Gauteng-based Book Express and Cape Town-based Research Unit report that they benefitted from better brand awareness since winning the 702/CapeTalk Small Business Awards with Sage One in 2014.

What’s more, it also helped in garnering new business, expanding their teams and building their profile in the market.

A new chapter for Book Express

The 702 winner, Book Express, provides new and second hand books at an affordable price to the national and international UNISA, CIMA and ACCA student markets.

Founded in 2005, it solves the problems that many students and professionals experience when purchasing books in that they offer the convenience of extended shopping hours, effective and affordable courier service for new and second hand textbooks, and guidance and support in the purchase of textbooks.

The radio advertising package Book Express won through the Awards allowed them to inform customers about their move to new, bigger premises. "Telephone enquiries and customer walk-ins increased by some 20% when the adverts were flighted. Were it not for the ads, we would have probably seen a drop in sales as a result of our move. Instead, sales have increased, despite the tough business environment for the academic book market," says CEO Riaz Hassim at Book Express.

Says Hassim, "The Awards will provide any small business with a huge amount of exposure and contribute to the awareness of its brand in the market. We find that our customers always comment and take notice about hearing our adverts on 702."

Hassim's advice for this year's nominees: "This is a wonderful opportunity. Believe in yourself and give it your best. Enjoy the process as each step offers one a learning opportunity and allows you to reflect on your business. And, most importantly always put your customer first."

Research Unit creates gravitational pull

Leather goods manufacturer Research Unit is run by a husband and wife team. They design and make quality leather goods from their own studio in Cape Town.

Since its humble beginnings in 2011, they have focused their energy on building a leather goods brand that is recognised as an example of quality, innovation, minimalism and elegance.

“We’ve had a really fantastic year since the Awards, so much so that we’ve been able to create jobs and take on new employees. The Small Business Awards have embedded our brand in consumers' minds - some customers are still asking about us being on CapeTalk," say owners, Chad and Erin-Lee Petersen.

They say that other small businesses should enter this year because it's fantastic for business. "People really gravitate towards your brand as a result of the exposure," they add. "Be confident and honest in telling your story. Show your sustainability and how innovative you are - that shows that you're in it for the long term. And, just be you at all times."  

More about the Awards

Nominations are open, but time is running out. Small businesses from Gauteng and the Western Cape can stand a chance to win their share of over R1 million in prizes.

The aim is to give recognition to great small businesses that offer exceptional service, provide them with the necessary exposure to help them grow, and inspire other entrepreneurs to follow in their footsteps.

"Each year, we're excited to see the quality of the nominations we receive. They show just how important the vibrant small business sector is to the economy and to the community," says Steven Cohen, MD of Sage One AAMEA (Africa, Australia, Middle East and Asia).

“Book Express and Research Unit are great examples of what we are looking for”, Cohen adds.

"The companies we interact with during these Awards are a true inspiration because of their hard work, ingenuity and commitment to their customers. We're looking forward to helping some great small businesses live their dreams through the 2015 instalment of the Awards."

The winning small businesses will be awarded the following:

• The Winners: In each region, the winners will receive an advertising package to the value of R250 000 on 702/CapeTalk along with a years’ worth Sage One accounting and payroll software and support. 
• The Runner-ups: In each region, the two runner-ups will each receive a R125 000 airtime package on 702/CapeTalk along with a years’ worth Sage One accounting and payroll software and support.

Visit www.sba.702.co.za or www.sba.capetalk.co.za for more information