuw & Shereen Moorad flanked on either side by staff from the school

12 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 MAndelA DAY 2019

Durban n honour of Mandela Day, Durban branch partnered with Ethekwini Municipality Iand visited KwaVulindlebe School for the Deaf. This initiative was part of the branch’s 67-minute outreach programme. The children were provided with meals as well as colouring books, pencils and over and above the branch also sponsored the school with a colour printer.

Cape Town by Carol Harris e made our ’67 minute’ difference at Nazareth House situated in Elsies River - a non-profit, Wcharitable organisation, which has served the communities of South Africa for over 130 years. They have a total of 27 residents of which most are in wheelchairs or need the assistance of a walker, with the oldest resident turning 100 this year. The Konica Minolta South Africa team looked forward to spending quality time with the seniors and arrived bright and early to meet them. We decided to spoil them and treated them to tea and cake. We also gave Pierre du Plessis with a winner clutching her them each a gift bag with essential toiletries, as well beautiful new blanket as a Konica Minolta mug which included a sweet treat. We ran lucky draws and the winners each received a beautiful warm blanket for winter. 'We change the lives of those who have no hope'

They enjoyed every moment of us being with them, which included the dance we had with them. It was heartwarming to see what joy and happiness our visit brought to each and every one of them. We had arranged for a printer to be delivered to the home and as we took photos we immediately printed them out for the residents. They were overwhelmed and totally amazed when we instantly presented them with their photographs. It was sad leaving them as they blessed us and could not stop thanking us for all the wonderful gifts and for giving l-r: Pierre Du Plessis, Olivia Engelbrecht, Andre Idas, up our time to be with them. One thing is for sure…… Carol Harris, Michelle Wessels, Melanie Gerber & Allenora Ziervogel "Youth is a gift of nature, but age is a work of art”.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 13 Service Team Building Pietermaritzburg

uring November, Pietermaritzburg service department The main braai-master for the day was service manager Harry had a team building braai at Midmar Dam. Even though Roestoff, who ensured that everyone’s meat was cooked to Dthe weather was not the best, spirits were high as perfection. A good time was had by all. everybody huddled around the fire, engaging in friendly banter and laughter.

front l-r: Pranil Panday, Roopesh Seyambu, Kenneth Mkhize, Sandesh Jadoo, Harry Roestof & Sanjith Brijlal back l-r: Sbonisa Gwala, Mitesh Ramboros, Pride Ndimande, Kavesh Harrilal, Lyal Murugan & Erwin Fortman

World Champions South Africa 2019 Johannesburg by Johan Mcculloch

irstly, hats off to the Boks for winning the 2019 Rugby World FCup. The Boks were the first team to arrive in Japan and the last to leave! By winning the Rugby World Cup final in Yokohama on Saturday 02 November, the Springboks accomplished something more than ownership of the trophy itself. They captured the country’s attention with their bravery and camaraderie.

We are all very, very proud of the back l-r: Chrispen Nkhata, Johan Mcculloch, Mario Nunes & Edgar Motha Springboks – well done guys!!! middle l-r: Desiree Bothe, Paul Symonds, Joey Setlhatlole, Althea Zaage, Glen Hannan, Trevor Escorcio & Hannes De Bruyn front: Manfred Kali & Wesley Ngwenya

14 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Rimpex flies Konica Minolta flag in Mozambique Maputo

laudia Kanje has spent several decades serving customers in Cthe office-supply industry in Mozambique. She has seen her labours come to fruition as her Konica Minolta business has grown into a thriving family operation.

Rimpex Maputo

The initial vision for Rimpex (which In 2007, Rimpex was able to build means import-export) was as a a three-story office in the centre of stationery business, with the main focus Maputo as its headquarters, focusing on schools. From there, the operation on Konica Minolta products to service grew to offer printing and copying the growing need for copy, production services, with the opening of a copy and wide-format printing. shop with one second-hand machine. In 2013, Claudia expanded the Rimpex went from strength to business even further, opening a strength. Old customers contacted second branch in the suburb of Matola, Claudia, the business grew further and 10km from the city centre, to provide the demand for machines expanded. machines and consumables to the Claudia formed partnerships to import expanding Rimpex client base. new and used machines. In 2016, Rimpex was recognised as Her relationship with Konica Minolta Mozambique’s SME �f The Year in the began in 1997, when she contacted country’s prestigious annual 100 Best the company on behalf of a client who SME's Award. urgently needed a machine. A healthy Neida Taju, Commercial Director, Rimpex partnership was formed and Claudia Today, Claudia’s daughter Neida Taju & Claudia Kanje, CEO, Rimpex serves as Rimpex’s commercial director, began importing spares and pre- having headed up the sales division owned Konica Minolta equipment into since 2008 with an unyielding passion Claudia began her career in the Mozambique. for customer service. She spends most industry as a sales representative in In 2003, Konica Minolta opened a of her work days running between the 1980, operating in the office-supply branch in Nelspruit and Rimpex was company’s two offices and overseeing space. Her experience of the industry one of its first clients. This relationship the sales department. convinced her that there was an prospered and as Rimpex grew, Claudia’s opportunity to start her own business, husband, son and daughter also became Matias Cossa began work at Rimpex and she opened Rimpex in 1995. as a technician in 2004 and soon shareholders in the business. became a mainstay of the company. He is currently the service manager, running a service department of six technical staff. The Rimpex focus remains on service excellence, high standards and technical/product training in sync with Konica Minolta. The company makes caring for its community a big priority. “For us, it’s all about people. Never put money first, Rimpex is a business of value and high standards. Our vision is to grow with our customers,” said Claudia. l-r: Clayton Passmore (Business Development Specialist, BEU for southern Africa), Porky Barbosa, David Nuttall (Business Manager, BEU for Africa & The Middle East), Marc Pillay, Luis Kanje (Rimpex) & Claudia Kanje (CEO, Rimpex)

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 15 San Fransisco & Las Vegas

he recent trip to the USA, celebrating Konica Minolta’s sales Tincentive trip for (2018/2019), was truly amazing and in particular visiting the West Coast of America for the first time. What made the experience so special was the group of special friends. On a daily basis we explored America together, as a closely bonded team. The laughter, the fun and the endless stories, made this trip even more special. ‘What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!’

The highlight for me was visiting Alcatraz Prison in San Francisco. Las Vegas has many highlights that one can share and talk about for hours, and there is a saying, 'What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas', however, I thought I would share a sneak preview of the fun that you can have in the desert. Gary Eves - East London

Chantelle, Gary, Cherise, Chad, Gerhard, Sharon, Jacolene & Dave

16 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 reaking old traditions, Konica Minolta EXCO granted me the opportunity to invite my daughter, Jinty, to join me Bon the travel incentive to San Francisco and Vegas. Day 1 in San Francisco found us visiting local places of interest, Jinty wearing her favourite sweat top, which her dad and I bought in San Francisco, back in 1995. Then it was on to Vegas, where we continued to live the best. Thank you Konica Minolta for letting me share sweet memories with Jinty!

Inga Freegard and her daughter Jinty Inga Freegard - East London

e were accompanied by our CEO Marc Pillay, on the recent incentive trip to the USA. On behalf of the team, a big thank Wyou to Marc for being so open-minded, hands-on and always willing to listen to staff. Marc took it upon himself to look after the entire group travelling to the US – thank you Marc, it was great travelling with you. Upon our arrival in the US, we first visited San Francisco, the home of Facebook and many hi-tech specialised companies. We also went to Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, both incredibly interesting to see. Our next stop was Las Vegas and wow what an eye-opener this was - people do not sleep in this city! Visiting the Grand Canyon was an absolutely amazing experience. I have included a photo of the ‘A-team’ and what a privilege it was to spend time with these fantastic staff members and their partners. Gerhard van Tonder - Nelspruit

back l-r: Cherise Serra, Chantelle Olivier, Gary Eves, Sharon & Dave Roux, Marc Pillay & Gerhard van Tonder - front l-r: Chad Serra, Jacolene & Gerhard van Tonder at the Grand Canyon Golden Gate Bridge

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 17 t took, Cherise, Wayne and myself the entire night to get to the Vegas sign and Iback to our rooms. We decided to walk so as to give ourselves the opportunity to see the strip. We left at 21h00 and got back at 05h00! We had no idea that it was so far, but at least we got the photo and luckily drinking beer is allowed on the streets. Henk du Plessis - Kimberley

can’t explain the experience in words. What an in Las Vegas were out of this world. Everything was very well awesome trip with a great group of people. From the planned and I really enjoyed every moment. Thanks very much IGolden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to the Grand to Konica Minolta for this once in a lifetime experience. Canyon in Arizona and the neon lights of Las Vegas. Both the Palace Hotel in San Francisco and the Palazzo Hotel Wayne Kayser - Pretoria

THE GRAND CANYON l-r: Henk du Plessis & partner, Eugene du Toit & partner and Wayne Kayser

18 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Golden Gate Bridge

e were in San Francisco on 1 September and went to see the famous Alcatraz prison as well as the amazing WGolden Gate Bridge, where many movies have been filmed with Clint Eastwood and his detective colleagues. It was an experience that we will never forget. Gerhard & Christa Krüger Gerhard Krüger - Kimberley

hat an amazing trip. When Konica Minolta said Platinum, my word did they mean ‘Platinum’. WThe luxurious places and adventures on this trip were simply one of the best ever. There were so many highlights such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Grand Canyon, Foodie Tour, Gondolas, Gambling, Trams, Madame Tussauds, the shows and much, much, more. 'What happens in Vegas can simply not stay in Vegas' – WOW! Sharon Roux - Cape Town

Sharon Roux Grand Canyon ‘Living Life on the Edge’ (officer in the making...) Dave & Sharon Roux

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 19 Cambodia A is for ANGKOR WAT - the reason we were in Siem Reap and for ANTS – the biting kind – with an itch that lasts and lasts. B is for BEER – cheap. Cheaper in a lot of the pubs, clubs and restaurants (at US$ 50c) than Coke in the supermarkets which costs between US$ 55-65c. And not to forget BARGAINING which is as much a part of Cambodian culture as is … dare I say it… morning glory and lemon grass! (You have to have been there). is for CULTURE – so different, and CIRCUS – acrobatic C entertainment one night and one of the highlights A to Z – this incentive delivered. T TEMPLES (a wonderful step into history) and TUK-TUKS ($1). M MARKETS and MASSAGES (so cheap), MONKS (blessings) and MALI’S (the latter a super smart modern restaurant – best forgotten for its MENU). S SOFITEL (hotel) and SERVICE with a smile, day and night. It is also for STEPS (soooo many) and SNAKES. P is for PUB STREET & POOL – our preferred places to be… and 'P' is for PICTURES which will tell more of our story. Group on the temple tour This trip delivered so much – from exploring the ancient And, it ended with six hours at the Singapore temples, to a private Buddhist blessing for the group, a tour Airport – one of the best in the world – with along the lake past a floating village - and an appreciable gardens, massage chairs, sculptures and even a amount of free time to explore independently and shop, light/sound waterfall show. A tour within a tour. or relax. From a hilarious visit to a trick art museum, to a But sadly, it was the end of the incentive. sombre introduction to the Killing Fields at a local temple/ memorial site where a mass grave was uncovered and the Gillian Schneiderman - Johannesburg skulls displayed.

The bathing beauties

20 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 o time to sleep, too much to see, too much to do, too - too much – and too little time… NFOMO ruled... We pounded the pavements! (gotta make the Discovery points) Terrified of the Tuk-Tuk traffic (insisted on splaying arms and pointing at everything, giving no thought to the passing scooter and pedestrian traffic which nearly took off a few helmets and heads). Bargained – and then – horrors – what if it was to be found cheaper elsewhere? Paraded up and down Pub Street – gathering propositions ($15). Escorted Gillian (Dora the Explorer) and Grey (50 Shades ticking). Was on first aid standby when Gillian climbed the 1,000 steps at Angkor Wat – but took the back row when she posed with the Python on the floating village tour (she who runs from spiders did WHAT!!!)

Marilyn and I Group on the temple tour

Temples, shops, markets, circus, fish spa, swimming - even Marilyn Monroe, the Great Wall of China and 'surfing' at the Trick Art Museum... – so much to see… no time to stop. And then, farewell Siem Reap, hello Singapore (Airport)… On a mission… did the full weeks 'Discovery Steps' target in pursuit of ALL – as in EVERY attraction the airport had to offer…. BUT – oh dear – Discovery points start again Saturday morning – so off the plane straight to a Park Run.. AND ONLY THEN… HOME SWEET HOME - to catch up on sleep (as if ….. with three children under 5). Byron Haylett - Johannesburg

At the Trick Art Museum Our branded Tuk-Tuk

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 21 ambodia isn’t one of those places Then there was the Cambodia Circus. that everybody knows about. What a performance! When we heard CWhen I mentioned where I was ‘circus’ we immediately thought of going, most people I know had to animals and clowns. This was definitely Google it! not a traditional circus. It was an acrobatic display of incredible talent. I went on this trip with no previous Musical theatre, drama and comedy experience of any other trip to all-in-one. Besides the high-flying and compare it with and this made it so balancing acts, there was also a solo much more exciting. Everything was guitar performance. I cannot remember new and different. Even my first time when last I enjoyed a stage production flying was exciting! as much as this one. If I had to choose what really stood The Konica Minolta group were good out for me, then it would have to fun and great to be with - we had an be the visit to the Buddhist Temple, absolute blast! Lasting friendships where we received a ‘blessing’, it was were formed over ‘Angkor’, a bite of an experience of a lifetime. lemongrass and also while eating that Irma Prinsloo & Cambodia Circus performer strange-tasting local vegetable, called ‘morning glory’! Overall, it was a fantastic trip and if I ever have the chance again, I will go back to Cambodia and run away with the circus... I think.

Irma Prinsloo - Pretoria

Buddhist Monks during the blessing of the group

Angkor Wat Temple in the background The Cambodia Circus - performers in action

22 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Q: WHAT happened in Siem Reap Seelen? A: BEER, beer and lots of beer.

Q: WHERE was all this beer Seelen? A: Pub Street and at the pool.

Q: Tell us about PUB STREET Seelen A: Rather ask Byron, he got the most propositions . Q: Propositions? A: Yes – YOU KNOW – boom boom….. 15 Dollar

Q: But this is your interview Seelen –tell us about your highlights. A: The Beer – Pub Street – the Group – 50 Shades…

Q: And what else? A: What happens in Siem Reap STAYS IN SIEM REAP Interview with Seelen Julius - Johannesburg

Pub Street At the hotel pool

In front of Angkor Wat Spotted in town The ‘family’ were hosted to a private Skewered spiders, frogs and blessing by three monks, but we also scorpions were on offer too – but iem Reap and specifically Angkor had an appreciable amount of free we settled on safer, identifiable and its Temples, is a Unesco World time that allowed us to head off in pizzas. However, we did get a taste SHeritage site and the reason separate directions. Admittedly all of Cambodia at several of our formal we were in Cambodia. Suknin, our roads seemed to lead to PUB STREET meals – and will not soon forget tour guide helped us appreciate the and back to the hotel pool where this ‘morning glory’ and lemon grass… unbelievable mastery of the builders ‘family’ bonded. and picture the way of life as it would But other memories will remain have been over 1,000 years ago. It was an easy commute by Tuk-Tuk too – the humble people we met to Pub Street and the surrounding and despite no clear rules of the As a survivor of the Killing Fields and markets and massage parlours and road and absolutely minimal robots, an ex-Monk, he also shared some of it is safe to say that every member their admirable tolerance and road the tragic history of Cambodia and of the ‘family’ has fond memories of etiquette. introduced us to their very different times spent exploring the area and Buddhist culture. the liquid refreshments available. Paul Symonds - Johannesburg

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 23 ur Trip to Japan was amazing. The culture and pride that the Japanese live by was inspiring. OEverything is done right, the first time with no short cuts. Patience, respect and humbleness. Pierre van Rooyen - Integra Tech

hat a wonderful experience to be able to share this unique culture with the humble people of amazing WJapan. It was a busy agenda with a trip full of some truly incredible experiences and excursions - from the beauty of the mountainous country, to shrines and temples, as well as the cleanliness and efficiency of cities proved to be a very humbling experience. What stood out and what was really inspirational for us was the Japanese culture of total passion and respect for the country and themselves as a nation. Thank you Konica Minolta South Africa for giving us this opportunity to enjoy this ‘far away land’ called Japan. Paul & Penny Corbett Corporate Business Automation (CBA)

'Amazing 1,000 Arches' walk to freedom 'Sushi you Sushi me..'

24 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 n 18 August the Konica Minolta Dealer Incentive group left for OJapan via Dubai on ‘Emirates’. Our group of 56 people were treated very well and were blessed with well organised and pleasant tour guides throughout. We had an enjoyable time in an extremely well-run and functional country. What made this trip even more special, is that we were able to share this experience together, all of us being part of the Konica Minolta family. In Tokyo, the group were treated to a wonderful stay at the prestigious 5-star Hotel Conrad, overlooking the magical Tokyo Bay. One of the highlights of Tokyo was most certainly the visit to the Customer Engagement Centre at Konica Minolta in Hachioji. Here, we were given a hands-on opportunity to operate the world-leading Konica Minolta AccurioJet KM-1.

We also visited Mount Fuji, the highest single point in Japan and Golden Pavilion, Kyoto certainly a global icon. Our Tokyo visit concluded with a dinner-cruise on Tokyo Bay, where the group at our table were first introduced toSake a Japanese alcoholic drink made from fermented rice. Next it was off to Kyoto where we stayed at the Kyoto Century Hotel - here we witnessed just how well the Japanese make use of the very limited available space they have in the country. The heat and humidity in Japan made us all spare a thought for the Springboks, who at the time, were just three weeks away from arriving in the country to represent South Africa in the 2019 Rugby World Cup. We were completely taken aback at the prices of things in Japan, especially burgers and beers!

Amongst many of the important cultural sites we visited in Kyoto, the highlight was our visit to the Golden Pavilion with its beautifully manicured gardens. It was a magical trip where we shared a lot of laughs and got to experience the Japanese culture accentuated by respect and excellence. We finally headed home, departing from the world-renowned Kansai ASAKUSA International Airport built on a man-made island in the middle of Osaka Bay! l-r: Linda Viljoen, Ryno Opperman & LeRoux Viljoen Ryno Opperman - Konica Minolta Business Solutions

Konica Minolta Dealer Incentive 2018/2019

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 25 alking through KYOTO, we bumped into Trevor Noah! Seen in the picture from Wleft to right are Trevor Noah, Bruce Meyerson & Max James. Bruce Meyerson - Konica Minolta Connect

hat an amazing experience this dealer trip was for me, personally. WThere were so many highlights and beautiful places, with rich history and awesome scenery, that there is simply too much info to put this on a one or two pager. Therefore I am not placing a picture of landscapes, buildings, temples etc. but of one person which depicts the people of Japan. It may look like an old man sweeping stones at a temple, but this picture actually personifies what Japan is all about. Never have I met more helpful, friendly, disciplined people in my life. Everyone in their society is respected - from the sweeper to the doctor. Frikkie Bosman - FFR Konica Minolta

26 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 apan is an extremely efficient and respectful nation with Konica Minolta products are manufactured in Japan and Jonly two percent unemployment. the group from South Africa were most fortunate to be It is without a doubt a first world country with the food, able to visit one of their showrooms. language and religion being very different from South I t w a s a g r e a t e x p e r i e n c e t o s e e t h e fl a g s h i p Africa - you would have to look far and wide to find any Konica Minolta AccurioJet KM-1 in action, with key overweight Japanese! features such as versatile print applications, unparalleled Sake media handling, patented UV ink technology for out- My wife, Anna-Marié and myself tasted ‘ ’, which is standing inkjet results, absolute consistency in paper wine made from rice. We were in awe of the advanced feeding, registration, image quality and repeatability with toilets in Japan, they had at least eight different buttons! outstanding front-to-back registration accuracy and up At the ‘Shibuya Crossing’ we witnessed up to 3,000 to 3,000 sheets per hour in simplex with high-resolution pedestrians crossing the street at the same time in five print heads, 1800IS, which deliver true 1200 x 1200 dpi different directions! resolution! The bullet train, travelling at 300km/h offers ultimate Hennie & Anna-Marie du Toit luxury - an amazing experience and definitely a highlight Diverso of our trip!

The group at Mount Fuji

Dinner cruise in Tokyo Bay A night out exploring Tokyo - 'The Beatles' live in Japan! Moira Blignaut & Melanie Blignaut Melanie van Rensburg - Busi Quip

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 27 apan is a destination that frequently appears on many bucket lists, so Jwhen we set off on the dealer incentive trip to Japan in August 2019 we couldn’t wait to start exploring the year’s most talked about country. Apart from being a technological hotspot, Japan offers the most incredible mix of traditional and modern day culture with many historical natural wonders to explore. Our group was treated to an impressive and action-packed array of activities from the moment we touched down at Narito Airport in Tokyo. The Conrad Hotel in the business district is a technological and design masterpiece with incredible views over Tokyo Bay. After checking in to the hotel, we were taken to the Tsukiji Outer Market, a visual feast of colour and flavours, consisting of dozens of stores selling rather unusual seafood and beautifully crafted souvenirs such as folding fans, origami chopstick holders, quality kitchen knives, swords, umbrellas, stationery, matcha tea, sake, wagashi (a type of Japanese sweet), tenugui Part of the Komitake Shrine at the fifth station (hand towels) and kimonos to name a 2,300 metres above sea level on Mount Fuji few.

There was much laughter among the beautiful traditional tea ceremony Lastly, no trip to Kyoto would our group while learning to make and experiencing the high-speed be complete without a visit to the sushi with somewhat foreign seafood bullet train to Kyoto, but my favourite Fushimi Inari Shrine, probably one of ingredients at Hassan, a traditional yet moments were exploring Kinkakuji the most ‘Instagrammed’ places in modern shabu and sushi restaurant, in Temple, a Zen temple otherwise known Japan! This Shinto shrine is famous the Roppongi midtown district. as the Golden Pavilion surrounded by for its thousands of red vermilion torii a magnificent garden and pond, as gates, which straddle a network of Highlights of the trip for many, well as Nijō Castle where we learnt trails behind its main buildings. The included the Symphony ship dinner about the fascinating history of the trails lead into the wooded bamboo cruise, the excursion to Mount Fuji, Tokugawa shoguns. forest of the sacred Mount Inari, which stands at 233 metres and belongs to the surreal shrine grounds. Japan is a country we will never forget. There is so much to admire such as their design philosophy, the fusion of tradition and modernity in their culture, exquisite Zen gardens, punctuality, politeness, cleanliness and consideration. Thank you Konica Minolta for an incredible trip! We were also very fortunate to have met so many interesting and fun people along the way. We hope to see you all next year! Graeme & Faye-Marie Cloete Botswana dealer Graeme and Faye-Marie Cloete visiting The Ninomaru gardens of the Nijō Castle in Kyoto Office Technique - Botswana

28 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 yoto was the definitely the highlight of our very ‘privileged’ trip, packed with its timeless charm, tradition Kand history, to the enchanting sightings of young girls dressed in ‘kimonos’ at ancient temples and the old wooden buildings in Gion. The experience of a traditional tea ceremony gave one an insight into the cultural principles of true Japanese life and their spiritual heart, from the detailed rice cake, to the green matcha tea, to the witty Japanese lady dressed in her kimono. It was an authentic Japanese experience with their traditional values of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility. Keith & Tracy Lee - Konica Minolta Office Solutions

Konica Minolta Customer Engagement Centre, Hachioji

Production Printing Showroom Hachioji Porky Barbosa - Head Office

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 29 Head Office National Quarterly Award -Quarter 1 winners

East London Mthatha Kimberley

Janine Jekwa Siphiwo Ngxabani Bismarck Francis

anine Jekwa received the most votes ongratulations Siphiwo Ngxabani ell done to branch service Jin the branch and won this award. Cfor receiving the most votes in the Wsupervisor, Bismarck Francis Well done and congratulations Janine. branch and winning this award. from Kimberley.

South Coast Durban

Janine Jekwa Ashwin Ramlall & Ravina Ramlall Ashwin Ramlall & Clive Govender

he South Coast branch has recognised their Phenomenal ongratulations to Clive Govender on his impeccable TWoman! Ravina Ramlall has been awarded for her Cperformance as a service technician. Well done Clive! remarkable performance and her humble approach. Congratulations Ravina!

30 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Head Office National Quarterly Award -Quarter 1 winners Polokwane George

l-r: Jan Esterhuizen, Morne Etchell, Ina Dennill & Welhemina Hlope (front) Pierre Kruse & Jacqui Jones

fter the votes were cast, six staff members received votes, but acqui Jones who is the branch service controller Athere could be only one winner, Welhemina was a clear winner Jwas nominated for this award by the George receiving the majority of the votes! Congratulations and please branch. Jacqui handles and runs the workshop keep up the good work! every day and especially now in Owen’s absence. She takes care of every- body’s requests and demands Upington Johannesburg in a professional manner and her work is always done on time. Jacqui gives feedback to customers and staff and always tries to deliver on her promises. Jacqui is also the person that the customers will complain to if a technician has not delivered on their promise and handles the customers with respect and treats their requests as a matter of urgency. You do not have to ask Jacqui twice if you want something done. She does it immediately and correctly the first time without any excuses. It is my opinion that Jacqui is the backbone of the technical department Ashwin Ramlall & Clive Govender Maryna King & Edson Lukas Mark Muller and does not always get the dson Lukas had the most votes at the credit that is due to her. EUpington branch. Edson is our workshop ark Muller‘s name was drawn at technician and whenever there are urgent Mour most recent management Congratulations Jacqui, this technical calls to be done in Upington, he meeting as the winner of this award - nomination is so deserved, attends to them. well done! well done!!

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 31 Currie Cup win for the Toyota Free State Cheetahs Konica Minolta Business Solutions (Bloemfontein) by Cindy Snyman he Toyota Free State Cheetahs are the proud winners of the In 1991 Alan Griffith, then M.D. of Helios Minolta chose to sponsor the Cheetahs. 2019 Currie Cup. His reason was as follows in his own words: “Helios Minolta has chosen to sponsor T the Cheetahs because they play exciting rugby and represent all styles of the game The last time a Currie Cup final was in South African rugby”. He went on to say that the Cheetahs adapt and maintain played on Free State territory was themselves well when playing against Northern Transvaal with its dominant in 2016 when the Cheetahs beat forward. He also remarked that the Cheetahs were equally adaptable and excelled The Blue Bulls 36-16. at playing against a team like Natal, who liked to run with the ball. Steeped in history and tradition the Currie Cup dates back to 1891. It is one of the oldest rugby competitions, with the first game played in 1889, but, it was only in 1892 that it officially became known as the Currie Cup. With all the excitement of winning the Currie Cup this year, we decided to celebrate with our clients, family and friends at our office in Bloemfontein.

Photos were taken with the Currie Cup, together with the PRO14 Trophy. Even those clients who could not make it were not left out – we drove to their offices where more photos and celebrations took place.

32 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Teambuilding 2019 Port Elizabeth ort Elizabeth branch had their game faces on as they were preparing for this year’s team-building event which took place on P12 July. The Smurfs, Bumblebees, Zebras and the Magenta Maniacs were competing against each other in 'Minute to Win It'. All were inspired to win the golden prize which was an all-expenses paid game drive at Kragga Kamma Game Park, including lunch.

MAGENTA MANIACS back l-r: Viwe Zinja, Siphiwo Gomba, Lukhanyo Dyisi & Rita Meyer front l-r: Suzette Strydom, Casey-Leigh Felix (team captain) & Nikki Swaphi

Round after round every team gave their best but the team who rose above were Team Zebra THE ZEBRAS - they won by a whopping 7.5 points! Our winning team enjoying the game drive at Kragga Kamma Game Park back: Natalie Knight & Tarrin Killian middle l-r: Timothy Paulsen, Petrina Nefdt & Juan-Pierre Barnard Well done THE ZEBRAS! front: Joseph Petse & Wonga Bumyula

THE SMURFS back l-r: David Van der Merwe, Chris Barnard, THE BUMBLEBEES Mzimasi Ngwendu & Reagan Mumble. back: Neville Phillips & Marius Van Rooyen (team captain) front l-r: Siyazama Tetyana (team captain), front l -r: Devon Uithaler, Sanele Dlwati, Idris Rahim, Craig Jeffrey Nicole Barth & André Venter & Yvan Diedericks

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 33 in the news the proof is in the press..... The media landscape is constantly shifting, as is the way brands interact with the media. With the rise of digital technology and the pace of instant news, Konica Minolta South Africa has to evolve in the way it shares its stories with media, if it is to stand out amongst the clutter. Jan-Nov 2019 Here you will see our major highlights in newspapers, magazines and online publications. Our news is breaking through in the trends and innovation space and our CSI work is too. Let’s take the time to celebrate that journalists are writing about us and that we have so many good stories to tell….

received in newspapers, magazines, radio & TV interviews and online publications

issued to media since January 2019

Biggest tree planting event in our history through our partnership with Food & Trees for Africa: Robben Island Tree planting received 20 news clips in newspapers, radio & TV interviews and online publications, amounting to significant PR value.

34 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Writer and speaker on tech trends, founder of World Wide Worx and editor of Gadget.co.za, Arthur Goldstuck interviewed Marc Pillay on the evolution of the printer and how the Konica Minolta SA business has evolved. Interview was covered in Business Live, Times Live, Gadget and Sunday Times (nationally in 4 regions of SA), reaching over 9 million people nationally.

Biggest tree planting event in our history through our partnership with Food & Trees for Africa: Robben Island Tree planting received 20 news clips in newspapers, radio & TV interviews and online publications, amounting to significant PR value.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 35 Konica Minolta South Africa Technology Innovation: Head Office by Mohammed Vachiat

Head office have embarked on 'The Connected Office' journey.

hase one of the training, which has been completed, focused on Passisting our sales force to fully understand and embrace the company’s transformation from commodity-focused selling to providing more in-depth, value- add solutions via 'The Connected Office'. This training initiative was put in place in order to look at the critical challenges and needs currently being experienced within the marketplace, including: Together, we ‘Rethink’ • document accounting verticals • the shift towards cloud and mobility today to redefine Head Office are focusing on the • document and information tomorrow. following elements: management • Rethink Collaboration • scanning strategies ‘Rethink’ is at the heart of our shared • Rethink Connectivity • digitalisation global commitment to become a • Rethink Print ‘digital company which provides better • Rethink Security We then looked at how the ‘bizhub solutions’. • Rethink Workflow i-Series’ can be used as an intelligent platform to assist companies in We do this by questioning traditional This process forms an important part meeting these changing requirements, thinking and challenging the status of Konica Minolta South Africa’s aim to improving security and by adding quo. provide diversified services to our local greater business value and allowing customers, helping them to increase for improved control over business We continually push ourselves and productivity, minimise wastage, enhance processes. our customers to ‘Rethink’ what is configuration, in order to avoid under possible. or over-utilisation and ultimately, to There are four crucial value fields improve ROI. which come together in ‘The Connected We are always creative in our Office’: approach, empowering everyone to As technology evolves across the • Connect IT - helps customers shine and help improve the world personal, social and business space, to empower and simplify their IT, around us. life becomes more connected and utilising hybrid IT services or convenient, but our very understanding providing managed IT services We care about people and strive of our lives also has to change. 'The • Connect Security - ensures the to make the future a better place for Connected Office' is no different – work safety of the entire office, including everyone. will never be the same. IoT devices and multifunctional peripherals (MFPs) • Connect People - supports the organisation by improving workflows and providing tools for creativity • Connect Work - provides the latest and most suitable business apps, brought together in one store: ‘The Konica Minolta MarketPlace’ We encourage our sales staff to make use of the head office showroom, as all of our new technologies are at their fingertips to showcase to customers and also a means to constantly upskill themselves.

36 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 THE500 ‘Distance For Difference' Challenge Diverso

n 12 and 13 October, ‘Distance For Difference’ hosted ‘THE500’ Oevent at The Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset West. Twenty cyclists cycled 500kms in 24 hours with short breaks every two hours. Additional riders had the opportunity to cycle one or more laps with the initial group of twenty cyclists to contribute towards the fundraising efforts of the event. During the same 24 hours, a spinning bike marathon also took place, where companies were invited to book one Hennie and Ettienne amongst the other riders, still full of smiles during the first or more spinning bikes for this unique hours of the challenge in the hot sun team-building opportunity. Diverso’s team, amongst other Meanwhile, on the hilly roads bet- This special event was aimed at raising corporates and social teams, were ween Somerset West, Stellenbosch, R1 million, with fifty percent of the funds invited to occupy a spinning bike for 24 Kuilsriver and Lourensford Wine Estate, being donated to PATCH Helderberg hours (from 11h00 on the Saturday until Hennie du Toit and Ettienne Botha from Child Abuse Centre, while the other 11h00 on the Sunday). At the spinning Diverso and 18 other cyclists attempted fifty percent went to various children’s challenge, members and employees to cycle 500kms in 24 hours! It was charities supported by Distance For from more than 20 groups and warm. It was cold. It was dusty. It was Difference. organisations had loads of fun cycling on windy. It was extremely tiring! After 23 their spinning bikes for one or more of hours and 55 minutes and about 6,474 In the words of Stéphan Pieterse from the 24, 45-minute sessions. meters of elevation gain, a bunch of Distance For Difference: “How does one new friends who shared something very sum up an event filled with so many A number of wonderful instructors special, crossed the finish line together highlights and very special moments? encouraged and spurred the cyclists with music from ‘Chariots of Fire’ To say it was a grand, overwhelming, on. Diverso employees and their family triggering more than just a few tears. joyous, humorous, remarkable, awe- members completed this challenge by Eleven cyclists, including Hennie du Toit, inspiring, humbling, challenging and staying on their spinning bike for the full managed to complete all 500kms! very satisfying experience would 24 hours. At the same time there were perhaps just touch the outer edges of a six remarkable individuals attempting to A ‘tunnel of love’ was formed by the complete description of the event.” spin for all 24 sessions - five succeeded! spinners, family members and friends and the cyclists were welcomed back amidst tears of joy, into the Grand kms in hours Ballroom. The MC, Colin Heckroodt, also [500 24 ] deserves a medal! For 24 hours he was like an energised bunny, encouraging the spinners and cyclists to keep going, informing the crowd of the reason behind the event, sharing stories from the beneficiariesDistance For Difference and ending the event with a meaningful prayer, giving glory to our Heavenly Father for an unforgettable event. After the event, the fundraising total stood just shy of R600,000. Yes, still some way off the R1 million target, but a donation that will have a positive impact on the lives of many vulnerable children Distance For Difference aims to host another event in 2021 - be sure not to miss it!

The final seconds of the 24-hour spinning challenge

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 37 Bidvest Golf Day 2019 Port Elizabeth

he Annual Bidvest Charity Golf Day took place at the The total value of donations received for the three PE Golf Club on 8 November. It was attended by 130 selected charities namely, Algoa Bay Council for the TBidvest Executives and VIP guests and also included Aged, Isithembiso Babies Home and Save-A-Pet was in 88 golfers who joined in the fun. excess of R100,000.

back l-r: Chris Barnard, John Rankin (Engeli Enterprise Development (Pty) Ltd), Silicia Scheppel-Barnard & Fenner Barnard (Action Coach Business Coaching) front l-r: Warren Diakos, Idris Rahim, Natalie Knight & Tarrin Killian

Diverso achieves 92.9% client satisfaction score Diverso by Hennie du Toit Diverso CSI Measurements

iverso has achieved an 99.0% impressive 92.9% customer satisfaction score in its recent 97,0% D 96,1% customer survey. 94,9% 95,0% 94,4% We are thrilled about the outcome 93,7% 93,9% and will always strive to better our 92,9% 93,0% 92,3% 92,6% service levels. 91,9% 91,1% Thank you to every customer who 91,0% 90,6% 90,6% took the time to participate. 89,0% Going forward, Diverso will put out an annual customer satisfaction survey. 87,0%

Feedback Empathy Courtesy Availability Reliability AppearancesConsultation Value-for-moneyCommunicationProblem SolvingResponsiveness Professionalism

The above graph shows how Diverso's customers have rated us on our supplementary services.

38 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Go Bokke KONICA MINOLTA BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

The Konica Minolta Business Solutions 'Go Bokke supporters'

Pink Drive ‘Bin a Bra’ campaign Head Office by Ritchi Smith ink Drive NPC, a health sector When Pink Drive visit the most NGO, was founded in 2009 remote rural areas around South Pby Noelene Kotschan, on the Africa to provide much needed breast premise that ‘Early Detection Saves health services, they see the incredible Lives'. need for this service in our country. They have also noticed that an item Pink Drive’s main purpose is to that we take so for granted, such as a contribute meaningfully towards prevent- bra, is a luxury to have in some of the ing, as many people as it can from areas they visit. Through generous succumbing to breast, cervical, donations, Pink Drive is able to provide prostate and testicular cancer. It’s these ladies with a much needed primary focus is on citizens without bra when they visit the Pink Drive access to reasonable care for these mammography mobile unit for breast conditions, and who reside in areas cancer screening. where health services do not reach. It recognises that treatable cancers Pink Drive recently ran a ‘Bin a Bra’ receiving even the basic levels of care, campaign in October. The initiative could translate into varying lengths of was shared with the Konica Minolta extended life for the afflicted, when ladies and the response received was detected and treated early. Its posture overwhelming with four boxes of bra’s is ostensibly a promoter of health in South Africa. Pink Drive’s services being donated in total! awareness in general and specifically include free education on women’s health education and heightening health, free mammograms, free pap We would like to thank each and awareness of gender-related cancers smears, free clinical examinations and every lady who contributed to this breast self-examinations. initiative by generously donating a bra for those so in need.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 39 Cape Town & Paarl Branch Manager’s Conference Cape Town & Paarl

hese words ‘Everything is Connected’ were continuously Theard at the conference, which was held at the beautiful Houw Hoek Hotel situated in the Grabouw area. It was wonderful having our colleagues from the Paarl branch join us at this year’s conference. We arrived bright and early and were welcomed by the friendly staff with fresh coffee and eats. The programme was packed with team-building activities and brain- storming sessions. back l-r: Sheldon Thyssen, Michelle Wessels, Dewald Van Wyk, Piet Coetsee, Once the formalities were out of Louisa Bissolati, Hilton Petersen, Shaun Fortuin, Anel Van der Berg, the way, we immediately got into Shahied Adhikarie, Denver Neff & Ian Smit front l-r: Shaun Witbooi, Luigi Bissolati, Carol Harris, Sharon Roux, Karen Hayes, action. There were four break-away Melanie Fourie, Richard Berg & Wilstan Weichardt sessions with different topics:

It was very intense and everyone After each break-away session, Session One: was enthusiastic about giving their we all got back together to give our A. What do we need to do, to input, which was based on ‘how positive feedback and comments, become a customer centric led we can improve to become a more as well as an action plan. Lunch and business? (at branch level) customer centric led business’, at tea breaks were kept to a minimum, branch level. We also covered areas so that we could continue with our B. What do we need to change to such as how to improve our skills, sessions. The conference ended fairly meet this objective? increasing our market share and also late on the first day, but still allowing worked on defining a culture change us sufficient time to freshen up and C. What processes will compliment which we need to embark on. have dinner. We all retired very early, this objective? as it had been a long day and we had to be up very early for the second day of the conference. Session Two: A. What skills are we short of? After breakfast, we were back full- (be specific and why) steam ahead – now the teams had to do presentations. Although it was hard work, we had so much fun Session Three: presenting and putting our plans into A. How can we increase our market action, which we were now going to share? implement once back at the office. In closing, we were presented with Session Four: a video clip of the ‘All Blacks Haka' – A. Define a culture change you feel which clearly shows off their pride, we need to embark on – How? unity and strength as a team. One thing is for sure - together, we will We were split into three teams; positively continue striving towards Blue, Orange and Green. CONFERENCE VENUE creating the synergy of becoming The Houw Hoek Hotel one unit! - 'BRING IT ON'.

40 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Cape Town & Paarl Branch Manager’s Awards Conference Rustenburg Cape Town & Paarl he branch hosted a small function at a venue situated on a farm, Tclose to Rustenburg to celebrate 2018/2019 staff achievements. Awards as well as vouchers were handed out for: Best Sales - Sindiswa Tshabalala Best Service - Corneus Makau Best Admin - Thoko Siluma

Congratulations and well done!

l-r: Sindiswa Tshabalala, Corneus Makau & Thoko Siluma

Farewell Leon Head Office Nominee Head

arlier this year, we said farewell to Office National Leon Minnie , manager of production Quarterly Award Eprint. L e o n b e g a n h i s c a r e e r w i t h - Quarter 1 Konica Minolta as a software engineer in 2002. A few years later in 2005, he was Nelspruit promoted to colour supervisor. In 2007 he moved on to become the company’s production specialist until 2014, when he was appointed the manager of production print. Last year Leon and his wife made the decision to emigrate with their young family to Australia. At his farewell head office manage- ment thanked Leon for his outstanding contribution to Konica Minolta and l-r: Marlise Dicks, Leon Minnie wished him and his family all the very & Nicole Spider best for the future.

Hi everyone, All good things come to an end and as my family and I embark on a new adventure in Australia, I just wanted to thank you for all the laughs, assistance, guidance, support and lessons learnt throughout the last 17 years. I have incredible memories to take with me. It’s been fun and I am going to miss this great company and all the great people I Farzanah Shah have met and worked with. I know Konica Minolta will continue to grow and remain a force to be reckoned with. ongratulations Farzanah on being For those that would like to keep in touch me, my private email address is :- Cnominated for the Head Office [email protected] National Quarterly Award (Q1). Wishing you and your families everything of the best for the future! You lead from the front with a It's been an honour working with you, my sincere thanks again. positive outlook on life and always LEON willing to give. There is so much we can learn from you.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 41 Planting trees of hope on Robben Island Head Office & Cape Town

eptember 18 this year saw Konica Minolta South Africa and our environmental partner NPO Food & STrees for Africa (FTFA) achieving something that has long been a dream – planting trees to bring sustainable shade and greenery to Robben Island – where Nelson Mandela and others sowed the seeds of hope and change in South Africa. On this special day, guests, media, Konica Minolta head office and Cape Town branch team members as well as Robben Island Museum staff were ferried from the V&A Waterfront to the island, where we planted the first of a total of 101 trees that were donated by Konica Minolta South Africa. The tree-planting was to celebrate what would have been 101 years since Madiba’s birth and to coincide with September’s Arbor Month.

The Konica Minolta Robben Island plaque

At the planting ceremony, there were speeches by dignitaries including Dr Pascall Taruvinga, chief heritage officer for the Robben Island Museum, Morongoa Ramaboa, spokesperson for the Robben Island Museum (RIM), Mpho Mahanyele, board chairman for Food & Trees for Africa and our CEO, Marc Pillay. “We’re proud to contribute to South Africa’s natural and historical heritage,” said Marc. “Our partnership with Food & Trees for Africa has enriched community spaces and helped to offset carbon emissions and better the environment. We’ll be coming back to Robben Island to continue this work in the future, facilitated by Food & Trees for Africa.” After the speeches, the guests were taken on a tour of the island by former political prisoner and professional guide Sipho Msomi.

Planting the first Konica Minolta tree on Robben Island Our other tree-planting projects this year have taken Marc Pillay & Mpho Mahanyele (board chairman, place predominantly at primary schools across the Food & Trees for Africa) country and on specific special occasions such as Mandela Month. It’s all part of our initiative of greening schools Our partnership with Food & Trees for Africa is eleven and historical landmarks. years old, and has seen us donating a total of 48,501 trees, offsetting an estimated 17,897.05 tons of carbon We are thrilled to have built this relationship with the dioxide equivalent (CO2e). Robben Island Museum, and we are all looking forward to getting back to the island to continue our workof The Robben Island trees are the first step towards greening one of our country’s most valued historical creating a sustainable habitat that can also be home to landmarks. seabirds, especially endangered African penguins and other species that form part of the island’s landscape. We look forward to making next year bigger and better.

42 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 The Bidvest Family Head Office & Newcastle by Rashaad Patel

he EXCO team at head office Car Service, Bidvest Bank Investments entrusted Vernon van der Merwe etc, all joining heads around one T(Newcastle branch manager) and table to learn content and sort out myself, Rashaad Patel (head office hypothetical problems. A melting pot finance manager), with the opportunity of skills and ideas! A great deal of the to enrol for the Bidvest Academy 2019. content centred around the effects of the ‘Digital Disruption’ wave coming The annual Management Develop- and not only how we can fortify our Project visit – Rashaad Patel ment Programme, expertly run by businesses from the disruption but the Bidvest Corporate office, sought prepare to capitalise on them! to empower our management skills by exposing the attendees to some of As part of the learning process, we the best lecturers and content in the were also given a personal project country. by our Office & Print divisional head, Kevin Wakeford, to analyse and In the highly profitable Bidvest advise him on our sister company, decentralised model, the 300 Bidvest Waltons’ furniture business. This companies and their 130,000 staff very specific brief exposed us to the are given the autonomy to trade as inner workings of the Global Office independent businesses. The Bidvest furniture industry, as well as its various Academy, however, gives 60 Bidvest players and products. We grabbed managers the opportunity to meet, this opportunity wholeheartedly and learn and interact with other managers engaged in discussions and debates of the ‘Bidvest Family’ over a period of with decision makers from board level eight gruelling months on an annual to logistics and sales staff. We will basis. forever remember our ‘experiential An entrepreneur in Hillbrow – Sandile, learning’ day that comprised of a who runs a ‘takkie cleaning’ shop We were exposed to topics on visit to Alexandra township in order finance and economics, politics and to view Africa’s richest square mile We thank the EXCO team at head globalisation, management and leader- (Sandton), from the ‘other side of the office for the opportunity to attend ship, to name a few. The daily class and tracks’. On that day we also learnt the 2019 Bidvest Academy and wish projects were interesting indeed. Just the sad reality of hard-knocks and to share our learning experience and picture for a moment, managers from substance abuse when we interacted content with our co-workers in an Konica Minolta finance, BidFreight Port with the ‘recyclers’ in lower Hillbrow. effort to propel our company to even Operations, Steiner Hygiene, McCarthy greater heights.

CERTIFICATES GRADUATION l-r Mark Steyn (Bidvest CFO), FINAL PRESENTATION l-r: Lynne Africa, Rashaad Patel, Rashaad Patel & Kevin Wakeford Marc Pillay & Vernon van der Merwe Vernon van der Merwe & Marc Pillay (Bidvest Office & Print CEO) (Waltons Furniture rugby captain)

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 43 ' Whos who aT KoNicA MinoLtA - POLOKWANE -

Admin

Sales

l-r: Sheila Makena (reception), Hellen Letsoalo (admin), Lyn Nowikow (debtors) & Angelina Pudikabekwa (stores)

l-r: William Madidmalo (delivery crew), Chantall Robinson (sales consultant) & Piet Hlwaela (delivery crew)

Management

Service

back l-r: Onkabetsi (Adventure) Mabuza (field technician), l-r: Jan Esterhuizen (service manager), Mushe Ndou (field technician), Fhumulani Ramaano (field technician) Morne Etchell (branch manager) & Pholoso Pilusa (field technician) & Ina Dennill (admin manager) middle l-r: Elias Mokgolobotho (field technician), Tendani (Lloyd) Midzi (field technician), Welhemina Legodi (service controller) & Mack Molepo (field technician) front l-r: Nfihlakalo Ndleve (workshop technician) absent: Quinton Harmse (service supervisor)

44 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Financial year-end spit braai Johannesburg spit braai was arranged at Johannesburg branch to thank all staff for their hard work and effort during the Apast financial year. Everyone enjoyed the food, laughs and the time spent together. We hosted our annual technical incentive for both field and on-site technicians, as well as our top site-manager during the 2018/19 financial year. The performance of technicians was measured monthly and the reward for those who met their KPI targets was a ‘glass’, which was equivalent to a ticket into the lucky draw. The technician who achieved the most points, every month, received two glasses and two tickets into the lucky draw. The technician with the most accumulated points was then voted ‘Top Technician’.

Ruksaar Sheik Jabu Maseko Gloria Mudau top site-manager top field technician top on-site technician

The branch are proud to announce that the Top Field Technician Award went to, Jabu Maseko. Gloria Mudau received the award for Top On-site Technician and The Top Site-Manager Award went to Ruksaar Sheik. After being handed their tickets, the technicians and site- managers then placed them into the lucky draw box. The draw was overseen and audited by both Porky Barbosa and Hussein Mangera. The winners of the draw were Chrispen Nkhata, field technician, Gloria Mudau on-site technician and Michael Van Gideon Geldenhuys & Shane Britton Der Linde site-manager.

Congratulations and well done to all the technicians and site-managers

l-r: Joey Setlhletlole, Edith Makhubu & Lerato Rampai l-r: Reyanha Lawson, Nadia Najam & Sagree Ramalu

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 45 Dealer Conference 2019 Head Office by Phillip Azzie The outstanding achievements were awarded to the following dealers: he Dealer Conference was held at the Thaba Eco Estate where Dealer of the Year 2018/2019: TMarc welcomed all the dealers in Dalitso Business Equipment his capacity as our new CEO and also introduced the new Exco. Monochrome Dealer of the Year The Dealer Golf Day was held at the The Dealer Division had a very 2018/2019: Eye of Africa Golf Course, situated successful year. Dalitso Business Equipment south of Johannesburg. Once again the banter amongst the dealers was Tasmyn launched the new i-Series Colour Dealer of the Year 2018/2019: fantastic. range of MFP`s and Mohammed Dalitso Business Equipment introduced new Value Added products The winning four-ball consisted which will be implemented during the Spares & Consumables Dealer of the of Marc Pillay, Edgar Antezana, Jaco course of the new financial year. Year 2018/2019: Mienie and Andries De Lange. This was followed by the awards dinner Konica Minolta Gauteng where no fewer than 25 dealers received The 'longest drive' trophy went to Gold Awards for achieving their targets Frikkie Bosman and 'closest to the pin' for the 2018/2019 financial year. went to Alex Maree. After such a successful year, we believe that we could repeat the feat again!

Edwin Banda (Dalitso) proudly displaying Dalitso's amazing achievements

New floor Rustenburg

he Rustenburg technical staff together with assistance The workshop now looks great! We thank the technical from a ‘Pretoria support team’ enjoyed a team-building team for going above and beyond. Tafternoon while completing ‘the new floor project’. Well done! The team recently stayed on after work to install new flooring in their workshop, which has made for a cleaner and more professional environment. Their hard work was rewarded with a delicious braai.

l-r: Jacques van Dyk, Yazini Dube, Andrew Tsikira Thabo Monareng & Yazini Dube & Thabo Monareng

46 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Spotlight on Rendani Muninyi Head Office I was also given the responsibility by Rendani (Socks) Muninyi of being part of the warranty claim investigative team. I am the first point joined Konica Minolta South Africa in of contact with regard to warranties. I 2013 on a technical learnership support receive them and make sure that the Iapprenticeship programme, for seven required documentation is in order. I months. At the end of the learnership two also investigate and match the physical learners were chosen out of the original component to the claimed history that six students and I was lucky enough to it has on the paperwork. This task has be one of those chosen. At this point I taught me another component of the became a trainee technician and in 2015 business, having a clear understanding I was promoted to national workshop of the component change and bulletins technician. that are published. This helps me in In May of the same year I did a course informing technical staff and alike of in health and safety. After completing the change and the reason why they this course successfully, I was appointed have experienced failure on certain national service health and safety officer components. for the Johannesburg training centre. In 2019 I was nominated to be part During 2017, I was asked to assist with Rendani (Socks) Muninyi of SDP (Supervisory Development the installation at WITS University and Programme). This course was run later that year I was part of the head office at head office together with other team sent down to Durban to help with In 2018, I was given the opportunity staff from various branches which the eThekwini municipality installation. to be part of the team who mentored I successfully completed after four learners on the Konica Minolta technical months. I also assisted the marketing department learnership programme. This was a new on a TV shoot - my responsibility was to challenge for me, however, I thoroughly I am now assisting the current ensure the printer was in good working enjoyed mentoring and assisting these learners with the practical part of condition throughout the shoot. students. their course.

Rimpex Launch Maputo n October, Rimpex, Konica Minolta Neida Taju, commercial director, The event was successful for both South Africa’s new dealer in Maputo welcomed those attending which Rimpex and Konica Minolta South Ihosted an open day to showcase the included; clients, bankers, suppliers Africa. It was supported by Gerhard company. and the media. She then proceeded to van Tonder and Keith Labeeuw introduce the Konica Minolta guests as both from Nelspruit branch, as Here the official Dealership Certificate well as the Rimpex staff. She concluded well as Clayton Passmore, business was handed over to Claudia Kanje, with a brief presentation on Rimpex development specialist, Konica Minolta owner of Rimpex, by Porky Barbosa, which included the products and Business Solutions Europe. who warmly welcomed Rimpex into the services they offer and support. Konica Minolta family.

back l-r: Luis Claudio Kanje, Keith Labeeuw, Luis Cesar Kanje, Gerhard van Tonder, Porky Barbosa, Matias Cossa, Danilo Jamal & Clayton Passmore Porky Barbosa & Claudia Kanje seated l-r: Naira Luis Kanje, Claudia Kanje & Neida Taju

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 47 Spotlight on Dave Cochran - Konica Minolta Vaal -

What do you put your success as a dealer down to? I think that it all comes down to the team around you and I am blessed with amazing staff. The competition out there is fierce and I think that service excellence is vital. Many customers have been with us since the beginning and that is very satisfying. What 'motto' do you live by? Treat everyone that you meet with respect and dignity! You will be amazed how it simplifies life. Give us your history with Minolta and later What has been your biggest achievement? Konica Minolta I think the opportunity that I have afforded people to I originally trained in instrumentation and in 1983 left to join grow and develop. It is very satisfying to see people OP Properties as a technician. Back then we traded as Canon achieve success. I would like to think that I have also and Minolta as we had dealerships for both products. Alan made a difference to various institutions that in turn are Griffith felt that we could not trade in both products and here to support the local community. persuaded us to make a choice. What is your favourite country to travel to and It was decided to go the Minolta route which was why? distributed by Helios in Laub Street. My first interaction was The USA is my favourite. It is wonderfully vast and diverse, with the training centre, meeting Les Vorster, Brian Darrol missing family there also creates a bias. and the legendary Joe de Souza with whom I developed a special friendship. What have you learnt in the last five years about the industry that will influence Konica Minolta I have been part of the journey as Minolta moved to Vaal? Ormonde, the merger of the Konica and Minolta brands The pace at which technology changes brings many into Konica Minolta and the enormous growth of Minolco. It challenges that can only be overcome with knowledge has been such a wonderful journey with a diverse group of and training. The challenge is training and retaining staff people including various dealer managers. that you have invested in. I believe that great relationships built with clients are key to success. One can only marvel at how our products have evolved from the original electrostatic ink machines to the amazing If you had to take a book to a remote island what products of today. would it be? John Grisham is great for lazy days, I also enjoy How long have you been a Konica Minolta dealer? autobiographies. 2020 will mark our 40th year as a Konica Minolta dealer. The dealership was started in 1980 by Brian Taylor, What is on your bucket list? Harry de Villiers and Mac Michelli. The Open Championship at St Andrews is next.

48 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Springbok Fridays Port Elizabeth

For the duration of the 2019 Rugby World Cup 2019, Port Elizabeth branch has shown their support for the Springboks by wearing green or their Springbok rugby jerseys every Friday. GO BOKKE!

Gary’s 60th Birthday Surprise East London

n Friday 23 August East London branch held a surprise 60th birthday party for Otheir branch manager, Gary Eves. Gary said he had no idea that anything was being planned for him so the party came as a real surprise! He was really thrilled and appreciated all the effort that the staff had put in to make his day extra special.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 49 Branch Employee - Quarter 1

Johannesburg he Johannesburg Branch Employee Tof the Quarter Award achievers were as follows: Nonhlanhla Ngubeni admin (receptionist) Nonhlanhla Mashinini logistics admin) Mark Muller logistics (stores) Johnny Oggen logistics (driver) Jeremy Butler technical (field technician) Brenda Manoko technical (service controller) Lerato Rampai debtors (credit controller) Sylvester Ntimang technical (workshop set-up) back l-r: Mark Muller, Jeremy Butler, Johnny Oggen, Sylvester Ntimang front l-r : Nonhlanhla Mashinini, Lerato Rampai, Brenda Manoko & Nonhlanhla Ngubeni Lindric Brooks absent: Lindric Brooks software (support engineer) Congratulations to you all and to each and every one of you at the branch, keep up the great work and most importantly keep striving for excellence!

East London

ell done to the following staff who received the WBranch Employee of the Quarter Award for the First Quarter of the new financial year: Shanaaz Alexander service Leonie Noble admin Elliot Sonjani logistics Romanique Cronje-Lamb sales Keep up the outstanding work.

l-r: Elliot Sonjani, Leonie Noble, Romanique Cronje-Lamb & Shanaaz Alexander

50 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Debtors Collection GO BOKKE! First Quarter Graaff-Reinet Pretoria by Marinda Gous

retoria branch achieved ninety-nine percent Pof their target for the first quarter of 2019. This is an exceptional result, given the fact that the collection target has been increased to eighty percent. In the current economic climate this was not an easy task as collections are getting more difficult by the day. Well done to the debtors ladies for their hard work and perseverance! I am proud to work with this winning team!

back l-r: Eugene du Plessis, Grantham Adams, Andries Sondagh & James Chapman middle l-r: Angeline Bantom, Talana Chapman & Patricia Jacobs front: Etienne Fourie

Pretoria Supervisors get stuck in cleaning up the 'Gogga' store Pretoria

l-r: Hendrik Mare, Johan Pheiffer & Willem Smith

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 51 Labelexpo Europe 2019 Head Office by Manny Da Silva

abelexpo Europe is the largest The main focus on the Konica Minolta international show in the label stand were the two versions of its Lindustry and this year it closed on new AccurioLabel 230. One of these a high note. versions was displayed with a flexo station for printing white inline for A total of 693 exhibitors took part the first time supplied by Danish We doubled the number of leads we in the event, which ran from 24-27 company Grafisk Maskinfabrik (GM), achieved in 2017 and announced eleven September at the Brussels Expo Centre Konica Minolta’s development and more customer sales at the show. It’s in Belgium. manufacturing partner in Europe. been an extremely rewarding journey since we shipped our first machine in Konica Minolta’s stand at Labelexpo “The AccurioLabel 230 is an 2016. We have grown to become no. 2 became a magnet for visitors to extremely important addition to our in the market, according to InfoSource the show where eleven sales were business to further increase quality figures, and our accelerated growth concluded making it a 450th landmark as well as save time. It’s important shows no sign of slowing. installation. because our vineyard customers, as an example, often work in ‘just in time’ These latest sales are yet again Quality leads more than doubled mode and they often place an order prime examples of how companies compared to the last European show for labels that needs to be delivered are increasingly turning to our world- two years ago. The ‘incredible interest’ the very next day. class technology for label printing," shown in Konica Minolta’s AccurioPress said Edoardo Cotichini, team manager technology was also underpinned by Labelexpo was an outstanding success industrial printing at Konica Minolta customer feedback, that will help shape and we had incredible interest from Business Solutions Europe. developments to provide even better visitors to our stand. products and solutions in the future.

52 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Trees planted in the North West Konica Minolta North West rees sustain all beings on earth. They are the largest plants on the planet, and by far the most efficient, cost- Teffective way of tackling the climate crisis – absorbing and storing the carbon-dioxide emissions that drive global warming. With this top of mind and as part of an ongoing partnership between Konica Minolta South Africa and NPO Food & Trees for Africa, Konica Minolta North West, an authorised dealer of Konica Minolta South Africa, joined the tree planting initiative and strengthened its commitment to environmental sustainability. Konica Minolta North West has donated a total of 1,000 trees to the Klerksdorp area in the North West province, offsetting an estimated 369 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). A tree-planting ceremony was held in October at Kanana Primary School, where students enthusiastically came together to plant 30 trees. The initiative served to educate the pupils on the importance of protecting the environment and the benefits of minimising their carbon footprint.

Jaco Mienie, MD of Konica Minolta North West said that trees are invaluable to the environment - they give plants and animals life by providing oxygen. He also said that trees provide food and shelter, ultimately making a positive impact on communities. A teacher at Kanana Primary School and organiser of the event, Johan Ackerman, said the school really appreciated the generous donation and that it would make their school more environmentally friendly and educate the learners Pupils from Kanana Primary School about the importance of living clean and living green. enthusiastically planting trees

Jeminah Mkhize, Senior Facilitator (Food & Trees for Africa) & Jaco Mienie (MD Konica Minolta North West), planting the first Konica Minolta The tree planting team tree at Kanana Primary School

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 53 Konica Minolta Welkom lends a Helping Hand Konica Minolta Welkom by Christa Wessels

uring the week-end of 26 July, Jim Fouche Park in Welkom had no access to running water and unfortunately the local municipality Ddid not have the necessary equipment to fix the water problem. Two old-age homes in the area, Huis Oranje and Nyala House had no running water which was a huge concern for the community. They urgently needed water not only for cooking for the elderly, but drinking water as well as water for bathing and also water to flush the toilets. Konica Minolta Welkom immediately stepped in and sponsored bottles of drinking water. But for them, this wasn’t enough, they wanted to help even more. Staff at the dealership got together and filled bottles with water from the swimming pool, which allowed the aged home to flush the toilets that week-end. When it comes to the community, Konica Minolta Welkom is there to assist. In particular they try and help out at the old-age homes in any way they can, from raising funds to donating second hand printers. Konica Minolta Welkom believes in giving back to the community for all the support they have received from so many community members over the years.

Clifton Invitational Water Polo Tournament Durban

urban branch sponsored Konica Minolta lanyards and match schedules for all competing boys and their Dcoaches at the recent Clifton Invitational Water Polo Tournament. The two teams that contested the final were Clifton School and Westville Boys High School, both longstanding customers of Durban branch. The team from Clifton School were the deserved winners. Well done to both schools on an excellent tournament. Water Polo teams from Clifton School & Westville Boys High

54 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Understanding the future of work Head Office

s technology evolves across the With the office now a thriving What the modern office expects from personal, social and business information-generation hub, the challenges its MFP media hub would also include Aspace, life becomes more of managing all the info being created PDF processing, optical character connected and convenient, but our becomes urgent. As office documents recognition, barcode printing, Unicode very understanding of our lives also are digitised, cloud use rises and the support, serverless printing and has to change. 'The Connected Office' volume of data increases, centralised antivirus protection. is no different – work will never be the management and better access to same. documents is vital. At the same time, With the recent release of the bizhub security is increasingly critical. i-Series, part of 'The Connected Office' The fundamental change is that for transition, we have also noticed that many of us, there will probably still Staff should be able to complete our society has become far more be a building that serves as the real- tasks efficiently and effectively from environmentally engaged, and MFPs world base of our operations, but anywhere, using integrated cloud are now expected to be sustainably today 'the office' is really a hub, where services and convenient workflow produced and to make efficient use of information is produced, disseminated, technology; they must also be sure consumables and energy. Devices are shared and exchanged. their information is kept securely, even designed to minimise particle despite being accessible all over the emissions for optimal air quality, Information is shared within that world. keeping staff safe and productive. physical space, but in fact, the digital space that your office occupies The modern office hub uses intuitive Devices are also produced with voice stretches across the planet. The most smartphone-style user interfaces and operability and to be accessible for important role it serves is as a nerve powerful processors allowing quick office workers with particular mobility centre that enables connections – response and high performance, as well requirements. between co-workers, suppliers and as an evolved level of physical printing partners; within and across industries; services. High-speed, one-pass double- The latest office-technology innova- and between producers and consumers feed, digital skew correction, print tions are focused on optimising of content. management and advanced digital connectivity, allowing businesses to document workflow management are perform at their best, wherever their The most important office transform- functions to look out for. teams are located, while providing ation that has taken place is around peace of mind so staff can focus on the integration of hardware, software Because document management important matters. and people, into a seamless network is now a digital function, part of the that can be accessed from almost connected office solution is creating anywhere. Any office without this a digital ecosystem where users can functionality is not doing what we operate intuitively, using an interface Rethinking expect in the workplace in 2020. they’re comfortable with. What was previously thought of as Functions can be added as necessary, today, a printer is now a smart-technology by downloading the relevant apps hub, a multifunctional printer (MFP), from within the ecosystem. Some the better exponents of which offer MFPs even collect data on their to redefine Internet of Things (IoT) functionality, own performance, allowing for self- sustainability benefits, and a significant diagnosis and predictive maintenance. tomorrow profitability boost for customers.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 55 Africa Print 2019: Print is alive and evolving Head Office by Edmund Jacobs hat a show!!! From build- up to the clients who Wvisited the exhibition. It was encouraging to see the enthusiasm of the visitors to the show and the passion they have for this industry, despite the tough economic landscape South Africans are facing. Potential clients showed a definite interest in the Konica Minolta brand, asking relevant questions about how Konica Minolta can improve their business through the solutions we offer. What really made me happy was the number of people on our stand who have bought Konica Minolta kit and who are now enjoying excellent service and total reliability from their equipment.

We are ready - the result of teamwork and effort

Digital multifunctional device & software launch Mthatha

n September, Mthatha branch hosted a launch showcasing multi- functional devices as well as software at the well-known Umtata ICountry Club. Commercial, government and potential clients were invited to view a range of machines and software products. While demonstrating the equipment, sales staff explained how Konica Minolta could improve their current working environment. The launch was well attended with much interest shown from clients in and around Mthatha.

back l-r: Damian Bezuidenhout, Adam Fraser, Gary Eves, Stefan Vermeulen & Sibusiso Mangtanga front: Dyomfana Tandiswa & Lusanda Mkona

56 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Busi – my learnership story Head Office by Busisiwe Mhlongo t all started in 2016 when I received a call that I had been selected for Ithe IT Technical Support Learnership. My heart was full of joy! There were three of us who were selected for the learnership. It was not expected, bearing in mind that we were in a male dominated department. We started on 1 July 2015. The learnership went well and we had a wonderful opportunity in being able to further our knowledge at Bytes in Midrand. I must say, the learnership didn’t seem like one because we enjoyed every single moment of it. We had challenges in the workplace, but Bytes helped us get through, we just had to persevere. RESPECT is ‘key’, followed by COMMUNICATION Before the end of the learnership, I made a small mistake and that made me doubt whether I had proven myself worthy of being chosen to stay on. And then I got the good news....I had been selected to stay on at head office as a workshop technician. I had achieved all of this because of my hard work, focus and determination. I was a workshop technician for a year and a half and it was interesting because I had the opportunity to “Do not live to please, live to succeed, because try and fix machines on my own. Another interesting experience was if you live to please, you will not succeed.” guiding other learners through the learnerships that followed after me – this was challenging but something that I managed to do. The first six months were not easy I conclude with the following: at all but again with hard work and All I can say to the new learners is, At the end of the period of being a determination, I succeeded. I thought it was the end but it was just the make the most of this learnership workshop technician, I was selected to because if you don’t, you will not get join the training division as they had beginning. We all have people who mentor or guide us and I would like to have the experience of being in a seen potential in me. I was sent on workplace that pushes you to move SAP training at Johannesburg branch, to make mention of the one man who motivated me and believed in me, and grow yourself further. Take note of where I used the technical knowledge each and everything and cherish the I had gained. I would also like to Edmund Jacobs, and for this, I thank you. memories and experiences because thank the ladies in the call-centre for one grows from these experiences. their training. Last year in June, I was Not forgetting Craig Williams, who has Bear in mind that, respect is ‘key’, officially promoted to the position of such incredible technical knowledge, a followed by communication. national training administrator. It was big thank you to you for all you taught a huge step going from a technical us and for enabling us to complete the background to an office environment. learnership.

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 57 Rugby World Cup Final - braai George he branch had a braai and ‘scrum’ on Friday 1 TNovember 2019 to 'Vang gees for the final' We all enjoyed the braai 'BRAAI & SCRUM' BEFORE THE WORLD CUP and left for the week-end back l-r: Christiaan Fourie, James Stadler, Niel van der Walt & Morne Sampson ready for the big game. front l-r: Joseph Roelfse, Remaldo Bewee, Johann Rabe, Johannes Selisa & Noel Corneluis (hidden)

n June 01 we participated in an Amazing‘ Race’ charity event for Amazing race child welfare. Nelspruit O by Gerhard van Tonder It was great fun and everyone enjoyed themselves!

l-r: Tyrone Nezar, Gerhard van Tonder, Zelda Venter & Dirk Myburgh

58 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Branch Manager's Conference Branch Head Office of the by Deidre Szemerei Year Award he annual Branch Manager’s conference was held at the end of July 2019 in Johannesburg at the OR Tambo Southern Sun THotel. This is a great time for branch managers and head office management to strategise and share their thoughts and views on the future of our industry and the direction that Konica Minolta South Africa will be focusing on in the future. I am sure this is a time when the outlying branch managers experience and get comfort in the bigger Konica Minolta family as I am sure they often feel like an island. This year we were privileged to receive an inspiring and thought provoking presentation from LMRG. This was the opening for an introspection on our commercial business and possible short comings. Subsequent consultation with our Exco resulted in a new countrywide project by LMRG to assist us in our approach to commercial business.

Every year we all wait with bated breath to celebrate the year’s achievers. The format and number of awards was reduced from previous years. This year we focused on three main areas, namely: Sales Performance Award for branches who achieved the branch turnover target, Branch Service Award for branches who achieved the branch service turnover target and Branch of the Year for the best all-round performance in sales, service, debtors collections and branch profit. It was a challenging year with the ending of the RT3-2015 tender where we enjoyed being the exclusive supplier on most of the BRANCH OF THE YEAR 2018/2019 product categories and the slow and challenging start to a drastically East London - Gary Eves changed RT3-2018 tender.

We would like to congratulate the following branches on a great achievement: BRANCH OF THE YEAR East London - Gary Eves SALES PERFORMANCE AWARDS Mpumalanga - Gerhard van Tonder East London - Gary Eves Kimberley / Upington - Gerhard Krüger SERVICE PERFORMANCE AWARDS East London / Mthatha - Gary Eves Kimberley / Upington - Gerhard Krüger Paarl - Sharon Roux Port Elizabeth - Warren Diakos Mmabatho / Rustenburg - Mandi Anderson Nelspruit - Gerhard van Tonder Graaff-Reinet- Pierre Kruse EXCO AND BRANCH SALES PERFORMANCE WINNERS l-r: Marc Pillay, Laetitia Coetzer, Gerhard van Tonder, Gary Eves, Gerhard Krüger, Porky Barbosa & Hussein Mangera

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 59 Heritage Day Head Office Pietersburg High School Golf Day Polokwane

olokwane entered a four ball at the recent Pietersburg PHigh School Golf Day.

THE KONICA MINOLTA FOUR-BALL Enjoying a well deserved drink! Rebecca Mngoma & Joyce Nkuna dressed to impress on l-r: Attie Buitendag, Theo Allison, Wimpie Knoesen Heritage Day & Morne Etchell

2019 Rugby World Cup East London

ast London branch were very excited during the 2019 Rugby World Cup. The staff kept a record of all the Egames, which they took very seriously. On ‘Bok Fridays’ staff showed their support for the Springboks by wearing their ‘Bok’ shirts to work.

l-r: Gary Eves, Lailah Obaray, Tammy Van Der Merwe & Nomawethu Myoli

l-r: Gary Eves, Nomawethu Myoli, Rapheal Flynn We thank the Springboks for making South Africa proud! & Damian Bezuidenhout

60 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Konica Minolta i-Series Launch Pretoria

n October, Pretoria introduced the new and exciting i-Series to their clients. Together with the new Iequipment, software including Ysoft SafeQ 6, Google Cloud Print and Google Drive Connector from the Konica Minolta Market Place, LK-110 and Document Navigator were all demonstrated at the event. Clients submitted a checklist of hardware/software interests, this was then put into a lucky draw and with the OMR feature from Document Navigator these check- lists were scanned and a brochure was automatically generated. The clients enjoyed the warm hospitality shown by the staff of Pretoria branch.

THE KONICA MINOLTA FOUR-BALL Enjoying a well deserved drink! l-r: Attie Buitendag, Theo Allison, Wimpie Knoesen & Morne Etchell

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 61 Top Debtors Performance of the Year George by Pierre Kruse

t is with great pride that we once again awarded the Top Debtors Award of the Year to Dorelle Smith from George Ibranch. Dorelle has won this award every year since 2015 when she took up the position as credit controller for George and Graaf-Reinet. Dorelle originally started at the branch as a temp in 2008 and was employed as sales secretary in 2011. Later in 2015 she was appointed branch credit controller. Dorelle advised that the reason for her success is that she communicates with her customers constantly and is supported by management. Congratulation Dorelle well done you deserve this award and we are looking at winning many more in the future! Pierre Kruse & Dorelle Smith

Happy New Year in July Polokwane by Morne Etchell

Celebrating the new financial year

ith the 2018 financial year ‘done and dusted’, it was Since we were all geared to get the new financial year off time to forget yesterday‘ ’ and to rather look forward to a great start, we kept the drinks ‘light’ and made a toast Wto ‘tomorrow’ and to find out what the 2019 financial to the new year while sipping our non-alcoholic bubbly! year has in store for us.

62 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your hard work and dedication this year!

Wishing you all a joyous festive season and a healthy and prosperous 2020.

Bidvest Ladies Tea 2019 Port Elizabeth he theme for the annual Bidvest Ladies Tea this year was ‘What mask do you wear and what mask do Tpeople see when they look at you?’ This prestigious event is hosted every year by Bidvest companies in Port Elizabeth. All funds raised go to select charities, which change every year, giving various charities the opportunity of receiving much needed donations.

This year the funds raised went to the Port Elizabeth Rape Crisis Centre. Each guest was asked to bring one or more of the following items; soap, washcloths, toothpaste, toothbrushes, tissues and feminine hygiene products. A cheque to the value of R10,000 together with all items donated was handed over to the local Rape Crisis Centre. During this time, the branch ran an ‘absolute pure indulgence pamper raffle’ and raised a whopping R1,170.00 for which the crisis centre were most grateful. Various talks were given at the event which included self-defence as well as a presentation from a motivational speaker. It was a great day enjoyed by all. l-r: Rita Meyer, Natalie Knight & Nikki Swaphi

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 63 Bidvest King Pie Golf Day Pretoria

onica Minolta Pretoria branch sponsored a four-ball and water Khole at the King Pie Annual Charity Golf Day in September at the Irene Country Club. This event was hosted by King Pie in conjunction with the Dennis Van Olst Trust as well as The Eye Institute to assist underprivileged children with eye problems and who need corrective eye surgery and/or glasses. The event was a huge success and everyone who attended thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Being part of Bidvest made our involvement at the golf day even more of an honour and we look forward to supporting the King Pie Group with this most worthy charity at their next golf day. Bidvest Protea Coin four-ball

KONICA MINOLTA FOUR-BALL l-r: Jaco Moller, Clinton Walles, André Kellerman, Koen Dekker with An-Lisa Potgieter in the middle

64 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 --- Aleshia Hart ------Dirk Verwey ------Shaheed Davids ------Avuyile Ntlekiso ------Shayne Minnie --- service controller service technician service technician technician sales consultant CAPE TOWN CAPE TOWN CAPE TOWN EAST LONDON PORT ELIZABETH

--- Chantelle Smith ------Keenan Cupido ------Lawrence Modika ------Tebanelo Tjabadi ------Grantham Adams --- administrator on-site technician on-site technician stock controller technician NELSPRUIT JOHANNESBURG JOHANNESBURG RUSTENBURG GRAAFF-REINET

PEOPLE on the move... --- Zelda Venter ------Janine Jekwa ------Thembela Malawana --- sales executive logistics supervisor technician NELSPRUIT EAST LONDON EAST LONDON

--- Ashwin Ramlall ------Charmaine Moodley ------Willem Terblanche ------Hannes Swart --- branch manager debtors supervisor service manager corporate account manager DURBAN DURBAN DURBAN JOHANNESBURG

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 65 Xanthe’s bridal shower Head Office by Ivone Domingues

t was 18 August and head office was still feeling the pressures of financial year-end, but that didn’t stop us Ifrom taking a quick breather to celebrate Xanthe’s bridal shower. With a few good laughs at naughty remarks the short break was welcome.

Melanie Gerber (sales secretary) & Kurt Schüler CAPE TOWN

---- Aimee Jae Haylett ------Alshane Malique Thompson ------Karley Kruger ------D’aiden Myburgh ---- Byron & Pamela Ann Haylett Janiera & Renaan Thompson Natascha & Martin Kruger Dirk & Dawn Myburgh JOHANNESBURG JOHANNESBURG HEAD OFFICE NELSPRUIT 28 August 2019 6 June 2019 30 June 2019 24 July 2019

66 theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 Weddings

Keith & Leisha Labeeuw 08 December 2018 NELSPRUIT

Christiaan & Ilse Steenkamp Eugene & Yolene du Plessis 23 March 2019 01 November 2019 HEAD OFFICE GRAAFF-REINET

Mario & Angela De Carvalho Wade & Xanthe Tandy Neville & Zanelle Phillips 30 March 2019 30 August 2019 14 September 2019 HEAD OFFICE HEAD OFFICE PORT ELIZABETH

theBUZZ | issue #7 | December 2019 67 KONICA MINOLTA TREE PLANTING IMPACT 2008-2019