Vol 100 issue 01 2016

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Published by

m y o f f i c e m a g a z i n e 1

My Office Magazine is the official magazine of

the Southern African Association for Stationery,

Home and Office Products. It is read by over

25 000 buyers and sellers of stationery and office

products each month.

FIRST PUBLISHED IN 1916

PUBLISHER

Rob Matthews - [email protected]

EDITOR

Leigh Richter - [email protected]

ASSOCIATE EDITOR AND MARKETING

Wendy Dancer - [email protected]

EXECUTIVE SALES MANAGER

Kim Kotze - [email protected]

NATIONAL OFFICE

Design and Layout: Vanessa Bentley

New Membership: Wendy Dancer

Reception: Ruth Montsho

Johannesburg Office

PO Box 3226, Parklands, 2121

6 Edward Street, Kensington B, Randburg, 2194

Tel: + 27 11 781 0370

Fax: + 27 11 781 2828

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.myofficemagazine.co.za

CONTRIBUTIONS

Letters and editorial contributions are welcomed

and should be addressed to the editor at editor@

shop-sa.co.za. Publication cannot be guaranteed

and is subject to space and the editor’s

discretion.

THE LEGAL BIT

Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy the

publisher and editor cannot accept responsibility

for supplied material. The opinions of contributors

are not necessarily those of shop-sa. Copyright

is strictly reserved and no part of this magazine

may be reproduced in whole or in part without the

written permission of the publisher.

Contents Vol 100 | January 2016www.myofficemagazine.co.za | www.facebook.com/shopsa.za

NEWS35 | INDUSTRY NEWS Industry-related news and announcements36 | ECO PAGESA green news update

SALES SAVVY12 | IT’S OFF TO WORK WE GO A look at all the back-to-office essentials18 | JOURNALS, DIARIES AND CALENDARS A simple guide to these essential productivity tools28 | ARTS AND CRAFTS Create your own Valentine’s Day card this year

RETAIL SAVVY32 | DRESS FOR SUCCESS A simple guide to corporate dressing34 | OPEN-PLAN OFFICES Are open-plan offices on their on their way out?

BUSINESS SAVVY03 | 2016: THE YEAR OF THE CUSTOMER 2016 will demand our best, says Anton Herbst

SPECIAL FEATURES04 | SHOP-SA CENTENARY A brief history of the Southern African Association for Stationery, Home and Office Products10| TOP IT TRENDS FOR 2016 10 of the biggest trends set to influence the coming year 24 | INDUSTRY INSIGHTS: PRICE DEFICIT DISORDER A look at the stationery industry’s ruinous obsession with discounting30 | HOW TO STRESS LESS Top tips to mitigate workplace stress47 | THE REAL STUFF – NOT MARKETING FLUFF This month we speak to Clive Heydenrych of Trodat

IN EVERY ISSUE02 | EDITOR’S LETTER17 | WIN THIS!29 | WEB BUTTONS37 | CRIME ALERT38 | PRODUCT SHOWCASE40 | BUYERS’ GUIDE48 | PUNCHLINE

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Welcome to 2016!

e d i t o r ’ s l e t t e r

Leigh

The new year is upon us, and we here at My Office magazine are not only celebrating the beginning of 2016, but the 100th birthday of the Southern African Association for Stationery, Home and Office Products (shop-sa) as well. As the official mouthpiece of shop-sa, My Office will be featuring a number of articles throughout the year celebrating this milestone.

The very first board was elected in December of 1916 under the guise of the Transvaal Stationers’ Association, and the 99th board was elected in October 2015.

This industry body has withstood two world wars, two worldwide economic depressions, a number of recessions, astronomical tariffs and numerous trading sanctions. Read more about its inception on page 4.

Something that has long afflicted the stationery industry is the issue of price cutting – in fact, it was tabled as problem in the early days of the association, and has continued to rear its head throughout the years.

In C. R. Collett’s book Fifty Years of Service, which covers the first 50 years of the Transvaal Stationers’ Association, he states:

“At the monthly meeting of the Transvaal Stationers’ Association in September, 1927, a lively discussion on ‘Bazaar’

competition took place. It appeared that one of the Bazaars was selling a writing pad containing 300 sheets for one shilling. How were the stationers supposed to compete with that? In the October issue of the Journal, banner headlines topped an article on ‘How to kill Bazaar competition’.”

Read OPI’s article on the subject of this “price deficit disorder”, as well as local industry comment, on page 24.

As we head into another work year, a top priority for both office workers and university students should be organisation. Have a look at our essential back-to-office items on page 12 and our article on diaries, journals and calendars on page 18.

And while on the subject of offices, is open plan really the right choice for your employees? It definitely suits some better than others, but there are ways to satisfy everyone. See page 34 for more.

Part of getting back into the office swing is dressing for success. Choosing your corporate wardrobe is made easy with our essential tips on page 32.

Here’s to 2016 being a successful year for all of us.

Until next month

m y o f f i c e m a g a z i n e2

w w w . m y o f f i c e m a g a z i n e . c o . z a

b u s i n e s s s a v v y

2016: the year of the customer

The title of this article is probably the most hackneyed term ever. We are all in the business of understanding our customers’ needs, solving their problems and serving them to the best of our ability.

Yet, despite all the hype of customer centricity, I would like to challenge you to recall an experience in the recent past where you were absolutely blown away by the service you received. The kind of experience that would make you tell anyone that dares to listen to your gushing.

As the lack of economic growth, rising interest rates and changes in our market bites into our business models, I can feel the pressure mounting on our cost structures; the need for greater productivity; and the imperative to somehow stand out from the crowd. All of it points to doing more with much less.

How often do I hear people saying they

are working harder just to stand still? What we forget is that our customers are not immune or somehow exempt from these pressures. The question is how we help them with their challenges when we are under so much pressure to cut back on the number of people we employ, the working capital we consume, and the other resources we use to generate sales and somehow grow the business.

The natural response to all of this is to reduce our service levels, cut back on our customer interaction, do less advertising and become increasingly internally-focused. This makes us all look the same; our service becomes mediocre and price starts to rule supreme as our only value-add.

The challenge we have is that our customers – are mostly in cost-cutting mode when it comes to areas like purchasing, facilities and IT. When faced with no differentiated alternatives, they can only revert to price as differentiator.

When you speak to the CEO, CFO, CMO and all the other execs in the business, you get a very different view. They are searching for growth, innovation and the productivity of their people and their capital.

Understanding where they are in their decision journey rather than where they fit in your segmentation; changing from marketing push activities with traditional tools to a much tighter integration between marketing and sales based on a marketing enabled sales team; and innovating longstanding practices in sales organisations are all critical interventions if we are to build sustainable long-term relationships with them.

I was recently asked at a conference whether this world fills me with excitement or fear. I chose excitement because if we are willing to do things differently and if we are willing to engage at a different level with our customer, we can join them on their transformation journeys and make a deep and lasting difference in their businesses.

2016 will have to be the year of the customer if we want to grow and thrive – but only if we have a different mind-set and we work together at a level not seen before. n

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTANTON HERBST


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s h o p - s a c e n t e n a r y

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTGRATEFUL THANKS TO EDDIE ROBBS OF CTP FOR

THE LOAN OF FIFTY YEARS OF SERVICE BY C.R. COLLETT; AND TO CRAIG NOYLE OF INOVOCOM FOR

THE SCANS FROM THE STATIONERY AND OFFICE PRODUCTS SA MAGAZINE.

W E Hortor Geo Constable A Law Palmer T W Yardley

Long live shop-sa!A brief history of the Southern African Association for Stationery, Home and Office Products (shop-sa)

The Southern African Association for Stationery, Home and Office Products (shop-sa) is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.

Originally called the Transvaal Stationers’ Association, the first meetings of this industry body were held at “somewhat irregular intervals in a Johannesburg tea shop”.

The earliest available records of the association are found in Volume 1, No. 1 of The South African Stationery Trades Journal, published in December 1916. The first elected board had 16 members, and it was chaired by W. E. Hortor. Hortor served as chair the following year too.

Some other notable members that

served as chair were C. R. Collet, who served a total of 12 times between 1925 and 1960; E.D. Robbs, whose grandson Eddie currently works at CTP; and W. Abel, who was chairwoman in 1959 and the first woman to serve in that capacity.

A number of challenges faced the Transvaal Stationers’ Association in its first 50 years of existence. These included import difficulties; a hike in customs tariffs; the onset of World War II, which brought with it a shortage of supplies and staff, and drastic bans on the use of paper; and the issue of price cutting in the industry.

The Transvaal Stationers’ Association eventually changed its name to the National Office Products Association of South Africa (NOPSA). Stationery and Office Products SA was the name of the official journal of

the association. In March 2001, it was announced that the Independent Stationers Organisation (ISO) – a buying group based in Johannesburg – had merged with NOPSA.

In 2005 it was decided to rename and rebrand NOPSA. On 21 September 2005 OPI.net carried the announcement, which stated that NOPSA had agreed to change its name to Southern African Association for Stationery, Home and Office Products (shop-sa).

It is interesting to note that C. R. Collett observed in 1965 that, after many hours of research, “I arrive at one conclusion, that stationers of 1965 are still struggling with the same problems that faced their counterparts in 1915”.

In 2016 the industry still battles a number of these challenges, including import difficulties due to the weakening of the rand; high customs tariffs; and price cutting. In an ironic twist of fate, the industry no longer suffers from a shortage of supplies, but is instead faced with a problem of “too much” in terms of both choice and supplies.

Despite all of this, shop-sa has prevailed. It is indeed rare to find an association that has continued to serve its members for a century. Here’s to the next 100 years! n


Join our members in congratulating shop-sa on their centenary. Place your message in the February issue of My Office magazine and stand a chance to win one of three sets of double tickets for a hot air balloon ride over the scenic Magaliesburg mountains.

shop-sa is marking its centenary in 2016.

To book and enter our draw, please contact

Wendy Dancer or Kim Kotze on (011) 781 0370.

Denton Office Solutions ensures that all our quality international brands are able to perform to a higherstandard. With our national support structure we are able to provide after sales and technical supportacross the country. Giving every customer peace of mind, knowing that their machine can help build a strong and productive office

Ext. 2

50 years.indd 1 12/4/2015 1:46:07 PM

w w w . m y o f f i c e m a g a z i n e . c o . z a m y o f f i c e m a g a z i n e 9

Congratulations Shop-SA on yourCentenary

and here’s wishing you every success for the future!!!

Congratulations Shop SA on theirCentenary

and here’s wishing you every success for the future!!!

50 years.indd 1 12/4/2015 1:46:07 PM

Congratulations to Shop SA on their 100th Birthday!!!

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I T f o c u s

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Advanced system architecture Superfast computers might just become the norm in 2016 as ultra-efficient neuromorphic architectures, underpinned by field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), allow machines to run at speeds of greater than a teraflop. This will mean that machines will be able to learn and integrate with the IoT, to the point that they will be present anywhere – in homes, in cars, on wristwatches and even in humans.

The Information of EverythingEvery smart device on the planet is generating vast quantities of data every day: they’re producing and sending text, audio, video, and sensory and contextual information. The Information of Everything – also known as the Internet of Things or the Internet of Data – will only become useful once we can analyse the data and identify patterns.

“The Information of Everything addresses this influx with strategies and technologies to link data from all these different data sources,” say analysts at IT research company Gartner.

“Information has always existed everywhere, but has often been isolated, incomplete, unavailable or unintelligible … advances in semantic tools such as graph databases, as well as other emerging data classification and information analysis techniques, will bring meaning to the often chaotic deluge of information.”

2016 will produce more and more “big” data, but the way we handle it may change.

10 trending technologies for

2016

Ambient user experiences Virtual and augmented reality are set to boom in 2016, with a focus continuity between devices and location. Context will also become key, with input needed from human elements (such as emotional state, habits, interests, group dynamics, social interactions and colocation of others, present tasks and general goals) and physical elements (including the user’s absolute position, relative position, light, pressure, noise and atmosphere of the area).

“Hyper-location technologies are key to delivering an ambient user experience that is also giving rise to the idea of slippy UX,” says Crooks, who thinks that mobile is becoming more about short, fast interactions with minimal user input.

“It’s different from the simple sensor-based apps on smartphones today,” says Curran. “Instead of the user having to go and look for something like hotels, the device would already know what kind of hotel they are looking for based on what hotels they have picked in the past.”

Bioprinting2015 saw 3D printing grow in leaps and bounds, with many businesses and consumers buying small personal printers from companies like Makerbot. Despite this, 3D printing remains a major growth area with vast potential. As the materials that can be 3D printed increase, so do the practical applications for 3D printers. The aerospace, medical, automotive, energy and military industries are all destined to benefit from this technology.

Food printing can be seen as the imminent trend for 2016, says Dr Kevin Curran, technical expert at the IEEE. ChefJet can print in chocolate and sugar, Choc Edge creates 2D/3D chocolate decorations, ChocoByte prints custom 3D solid chocolate bars, and Natural Machines’ Foodini can print both pasta and pizza.

A major research area is bioprinting, where food is printed dot by dot to build up meals. “The aim is to create a range of food inks, basically substances that form gels with water, and the Holy Grail is to bring food to life from nothing,” he says. As with all 3D printing, the ultimate aim is to completely eliminate the production chain for food.

2016 is here, and it promises to bring with it a number of trends that will have a significant impact on the IT and business world. Many

have identified 2016 as the year when the physical and virtual worlds will finally merge.



I T f o c u s

Standardisation of IoT platforms The devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) increasingly need to be managed, secured and integrated, in order to create some level of standardisation.

“IoT platforms constitute the work IT does behind the scenes from an architectural and a technology standpoint to make the IoT a reality,” says Gartner. “The IoT is an integral part of the digital mesh and the ambient user experience, and the emerging and dynamic world of IoT platforms is what makes them possible.”

According to Garner, any enterprise embracing the IoT will need to develop an IoT platform strategy – which will be difficult to get right until at least 2018.

Bluetooth beacons Bluetooth-powered beacons – also known as lighthouses – are now being installed in shopping malls, museums, hotels, airports and offices around the world to track the exact location of a smart device and send the user realtime notifications.

Beyond its mobile commerce capabilities (such as texting vouchers to passing shoppers), the spread of intelligent, wireless Bluetooth beacon hardware means indoor mapping and much, much more.

“We believe that Bluetooth 4.2 beacons will become one of the big trends for next year, taking the technology from outside of the marketing sphere and into the Internet of Things sphere,” says Crooks. This could include realtime notifications of gate changes and train delays at airports and train stations; hands-free payments; and multi-room music that follows you around your home.

Adaptive security architecture The birth of the new threat landscape has seen the death of traditional antivirus software. As the number of digital businesses increase, so too do the number hackers, crackers and scammers.

Users now need adaptive security architectures to keep their personal and confidential data safe from high-tech security threats.

One example of such a sophisticated malware monitoring system is Volatile Cedar. It has a “stealth mode” which allows it to evade detection. It monitors system processes and launches custom-built remote access Trojans.

“Techniques to avoid detection include frequently checking antivirus results and changing versions and builds on all infected servers when any traces of detection appear,” says Curran. Cloud-based services only make the demand for adaptive security higher.

“Application self-protection, as well as user and entity behaviour analytics, will help fulfil the adaptive security architecture,” says Gartner.

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Virtual assistantsVirtual personal assistants and smart advisors are the future faces of tech – Google Now, Cortana, Alexa and Siri are just the beginning. Software will increasingly be seen as the agent of change.

“Over the next five years, we will evolve to a post-app world with intelligent agents delivering dynamic and contextual actions and interfaces,” says David Cearley, vice-president and Gartner fellow.

“IT leaders should explore how they can use autonomous things and agents to augment human activity and free people for work that only people can do. However, they must recognise that smart agents and things are a long-term phenomenon that will continually evolve and expand their uses for the next 20 years.”

Advanced machine learningThis is another tech trend that ties up with the Information of Everything. Computers will automate data processing by learning and adapting – and the end result will be artificial intelligence (AI).

Handling complex datasets requires deep neural nets (DNNs) that allow computers to both act autonomously and perceive the world on their own.

“DNNs are what makes smart machines appear intelligent,” according to analysts at Gartner. “DNNs enable hardware or software-based machines to learn for themselves all the features in their environment, from the finest details to broad sweeping abstract classes of content.”

Businesses that understand how to use advanced machine learning can gain a competitive advantage.

The device mesh According to Gartner, the device mesh refers to the expanding set of endpoints people use to access applications and information or interact with people, social communities, governments and businesses. It includes smart devices, wearables, consumer and home electronic devices, automotive devices and environmental devices. It will mean accessing information and apps via a number of objects.

“The device mesh is innately part of the Internet of Things … even apps like Waze are part of this trend, turning cars into live traffic data,” says Mike Crooks, head of Innovation at Mubaloo Innovation Lab. “The device mesh is the trend of moving to the interconnected ideal of the Internet of Things.”

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b a c k t o o f f i c e

It’s off to work we go

It’s the beginning of the new year and all over the country people are returning to work and school. Put your best foot forward by ensuring you have the best tools for the job at hand.

Paper perfect

Paper cubesPaper cubes are handy boxes containing paper that has been cut to a uniform size (usually 75mm x 75mm). They are ideal for having next to the telephone so you can jot down messages, phone numbers and other information to pass on to someone else. Paper cubes and their refills come in a range of colours, including plain white, pastel or neon

colours, or in mixed packs. The paper cube itself has a cut-away on the front so that the paper is easy to access even when it is nearing the bottom of the box. A paper cube refill usually comes in 600 sheets.

Post-it notesPost-it notes (or sticky notes) are small pieces of paper with a re-adherable strip of glue at the back. This pressure-sensitive adhesive allows the notes to be easily attached, removed and re-posted a few times without leaving residue. They are made for temporarily attaching notes to documents and other surfaces, and are available in a wide range of colours, shapes and sizes. Post-it note dispensers are ideal for the office environment as they provide an easily-accessible box to house the notes, preventing clutter.

EnvelopesIt is a good idea for any office to carry a range of envelopes for use on a daily basis. Envelopes can be padded with additional material, such as bubble wrap, for fragile items. These are used most often for posting multiple items. Normal envelopes are unpadded. Some of them have a clear window through which the address is displayed. The envelope flap may be on the top or along the side of the envelope.

Envelopes come in a vast array of sizes. A letter-sized envelope is usually 110mm x 220mm. These take a sheet of A4 paper folded into three, and are ideal for posting letters. Other useful sizes to have are A5 (162mm x 229mm) and A4 (229mm x 324mm).

Envelopes are usually white or brown, but can be found in every colour of the




rainbow. Some envelopes have an adhesive gum on the back that requires a liquid (such as saliva) to make it sticky. Others are self-adhesive, and come with a strip that you peel off to expose the sticky area.

Business cardsBusiness cards are a must for most employees as it is an easy and convenient way to give out necessary information, while displaying the company’s identity. Traditional business cards measure 89mm x 50mm and are made from card that is usually 300gsm. When having a business card designed, remember that it should ideally be able to fit into a wallet without falling into the fold. If your business card is bigger than a bank card, it is unlikely to fit into a wallet and could be lost.

Top tech aids

Mouse pads A mouse pad is a useful and convenient tool for those who use a mouse every day. It works by providing the mouse with a better surface to move over, preventing jitters.

Modern mouse pads are typically made of lesser-density rubber composites with fabric bonded to the upper surface. However, many other types of material have been used, including fabric, plastics, recycled rubber tyres, silicone rubber, leather, glass, cork, wood, aluminium, stone and stainless steel. Some mouse pads include a padded wrist rest too.

3G modems These are extremely useful tools for workers who are constantly on the move. Available from most computer shops, 3G modems require SIM cards to work because they connect to a cellular network rather ADSL Internet. Many businesses take out contracts with cellular providers in order to get preferential rates.

Modems have an internal antenna with which to acquire signal, but they can be purchased with additional external antennae for use in areas with poorer signal.

StylusesA stylus is a hard, pointed tool used as a method of input on touchscreen-enabled devices, such as tablet PCs, to accurately navigate menus. It is useful in dirty environments as it helps to prevent the device’s screen from getting dirty. Styluses are also used by courier companies so their customers can sign electronic delivery forms.

Many smartphones have a built-in stylus which slots in behind the back cover. Some styluses may extend and contract into small, pen-like cylinders.

Styluses can be active or passive (capacitive). Passive styluses act just like a finger when touching a screen. There is no electronic communication between a passive stylus and a device.

An active stylus includes electronic components that communicate with the touchscreen controller on a device. Active pens are typically used for note taking, on-screen drawing/painting and electronic document annotation.

These styluses can be found in many different styles.

Wrist restsWrist supports are essential for employees who spend most of their day using a mouse or typing at a keyboard. The additional support provided by a wrist rest can minimise pain and mitigate the onset of carpel tunnel syndrome. Wrist rests can be small and square to fit in front of a mouse, or long and rectangular to fit in front of a keyboard. They are usually made of durable, comfortable materials such as high-quality foam or silicon.

Copy holders Also known as typing stands, these useful items attach to a desk or computer and are used by administrative staff that need to read from and type out documents while working on a computer. Some copy holders are standalone items. In general, a copy holder offers vertical or horizontal rotation, line guides for

easy place-holding, and clips to hold documents in place.

Computer stands Computer stands are essential for the correct positioning of the head and neck for anyone who uses a computer all day. They ensure ergonomic positioning of the body, which helps to decrease aches and pains while boosting productivity.

A simple computer stand is available in the form of a laptop tilt. These are ergonomically angled pieces of moulded plastic which allow ventilation of the device and a correct working angle.

A more complicated computer stand holds a computer screen, allowing it to be lifted via an adjustable arm. The screen is then angled in an ergonomic fashion, or rotated vertically or horizontally. Some iPad covers also provide an upright stand, allowing the device to stand vertically on the desk for easy reading. This relieves both neck and back strain.

Multi-chargers These handy devices allow for the charging of multiple devices at once. Especially useful for mobile work environments, they offer high-speed charging for a range of items. They can be device agnostic and work in a variety of environments, such as vehicles. They keep the modern worker connected at all times.

Docking stationsA docking station (or port replicator) provides a simplified way of “plugging-in” an electronic device to common peripherals. Docks are not standardised because of the wide range of dockable devices, which all have different connectors, power signalling and uses. Bear in mind the types of devices you have when choosing a docking station.

Docking stations are mainly used for charging devices, offering media output (such as playing audio) and enhancing connectivity by providing additional ports.


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Get organised

One of the best ways to reduce stress in the new year is to know where everything is. Use these handy tools to ensure your desk is always neat and orderly.

Desk organisersDesktop organisers are key for keeping a variety of smaller items in order and within easy reach. Circular or square in shape, desk organisers are made from steel, plastic or eco-friendly, recycled materials and bamboo. They are offered in a range of styles and colours, and have separate compartments of varying sizes that are designed to hold rulers, pens, pencils and erasers, and organise smaller stationery items such as paper clips and rubber bands. More sophisticated desk organisers can even include tape dispensers and built-in clocks.

Paper clip holders Paper clips have a bad habit of getting into every nook and cranny of the office. Paper clip holders are small boxes that are either magnetised or non-magnetic. Magnetised paper clip holders are more useful as paper clips are made of metal and stick together. Many offer non-slip rubberised or felt bottoms so they stay in one spot.

ClipboardsThese handy items help to keep documents grouped together and provide a flat, hard surface on which to write while on the move. Clipboards are made from a variety of material, including PVC, chipboard and wood. The clipboard contains a clip mechanism along the top which opens to receive paper and closes to hold it in place. Clipboards are ideal in warehouse-type environments or for people on the go, such as couriers.

Letter traysBefore the advent of e-mail, letter trays were the original inbox and outbox. They are important items that help organise the documents on your desk into two simple categories: to be done and finished. They generally come as separate units which are stackable to make up multiple tiers for people who have more than two categories in mind. Letter trays can be open-sided or be closed with sliding drawers. They are made from a range of materials, including plastic, wood, wire mesh and pressed metal.

Business card holdersThese items are useful for staff members who hand out business cards on a regular basis, such as those who work in

reception. There are a number of different types of holders. At its most basic, a business card holder is a plastic box or stand that supports a number of cards at once. These are easily accessible for both staff and members of the public. More sophisticated holders are created in album form, with individual plastic pockets for each card. This is more suited to people who have collected cards for the purpose of lead generation or the creation of a contact list, and want to store them in a way that will protect them from dirt, light and moisture.

Cable organisers Cables tend to clutter up a workspace, and many of the devices used in the office environment have at least one cable for charging. These days, one employee can have a PC, a laptop, a smartphone and a tablet. To prevent getting tangled in all these wires, make use of a cable organiser. They come in the form of wire clips, clamps or plastic sleeving which is run behind the desk to the plug point. They are used for bundling desktop cables together, protecting them and keeping them neat. Not only do cable organisers keep your desk tidy, but they also form part of occupational health and safety regulations.


Oasis Office Furniture can supply: Office furniture Training centres Reception areas and more Boardroom furniture Canteens and hostels

We look forward to hearing from you to discuss your

furniture requirements and how we can offer solutuions to best fit you and your

clients’ needs.

Established in 2004, Oasis Offi ce furniture continues to expand its reach nationally.We are represented in Gauteng, Limpopo, Free State, Mpumalanga, North West, Northern Cape and the Eastern Cape. This reach is growing because we partner with a number of service providers.Our continued success is a result of our conviction that “accepatable is not good enough”. This approach is in our product design, quality and service levels.Oasis manufactures in both melamine and veneer.While we do have standard ranges, we also manufacture to client specifi cations.

We cater for single user installations as well as the

furnishing of corporate buildings

Redo Ad.indd 1 2015-12-09 11:00:40 AM

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Furniture

Desks and tablesDesks and tables are essential items of furniture in any workspace. Whether for offices, reception environments, canteens or boardrooms, a number of factors need to be considered when purchasing a desk. Durability is key. How long will the desk last? This will be largely determined by the price point of the desk and the material it is made out of. Cheaper desks are made from chipboard with a veneer, while expensive desks are made from chrome, glass or wood.

Another thing to consider is the load capacity of the desk. How much weight can be put on the desk before it will become unstable or collapse? Bear in mind that most office workers will need to put files, books, paper, stationery, a telephone and a computer of some sort on their desks.

Choose a style of desk that suits your corporate identity and budget. Modern desks are nice, but may look dated in 10 years’ time. If there is budget to update the look every five years, modern is a good choice and local manufacturers can provide custom designs and complete corporate fittings. However, if you are buying your desk for the long term, ensure that the style is more classic.

Desks are available in a number of

finishes, including melamine, veneer with a fitted edging, metal, aluminium, chrome, leather or glass.

Bear in mind the need for storage space. Office desks will require drawers, pull out keyboard trays and a hole in the desk for cables.

Tables for canteens or break rooms will not require any of the storage or load capacities needed by office desks.

ChairsOffice chairs are available in a wide range of styles. They are generally on wheels for ease of movement, and offer a range of functionality such as adjustable seat height, backrest tilt and arm rest height. Ergonomic chairs are scientifically tested to improve posture which boosts productivity while decreasing aches and pains.

Boardroom chairs are usually not on castors. They offer a more opulent, executive look, using plush finishes and more padding. Generally boardroom chairs are covered in leather or a heavy, patterned material. These chairs are comfortable for the duration of a meeting but are not ideal for sitting in long term as they are not ergonomically designed.

Chairs found in break rooms or canteens are usually made from melamine or plastic, and do not have a fabric covering. This type of chair will

be exposed to a large number of spills from food and drinks and, depending on where they are placed, will also need to withstand dropped ash or cigarettes.

Desk lampsThe desk is a place where a lot of work is done in a business day, and as such it needs to be adequately lit for optimum productivity and comfort.

Desk lamps are ideal for creating a concentrated pool of light to aid vision when working on paper or reading dense text.

When choosing a desk lamp for your workspace, chose one that renders true colours as if in natural daylight. Make sure the bulb in the desk lamp is a warm white light.

The lamp should be designed to allow you to focus light when and where you need it with precision.

Adjustable luminaire heads and a 40-degree beam angle will ensure that light reaches every corner of your work space.

This will enable you to direct it exactly where you want it with fewer shadows.

It’s also important to choose a lamp that has an easily accessible on/off switch.

More sophisticated desk lamps contain an infrared sensor which turns the light off when it’s not in use. This avoids unnecessary energy use and extends the life of the lamp. n


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V o l 1 0 0 - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6

j o u r n a l s , d i a r i e s a n d c a l e n d a r s

Marking timeJournals, diaries and calendars are instrumental in planning and organising your day

Start 2016 iin the best way possible by getting organised with these handy planning tools.

Calendars

Selecting the right calendar for a desk or office space is important. Although it is possible to purchase an inexpensive product to keep track of days, the amount of space and how often it needs to be accessed should inform your choice. Most users will need a calendar that is large enough for any notes or meeting details, especially within an office environment. Choosing the ideal calendar depends on individual needs, available space and the style options that are preferred. Function is important, but also consider the aesthetic qualities of the calendar.

Desk pad calendarsBusiness meetings, project due dates and scheduled calls are important, particularly in the office environment. This calls for a professional calendar that offers easy viewing and plenty of room for writing.

Desk pad calendars are ideal for this as they are large and easily accessible. They are usually right next to or under the telephone and cover a large portion of the surface of the desk. Desk pad calendars generally provide a full month in view and offer ample space on each day for users to schedule appointments or jot down information. After the month has ended, the user can tear away the desk calendar’s current page to reveal the next month’s page. Desk pad calendars are easy to use and tend to be inexpensive as well.

Wall calendarsA simple, direct solution to the office worker’s need is a wall calendar. This style hangs from a hook that is placed on any wall or flat surface. These kinds of calendars are most often used by businesses to include branding, promotional information or special photos. The business can give these calendars to each employee for use. Wall calendars tend to offer larger boxes with room for jotting down notes. Some wall calendars have inspirational messages or photographs, or have a theme such as “nature” or “cars”. Other wall calendars

are larger and provide plenty of room for creating notes for appointments and meetings. Large wall calendars are ideal for meeting rooms when planning sessions are necessary.

Tented calendarsTented calendars are those that come flat and are then folded into a 3D triangular shape with two sides and a bottom. This allows it to stand up on the desk rather than lying flat. Business professionals who spend a great deal of time on the phone or staring at the computer screen will find these ideal as they are easy to access and read. This style often offers an extremely basic calendar with six months on one side of the triangle and six on the other. More sophisticated types will have a spiral binder at the apex of the triangle, which allows the user to flip pages backward and forward. Each page can offer either a week in view, or a full month. The bottom of simple tented calendars may contain useful information such as emergency phone numbers or school terms. The benefit of calendars of this type is that they are always in view, rather than under a stack of papers.


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Diaries

Diaries are back-to-work necessities, helping to keep you organised throughout the year. These useful accessories differ by size, colour and layout.

A4 desk diaries These types of diaries are usually made for a variety of users, including students returning to university. They are high quality and offer good value for money. They come in a wide range to suit all requirements, such as appointment diaries with half-hour appointment slots and day-a-page diaries which include full days for Saturdays and Sundays.

The paper is white and will contain the day and date with time slots in hourly or half-hourly intervals.

A4 diaries are often gold or silver-blocked for easy identification. The front cover is typically hard and has the year embossed on the front, while the pages will have a gold or silver edging. These diaries usually come with ribbon markers to help you to find your place easily. A4 diaries are available in an array of colours and patterns, although black, navy and burgundy are standard in business environments.

Quarto diariesThese diaries are slightly shorter than an A4 diary, measuring 260mm x 210mm. Aside from their squarer proportions, they offer the same value for money and features as standard A4 books. Quarto diaries often have a week-to-view layout, meaning that two facing pages will cover an entire week, with Saturday and Sunday having a smaller space than the rest of the week.

A5 desk diariesThese diaries are identical to their A4 counterparts, but are more suitable for people who wish to carry their diaries around with them, such as teachers, salespeople and university students. They fit easily into laptop bags or handbags, and are available in a wide range of colours and styles. They can be hard or soft covered.

Executive desk diariesTypically A4, these diaries are similar to regular desk diaries but contain an element of class suitable for the C-suite of large corporations. They are usually printed on slightly thicker paper than a standard diary, and the paper is often buff instead of white. Executive diaries have additional luxury features, such as a padded front

cover and gilt corners. They also contain a ribbon marker and gilded page edges.

Pocket diariesThese stylish, slim diaries are the most popular formats suitable for pockets, briefcases and handbags. They usually measure 159mm x 79mm and are available in a range of colours and patterns. Due to the smaller nature of these diaries, they will not have as much space to record appointments in hourly or half-hourly slots.

Academic diaries Academic diaries are aimed at people who attend school or university. They often contain information pages relevant to students, such as semester or term dates. These diaries are often ring-bound and come in an extraordinary variety of styles, sizes and colours, including A4 or A5. A5 is more popular among students who have to carry the diary around with them. They are available in a week-to-view or day-to-page layout. Academic diaries in different parts of the world may run for a period of 12 calendar months, rather than a straight year. For example, American students would use an academic diary running from the August of one year to the August of another.


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Journals

The classic journal is a simple black rectangle with rounded corners, an elastic page-holder and an internal expandable pocket.

Journals are trusted and handy travel companions, and have held invaluable sketches, notes, stories and ideas for some of the greatest minds we have known. Some famous journal users include Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso and Ernest Hemingway.

LinesJournals are available as either ruled or blank. Ruled journals are more suited for writing as they help to keep content neat and legible. Blank journals are better suited to those who will be using a journal to sketch, keep pictures or press items such as flowers between the pages.

PaperJournals usually have a heavier weight of paper than a standard diary. The paper is often between 100 and 120 grams per square metre (gsm), while the typical notebook is 80gsm. The paper in a journal can also differ in colour from standard notebooks. Colours such as ivory or buff are popular.

CoversJournals can be either hardcover or softcover. The softcover journals are usually made from some type of oilskin (cloth treated with oil) or soft leather. These are then dyed in a vast array of colours, including blue, pink and green.

Hardcover journals are usually made from compressed cardboard, and then embossed and/or coloured as desired. Some notebooks will have patterns printed on them. n

Digital organisersThese days, many people use their smartphones, tablets, laptops or computers to keep track of appointments and to record pieces of information.

To-do list apps are useful because they allow productivity to be taken much further than a traditional paper list. A simple to-do app allows you to create a list that you can check off as each item is completed. More sophisticated versions allow users to organise projects, set deadlines, manage recurring tasks and even set location-based reminders.

Calendar apps maximise productivity by effectively organising time. A straightforward app will allow you to mark dates for meetings and appointments. A more complex app will have additional features such as mapping calendar entries for easy navigation; tagging your friends in calendar events; adding Facebook birthdays to the calendar; setting events to repeat; and even allowing for customisation of the look and feel of the app itself.

Journal apps allow users to record their private thoughts on their own devices. These apps can be password-protected for privacy.


e v e n t s

Diarise thisA list of industry-specific events and exhibitions to mark on your calendar

This four-day conference will have all the latest trends and product ideas on display. Paperworld is an important industry forum, as well as a source of ideas and an order platform for the wholesale and retailer sectors, and for corporate buyers. This year’s theme is “The Heart of the Business”.

30 Jan – 2 Feb PAPERWORLDFRANKFURT FAIRGROUNDS, FRANKFURT, GERMANY

The Association of Business Communication (ABC) Regional Conference will cover areas such as professional communication, management studies, business and commerce, and education and scholarships.

6 – 8 January ABC REGIONAL CONFERENCEUNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN, CAPE TOWN

The conference will cover areas including techniques that policymakers can use to maximise benefits and minimise risks; and how to advocate consumer education that can contribute to protection and privacy.

10 - 11 Feb ITWEB’S GOVERNANCE, RISK AND COMPLIANCE SUMMITTHE SUMMER PLACE, JOHANNESBURG

Sit-stand for wellness and productivity!Ideal for corner workstations, the WorkFit-A clamps to the rear or side of most surfaces and enables an effortless sit-and-stand work style.

TechExpress has your back!

A Nortek Company

Americas Sales and Corporate Headquarters EMEA Sales APAC Sales Worldwide OEM Sales

St. Paul, MN USA(800) [email protected]

Amersfoort, The Netherlands +31 33 45 45 [email protected]

Tokyo, [email protected]

[email protected]

© 2014 Ergotron, Inc. rev. 10/14/2014/EA Literature made in US Content is subject to change without notification

WorkFit-A, LCD LD

WorkFit-A, Dual

WorkFit-A, LCD LD with Worksurface+

WorkFit-A, LCD HD with Worksurface+

WorkFit-A, Dual with Worksurface+

Part # (color) 24-313-026 (polished aluminum)

24-312-026 (polished aluminum)




Includes Arm, LCD pivot, keyboard tray, desk clamp, complete hardware kit

Arm, two (2) LCD pivots, keyboard tray, desk clamp, complete hardware kit

Arm, LCD pivot, worksurface, keyboard tray, desk clamp, complete hardware kit

Arm, LCD pivot, worksurface, keyboard tray, desk clamp, complete hardware kit

Arm, two (2) LCD pivots, worksurface, keyboard tray, desk clamp, complete

hardware kit

Typical LCD Size 24 24

See website for details 24 30 24 See website for details

LCD SIZE IS APPROXIMATION. DIMENSION IS DIAGONAL MEASUREMENT OF SCREEN. LCD SIZE MAY BE EXCEEDED AS LONG AS SCREEN WEIGHT DOES NOT EXCEED MAXIMUM WEIGHT CAPACITY OF THE MOUNT.

Weight Capacity

20 lbs (9,1 kg) See website for details





Lift LCD and keyboard adjust 20 (51 cm) in tandem. See website for details LCD and keyboard adjust 20 (51 cm) in tandem; LCD adjusts 5 (13 cm) independently. See website for details

Tilt 30° — 30° 30° —

Pan 180°

Rotation 360°

VESA MIS-D See website for details

Warranty 5 years

Shipping Dimensions 37 x 21 x 11.5 (94 x 53,3 x 29,2 cm)

Shipping Weight 44.5 lbs (20,2 kg) 48.5 lbs (22 kg) 47 lbs (21,4 kg) 48.5 lbs (22 kg) 51 lbs (23,2 kg)

Grommet Accessory for WorkFit-A 97-692

WorkFit Convert-to-LCD & Laptop Kit from Single HD 97-605This kit converts a WorkFit-C or WorkFit-A Single HD Workstation into a WorkFit LCD & Laptop Workstation

WorkFit Convert-to-LCD & Laptop Kit from Dual Displays 97-617 This kit converts a WorkFit-S, WorkFit-C or WorkFit-A Dual Workstation into a WorkFit LCD & Laptop Workstation

WorkFit-A Sit-Stand WorkstationHighlights

For Computer Users

• Enjoy standing or sitting as you work, switching positions whenever you choose. This work style encourages healthy movement throughout the day

• Safe, easy-to-use—simple installation and effortless operation

• Easily and simultaneously lift keyboard and LCD screen to proper height for unsurpassed ergonomic comfort

• Patented Constant Force™ lift technology provides fluid, one-touch adjustments of the keyboard and monitor positions for personalized computing

For IT and Facilities Staff

• Flexible, open-architecture design is scalable for future computer equipment

• Modify existing office spaces or cubes by simply clamping a WorkFit-A on an existing worksurface, without the cost of expensive professional installers

• Safe and neat routing of cables

For HR/Risk Management and Company Cost Savings

• Promote wellness in the daily work routine

• Provide standing work platforms for employees without having to buy expensive height-adjustable chairs

© 2014 Ergotron, Inc. www.ergotron.com

All rights reserved

Product Sheet

➀

➂➃

➁


Encourage healthy movement throughout the day—change from a sitting to a standing position whenever you want. This height-adjustable workstation moves your keyboard and display in one simple motion, making computing comfortable for prolonged periods.

➀ Provides up to 20" (51 cm) of smooth vertical adjustment, which allows working in either a sitting or standing position. It also can accommodate the heights of multiple users who may use a single workstation.

➁ The large, single-piece keyboard tray accommodates most keyboards and mousing devices. Its 3°-upward tilt ensures wrists remain in a neutral position during data entry, preventing repetitive stress-injuries while increasing comfort and productivity. When not in use, it flips up 90° to save space.

➂ Cable management clips on the underside of the arm route and hide wires. Cables can be further concealed through the system’s post, exiting out the back near the base.

➃ Ideal for corner workstations, the WorkFit-A clamps to the rear or side of most surfaces. Grommet mount available as optional accessory.

Contact TechExpress for information about becoming a reseller. Tel: 011 467 0227 | E-mail: [email protected]

WorkFit-A Sit-Stand WorkstationHighlights

For Computer Users

• Enjoy standing or sitting as you work, switching positions whenever you choose. This work style encourages healthy movement throughout the day

• Safe, easy-to-use—simple installation and effortless operation

• Easily and simultaneously lift keyboard and LCD screen to proper height for unsurpassed ergonomic comfort

• Patented Constant Force™ lift technology provides fluid, one-touch adjustments of the keyboard and monitor positions for personalized computing

For IT and Facilities Staff

• Flexible, open-architecture design is scalable for future computer equipment

• Modify existing office spaces or cubes by simply clamping a WorkFit-A on an existing worksurface, without the cost of expensive professional installers

• Safe and neat routing of cables

For HR/Risk Management and Company Cost Savings

• Promote wellness in the daily work routine

• Provide standing work platforms for employees without having to buy expensive height-adjustable chairs

© 2014 Ergotron, Inc. www.ergotron.com

All rights reserved

Product Sheet

➀

➂➃

➁


Encourage healthy movement throughout the day—change from a sitting to a standing position whenever you want. This height-adjustable workstation moves your keyboard and display in one simple motion, making computing comfortable for prolonged periods.

➀ Provides up to 20" (51 cm) of smooth vertical adjustment, which allows working in either a sitting or standing position. It also can accommodate the heights of multiple users who may use a single workstation.

➁ The large, single-piece keyboard tray accommodates most keyboards and mousing devices. Its 3°-upward tilt ensures wrists remain in a neutral position during data entry, preventing repetitive stress-injuries while increasing comfort and productivity. When not in use, it flips up 90° to save space.

➂ Cable management clips on the underside of the arm route and hide wires. Cables can be further concealed through the system’s post, exiting out the back near the base.

➃ Ideal for corner workstations, the WorkFit-A clamps to the rear or side of most surfaces. Grommet mount available as optional accessory.

Encourage healthy movement throughout the day – change from a sitting to a standing position whenever you want. This height-adjustable workstation moves your keyboard and display in one simple motion, making computing comfortable for prolonged periods.

TechExpress - half page Ad.indd 1 2015-12-07 11:17:24 AM

V o l 1 0 0 - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6

i n d u s t r y i n s i g h t s

The office products industry: RIPPrice deficit disorder: the industry’s ruinous obsession with discounting

The office products industry, after fighting a largely self-inflicted downhill battle, finally succumbed to a congenital defect, price deficit disorder (PDD), on 4 February 2015 when Staples

announced the acquisition of Office Depot and, simultaneously, its departure from the industry for greener categories “beyond office supplies’”.

At birth, over one hundred years ago, the industry occupied a few dusty facings on an obscure stationery shelf in the general store.

At Stage I PDD, manufacturers inseminated the industry with a potentially fatal flaw: discount from list. They created the price at which stationers should sell their products and sold them to stationers based on a discount from their artificial assertion. Initially, they instructed stationers to “buy in larger volume to qualify for lower prices in order to make more money”; thus implanting the destructive form of PDD: buy direct at any cost.

At Stage II, stationers – primarily mom and pops – sprang up to serve the growing needs of the industrial economy. Stationers sold products at list price, which produced healthy profits. The opportunistic disease lay dormant.

At Stage III, wholesalers emerged as an interface between manufacturer and stationer to improve service, albeit at a price mark-up. Stationers sold most products at list, but inaugurated

promotions at discounted prices to entice customers to “buy in larger volume to qualify for lower prices in order to save more money”. Sales increased, gross margin persisted but profits slowed. The disorder stirred.

At Stage IV, the post-war economic boom propelled many mom and pops to the rank of large retail stationer. Increased purchasing power allowed them to gleefully bypass the wholesalers’ price ‘penalty’ and buy direct. The malaise manifested itself.

At Stage V, wholesalers, not to be left behind, touted price breaks on carton quantities to persuade stationers to “buy in larger volume to qualify for lower prices in order to make more money”. Ironically, wholesalers’ emphasis on price encouraged stationers to bypass them again and buy direct from the manufacturers at even lower prices.

Submitting to the siren’s song, stationers trained customers to save more by buying more which, in turn, qualified stationers to buy direct at deeper discounts to make more money. The stealthy ailment advanced.

At Stage VI, larger stationers proposed lower prices at ‘cost plus’ in a scheme to imply a customer commitment on ‘contract’ prices. Emergence of the contract stationer portended the beginning of the end as the industry sleepwalked towards a slow, agonising death-spiral of growing sales, waning gross margin and perilously low profitability. The malady metastasised.

At Stage VII, enter the superstores. The strategy of these larger-than-life reiterations was to out-compete traditional stationers by bringing contract prices to the retail consumer.

Retail consumers devoured bargains

hitherto unavailable and made superstores overnight sensations. Conversely, plummeting sales and profits forced thousands of traditional dealers into bankruptcy and countless others to the brink or early retirement. Deterioration of the industry multiplied exponentially.

At Stage VIII, business customers flocked to the superstores in droves. Superstores developed distribution capabilities to serve these accounts and inadvertently embarked on the next era in the industry, that of the ‘super channel’.

Five players ascended to super channel status: Staples, Office Depot, OfficeMax, Boise Cascade Office Products and Corporate Express (CXP). The sickness accelerated at breakneck speed and unleashed a virulent strain: unprofitable sales growth.

At Stage IX, CXP became the poster child for exaggerating the industry’s PDD defect by expertly employing spreadsheets to lower prices on thousands of products for tens of thousands of customers. Acquiring customers with the industry’s lowest prices, CXP required constant cash infusions and three mergers to extend its life until finally swallowed by Staples for, ironically, its contract expertise. The illness entered its final phase.

At Stage X, after the herd had thinned to four, then three, then two, Staples administered the industry’s last rites by acquiring Office Depot.

The industry’s remains can be viewed at their final resting place near the bottom of a lengthy dropdown box on the website of the great general store in the sky, Amazon.com.

Article by Ralph Barnett. Originally published in OPI magazine



i n d u s t r y i n s i g h t s

Dave Boulle, MD of Masons Complete Office SolutionsWe resellers need to add value to our customers or else the customer will resort to the lowest common denominator – price. What value are we adding to our customer’s lives in order to ensure that they continue to buy from us?

If it’s service – our service has to be above that offered by our competitors. What price do you add for service?

If it’s convenience – how convenient are we really being if our competitor also offers accounts and quick delivery?

If it’s the personal touch – why can’t the customer develop the same relationship with our competitor?

If it’s none of the above, then the chances are that the customer will resort to that lowest common denominator.

So it’s vitally important that as resellers we ask the question about value. Have we defined the value that we add in our own organisation? Are we actively marketing that value-add? Can the customer tangibly see this value?

Bill Bayley, MD of Rexel The humble yet indispensable toothbrush probably costs no more than a rand to produce. The leading manufacturers of dental care products have somehow managed to convince us that an acceptable retail price for a toothbrush is somewhere between R25 and R35. How do they do this? Clever marketing claims have us thinking about antimicrobial protection, bad breath protection, deep cleaning, teeth whitening and extra handle comfort – all desirable features and benefits. Designed to support the higher price point.

If the office products industry were tasked with the job of marketing, distributing and retailing toothbrushes I very much fear that we would take the opposite direction. Trade our customers down. Offer a lower priced item or a cheaper substitute. Why do we do this? Do we fall into the trap of assuming that our most demanding and price conscious customer is representative of all customers? Have we forgotten the good, better, best principle? Customers are not

all the same. Some will buy at the lowest possible price. Others look for a known brand at a reasonable price. Yet others will buy the premium brand.

What happens when we trade down? The lower price demand pushes all the way back through the supply chain to the manufacturer who is forced to look for cheaper raw materials. Plastic binding combs provide a case study of this effect. Many dealers buy binding combs on price and price alone. Manufacturers are now moving to thinner plastic or to recycled plastic. Is the thinner, recycled product inferior? Without a doubt it’s inferior. I wonder how many end users actually ask for cheaper, thinner, less durable, off-colour plastic binding combs?

Where the toothbrush people are adding features and benefits to their products we are subtracting: moving to inferior quality at lower prices. Is this sustainable? Would you be happy if your favourite retail shop only offered cheap and nasty toothbrushes at R2.50 each? No good, better, best. No features, no benefits, just cheap. Seems to be where we are headed.

Robert Slavin, chairman and CEO at BantexThe obituary by Ralph Barnett was fully predictable.

In 1990 I attended a convention in Toronto of the Canadian Office Products Association who invited a speaker, a consultant to NOPA (North American Office Products Association), to address attending members on the imminent arrival of the superstore and why it was resulting in hundreds of stationers going out of business.

This similar prediction came to play in both Europe and Australia with thousands of “mom & pop” dealers failing.

The concentration of broad-based superstore business has now diminished, with Staples as the main international player. Regional players are those like Office Works Australia, Itoya group Japan, Grammedia Indonesia, Kalunga Brazil, Lyreco Europe and Rymans UK.

The pressure on margins has been there for the past 20 years and has been exacerbated by aggressive takeovers and consolidations in foreign markets following the Office Depot / Staples / Viking model.

This model is no different to that of the supermarkets / hypermarkets we visit daily. Volume sales at low margins.

Convenient and attractive shopping in a location close to public transport or with parking nearby.

The superstore provides a shopping experience for only major brands – and of course they have their own private label (always cheaper).

Advertising is extensive and well-priced popular items serve as the draw card. It’s a shopping experience no stationer is capable of offering.

Given their size, aggressive shopping and deep international knowledge of products, and ability to buy large volumes and pass on savings, it’s very difficult for the traditional stationer to compete.

South Africa has largely been shielded by the large commercial integrated interests of the Bidvest Waltons / Silveray group who successfully took over the defunct Office Mart’s attempt to go the superstore route. So margin erosion here is minimal.

Competition is severe enough in the South African retail market. South African stationers have anticipated the arrival and its pitfalls which is evident in many countries where they operate.

The “mom & pop” shop business, essential for servicing a country as large as South Africa, has sustained the wholesale reliant model of distribution

in addition to manufacturers and distributors supplying direct to larger customers or groups.

The advent and encouragement of BEE, cheaper finance to smaller businesses by government and the willingness of wholesalers to sell selectively on credit is likely to sustain this model of business for several years into the future. Furthermore, the advent of buying associations, will ensure survival likewise.

The severity of price competition, as opposed to the convenience and expertise of the stationer as well as service levels, will in the future have to be flawless in order to cater for the impending onslaught on margins and changing shopping habits.

Technology has now brought yet another supply avenue into the race. Many shop online for branded commodity and other office supply items. Computers, furniture, janitorial equipment, office foodstuffs as well as office machines and stationery can be bought in the comfort of your home or office. This Amazon model is a definite threat to the stationer of the future, including the likes of the superstore Staples who are now feeling the pinch in more developed markets.

Industry response


V o l 1 0 0 - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6

a r t s & c r a f t s

Love is on the cardsMake your Valentine something special this year

Approximately 1-billion Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged annually, which makes Valentine’s Day the second most popular card-sending holiday after Christmas. This year, why not make one yourself?

The pop-up cardThis cute card contains a personalised message that jumps out like a pop-up book.

You will need: • Card and scrapbook paper • Scissors • Ruler • Craft knife • Double-sided tape • Template of message, such as

XOXOSelect a piece of card to use as the

card itself. Print a template on another piece of card stock. Use a contrasting colour. Fold the template along the score marks. Then unfold, cut out using the craft knife, and refold. Position the folded piece inside base card so it pops. Secure with double-sided tape.

The accordionUse this card to celebrate your sweetheart’s virtues, call up special memories or fill the envelopes with handwritten notes, assorted mementos and little presents.

You will need:• A number of small red envelopes• Flat pieces of card that fit inside the

envelopes• Gifts that fit inside the envelopes• Glue stick

To make the accordion cards, glue the inside of the flap of each envelope to the front of the envelope above it. Place cards or gifts inside the pocket of each envelope.

Clever cardsYou will need:• 1 sheet of card in red, white or

pink• 4 birthday cake candles in red,

white or pink• A felt-tipped pen• Glue

Fold the sheet of card in half. Glue the four candles in a row in the centre of the card. Choose a colour that will contrast with the card. Using a felt-tipped pen, write “You light up my life” on the front of the card. Above the candles’ wicks, draw hearts in felt-tipped pen or glitter glue.

You can use other items in a similar way, such as a playing card with “king (or queen) of my heart” written on it.


a r t s & c r a f t s

A short history of Valentine’s day

February has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and every year on 14 February chocolates and flowers are given to loved ones in the name of Saint Valentine. But who was the man that we honour the world over?

A Catholic saintThe Catholic Church recognises at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.

In one legend, Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons, where they were often beaten

and tortured. The most famous legend has it that

the imprisoned Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting himself after he fell in love with a young girl who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine”, an expression that is still in use today.

Valentine’s Day is thus celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine’s death or burial, which probably occurred around 270 AD.

A Pagan festivalThe Pagan festival of Lupercalia was celebrated on 15 February and was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus.

To begin the festival, members of the Luperci, an order of Roman priests, would gather at a sacred cave where the infants Romulus and Remus were believed to have been cared for by a she-wolf or

lupa. The priests would make sacrifices and bless the inhabitants of Rome. According to legend, all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn. The city’s bachelors would each choose a name and become paired for the year with his chosen woman. These matches often ended in marriage. This festival was outlawed at the end of the 5th century, when Pope Gelasius declared 14 February Saint Valentine’s Day. It was not until much later that the day became definitively associated with love.

The Mother of the Valentine In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began selling the first mass-produced valentines tokens in America. Howland was known as the “Mother of the Valentine”. She made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colourful pictures. n

Did you know?Women purchase approximately 85% of all Valentine’s Day cards.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTWWW.HISTORY.COM

®

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V o l 1 0 0 - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6

s t r e s s m a n a g e m e n t

How to stress lessStress in the workplace leads to lost productivity, absenteeism and a dent in the bottom line

While some workplace stress is normal, excessive stress can interfere with your productivity and impact

your physical and emotional health. Your ability to deal with stress can mean the difference between success or failure. You can’t control everything in your work environment, but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. Find ways to manage workplace stress by changing your habits.

Recognise the warning signs When you feel overwhelmed at work, you lose confidence and may become irritable or withdrawn. This can make you less productive and less effective. Work can seem less rewarding. Ignore the warning signs of work stress at your peril. Chronic or intense stress can also lead to physical and emotional health problems.

Take care of yourself When stress at work interferes with life, start paying attention to your physical and emotional health.

Taking care of yourself doesn’t require a total lifestyle overhaul. Here are a few tips:

Get movingRegular exercise is a powerful stress reliever. Aerobic exercise – activity that raises your heart rate and makes you sweat – is a hugely effective way to lift your mood, increase energy, sharpen focus, and relax both the mind and body. For the best results, try to get at least 30 minutes of activity that elevates your heart rate and makes you break out into a sweat, such as walking, dancing, swimming or playing with your kids.

Speak to someone who listensTalking face to face with a relaxed and balanced listener can help calm your nervous system and relieve stress. The other person doesn’t have to “fix” your problems – they just have to listen. Simply sharing your feelings can be very cathartic, even if there’s nothing you can do to alter the stressful situation.

A strong network of supportive friends and family members can be an enormous buffer against stress.

Eat wellLow blood sugar can make you feel anxious and irritable, while eating too much can make you lethargic. Healthy eating can help you get through stressful work days. By eating small but frequent meals, you can help your body maintain

an even level of blood sugar, keep your energy up, stay focused and avoid mood swings. Avoid fatty, refined and sugary foods, and eat whole grains and fresh foods with a high satiety value.

Are you stressed?Signs of excessive workplace stress include:• Feeling anxious, irritable or

depressed;• Apathy and a loss of interest in

work;• Problems sleeping;• Fatigue;• Trouble concentrating;• Muscle tension or headaches;• Stomach problems;• Social withdrawal;• Loss of sex drive; and• Using alcohol or drugs to cope.

Common causes of excessive workplace stress include:• Fear of being retrenched;• More overtime due to staff

cutbacks;• Pressure to perform to meet rising

expectations; • Poor levels of job satisfaction; and• Constant pressure to work at

optimum levels.



s t r e s s m a n a g e m e n t

Practice moderationAlcohol temporarily reduces anxiety and worry, but too much can cause anxiety as it wears off and it can lead to alcohol dependence. Similarly, smoking when you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed may seem calming, but nicotine is a powerful stimulant – leading to higher, not lower, levels of anxiety.

Get enough sleepNot only can stress and worry can cause insomnia, but a lack of sleep can leave you vulnerable to even more stress. It’s much easier to keep your emotional balance when you’re well rested. Try to improve the quality of your sleep and aim for eight hours a night.

Prioritise and organiseWhen job and workplace stress threatens to overwhelm you, there are simple steps you can take to regain control over yourself and the situation.

Manage your timeCreate a balanced schedule – analyse your schedule, responsibilities and daily tasks. All work and no play is a recipe for burnout. Try to find a balance between work and family life, social activities and solitary pursuits, daily responsibilities and downtime.

Don’t over-commit yourself – avoid scheduling things back-to-back or trying to fit too much into one day. All too often, we underestimate how long things will take. If you’ve got too much on your plate, distinguish between the “shoulds” and the “musts”. Drop tasks that aren’t truly necessary to the bottom of the list or eliminate them entirely.

Leave earlier in the morning – even 10 to 15 minutes can make the difference between frantically rushing to your desk and having time to ease into your day. Don’t add to your stress levels by running late.

Plan regular breaks – make sure to take short breaks throughout the day. Take a walk or sit back and clear your mind. Also try to get away from your desk or work station for lunch to relax and recharge.

Manage your tasks Prioritise tasks – make a list of tasks you have to do, and tackle them in order of importance. Do the high-priority items first. If you have something particularly unpleasant to do, get it over with early. The rest of your day will be more pleasant as a result.

Break projects into small steps – if a large project seems overwhelming, make a step-by-step plan. Focus on one manageable step at a time, rather than taking on everything at once.

Delegate responsibility – you don’t have to do it all yourself. If other people can take care of the task, why not let them? Let go of the desire to control or oversee every little step. You’ll be letting go of unnecessary stress in the process.

Be willing to compromise – when you ask someone to contribute differently to a task, revise a deadline, or change their behaviour at work, be willing to do the same. Sometimes, if you can both bend a little, you’ll be able to find a happy middle ground that reduces the stress levels for everyone.

Break bad habits Many of us make job stress worse with negative thoughts and behaviour.

Resist perfectionism – no project, situation, or decision is ever perfect, so trying to attain perfection on everything will simply add unnecessary stress to your day. When you set unrealistic goals for yourself or try to do too much, you’re setting yourself up to fail. Aim to do your best.

Clean up your act – if you’re always running late, set your clocks and watches fast and give yourself extra time. If your desk is a mess, file and throw away the clutter. Knowing where everything is saves time and cuts stress. Make to-do lists and cross off items as you accomplish them. Plan your day and stick to the schedule – you’ll feel less overwhelmed.

Flip your negative thinking – if you see the downside of every situation and interaction, you’ll find yourself drained of energy and motivation. Try to think positively about your work, avoid negative-thinking co-workers, and pat yourself on the back about small accomplishments, even if no one else does.

Don’t try to control the uncontrollable – many things at work are beyond our control – particularly the behaviour of other people. Rather than stressing out over them, focus on the things you can control, such as the way you choose to react to problems. n

Help your employees to stress less

• Share information with employees to reduce uncertainty about their jobs and futures;

• Clearly define employees’ roles and responsibilities; • Make communication friendly and efficient, not mean-spirited or petty; • Consult your employees and allow them to participate in decisions that affect

their jobs; • Consult employees about scheduling and work rules; • Be sure the workload is suitable to employees’ abilities and resources and avoid

unrealistic deadlines; • Show that individual workers are valued by offering rewards and incentives; • Praise good work performance; • Provide opportunities for career development; • Promote an “entrepreneurial” work climate that gives employees more control

over their work; • Cultivate a friendly social climate by providing opportunities for social interaction

among employees; • Establish a zero-tolerance policy for harassment; and• Make management actions consistent with organisational values.

Three ways to dispel stress• Take time away – try to take a

quick break and move away from the stressful situation. Take a stroll or spend a few minutes meditating. Physical movement or finding a quiet place to regain your balance can quickly reduce stress.

• Connect with others at work – developing friendships with some of your co-workers can help buffer you from the negative effects of stress.

• Look for humour in the situation – when used appropriately, humour is a great way to relieve stress in the workplace. When you or those around you start taking things too seriously, find a way to lighten the mood by sharing a joke or funny story.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTWWW.HELPGUIDE.ORG


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Dress for success

c o r p o r a t e w e a r

Image credit: Im

agemakers



c o r p o r a t e w e a r

A simple guide to corporate dressing

There’s a big meeting, an important deadline, a dream interview, or a busy day ahead at the office, and you know that what you wear is an important part of ensuring your success. The realisation that what

you wear to work automatically says something about you is one that many professionals need to come to.

But in a time when dress codes and smart looks are seen less and less in the corporate world, how do you go about picking a working wardrobe that stays true to a professional environment?

Having a uniformed work wardrobe goes beyond appearance and says a lot about the company you work for, the team you work with and your professional image. With many years’ experience in corporate uniforms for large and medium-sized companies, start-ups and small teams, companies such as Imagemakers know what works.

DetailFrom the length of your sleeves and the fit of your jacket to how your trousers fall on your shoes, attention to detail is key in dressing for work.

These seemingly small details will make an impression on others and show that

you are someone who is passionate about perfection, and nothing escapes your eye. It’s also important to take care of your clothing, and realise that if you care for your suits, shirts and jackets by keeping the items clean and storing them well, you will add longevity to your corporate wardrobe and get real value for money.

Fashion Balancing trends and basics is something that corporate workwear specialists aim to achieve. Corporate clothing should always be available in classic cuts, timeless prints and colour palettes that promise to be relevant season after season. However, a handful of new cuts and some fashionable prints and colours will add to your existing wardrobe to make sure your at-the-office look stays on track with the trends. A touch of inspiration from worldwide trends can be very sophisticated. Go for a bold printed or colourful blouse or shirt – think reds, jewel tones, polka dots and stripes – for an instant fashion-forward twist. Adding accessories, handbags and shoes – corporate colours permitting – will also give you the chance to inject a bit of your personality into a look.

EaseHaving a nine-to-five job can be stressful and easily take up most of your time. That’s why what you wear to work shouldn’t add any more checkpoints to your already full to-do list. Busy schedules might not

make work wear a priority, as finding the right combination whilst adhering to your corporate identity is sometimes quite difficult. Many corporate work wear specialists provide online catalogues which making selecting and purchasing corporate wear simple and easy.

Versatility is key to any corporate wardrobe, and there should be a variety of mix and match options. Building a mix and match wardrobe could help you get much more mileage out of your corporate clothing without having to continuously buy garments to diversify your look. The secret is to use a few versatile pieces in multiple ways. Invest in quality basics and add to these with complementary pieces to work with your wardrobe. With a variety of cuts, styles, colours and fabrics, you no longer have to wear only certain items with specific pieces for a complete, wearable look.

By sticking to classic looks that are professional, taking good care of each item in your wardrobe and using the mixing and matching technique to keep things new and fresh, you will not only reinvent your wardrobe, but also the way people interact and connect with you in a nine-to-five environment and beyond. Being proud of the way you dress for work will do wonders for your confidence levels, productivity and well-being. n

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTVISIT IMAGEMAKERS ON

WWW.IMAGEMAKERS.CO.ZA OR CALL (021) 447 1290 FOR MORE INFORMATION.


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f u r n i t u r e

Open plan officesExtroverts constitute a large percentage of the workforce – but what about the introverts?

The open plan office comes with many benefits, but it also has its downfall – starting with the basic needs and requirements of the introvert personality type, which accounts for approximately one-third

of the population.

Introverts: we all know them, have worked with them, went to school with them, socialise with them – in fact, you might even be one of them.

According to Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Thinking, introverts are quiet individuals who shy away from the limelight and who have difficulties working in a team.

They struggle to reach their full potential in the modern workplace because they are placed in physical and cultural environments that tend to favour their counterparts: the extrovert.

Introverts radiate astonishing strengths including originality, innovation, focus and leadership. More sensitive to external stimuli than extroverts, the introvert faces an exhausting day, often seeking an hour or two away from their social colleagues to work effectively.

Osorio Ramos, MD of workspace specialist firm Giant Leap, has worked with blue-chip companies such as Volkswagen, Red Bull and Dulux where he has seen the open plan office impact local workspaces.

“Open plan offices are renowned for breaking traditional hierarchal structures, increasing collaboration, boosting creativity and reducing overall space costs. The

shift, however, has left introverts to adopt exerted behaviours in order to endure their new company cultures.”

Ramos has seen a new breed of open plan workspaces evolve, defined as a middle-ground where both types can work and play in balance and harmony.

“A recent space that incorporated these principles was Grant Thornton. We created an environment that accommodates both the introvert and extrovert with open plan areas shared with private break-away zones, quiet rooms and clever ‘phone booths’ for when employees and staff need some alone time.”

Companies need to provide spaces that recognise staff and employees by their personality type, not just their job title.

So how can companies help introverts do their best in today’s typical open plan office? Here are a few tips:• Staff should be allowed to detach and

isolate themselves – employees should be able to break-away when needed to concentrate without disruption;

• It’s about sensory equilibrium – here workers can take control of their sensory stimulation rather than being a victim of sensory overload;

• Encourage interaction etiquette – allow staff to decide on when interaction should be limited. This can be done with desk flags for when certain staff are on deadline;

• Provide psychological privacy and safety – give staff a choice of areas to be seen, or not, by their colleagues;

• Consider incorporating individual furniture items such as booths, which allow staff to take private calls without having to leave the office; and

• Offer users control over their environment by giving employees a certain amount of control in their

workspace, from noise to lighting.Ramos does not predict that there will

be a mad rush back to the corner style office. But in order to save space, increase employee communication and cut on costs, businesses need to design workplaces that provide introverts and extroverts with private and public environments.

Ramos says that the modern workspace is about finding solutions to the paradoxes of the open plan office.

“South African corporates definitely favour the open plan layout. Senior management and decision-makers need to remember that closed spaces are also needed to counteract the open in order to accommodate the introvert, and ultimately give half our workforce a sense of control and choice in their environment and surroundings.” n

10 signs you are an extrovert• You find being alone boring and

depressing;• When someone hurts your feelings,

you share it with everyone;• You like to describe yourself as

friendly and enthusiastic;• You express your thoughts better in

conversations than in writing; • In your spare time, you like

keeping yourself busy with a big schedule of activities;

• People say you are a good talker; • When going out, you come

back feeling energised and accomplished;

• You find competition exciting and stimulating; and

• When you have a conversation, you prefer to be light-hearted rather than practical.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTGIANT LEAP



i n d u s t r y n e w s

Propak Africa confirms conferences and workshopsConferences and workshops hosted by the Institute of Packaging of Southern Africa (IPSA), Plastics SA and Printing SA (PIFSA) will run alongside Propak Africa 2016, taking place at the Expo Centre, Nasrec in Johannesburg, from 15 to 18 March 2016.

The South African and African packaging and related industries will take centre stage at Africa’s largest packaging, food processing, printing, plastics and labelling trade exhibition, which will afford hundreds of local and international exhibitors the opportunity to showcase their latest products, equipment, machinery and services.

Conferences and workshops have also been confirmed and will be hosted by the Institute of Packaging of Southern Africa (IPSA), Plastics SA and Printing SA (PIFSA). In addition, Pavlo Phitidis, owner of Aurik, a business incubator company, and regular

co-host on The 702 Money show, will be running sessions alongside the show aimed at c-suite executives from the industry. Topics will include how to grow your business from an SMME to a medium-sized or large organisation; how to do business in Africa; and how to tackle legislative requirements in SA, including BEE.

Top companies that can be seen at Propak Africa and co-located shows include Acepak, Afripack, Afritrade, Bernd Triebiger Enterprises, Bidvest Afcom, Bosch Packaging Technology, Filmatic, Filtec Automation, Future Packaging, Golden Era Group, Graphix Supply World, Hestico, HG Molenaar, Inoxpa South Africa, JPak, MGSA, Multivac Southern Africa, Nissei ASB, Pakmatic, Pakmax, PMD Packaging, Polyoak, Pyrotechnical Marketing, Qualitechs, Rotocon, Trempack Trading, Relloy SA Ulma Packaging Systems SA, USS Pactech and Yaskawa SA.

OKI will be visiting 10 regions in South Africa over the next six to eight months during their national roadshow. So far, OKI has visited East London, Port Elizabeth, George and Nelspruit. OKI partners,

resellers and distributors are invited to join in and experience OKI. These events will consist of product introductions, training sessions, the launch of new devices and software, and demonstrations.

Parrot and Office National Apex recently donated a number of overhead and data projectors to underprivileged schools in the Eastern Cape.

OKI roadshows continue

New projectors for underprivileged schools

East London George Nelspruit Port Elizabeth


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e c o n e w s

Green trends for 2016

As green living gains broader acceptance, sustainability is an

influential factor to consider when evaluating the home, garden and

office in 2016.

As green living gains broader acceptance, sustainability is an influential factor to consider when evaluating the home, garden and office in 2016.

LED lightingLED lighting is one of the top green trends for 2016 – and, based on energy experts’ forecasts, it will remain trendy into 2017 and the years that follow. It is predicted that by the year 2030 LEDs will account for an estimated 75% of all lighting sales. In the long term, LED lighting offers consumers an opportunity to increase energy efficiency and reduce their energy bills. The downside is that the upfront installation costs can be higher for LED lighting. However, overall the clear consensus is that the long-term energy cost and energy savings more than justify the upfront expense.

Water efficiencyWater conservation is shaping up to be an important issue for 2016, especially as South Africa and other countries around the world are plagued by drought.

While this is an ongoing theme, and certainly not a new trend, it’s an important inclusion. The need for water efficiency is contributing to the product lines that manufacturers make available – which in turn influences building, remodelling and decorating projects.

Mainstream media has been sounding the alarm over what some analysts perceive to be a looming worldwide overpopulation problem, which they predict will result in inadequate worldwide water resources.

Water is an issue that regulatory agencies around the world are paying attention to.

Water-saving showerheads should be considered. Most people don’t think too much about them, but choosing a different showerhead could lower both your water consumption and your power bill.

Water-efficient taps are an easy way to conserve water at home. One of the simplest is to install water-saving fixtures in any room with a tap. Certain manufacturers have begun to design water-efficient taps to sell to the public.

Some are water-efficient by default, but a user can toggle it into high-powered mode for tasks that require increased water pressure.

Water-saving toilets do contribute significantly to household water consumption. Toilets can account for as much as 30% of the total water consumption in many households. If you’re looking to lower your water bills, a water-efficient toilet is a worthwhile purchase to consider as it offers long-term cost savings.

Energy-conserving insulationThere’s a trend towards energy efficiency in every aspect of home ownership, and there has been significant demand for extra insulation in new residential and business construction.

Smart homesHome automation technology is picking up steam. It’s been around for quite a while, and interest in the idea seems to have cooled over the past few years. In a nutshell, a “smart home” is sort of like a “smartphone” in many ways; it can connects to the Internet, and accessed remotely – often through an actual smartphone or similar device. At face value, it seems that “smart homes” could potentially contribute to a greener, more sustainable future – because some of the focus has been on applying the technology to important issues such as reducing energy consumption in the home.

It looks as if the trend is regaining traction in 2016, and interest is projected to continue increasing in 2017 as well. This renewed interest is due to falling prices and an expanded selection of product offerings. A few of the latest options seem to be getting more useful, more affordable and less “buggy”.

Smart homes are an important inclusion on the trend list for 2016. – and they could possibly fall on either.

Some home automation innovations are more useful than others, such as WiFi-enabled irrigation controllers.

Net zero buildingsThese kinds of buildings are ones where the power consumption is net zero. In other words, the building’s infrastructure and systems generate at least as much power as its occupants consume. While this is challenging to achieve, it’s a worthy goal to pursue. n



c r i m e a l e r t

GOLD SPONSORS: SILVER SPONSORS:

Keeping shop-sa members abreast of criminal and fraudulent activity in the stationery and office products industry. To sponsor the Crime Alert page contact (011) 781 0370.

REPORT CRIME TO [email protected]

Renew your Crime Alert sponsorship today! Call Wendy Dancer on (011) 781 0370 to book your logo placement on the Crime Alert page as an industry leader in transparency, information sharing and anti-crime business ethics.

Debit order dupery

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTNEWS24WIRE

What the banks sayStandard BankStandard Bank fulfils the function of a payment facilitator where any debit order is presented for payment, out does not initiate any external debit orders.

“A debit order is an agreement between the account holder and an external company,” says spokesperson Ross Linstrom.

“A debit order is not a contract between the account holder and the bank, and the bank is not a party to the agreement at all.”

In the event of a disputed or unauthorised debit order, the bank will query the validity of the transaction with the company that debited the account within 40 days of the debit order being processed.

Account holders must let the bank know if there are any suspicious debit orders on their account.

Absa“The majority of disputed transactions occur when account holders use the process of disputing debit orders within 40 days of collection to manage personal cash flow,” says an Absa spokesperson. Absa recently introduced an online tool that allows customers to reverse

unauthorised debit orders 24 hours a day. “The unauthorised debit order reversal

functionality was previously only available in branch.”

Nedbank“Bank customers should carefully check their bank statements every month for any debit order deductions that they have not authorised. If they discover such a deduction, they should contact their bank immediately,” says Esme Arendse, divisional executive of group communications at Nedbank.

Nedbank clients should contact 0860 111 555 or approach their nearest branch if they have any queries.

FNB Ryan Prozesky, FNB’s chief executive of value banking solutions, says the bank is focused on assisting any customers who find they have debit orders on their accounts that they are not aware of.

“FNB fully supports the right of our consumers to dispute, stop and reverse debit orders without inconvenience.”

Customers can reverse unauthorised debit orders and refund their accounts if they ask for assistance within 40 days from

debit occurring. Older debit orders can also be reversed, but the resolution takes longer.

Capitec Bank Capitec Bank’s head of communications Charl Nel says the bank is working with industry role players to improve conditions.

Capitec does not know what proportion of debit orders is unauthorised.

“We simply act on the client’s request. A bank does not initiate a debit order. It is initiated by the client or a service provider.”

Nearly 1-million debit order disputes are lodged every month as fraudsters gain access to the bank accounts of unsuspecting people.

Many bank account holders have fallen prey to debit order scammers.

Banks have come under severe

criticism for failing to protect the money of account holders. Victims are accusing the banks of dragging their feet because they themselves are benefiting from these unauthorised debit orders through the fees charged on reversal transactions.

According to the Payments Association of South Africa (PASA), South African banks collectively process about 56-million debit orders a month, with 800 000 disputed every month at an inter bank level.

PASA CEO Walter Volker says the total disputes at an inter bank level are currently around 0,5% for debit orders, close to 200 000 per month, and around 4% to 6% for early debit orders at 600 000 per month.

“Since November 2013, about 300 rogue users have been taken off the debit order system, meaning they can’t have debit orders processed by any bank.”

How to mitigate risk:• Subscribe to your bank’s SMS

notification services.• Scrutinise your bank statements

each month by looking at each deduction, no matter how small.

• If you pick up any discrepancies, dispute this with your bank within 40 days from when the transaction took place.

• If fraud is involved, it would be best to report the incident at a police station.

• Protect your banking information by shredding old statements and using a strong password.


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p r o d u c t s h o w c a s e

Tel: 011 248 0300

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Tel: 011 248 0300


Tel: 011 248 0300


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Duracell special application batteries offer reliable, long-lasting power you’ve come to expect from Duracell. And you can be assured it’s a battery you can trust since Duracell is the #1 trusted brand of pharmacists and medical & office professionals. The Duracell lithium batteries are designed for use in:• Security devices • Fitness devices • Calculators • Medical devices • Watches • Key fobs and more

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BOSTIK PRESTIK

Bostik does it again! Always innovating and just in time for Christmas, every pack of 100g Prestik now includes extra-special smiley face stickers…for FREE!The “wax-like” paper that ensures your Prestik pulls off easily is filled with smiley faced “reward” stickers – a free value-added extra for you to use and share with your friends and family anytime!

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Web: www.techexpress.co.za

ANTI-GLARE & PRIVACY FILTERS

Whether you are battling with glossy LCD screen glare of worrying about prying eyes staring at your confidential financial data, 3M screen filters have the solution for you. Both the Anti-Glare and Privacy filters come in a variety of screen sizes for any type of notebook or desktop display. the filters are very eassy to apply with bubble free application, can be reapplied multiple times and it doubles as a screen protector, protecting your display from dirt and scratches. the filter adhesive is optically clear, which means it will not affect your display clarity, and it comes with a convenient storage folder. To clean the product, simply use the enclosed cloth with water.

MY OFFICE PRODUCT SHOWCASE

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Tel: 011 248 0300


BINDING COMBS

Perfect for:

• Financial Reports and Proposals

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• These plastic binding combs are available in black, White, Red and Blue

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• The sizes available are 6mm to 51mm

Tel: 087 150 3549


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Web: www.filacartorama.co.zaFILA CARTORAMA SA (PTY) Ltd

LYRA GROOVE

Large ergonomic triangular graphite pencil. Medium hardness lead. Ideal for those making

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DAS

Since 1968, Das has been the world’s most famous and widely used self-hardening modelling

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packs, which help it to keep its freshness for a long time, with a resealable tab on the back.

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MY OFFICE PRODUCT SHOWCASE

To showcase your products here, call Wendy Dancer on (011) 781 0370 for pricing and

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www.facebook.com/BostikSouthAfrica

AADDING MACHINE, POINT OF SALE AND MACHINE ROLLSPaperGeni

Rotunda (Pty) Ltd.

ADHESIVES, GLUES AND SPRAYSBIC South Africa (Pty) Ltd. - Correction Fluid,

Glue sticks & Super Glue

Palm Stationery Manufacturers - New Wave

Freedom Stationery - Marlin

ART, CRAFT, GRAPHIC AND DRAWING MATERIALSCTP Stationery - A4 coloured poster boards


Max Frank - Uni, Artline

Pentel S.A (Pty) Ltd. - Oil pastels and

watercolour paint

BBAGS AND CASESD.O.S - iStay

Flip File - Business cases.

Freedom Stationery - Space Case and Marlin

Global Bag And Sportswear Manufactures -

Custom schoolbags ,tracksuits

Kolok - Kenton, Port

Topmark - School Bags, Laptop Bags, Pencil

Cases, Sports Bags, Luggage

BATTERIESKolok - Duracell

Nikki Distributors - Duracell Batteries

Nikki Distributors - Energizer Batteries

BIN RANGEKrost Office Products

BINDING ACCESSORIESAZ Trading - Plastic Comb, Wire, Thermal &

Covers

CTP Donau - Donau files and slide binders,

A4 poster board

Kolok - Geha binding combs and covers

Parrot Products - Parrot Comb Binding

Machines

Press Products - wire, combs, coil, covers

Rexel Office Products - Rexel and GBC

BINDING MACHINESAZ Trading - DSB, Neorel

D.O.S - Prima, DSB

Kolok - Geha binding machines

Parrot Products - Parrot Comb Binding

Machines

Press Products - Bindquip

Rexel Office Products - GBC and Rexel

ranges

BOARDSBIC South Africa (Pty) Ltd - BIC Velleda

School Whiteboards

CTP Stationery - Flip Chart Pads


Hortors Stationery - Legal Notices i.e. Basic

Conditions & OSH Act and Leave and Absence

Chart

Kolok - Geha interactive boards

Max Frank - Artline Flipchart Markers, Artline,

Maxi whiteboard markers


Parrot Products - Full range of boards and

accessories. Custom boards printed to your

specification

Rexel Office Products - NOBO whiteboards,

pinboards, easels and accessories. Quartet

magnetic white/cork boards

BOOK COVERSCTP Stationery - Poly Prop Donau heavy duty

covers

Empire Toy & Stationery - Butterfly paper

Freedom Stationery

Gordon’s Productions - contact paper

woodgrain, marble, pattern designs. Magic

cover back to school clear and coloured self

adhesive paper. (4M rolls, A4 and lever arch).

Plastic coated brownkraft rolls and pre-cut

polythene covers.

Grafton Paper Products

Palm Stationery Manufacturers - brown paper

rolls, poly rolls, gift-wrap

RBE - Papersmart

BOOKS AND PADSBSC Stationery - Treeline

CTP Stationery - Impala and premier books

and pads

Freedom Stationery - Manufacturers

Hortors Stationery - Legal registers

Impala Vuwa Stationery Manufacturers

Palm Stationery Manufacturers

Power Stationery - Powerstar

RBE - NCR Business Books

Rexel Office Products - Colourhide notebooks

BOXES AND CARTONSCTP Stationery - Archiving Systems

Rexel Office Products

Specialised Filing Systems - Archive and

Off-Site

Tidy Files - Acid free archiving products

CCALCULATORSKolok - HP

Nikki Distributors - Truly calculators



Rexel Office Products - IBICO

CALENDARSCTP Stationery - Diaries assorted sizes

CALLIGRAPHYMax Frank - Artline

CANTEENKolok - Tea, Coffee, milk etc, Sunbeam

(appliances)

CARBON PAPER AND FILMSRBE - NCR Business Books

CD’S, DVD’S AND DISKETTESKolok - Verbatim, Kenton

CLIP BOARDSCTP Stationery - DONAU brand

Parrot Products - Masonite and whiteboard

40

SOURCE PRODUCTS HERE

CombBind 100 WireBind W20 ThermaBind T400CombBind 110 CombBind C200MultiBind 230Comb & WireCombBind C210 CombBind C250 Pro www.rexelsa.co.za

Binding doesn’t getany simpler!

Working for you

CLIPS, FASTENERS AND PINSFreedom Stationery - Marlin

Grip Binders - Essentials, Stephens, Penguin

Tidy Files - Filing solution

COLOURING BOOKSEmpire Toy & Stationery - Empire books



COMPUTER ACCESSORIESKolok - Verbatim, Kenton, Port

Krost Office Products

Pyrotec - Tower Inkjet-laser labels, business

cards and photo paper

COMPUTER CLEANINGKolok - ComputerCare, Multipro

Pyrotec - Tower computer cleaning range

COMPUTER CONSUMABLESCTP Stationery - Full range of DONAU files

KMP - for computer consumables

Kolok - Penguin (Ribbons, Toners, Inkjets), Till

and fax rolls

Redfern Print Services - Redfern inkjet/laser/

copier labels and a full range of stationery labels

COMPUTER HARDWAREKolok - Blazer UPS systems, Geha (Interactive

white boards)

CORPORATE STATIONERY & GIFTINGStar Stationers and Printers

CRAYONS AND CHALKSFreedom Stationery - Marlin

Palm Stationery Manufacturers - Chalks and

Crayons


DDESK SETS AND ACCESSORIESBIC South Africa (Pty) Ltd - Desk Set Solo

Delux



Rexel Office Products - Rexel Eco Range

DIARIES, PLANNERS AND ORGANISERSCTP Stationery - CTP Brand

Hortors Stationery - Legal diaries

Rexel Office Products - NOBO planners,

refills and T-card kits, Quartet Monthly/

Weekly planner

South African Diaries - For all your diary

needs

DICTATION - TRANSCRIPTIONOlympus Audio S.A - Digital Voice Recorders,

Transcription Kits and Accessories.

Powerhouse Dictation for Philips - Dictation,

transcription, meeting recording, mini-tapes,

foot pedals, accessories

DRAUGHTING AND DRAWING OFFICE SUPPLIESCTP Stationery - A4 Poster Boards

EEMBOSSERS AND ENGRAVINGRubber Stamp & Engraving Co - Ideal

& Trodat Embossers (pocket, desk and

electronic), Trotec

ENVELOPES AND MAILINGBSC Stationery - Leo Envelopes

CTP Stationery - Commercial envelopes

Global Envelopes - CelloWrapped, peel+seal,

Self-Seal, FullGum and Printed

Grafton/Star

KZN Envelopes - Manufactures of Printed and

Plain Envelopes

Merpak Envelopes - Complete range of quality

envelopes

Narayan Wholesaler - Wholesaler of Quality

Envelopes, Peel and Seal

PaperGeni

RBE - Papersmart

ERASERS & ERASING / CORRECTION FLUIDSBIC South Africa (Pty) Ltd - Tippex tape,

bottle and Pen


Max Frank - Uni

Palm Stationery Manufacturers - Tape/Erasers

Pentel S.A (PTY) LTD - Hi-Polymer and Ain

eraser, correction tape and pens


FFAX ROLL MANUFACTURERSRotunda (Pty) Ltd.

FILES AND FILINGAfrican Filing Systems - Top retrieval filing

and arching products

BSC Stationery - Treeline, Mobifile

CTP Stationery - Full range of quality DONAU

brand

Flip File - Executive display files, expanding

files, Document folders, dividers

Freedom Stationery - Edo / Unifile

Palm Stationery Manufacturers - Lever arch,

Ringbinder files, Manilla flat folders

Grafton/Star

Kolok - Geha (Binding machines)

Palm Stationery Manufacturers - leaver arch,

ring binder files, manilla flat folders.

Pentel S.A (Pty) Ltd. - Display book Vivid,

document file, clip file and presentation file

Rexel Office Products - Prima and Rexel

ranges

Specialised Filing Systems - Top Retrieval,

Archive and Off-Site

Tidy Files - Filing solutions

FILES MECHANISMSPress Products - Lever arch, Ring binders

FOLDERSCTP Stationery - DONAU Brand


Palm Stationery Manufacturers - View files,

polypropylene & board folders

Tidy Files - Specialised

FORMS - LEGAL AND MISCELLANEOUSHortors Stationery - complete range of custom,

company, miscellaneous, magisterial, etc.

FURNITURE - OFFICE & SCHOLASTICKrost Office Products - accessories

New Era Office cc - Specialising in all office

furniture desks, chairs, credenzas, boardroom

tables, etc

Reboni Furniture Group - Manufacturing and

distribution of educational and office furniture

Specialised Filing Systems - Cabinets,

Shelving and Hi-Density

41

b u y e r s ’ g u i d e S e e p a g e 4 6 f o r c o n t a c t d e t a i l s

CombBind 100 WireBind W20 ThermaBind T400CombBind 110 CombBind C200MultiBind 230Comb & WireCombBind C210 CombBind C250 Pro www.rexelsa.co.za

Binding doesn’t getany simpler!

Working for you

GGUILLOTINES AND TRIMMERSAZ Trading - DSB, Kobra

Beswick Office Products - Fellowes, Vivid

Maynards Office Technology - IDEAL

Shredders & Guillotines – SA Distributors

Press Products - BindQuip

Rexel Office Products - SmartCut and

ClassicCut

IINDEX TABBING AND DIVIDERSCTP Stationery - DONAU Brand board and P.P

Flip File - Index Tabs, Flip tabs


Grip Binders


Rexel Office Products - Rexel, Mylar and

Prima board

INKSKMP - for computer consumables.

Max Frank - Shachihata, Artline

Rexel Office Products - Numbering machine

ink

Rubber Stamp & Engraving Co - Trodat,

Noris fastdry, security, numbering, franking.

Laundry.

JJANITORIALKolok - Goldenmarc (Cleaning products),

Brooms, Mops and equipment.

LLABELSFreedom Stationery - Marlin

Nor Paper

Pyrotec - Tower stationery, inkjet-laser labels

Redfern Print Services - Redfern Inkjet/laser/

copier labels and a full range of stationery labels

Rotunda (Pty) Ltd.

Specialised Filing Systems - Filing


LABELLING MACHINESKemtek Imaging Systems - Distributor of

Brother P-Touch Labelling System

LAMINATING MACHINESAZ Trading - DSB, Speedlam, Lamiace

D.O.S - Tofo, DSB

Kolok - GEHA and Galaxy

Parrot Products - Parrot A4 and A3

Laminators

Press Products - GMP

Rexel Office Products - GBC and Rexel ranges

LAMINATING POUCHES AND MATERIALSAZ Trading - A0 to ID card size

Kolok - GEHA, Penguin laminating pouches

and rolls

Parrot Products

Press Products - GMP

Rexel Office Products - GBC

LEGAL STATIONERYHortors Stationery - All legal registers, forms,

diaries etc

LETTER TRAYSKrost Office Products

MMAILING TUBES

CTP Stationery

MARKERSBIC South Africa (Pty) Ltd - Permanent

Markers, Highlighters, whiteboard


Interstat Agencies - Edding

Max Frank - Artline , Maxi, Uni

Parrot Products - White board, permanent

and OHP markers. Wide range of

highlighters

Penflex - White board, flipchart, permanent

markers, highlighters

Pentel (Pty) Ltd. - Maxiflo, white board

marker and paint marker


MATHEMATICAL GEOMETRY SETS & ACCESSORIESFreedom Stationery - Marlin



MINUTE AND GUARD BOOKSHortors Stationery - Company registers,

minute books and other legal registers

NNUMBERING MACHINESRexel Office Products

Rubber Stamp & Engraving Co - Reiner

Dater/Numberer (manual/electronic), Trodat

OOFFICE ERGONOMICSRexel Office Products - Kensington

copyholders, risers, footrests, Rexel range of

electric staplers and punches which reduces

chances of RSI (repetitive strain injury)

OVERHEAD PROJECTION AND ACCESSORIESKolok - Penguin Transparencies

Max Frank - Artline

Parrot Products - Data Projectors, OHPs,

screens and rear projection film

42


Fusion 1000L Fusion 1100L Fusion 3000L Fusion 3100L Fusion 5000L Fusion 5100L

Excellence AcceleratedGet it right first time, in less time.

www.rexelsa.co.za

Working for you

Penflex - Penflex Overhead projector pens

Rexel Office Products - NOBO

PPACKAGINGMerpak Envelopes - Postsafe packaging range

PAPER AND BOARDCTP Stationery - DONAU A4 poster boards

Empire Toy & Stationery - Butterfly paper

Freedom Stationery

Grafton/Star

Kolok - Geha (paper media), EPSON, HP,

CANON,

Nor Paper

Palm Stationery Manufacturers - Cubes and

board

Paper World Handmade Paper, Embossed

Paper, Specialty Papers, Scented Paper Board,

Paper Products

Peters Papers - Rotatrim, Typek and Smart

Copy


RBE - Papersmart

Rexel Office Products - Prima Paper & Board

TRIBE - TRIBE Inkjet Paper and Film

PAPER FOLDING MACHINESMaynards Office Technology - IDEAL


PENCILSBIC South Africa (Pty) Ltd - BIC Evolution

Graphite, BIC Matic Clutch ,Velocity Clutch,

Atlantis Clutch, BU4 Clutch

Freedom Stationery - Marlin / Edo

Max Frank - Uni


Pentel S.A (Pty) Ltd - Hotshot, Mechanical

Pencil, Techniclick Pencil.


Rexel Office Products - Rexel HB & Derwent

Staedtler SA (Pty) Ltd - Tradition, Wopex,

Technical, Clutch Pencils and lead

PENCIL LEADSBIC South Africa (Pty) Ltd - Criterium 0.5mm

leads


Max Frank - Uni

Pentel S.A (Pty) Ltd - Ain lead, standard lead

- various grades

PENCIL SHARPENERSFreedom Stationery



PENSBIC South Africa (Pty) Ltd - Clic, Crystal,

Orange and Prismo

Freedom Stationery - Marlin and Edo

Max Frank - Artline, Maxi, Uni


Penflex - Penflex ballpoints and rollerballs

Pentel S.A (Pty) Ltd - Superb Ballpoint,

Energel Pen


Staedtler SA (Pty) Ltd - Ball point, Fineliner,

Gel and Pigment liner pens

PEN CARBON BOOKSFreedom Stationery - Marlin


RBE - NCR Business Books

PERSONAL STATIONERYCTP Stationery - Home office and personal

filing system, diaries

Grafton/Star

PLANNING BOARDS AND ACCESSORIESParrot Products - Range of year planners,

term planners, maps and in/out boards.

custom printed boards designed to

specification.

Rexel Office Products - NOBO planners

POINT OF SALE PRINTER ROLLSPaperGeni

Rotunda (Pty) Ltd.

PRINTINGKolok - Epson, Lexmark (Hardware), HP

Printers, Oki (Hardware) Pantum, Samsung

Olivetti Imports - Distributors of

Multifunctional Printers / Copiers

Star Stationers and Printers

Unicopy & Stationers CC - for all your printing

& stationery requirements

PRINTER CONSUMABLESImpression Management - Prinart, Logic,

Q-Ink, Sanchi, Oliser and ATI

KMP - For computer consumables.

Ink Spot Suppliers - Suppliers of all brands of

inkjet and LaserJet cartridges

Kolok - Epson (inkjet, large format etc),

Lexmark, HP, Brother (Toners and Inks), Oki

(Toners, inks and Ribbons), Tally Genicom

(Ribbons), Seikosha (Ribbons), Panasonic

(Toners and Ribbons), Kyocera (Toners),

Printronix (Ribbons), IBM (Ribbons), Ricoh

(Toners), Fujitsu (Ribbons), Pantum (Toners)

Nor Paper

PaperGeni

Royce Imaging Industries - Remanufacturers

and suppliers of inkjet and laser cartridges

Technical Systems Engineering - Suppliers

of quality compatible cartridges and bulk

inks for Epson, Canon, Lexmark, HP and

Samsung

PUNCHES AND PERFORATORSFreedom Stationery - Marlin


Parrot Products - Parrot range of punches


Rexel Office Products - Rexel

RRUBBER STAMPSMax Frank - Schachihata X Stampers

Rubber Stamp & Engraving Co. - Trodat

RUBBER STAMP MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENTRubber Stamp & Engraving Co - AZ Liquid

polymer, TROTEC laser engraver, flash

system

43


Fusion 1000L Fusion 1100L Fusion 3000L Fusion 3100L Fusion 5000L Fusion 5100L

Excellence AcceleratedGet it right first time, in less time.

www.rexelsa.co.za

Working for you

RULERSFreedom Stationery - Marlin



Penflex - PENFLEX rulers

SSCHOLASTIC SUPPLIESBSC Stationery Sales - Treeline

CTP Stationery

Empire Toy & Stationery - Butterfly

Flip File - Flip File display books A5, A4, A2, A3

Freedom Stationery - Marlin and Edo

Gordon’s Productions - contact paper

woodgrain, marble, pattern designs. Magic

cover back to school clear and coloured

self adhesive paper. (4M rolls, A4 and lever

arch). Plastic coated brownkraft rolls and

pre-cut polythene covers.

Grafton Paper Products

Impala Vuwa Stationery Manufacturers

Max Frank - Artline, Maxi, Uni


Parrot Products - chalk boards/slates


Pyrotec - Tower Adhesive Book Cover 45cm

x 2m

SCISSORS AND CUTTERSFreedom Stationery - Marlin



Rexel Office Products

SCRAPBOOKINGRexel Office Products - Trimmers and

guillotines

Rubber Stamp & Engraving Co - Making

memories, Clearsnap, Marvy, Ranger, Bazzill,

Carl

SHREDDERS AND ACCESSORIESAZ Trading - DSB, Kobra, Roto, Repairs to all

makes

D.O.S - Kobra

Kolok - GEHA entry level and high-end

shredders

Nikki Distributors - Nikki shredders

Parrot Products - Parrot range of value

shredders

Rexel Office Products - Rexel range

Maynards Office Technology - IDEAL


SLATESFreedom Stationery - Marlin

Parrot Products - Whiteboard and chalk

board

SPIKE FILESGrip Binders

STAMPS, STAMP PADS AND INKSKemtek Imaging Systems - Distributor of

Brother Stampcreator PRO

Rubber Stamp & Engraving Co - Trodat,

pre-inked stamps, stamp and fingerprint

pads

STAPLING MACHINES AND STAPLESFreedom Stationery - Marlin

Interstat Agencies - Genmes


Parrot Products - Parrot range of staplers

Rexel Office Products - Rexel range

STATIONERY SUNDRIES - SCHOLASTICCTP Stationery - DONAU Scissors and cutting

knives

Freedom Stationery - Marlin, Edo and Unifile



STENCILSFreedom Stationery

STORAGE SYSTEMSCTP Stationery - Archiving Systems -

Suspension Files

Kolok - Verbatim (hard drives, USB sticks

etc), HP, Sandisk

Rexel Office Products - Storage boxes

Specialised Filing Systems - Filing


TTAPESFreedom Stationery


TELECOMMUNICATIONSNikki Distributors - Siemens office phones

TELEX ROLLS AND TELETEX PAPERRotunda (Pty) Ltd.

THERMAL ROLLSRotunda (Pty) Ltd.

TONERS AND CARTRIDGESKMP - Computer consumables

Kolok - Penguin (Inkjets and Laser toners),

Epson, Lexmark, HP, Canon, Pantum (toners),

OKI, Samsung

PaperGeni

TOP RETRIEVAL FILINGOptiplan a div of Waltons - Paper based top

retrieval filing systems

Specialised Filing Systems - Total Solution

and more

Tidy Files - Complete onsite and offsite filing

solutions

TOYS, HOBBIES AND GAMESFreedom Stationery

Pyrotec - Toby Tower Stickers and Activities

TRANSFER LETTERING AND SIGNSParrot Products - Vinyl lettering

TRANSPARENCIESKolok - Penguin transparencies for inkjet and

laser OEM, Penguin and HP Transparencies

Rexel Office Products - NOBO range

44


Auto+ 60X Auto+ 80X Auto+ 200X Auto+ 300X | 300M Auto+ 500X | 500M Auto+ 750X | 750MAuto+ 100X | 100M*Max saving when using an Auto+ 500X compared to

a traditional feed shredder in a similar price level.

Spend 98% less time shredding*

UPGRADE TO AUTOFEED

Working for you

www.rexelsa.co.za

45


• The Buyers’ Guide is an affordable way to highlight your brands while simultaneously

introducing up-and-coming stockists to the trade.

• The Buyers’ Guide is a valuable sourcing tool to market your business and the brands

that you carry.

• To book space, contact Wendy on [email protected] or (011) 781 0370.

DID YOU KNOW?

Auto+ 60X Auto+ 80X Auto+ 200X Auto+ 300X | 300M Auto+ 500X | 500M Auto+ 750X | 750MAuto+ 100X | 100M*Max saving when using an Auto+ 500X compared to

a traditional feed shredder in a similar price level.

Spend 98% less time shredding*

UPGRADE TO AUTOFEED

Working for you

www.rexelsa.co.za

African Filing Systems( 011 614 9445 www.africanfiling.co.za

7 086 540 6892 [email protected]

AZ Trading( 086 111 4407 www.aztradingcc.co.za


BIC South Africa (Pty) Ltd( 011 474 0181 PO BOX 43144, Industria, 2042

7 011 474 6068 16 Maraisburg Road, Industria, 2042

BSC Stationery Sales( 011 086 2900 Box 278, Brakpan, 1540


CTP Stationery( 011 226 5600 Box 43501, Industria, 2042


D.O.S (Denton Office Solutions)( 086 000 7468 [email protected]

7 086 237 4614 www.dosptyltd.biz

Empire Toy & Stationery( 011 614 2243 Box 261524, Excom, 2023


Flip File( 021 638 3105 Box 2190, Clareinch, 7740


Freedom Stationery - Johannesburg( 011 314 0953/4 Box 6459, Halfway House, 1685


Freedom Stationery - Cape Town( 021 557 9152/3 36-38 Silverstone Rd Killarney Gardens


Freedom Stationery KZN (Head Office)( 032 459 2820 Box 478, Mandini, 4490


Freedom Stationery - East London( 043 731 2422 Box 14111 West Bank 5218


Global Bag And Sportswear Manufactures( 031 305 6507 P.O Box 18586, Dalbridge, 4014

7 031 301 6553 www.globalbags.co.za

Global Envelopes( 031 465 5544 [email protected]

7 031 465 5634 www.envelopes.co.za

Gordon’s Productions( 031 705 8713 Suite 69, PvtBag X4, Kloof, 3640


Grafton/Star Paper Products( 011 262 0777 Box 550, Bergvlei, 2012


Grip Binders( 011 421 1300 [email protected]

Hortors Stationery( 011 620 4800 Box 1020, Johannesburg, 2000


Impala Vuwa Stationery Manufacturers( 036 634 1535 Box 389, Ladysmith, 3370


Ink Spot Suppliers( 011 854 3013


Interstat Agencies - Durban( 031 569 6550 Box 201707, Durban North, 4016


Interstat Agencies - Cape Town( 021 551 9555 Box 36696, Chempet, 7442


Interstat Agencies - Port Elizabeth( 041 453 2558 Box 27693, Greenacres, 6057


Kemtek Imaging Systems( 011 624 8000 Box 86173, City Deep, 2049


Kemtek Imaging Systems - Cape( 021 521 9600 Box 181, Cape Town, 8000


Kemtek Imaging Systems - KZN( 031 700 9363 Box 15685, Westmead, 3608


Kemtek Imaging Systems - PE( 041 582 5222 Box 15685, Westmead, 3608


Kemtek Imaging Systems - PTA( 012 804 1410 PO Box 816, Silverton, 0127


KMP( 021 709 0190 Box 183, Steenberg, 7947


Kolok - Head Office( 011 248 0300 Box 4151, Johannesburg, 2000


Kolok - Cape Town( 021 597 2700 Box 6385, Roggebaai, 8012


Kolok - Durban( 031 570 4900 Box 4206, Riverhorse Valley East, 4017


Kolok Polokwane( 015 298 8795 Box 862, Ladanna, 0704


Kolok - Port Elizabeth( 041 406 9900 Box 3163, North End, 6056


Kolok - Namibia( 00264 (61)370500 Box 40797, Ausspannplatz, Namibia

7 00264 (61)370525 [email protected]

Kolok - Nelspruit( 013 758 2233 Box 4338, White River, 1240


Kolok - Bloemfontein( 051 433 1876 PvtBag X01, Brandhof, Bloemfontein


Kolok - Botswana( 00267 393 2669 PvtBag B0226, Bontleng, Gaborone


Krost Office Products( 011 626 2067 Box 75401, Gardenview, 2047


KZN ENVELOPES( 031 465 3992 P O Box 41259, Rossburgh, 4072


Max Frank( 011 921 1811 Box 200, Isando, 1600


Maynards - Olympus Audio S.A / Olivetti Distributors( 0860 00 1922 [email protected]

www.maynards.co.za

Merpak Envelopes( 011 719 7700 [email protected]

7 011 885 3174 www.merpak.co.za

Narayan Wholesaler( 083 444 0959 [email protected]

7 011 869 7243

New Era Office cc( 011 334 2013 Box 10383, Lenasia, 1821


Nikki - Cape Town( 0860 006731 [email protected]

7 0800 204868 www.nikki.co.za

Nikki - Durban( 0860 006731 [email protected]


Nikki - Johannesburg( 0860 006731 [email protected]


Nikki - Pretoria( 0860 006731 [email protected]


Nor Paper( 011 011 3900


Optiplan a division of Waltons( 011 620 4000 Pencil Park, Croxley Close, Herriotdale


Palm Stationery( 031 507 7051 [email protected]

7 031 507 7053 www.palmstat.co.za

PaperGeni( 011 011 3900 [email protected]

7 011 011 4099 www.papergeni.co.za

Paper World( 012 250 1477/8 [email protected].

7 012 250 0322 www.paperworldsa.com

Parrot Products( 011 607 7600 [email protected]

7 011 615 2502 www.parrotproducts.biz

Penflex( 021 521 2400 Box 36964, Chempet, 7442

7 021 521 2402/3 [email protected]

Pentel S.A (Pty) Ltd( 011 474 1427/8 Box 202, Crown Mines, 2025

7 011 474 5563 www.pentel.co.za

Peters Papers( 011 677 9000 [email protected]

7 011 622 6646 www.peterspapers.co.za

Powerhouse Dictation( 011 887 1056 [email protected]

7 086 555 3833 www.speech.co.za

Power Stationery( 032 533 4003 Box 1305, Verulam, 4340


Press Products( 011 493 6332 [email protected]

7 011 499 1019 www.pressproducts.co.za

Pyrotec( 021 787 9600 PvtBag X1, Capricorn Square, 7948


RBE Stationery Manufacturers (Pty) Limited( 011 793 7321 [email protected]

7 011 793 7348 www.rbe.co.za

Reboni Furniture Group( 086 173 2664 www.reboni.co.za


Redfern Print Services - Cape Town( 021 552 9680 Box 403, Milnerton, 7435


Redfern Print Services - Durban( 031 205 9598 [email protected]

7 031 205 7092 www.redfern.co.za

Redfern Print Services - Johannesburg( 011 837 4119 Box 1445, Crown Mines, 2025


Rexel Office Products( 011 226 3300 www.rexelsa.co.za


Rotunda (Pty) Ltd.( 021 552 5135 Box 189, Maitland, 7404


Royce Imaging Industries( 011 792 9530 www.royceimaging.co.za


Rubber Stamp & Engraving Co - Head Office( 011 262 1400 Box 931, Wendywood, 2144


Rubber Stamp & Engraving Co - Cape Town( 021 448 7008 Box 931, Wendywood, 2144


Rubber Stamp & Engraving Co - Durban( 083 377 4109 Box 931, Wendywood, 2144


South African Diaries( 021 442 2340 Box 4862, Cape Town, 8000


Staedtler SA (Pty) Ltd( 011 579 1600 www.staedtler.co.za


Specialised Filing Systems( 011 477 0640 www.specfiling.co.za

7 011 477 3528

Star Stationers and Printers( 031 569 1061 [email protected]

7 031 569 1094 www.starstat.co.za

Technical Systems Engineering( 011 708 2304 Box 1532, Northriding, 2162


Tidy Files( 011 943 4210 www.tidyfiles.co.za

Topmark( 011 837 8045 [email protected]

7 011 837 7442

Tower (Division of Pyrotec) - Cape Town( 021 787 9600 PvtBag X1, Capricorn Square, 7948

7 021 787 9791

Tower (Division of Pyrotec) - Johannesburg( 011 611 1820 59 Lepus Rd, Crown Mines, 2025


Tower (Division of Pyrotec) Durban( 031 701 0192 Box 594, Pinetown, 3600


Tribe( 011 314 4746 (Jhb) Box 6280, Halfway House, 1685

7 021 386 4261 (Cpt) [email protected]

Unicopy & Stationers CC ( 031 201 8415 122 Che Guevara Road, Glenwood, 4001


Versafile( 011 226 5600 Box 43501, Industria, 2042


CONTACT DETAILS HERE

V o l 1 0 0 - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6m y o f f i c e m a g a z i n e46

The real stuffNot marketing fluff

What’s the highlight of your working career?There have been so many, so it is hard to single out one. But certainly growing this business from where it was, with the assistance of my exco, to where it is today is right up there

If you could change one thing about your industry, what would it be?To compete on level playing fields

What do you like best about the office products industry?It’s harmless, it’s regular day-to-day products, and generally fellow suppliers and customers are a bunch of really nice people

What’s your greatest personal achievement?I’ve been married to my lovely wife Karen for 37 years

Describe yourself in three words.Driven, hardworking, honest

Where did you grow up?Durban

What was your first CD?Tommy by The Who

What’s your favourite gadget?My trusty HP12C financial calculator

What’s your favourite movie?Forest Gump

What’s your favourite meal?Steak, egg and chips (with beer)

Do you have a hobby?Shabby golf and gym

What music did you listen to in the car this morning?Chris de Burgh – Footsteps 1 & 2

Do you have any pets?Labrador Retriever (called Wolletjie)

What was your first car?Morris Oxford (I paid R 300 for it)

Clive Heydenrych, MD of Trodat South Africa


t h e r e a l s t u f f


Send us your funniest caption for the photograph below and you stand a chance to win a Rexel Laminator GBC Fusion 1100 A4 valued at R2 000. Send your Punchline and contact details to [email protected] with Punchline in the subject line

WinThe Rexel Laminator is 33% faster than competitor machines, taking just 45 seconds to laminate a standard A4 pouch or 80 pouches per hour, with an additional cold setting for heat sensitive documents. Other features include:• Automatic switch off after 30 minutes of inactivity.• Exit tray keeps pouches straight as they come

through the heated rollers for a perfect, warp-free finish

• Incorporates SureFlow™ Technology that reduces jamming significantly for stress-free laminating and maximum productivity

• Laminates up to A4 size including ID cards, notices and certificates

• Modern, compact design is easy to move around and suits most office and home environments

• Single touch button interface: simple to use, no previous experience required

• Three heat settings • Accepts 2 x 75 micron (150 in total) pouches, 2 x

100 micron (200 in total) and 2 x 125 micron (250 in total).

Caption this!

WINME

V o l 1 0 0 - J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6

p u n c h l i n e


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Vol 100 issue 01 2016