In 1996, South Africa was in a transformative era. Just two years after the end of apartheid, the country’s economy opened up to new possibilities, making it a fertile ground for entrepreneurs who were quick to recognize emerging opportunities. Businesses founded in this period understood the importance of responding to consumer demand and were strategic in positioning themselves for long-term success. Some of these ventures have not only endured but continue to thrive, evolving alongside South Africa’s unique consumer landscape. Here’s a look at ten businesses started in 1996 that have stood the test of time, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
1. Netcare Group
• Founder: Dr. Richard Friedland
• Industry: Healthcare
• Description: Netcare launched in 1996 and quickly became one of South Africa’s leading private healthcare providers. It focused on high-quality care and innovation, growing into a multinational hospital group.
2. Capitec Bank
• Founder: Riaan Stassen
• Industry: Banking
• Description: Capitec revolutionized South African banking with simple, affordable banking solutions. It focused on customer convenience and transparency, a strategy that resonated well with the public, leading to its steady growth over nearly three decades.
3. Discovery Health
• Founder: Adrian Gore
• Industry: Health Insurance
• Description: Discovery Health introduced a fresh approach to health insurance, emphasizing wellness and preventative care. Its Vitality program, incentivizing healthy living, became a flagship offering, inspiring customer loyalty.
4. Woolworths Financial Services
• Founder: Woolworths Holdings
• Industry: Retail Finance
• Description: Aimed at enhancing customer loyalty, Woolworths Financial Services offered products complementing its retail operations. Over the years, it expanded to include credit, insurance, and financial services tailored to Woolworths customers.
5. Shoprite Holdings’ Expansion
• Founder: Whitey Basson
• Industry: Retail
• Description: Although Shoprite was founded earlier, it underwent significant expansion in 1996, cementing its place as South Africa’s largest food retailer. Shoprite’s ability to adapt to consumer needs has kept it as a household name for decades.
6. Telkom SA
• Founder: Originally state-owned
• Industry: Telecommunications
• Description: Telkom, established as South Africa’s primary telecom provider, underwent major restructuring and expansion in 1996. Its role in the industry has evolved with technology, providing internet and telecommunication solutions that remain relevant today.
7. Kalahari.com
• Founder: Ryan Cohen
• Industry: E-commerce
• Description: One of South Africa’s earliest e-commerce sites, Kalahari.com focused on books and media. Though it later merged with Takealot, it played a pioneering role in online retail, paving the way for South Africa’s digital shopping boom.
8. Mango Airlines
• Founder: South African Airways
• Industry: Aviation
• Description: Launched as a low-cost airline, Mango aimed to make air travel accessible to more South Africans. While it faced challenges over the years, Mango’s inception reflects a trend in affordable travel that remains relevant today.
9. Mr. Price Group’s Expansion
• Founder: Laurie Chiappini and Stewart Cohen
• Industry: Retail
• Description: Mr. Price has been a staple in affordable, fashionable clothing since the 1980s, but its expansion in 1996 brought more retail variety to a growing customer base. The brand’s strong focus on value-driven fashion has kept it popular.
10. Imperial Logistics
• Founder: Bill Lynch
• Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain
• Description: Founded as a diversified logistics company, Imperial Logistics leveraged its expertise in transportation and supply chain management to expand across Africa and Europe. Its adaptability and innovation have secured its lasting presence.
Closing Thoughts
These businesses, now nearly 30 years old, are a testament to the enduring power of strategic planning and responsiveness to consumer needs. They began as innovative solutions to specific demands in post-apartheid South Africa and grew into essential parts of the country’s economy. By staying relevant and resilient, they demonstrate that a well-founded business can indeed stand the test of time.
