Proof

Pharmacy Magazine

Help them fall in love with their health. Give your customers a nudge to remind them you care about them. We’ll tell you how.

HEALTH AWARENESS

BUSINESS TIPS Go lean and drop the mean with these business tips

LIFESTYLE AWARENESS MONTH Improve your health to prevent disease

FREE • NOT FOR SALE CORPORATE PUBLICATION

ACCEPTABLE VARIATIONS

ISSUE 103

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Contact Info Summary

CJ DISTRIBUTION WESTERN CAPE

CJ DISTRIBUTION MIDRAND

CUSTOMER CARE 010 589 2729 011 592 1818 EMAIL customercare@cjdsa.com ADDRESS Cnr. Le Roux and Stag Road, Glen Austin, Midrand, Gauteng, 1685

CUSTOMER CARE 023 347 3371 076 052 9008 EMAILS carecpt1@cjdsa.com • carecpt2@cjdsa.com ADDRESS La Belle Rd, Stikland Industrial, Cape Town, 7530

CJ DISTRIBUTION KWAZULU-NATAL

CJ DISTRIBUTION DELMAS

CUSTOMER CARE 013 665 1011 079 458 6208 EMAIL customercare@cjpharm.co.za ADDRESS 12 4th Street, Delmas, Mpumalanga, 2210

CUSTOMER RELATIONS COASTAL Anton Quenet (Head of Sales) [cell] 082 783 6660 email: anton.quenet@cjdsa.com CUSTOMER CARE 023 347 3371 081 888 0853 EMAIL carekzn1@cjdsa.com ADDRESS 237 Roger Sashi Road, Off M19, New Germany, Pinetown, Kwazulu-Natal, 3620

CUSTOMER RELATIONS INLAND Darren Brooks (Sales Manager) [cell] 083 229 5212 email: darren@cjpharm.co.za

Lynne [cell] 071 472 7522 email: lynne@cjpharm.co.za Kyle: [cell] 072 638 4085 email: kyle@cjpharm.co.za Christoph [cell] 060 997 9954 email: christoph.s@cjpharm.co.za Barend [cell] 072 534 8135 email: barend.c@cjpharm.co.za Bennie [cell] 076 890 4618 email: bennie.ellis@cjpharm.co.za Mathys [cell] 076 072 9385 email: mathys@cjpharm.co.za Marcel [cell] 082 304 6749 email: marcel@cjpharm.co.za

Zaeed [cell] 060 985 6465 email: zaeed@cjpharm.co.za Simcha [cell] 063 687 6691 email: simcha@cjpharm.co.za Bernard [cell] 082 820 7333 email: bernard.h@cjpharm.co.za Melanie [cell] 083 579 0736 email: melanie@cjpharm.co.za

For more information, visit our website at cjdsa.com

sales@cjmarketing.co for your marketing and printing

The Script Pharmacy Magazine ISSUE 103

INDEX

4

Your February Health Calendar

8

Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month

12

It’s the Month of Love

16

Help Customers Fall in Love with Health

Go Lean and Drop the Mean

20

CJ Marketing Pull-Out

23

Moist Blueberry Lime Loaf Cake

33

Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

36

There’s a Book in all of us

40

Mercedes Benz A200 Hatch AMG Line

44

Games

48

COVER PAGE PHOTO CREDIT: Adobe Stock - stock.adobe.com EDITORIAL TEAM: Lana O’Neill

To advertise email admin@cjmarketing.co

or visit www.cjmarketing.co Babsie Swart (Bookings & Advertising) email: admin@cjmarketing.co Jan Bester (Marketing Manager) email: jan@cjmarketing.co Caron Potgieter (Account Queries) email: finance@cjpharm.co.za Physical Address: Cnr of 4th St and 2nd Ave, Delmas Postal Address: PO Box 186, Delmas 2210 [Tel:] 013 010 0091 | 013 665 4299 [Fax:] 086 698 1468

The Script Pharmacy Magazine The Script Pharmacy Magazine IMPORTANT INFORMATION Any content of this magazine, a corporate publication published by CJ Marketing on behalf of CJ Distribution, hereafter known as “The Script Magazine”, either in the magazine and/or in digital form, including adverts, editorials, articles and all other content is subject to our terms and conditions. All material published in The Script Magazine (either in the magazine and/or the website), including adverts, editorials, articles and all other content is published in good faith. However The Script Magazine accepts no liability for any errors or omissions and does not endorse any companies, products or services that appear in the publication or on this website. All material is accepted on the understanding that it is copyright free. The Script Magazine accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. The Script Magazine cannot accept responsibility for and does not endorse views expressed by contributors. The Script Magazine does not accept responsibility for the accuracy of claims made by contributors or advertisers. Distribution area may vary at the discretion of The Script Magazine. No part of the magazine may be reproduced without the prior written consent of CJ Marketing. 3 3

The Script Pharmacy Magazine | February / March 2019

3

HELPING HIV-POSITIVE MOMS THRIVE Women are an important target in curbing the spread of HIV as they may face unique challenges, including gynaecological issues, potential mother to-child HIV virus transmission, an elevated risk of cervical cancer, and possible complications related to HIV medication side effects. In the absence of intervention, the rate of transmission of HIV from a mother living with HIV to her child during pregnancy, labour, delivery or breastfeeding ranges from 15% to 45%. Identification of HIV infection should immediately be followed by an offer of linkage to lifelong treatment and care, including support to remain in care and virally suppressed and an offer of partner services, says Lizeth Kruger, Dis-Chem and Dis-Chem Baby City national clinic executive. “Women are at the critical intersection of HIV, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, therefore, access to reliable information in supporting pregnant mothers living with HIV and ensuring safe breastfeeding practices is vital. “Exploring medical advancements, support systems, and knowledge have made it possible for expectant mothers living with HIV to lead healthier lives and protect their babies.” Improving health outcomes for HIV positive mothers: Pregnancy and HIV In recent years, significant progress has been made in supporting pregnant mothers living with HIV. Antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) have been a game changer in preventing mother-to child transmission of the virus. These medications not only protect the mother’s health but also reduce the risk of passing the virus to their babies during pregnancy and childbirth. ARVs and PrEP medication during pregnancy A common concern for pregnant women with HIV is whether they can continue taking ARVs. Stopping ARV during pregnancy can be more harmful than beneficial. PrEP, a combination of anti HIV medication that keeps HIV negative people from getting HIV, can be taken even after a person falls pregnant. It is, however, important to note that PrEP only protects against HIV infection, not against pregnancy or any other sexually

TO DIARISE! FEBRUARY DATES YOUR

I t’s Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month and Reproductive Health Month

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20 FEBRUARY 15 FEBRUARY

National Epilepsy Week

04 FEBRUARY

World Cancer Day

06

Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Day

10 FEBRUARY Pregnancy Awareness Week & STIs/ Condom Week 12 FEBRUARY International Epilepsy Day

06

20 MARCH FEBRUARY Human

papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination first round

4 FEBRUARY 2024

AWARENESS DAYS

transmitted infections. Until 2019, pregnant and lactating women in South Africa did not receive the PrEP roll-out due to a lack of safety data on its use in pregnancy. Breastfeeding and HIV Historically, breastfeeding posed a transmission risk for mothers living with HIV. However, safe breastfeeding

for mothers with HIV is now possible. For mothers living with HIV who wish to breastfeed, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to minimise the risk of transmission to their infants. These guidelines typically involve taking antiretroviral medication, exclusive breastfeeding, and regularly consulting healthcare providers for monitoring and support.

HIV/Aids support for pregnant moms Support is crucial for pregnant women living with HIV. From healthcare providers offering specialised care to support groups and counselling services, many resources are available to help mothers navigate unique challenges. This support extends beyond medical care to address emotional and social needs, fostering a holistic approach to health.

6 FACTS TO

3. There are many different types of epilepsy. Epilepsy is a word that we use to describe any brain condition that causes someone to have two or more seizures. But people can have very different types of seizures Some people have generalised tonic clonic seizures - this is what many people imagine when they think of epilepsy. It is when a person loses consciousness, falls over and shakes on the ground. But there are many other types of epilepsy, and people have many different types of seizure. 4. One in 10 people will have an unprovoked seizure in their life: People can have seizures even if they don’t have epilepsy (epilepsy is when you have two or more unprovoked seizures). Seizures can be caused by things like low blood sugar, dehydration, using illegal drugs and having a fever - among other things. 5. Most seizures are not medical emergencies and last between a few seconds and two minutes. If the person having the seizure has had them before, this is not usually a medical emergency. It is which need to be treated and managed in very different ways.

important to remember ‘stay, safe, side’ - stay with them until the seizure ends, make them safe by moving sharp objects away, try to turn them on their side if possible. If a person’s seizure lasts for five minutes or more, they may have entered ‘status epilepticus’ (when seizures last a long time). This can be life threatening. If a seizure lasts for more than five minutes, call for medical assistance. 6. You cannot swallow your tongue during a seizure: It is impossible to swallow your tongue because it is attached to the bottom of your mouth by strong muscle fibres. Unfortunately, some people believe you need to put something in the mouth of people who are having epileptic seizures. You must not do this because it could block the airway. ■

HELP PEOPLE BETTER UNDERSTAND EPILEPSY

1. One in 26 people will develop epilepsy in their lifetime: There are many different ways people can develop epilepsy. Some people are born with the condition and some get a fever which affects their brains while others develop epilepsy after a stroke or a brain injury. But for many people we don’t know what originally caused their seizures. 2. Epileptic seizures are caused by disturbances in electrical brain signals. There are millions of cells in our brains which send electrical signals to one another in an ordered manner. However, when someone has an epileptic seizure, these brain signals get ‘scrambled’ and that causes the person to behave in unusual ways.

(Source: www.epsyhealth.com).

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FEBRUARY IS HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AWARENESS MONTH – MAKE IT COUNT!

I mproving health to prevent disease

the risk of developing NCDs drops dramatically - and quality of life can significantly improve. Some alarming statistics for South Africa include: • 13% of children under five are overweight and 27% are stunted.

• Micronutrient deficiencies, such as anaemia affect 31% of females (aged 15 to 49 years). 4.2 million South Africans are living with diabetes, according to 2021 estimates from the International Diabetes Federation. There are ways in which we can improve our health to help prevent NCDs – these small changes are powerful: Plan and pack: Be prepared for the day with healthy snacks like fresh or dried fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, and a bottle of water. This will help you make better food choices and save you money! Focus on whole foods: Try to choose food that is as close to its natural state •

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) include a range of conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, stroke and hypertension. In many cases, people are not aware that they are living with these health issues and thus don’t access the care and treatment that they need. NCDs are responsible for 70% of deaths worldwide and are the leading cause of death and disability in South Africa. But NCDs can be largely prevented. Through keeping a healthier lifestyle, by eating nutritious food, drinking safe water, engaging in regular physical activity and managing mental wellbeing,

•

31% of women and nearly 10% of men aged 15 to 19 are overweight or obese. Only 29% of young people engage in moderate physical activity. The country experiences the triple burden of malnutrition with 27% of children under five classified as stunted and 2% of this group affected by wasting.

•

•

8 FEBRUARY 2024

HEALTH FOCUS

as possible. The less processed your food is, the more likely it is to be healthy, with reduced sugar, salt and saturated fats. Keep moving: Try to find opportunities during the day when you can move. Walk when you can (so long as it is safe), dance to your favourite song, and remember, even household chores count as moving! Try new recipes: Experiment with beans, legumes, whole grain foods and other healthy ingredients. It will stimulate your creativity and taste buds. Breathe and manage stress: Exercise, chat with friends, and get enough sleep to help process and manage difficult times. Find what works for you and proactively take care of your mental health.

THE BEST FOODS TO EAT TO FIGHT INFLAMMATION

Nuts: From almonds to cashews, pistachios and walnuts, you can choose your favourite when designing an anti-inflammatory diet. In a review of a study published in the Journal of Hygienic Engineering and Design in 2020, researchers found that people who ate 30 to 65 grams of nuts, such as walnuts, per day had lower levels of inflammatory biomarkers, like C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 in their blood. Add nuts into your pesto, sprinkle them over a salad or enjoy them on their own.

Cherries: These pack a wallop of antioxidants that help temper inflammation, including anthocyanins (an antioxidant found in red and purple fruits and vegetables) and vitamin C (well-known for its immune-supporting properties). In a 2018 review published in Nutrients of 29 studies looking at both tart and sweet cherries, 80% of the trials showed that cherry consumption decreased markers for oxidative stress and 70% showed that it lowered inflammation. In the research, people were advised to consume whole fruit, juice or powder in an amount equivalent to 45 to 270 fresh cherries per day, but you don’t need to eat that much every day to reap some benefits. Incorporate more cherries into your diet with smoothies, as a yogurt or oatmeal topper, in sorbet or simply on their own for an easy, naturally sweet snack.

Avocado pears: Packed with healthy monounsaturated fatty acids that help to keep our hearts happy, avocados are also an excellent source of fibre - one-half offers 5 grams of the 25 to 38 grams of recommended fibre per day. Fibre makes losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight easier, which in turn helps ward off weight-related inflammation. Additionally, fibre is what keeps our gut microbiome happy and healthy, which we now know plays a critical role in chronic disease development.

Dark leafy greens: A smart goal to up your nutrition game should be a salad a day. Aim for dark leafy greens, like kale, spinach and collards, all of which pack nutrients, most notably lutein, folate and vitamin K that slow the simmer of inflammation. It’s for that reason that a 2018 study in Neurology found that eating just one serving per day of greens was associated with slower cognitive decline in aging adults. A 2018 study published in Biomedicines showed that every green offers unique anti-inflammatory properties, so mix things up and get a variety in your diet for the biggest range of benefits. ■ (Sources: www.unicef.org/ www. eatingwell.com

Fatty fish: Eating wild-caught salmon or other fatty fish, like sardines and mackerel, at least twice a week delivers healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to turn off pro-inflammatory genes in your body and increase cells’ ability to scrub themselves of harmful components, according to a 2020 study published in Molecular and Chemical Biochemistry. Don’t like fish? Eat one to two tablespoons of chia seeds, ground flaxseed or walnuts to get plant-based omega-3 fats.

Beets: Just like cherries contain anthocyanins, beets contain different phytochemicals, called betalains that act similarly in the body to fight off inflammation. Whether you add beets to your juicer or roast them as a salad topper, you’ll get a healthy dose of helpful nutrients. See all the tasty ways you can enjoy beets with these healthy recipes.

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GET IN THE MOOD WITH HEALTHY FOOD CHOICES IT’S THE MONTH OF LOVE …

D o certain foods put you in an amorous mood? Aphrodisiacs, named after the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, are foods said to spike your sexual desire. What are aphrodisiacs? Food science researchers have looked for connections that show certain foods lead to an increase in desire. While not necessarily the key to spicing up your love life, certain foods do have ‘feel good’ compounds, such as capsaicin in chilli peppers that enhance bodily sensations or antioxidants in fruits like cherries, pomegranates, figs and strawberries that improve your blood flow. Others, like oysters, asparagus and figs simply resemble our more intimate body parts.

and chocolate-dipped strawberries is on the menu for you and your sweetheart, then why not indulge? While it won’t hurt to try a few of these every now and then, a more balanced diet is probably better in the long run. A heart-healthy approach to food, such as the Mediterranean diet, combined with staying physically active is a winning combination to have you feeling your best, ready for whatever happens next! Why is a Mediterranean way of eating good for you? The Mediterranean way of eating focuses on foods like olive oil, nuts, fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains and fish. Wine is part of the typical Mediterranean diet too, but you should drink it in moderation. This style of diet can also include some dairy and poultry ingredients, but, like wine, these are usually limited.

8 of the most common foods said to be known aphrodisiacs (whether they do put you in the mood or not is up for debate) …

artichokes asparagus chocolate fi gs oysters spicy chilli peppers

strawberries watermelon

Experiencing an increased libido while eating these foods may be more of a placebo effect than anything else. But, if a romantic dinner of oysters, asparagus

12 FEBRUARY 2024

HEALTH FOCUS

The Mediterranean diet places an emphasis on fresh, colourful eating and shuns heavily processed ingredients. Though “diet” is in the name, this plan is more of a holistic approach to eating that relies on real foods. You won’t be counting calories or macronutrients like you would with a typical “diet”. 3 reasons to make space on your plate for Mediterranean diet foods: 1. It can keep your heart healthier In a 2013 study in the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers found that people on a Mediterranean diet were far less likely to have a heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular event than people who ate a low-fat diet. The study participants who ate a Mediterranean diet supplemented with olive oil or nuts saw their risk of cardiovascular disease drop by 30 %.

2. It can have weight loss benefits In a study on younger women, those who most closely followed a Mediterranean diet had a lower body mass index (BMI) and smaller waist and thighs than those who adhered to the diet’s style the least. This is likely because the diet is high in antioxidants and provides rich anti inflammatory properties. It’s also packed with fibre, a nutrient known for keeping you full. 3. It can support better brain health A 2016 review of 18 studies in Frontiers in Nutrition found that eating Mediterranean was associated with less cognitive decline, reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and better memory and executive function. Additional research in the journal Neurology likened the diet’s effects to reducing the brain’s age by five years.

GET TO GRIPS WITH OYSTERS … Beneficial to ecosystems and humans, oysters provide an array of health benefits. What oysters lack in calories they make up for in their nutritional content, which includes vitamin B12, zinc and a unique antioxidant. Oysters are saltwater bivalve molluscs that live in marine habitats such as bays and oceans. They’re a vital part of the ecosystem, filtering pollutants out of the water and providing habitats for other species, such as barnacles and mussels. There are many different types of oysters and their briny, flavourful meat is considered a delicacy around the world. Though well known for their supposed aphrodisiac qualities, these

Phosphorus: 12% of the DV Vitamin E: 9% of the DV Riboflavin: 9% of the DV

molluscs have a lot to offer in terms of health benefits. Nutrition facts Oysters have a hard, irregularly shaped shell that protects a grey, plump inner body. This inner body, known as the meat, is highly nutritious. A 100-gram serving of cooked wild eastern oysters provides the following nutrients: ✓ Calories: 79 ✓ Protein: 9 grams ✓ Carbs: 4 grams ✓ Fat: 3 grams ✓ Zinc: 555% of the Daily Value (DV) ✓ Vitamin B12: 538% of the DV ✓ Copper: 493% of the DV ✓ Selenium: 56% of the DV ✓ Iron: 40% of the DV ✓ Manganese: 20% of the DV

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Calcium: 7% of the DV Oysters are low in calories yet loaded with nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. For example, a 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving provides more than 100% of the DV for vitamin B12, zinc and copper, plus a good amount of selenium, iron and manganese. These tasty molluscs are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, a family of polyunsaturated fats that play important roles in your body, including regulating inflammation, supporting heart and brain health, and protecting against type 2 diabetes. ■ (Sources: www.allinahealth.org/ www. eatingwell.com/ www.healthline.com).

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J anuary and February can be tough on small businesses reliant on spend consumers are now pulling the purse strings on due to an over-jolly festive season perhaps. Time to get creative and give your customers a nudge to remind them you care about them and are there to help. HELP CUSTOMERS FALL IN LOVE WITH HEALTH THIS MONTH

topics, such as smoking cessation, stress management, nutrition and exercise. You could approach a gym, a health store, a dietician, oral hygienist or the like to be co-host these sessions with you. It will be good exposure for both businesses and, especially if you present the sessions free of charge, a good way to touch loyal and potential customers. People are always on the hunt for health tips and strategies at this time of the year.

Using the February Health Awareness Calendar, here are some ideas to captivate your audience this February – which also happens to be a Leap Year, so an extra day to make an impact! IT’S HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AWARENESS MONTH Partner with like-minded businesses in your immediate vicinity to present informative sessions on various health

World Cancer Day – February 4 The WHO recognises that community pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals to the general public. Think about becoming a Cancer Advocate this year. Advocates work to help improve the lives of people with cancer. Many people find cancer advocacy to be a positive and empowering experience. If you are interested in becoming a cancer advocate, start by finding opportunities that match your interests, skills, and abilities.

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BUSINESS

Pharmacists can help incorporate this care into their daily interactions with women of childbearing age. They are especially able to help women understand the potentials risks associated with medication use and assist them with various areas of preconception and prenatal care, including immunisations, folic acid use and management of chronic diseases. Supplements are an important intervention during pregnancy. Significant metabolic changes occur throughout pregnancy that are the result of both intense foetal growth as well as altered maternal physiology. Such changes necessitate adequate maternal intake of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, to both maintain maternal health and provide for adequate foetal growth and development. Deficiencies in nutritional intake during the gestational period have been associated with poor health outcomes for both the mother and developing foetus. As such, it is common practice to employ multivitamin supplementation during pregnancy, especially in those women who may not consume appropriate, healthy diets.

Cancer research is expensive. Many groups raise funds to help remove these financial barriers. Advocates can raise money for cancer research in many ways: • Plan or participate in fundraisers. This includes fundraising walks and runs. Donate money directly to a cancer group. Donate money through a workplace giving programme. Buy products from sources that donate a percentage of profit to cancer causes. • • THERE’S A FOCUS ON PREGNANCY AWARENESS IN THE WEEK 6 – 10 FEBRUARY Preconception care has become a very important avenue to help reduce poor pregnancy outcomes. This care is defined as personalised care for that is focused on reducing maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality; it focuses on steps taken now to protect the health of a baby in the future and consists of interventions aimed to minimise behavioural, social and health-related risk to a woman’s overall health and to improve outcomes for potential pregnancies. •

HERE ARE SOME EXAMPLES: Supporting individuals

Some cancer advocates guide current patients through the experience. Cancer survivors are especially helpful in this role. You can support those living with cancer by: • Visiting someone who recently received a cancer diagnosis. Listening and sharing personal stories. Coordinating or participating in support groups. Educating and raising awareness • • Cancer advocates raise awareness at local and national levels. Activities include: Educating the public about cancer. Expressing the importance of cancer screening and early detection. Speaking with community groups about important issues. Topics may include insurance access, disparities in care, or job discrimination. Communicating with media about cancer-related issues. Raising money for cancer research. • • • • • •

THE YOUNGER, THE HEALTHIER … The sky is the limit when it comes to developing creative ways to add wellness into a pharmacy. Incorporating simple strategies into your practice will help encourage patients to stay healthy, fill a need and differentiate your pharmacy from the competition.

There is a movement to have more focus on wellness, and preventative strategies. There have been numerous studies to show that the next generation, Generation Z, is more health conscious. A recent report conducted by the Nielsen Global Health and Wellness Survey offered surprising and detailed information about the culinary habits of young people. The most health-centric group of consumers is Generation Z. Four out of 10 people polled in this group indicated that they would be willing to spend more money for healthier products as opposed to 32% of millennials and 21% of baby boomers.

Although you may have a broad demographic in your pharmacy, everyone can benefit from a wellness-centric environment at the pharmacy. Creating a wellness environment will differentiate your pharmacy, and help increase patient rapport and retention: • Have reputable supplements available and be knowledgeable about supplements. Pharmacists should also counsel patients on prescriptions that may deplete certain vitamins. Create a healthy newsletter for your patients. Having an email list not only grows your patient base, it also encourages families to stay healthy. Create a newsletter with a theme for the month, and provide •

value with tips, recipes and featured supplements or products available in your pharmacy. Host healthy lifestyle sessions. Stress management, healthy eating on the go and how to prep meals are some easy topics to empower patients to adapt healthy behaviours. Patients may ask questions about your topic along with other questions related to your pharmacy. Ultimately, you can grow relationships through community events or talks, which increases patient retention. ■

•

(Sources: www.pharmacytimes.com/ bmccancer.biomedcentral.com/ www. uspharmacist.com)

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BUSINESS

GO LEAN AND DROP THE MEAN …

T he first quarter of the year can be tough for business, so take a look at some kick-start strategies from the National Small Business Council … Put your business through the washer “Start a new business with the one you have, before it’s too late,” is the advice from Mike Anderson, National Small Business Council (NSBC) Founder and CEO, in an article entitled ‘Now is the time to adopt the principle of lean’. Anderson views adopting the principle of lean as “the washing machine effect” - stick your business into the washing machine and clean it thoroughly - your strategic plan, forecasts, systems, sales, staff etc. “ Get rid of everything you don’t need - large offices, expensive cars, poor performing or unwanted staff. Be brutal on the money. This exercise alone will bring relief and a refreshing approach,” he says. “Everything you do should be subject to scrutiny and revision, including your vision,

business and marketing plans, budget, sales and expense expectations, and more. It’s now all about creating a brighter, less stressful view of the road ahead. ” Anderson offers these tips for giving your business a profit makeover: Reward your best customers If you have customers who are giving you the most profit, treat them like gold! Woo them, don’t lose them! Offer them frequent buyer rewards. Send them a small gift at their one-year anniversary. Give them a random call every few months to “check in,” thank them, and ask what else they might need. “Fire” unprofitable customers Sometimes, the highest-maintenance, most time-consuming customers are the ones who pay you the least. Analyse the profit margin or lack of profit margin that each customer, or perhaps customer segment, produces. Stop pursuing customers who are not helping you be profitable.

Build relationships This coming year, it’s time to overhaul your sales behaviour. Turn all one-time sales efforts into relationship sales. Secure relationships as opposed to a sale. Erase those expense lines Reduce your operating expense budget to the lowest possible number. If that means selling your car or closing an office, so be it. You can’t build a new profit base when you are still using yesterday’s expense model. Go through your expenses line by line and get rid of everything you can live without. Outsource Whatever type of skill or service you need, think hard before hiring a new employee or keeping an old employee. Look at each department or each person when you are trying to manage costs. Can you eliminate positions (perhaps through attrition), combine jobs, delete processes and outsource tasks? Outsource exactly what you need for the right amount of

20 FEBRUARY 2024

time and the right amount of money.

Update all your sites. Keep your online relationships fresh and dynamic with news, blogs, newsletters, tips and surveys. Find an online forum in your industry and become an active contributor. Take your office with you With cloud technology, you are no longer bound to a desk. Log onto some new

interactive cloud-based systems that can help you do your business anywhere. Make sure you have internet connections on all of your devices. Everything you once needed to do in your own office can now be done remotely. Best of all, when your employees are sharing files in the cloud, it makes for a much more cohesive, connected team.

Update your networking From blogs to Twitter to LinkedIn to Facebook, invest in the online and social media presence you need to compete now. Businesses that don’t leverage social networking will be left behind. Jump start new relationships with forum building.

neglects the emotional needs of the staff, it could lead to burnout and reduced job satisfaction in the long run. The destructive leader Approach: The leader might react impulsively to the increased demand, perhaps hiring staff haphazardly, blaming existing staff for any hitches or making rash decisions about suppliers and infrastructure. Destructive leaders sometimes use intimidation tactics, threats or belittling comments to maintain control and instil fear. detrimental to mental health, leading to high levels of stress and anxiety, as well as decreased job satisfaction. Performance may also suffer due to low morale, high staff turnover and a lack of cohesion in the team. Mental health and performance outcomes: This approach can be

What’s your leadership approach?

The relations-oriented leader Approach: The leader prioritises the well-being of the staff, ensuring they don’t burn out. They may implement shifts that accommodate the rush while ensuring breaks for the staff. They would also create a supportive environment, ensuring newcomers feel welcomed. Mental health and performance outcomes: This style directly promotes positive mental health by valuing and addressing staff needs. Job satisfaction typically goes up, and the risk of burnout goes down. It ensures a consistent performance level by not pushing staff beyond their limits. The task-oriented leader Approach: The leader focuses on tasks that need immediate attention: efficient order-taking, quicker processes, managing inventory, etc. They would on board new staff quickly and ensure they’re trained promptly. Mental health and performance outcomes: A clear structure and defined roles can reduce confusion and anxiety in the short term. However, if the leader becomes too focused on tasks and

Different leadership styles can either nurture or hamper employees’ well-being. The NSBC unpacks a few leadership styles and considers their connection with mental health and performance. Which of these would best describe your likely leadership approach? The transformational leader Approach: The leader communicates an inspiring vision of the cafe’s future, leveraging the newfound popularity. They rally the team by emphasising the potential growth and opportunities that lie ahead. They’re proactive in seeking feedback and ideas on improving operations and may even consider innovating. Mental health and performance outcomes: This style can increase motivation and morale because employees feel they’re part of something bigger. It can also reduce anxiety because of the leader’s proactive approach. However, if the leader pushes too hard for transformation without providing adequate support, this can cause increased stress.

Go to www.nsbc.africa for more informative tips and advice. ■

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John Doe

Email: johndoe@cjpharm.co.za www.cjdsa.com INLAND SALES REPRESENTATIVE Mobile: 060-997-9900 Tel: 013-665-1000

Branded Gazebo, Table Cloths, Banners & Telescopic Flags Events, expo’s, sales or just taking pride in your company. These applications offer durable and tough solutions to any outdoor event or feature that you want to advertise to your customers from outside your store. Be sure that these will definitely catch the attention of any passer-by.

Gazebo

Table Cloth

Table cloths are a great way of extending your brand and a direct indication of who and what your business is, especially when you need to stand out in a crowd.

Gazebo’s are an excellent brand indicator for external spaces, whether it is for distributing flyers in front of your store or even an informal event that you are a sponsor of.

1300mm x 1300mm 2400mm x 1300mm 300mm x 2000mm

3mx3m Aluminium frame

Polytwirl fabric available in full colour. Custom sizes are available on request

Pull-Up Banner

X-Banner

A pull up banner (also known as a roll up banner) is an extremely useful marketing tool for businesses of any size. A pull up banner is the perfect high impact portable branding solution for a variety of situations.

The X-banner is a simple, easy to use, light and economical banner. It is ideal for advertising your brand indoors and can be easily placed at retail centres and conventions.

850mm x 2000mm

600mm x 1500mm 800mm x 1800 mm

Non-Curl PVC High Quality Print Includes Bag, Print and Unit.

Non-Curl PVC High Quality Print Includes Bag, Print and Unit.

Telescopic Flag

Feather Banners – also known as Feather Flags or Telescopic Banners – are ideal for making a visual impact when advertising your brand. Feather Banners are great for indoor and outdoor use and can be used individually or in a cluster.

3000 mm 4000 mm

High Quality Print Includes Bag, Print and Unit.

SUPPORT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM in the fight against colds and flu this season, with these ESSENTIAL products from Astral Pharma.

NEW TO THE XTREME C RANGE! Xtreme C Boost Tablets: Adults, One tablet once a day • Healthy bones, teeth, gums, skin, joints and tendons. • Healthy immune system and the body’s own healing process • Antioxidant protection against cell damage • Healthy cardiovascular and clotting systems • Coping with stress Also includes: Also contains added B Vitamins, Folic Acid, Zinc, Vitamin D 3 and Magnesium. Xtreme C Chewable Tablets: For kids 4 years and older • Healthy bones, teeth, gums, skin, joints and tendons. • Healthy immune system and healing process.

NEW TO THE PRODUCT PORTFOLIO

Nutri Zinc Xtreme Tablets: Adults, One tablet once a day • Maintaining good health • Boosting the immune system • Promoting healthy skin • Antioxidant protection against cell damage • SUGAR FREE Xtreme Vitamin D 3 Tablets: Adults, One tablet once a day • Contains 1000 iu vitamin D 3 • Support immune system • Promotes calcium absorption • Strengthen bones, muscles and teeth • Reduce risk of osteoporosis

Category D Complementary Medicine: Health Supplements This unregistered medicine has not been evaluated by the SAHPRA for its quality, safety or intended use. Astral Pharma (Pty) Ltd. Building 4, Villebois Office Park, C/O Jacques Street and De Villebois Mareuil Drive, Moreleta Park, 0044. Refer to the website for Professional Information www.astralpharma.co.za E-mail: info@astralpharma.co.za.

IN ALL OF US … THERE’S A BOOK

E veryone has a story to tell. Have you thought about crafting your memoir? There are many online resources to help you learn the nuts and bolts of putting a story together. A memoir helps you explore yourself and your history. Not only will you achieve personal expression and creative growth by writing one, but you’ll also leave something tangible for your family, friends and community. What is a memoir? A memoir is a non-fiction narrative in which the author shares their memories from a specific time period or reflects upon a string of themed occurrences throughout their life. While a memoir is a flexible genre, it should include these things: • A specific theme. • Something the author overcame. • First-person writing style.

• Supporting details and events from the past and the people who were present. Storytelling basics, like plot and setting. Honesty. Memoirs typically fall into one of these structures: Flashbacks: The author jumps back and forth between the past and present to provide the back story. Chronological: The author writes about their experiences in the order in which they happened. Themed: The author includes only memories that fall into one specific theme. Overcoming: The author focuses on one struggle and how it affected their life. What is an autobiography ? An autobiography is a non-fiction • •

account of someone’s life that they wrote themselves. Usually, an autobiography covers the author’s entire life up to the point of writing in chronological order and is sometimes (though not always) drafted in the later years of the author’s life. The events recounted in autobiographies are factual and fact checked. They’re often used as resources by historians. Many autobiographies are written by people who have some claim to fame who write about their journey to becoming famous. The author might be a politician, change-maker, business figure, professional athlete or celebrity. But anyone can write an autobiography. What is a biography? A biography is also a non-fiction account of someone’s life, but it’s written by someone else. Biographies are typically based on interviews, letters, personal journals, photos, reference books, newspapers and digital media.

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LEISURE

Most autobiographies follow a chronological structure, like this:

Some popular memoirs from the past and present: • A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, by Dave Eggers • A Moveable Feast, by Ernest Hemingway • Angela’s Ashes, by Frank McCourt • An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth, by Chris Hadfield • Between the World and Me, by Ta Nehisi Coates

Some popular autobiographies throughout history: • Agatha Christie: An Autobiography of a Yogi, by Paramahansa Yogananda •

Foundation: Childhood experiences, family members, community, home life, school, friendships, family traditions. Adversity: Pivotal moments that lead to life achievements. Conclusion: Lessons learned after overcoming or embracing adversity.

Autobiography, by Agatha Christie

•

Autobiography of Mark Twain, by Mark Twain Cash: The Autobiography, by Johnny Cash Chronicles: Volume One, by Bob Dylan

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•

SELF PUBLISHING A BOOK

obtain a low per unit cost. Also, if you choose to self-publish, you retain all rights to your work as well as editorial control. This means that you don’t hand over the licensing rights of your work for a great number of years, sometimes for the rest of your natural life. Also, traditional publishers will pocket most of the profit. In South Africa’s small market, where even best-sellers do not equate to huge numbers of books sold, self-publishing makes financial sense. But it also means that you have to take responsibility for the success of your book, and while this can seem daunting to new authors, again in our small market, individuals have relatively easy access to the media and other publicity channels. If you’ve tried without any success so far, yet remain determined, self publishing remains an excellent interim

measure. Self-Publish SA gives you a professional, quality product in hand. Therefore, in your efforts to publicise and market your book yourself, you stand a greater chance of attracting the attention of mainstream publishers. Initial editing (prior to contacting traditional publishers) is particularly important for writers of fiction where publishers and literary critics are so often wildly off of the mark when it comes to tomorrow’s best-seller list. Self-publishing also suits niche writers, people who write their family memoirs, for instance, or poets. These books can be impeccably edited and designed, inexpensively printed in small quantities and distributed to friends and within appropriate circles. ■ (Sources: selfpublishsa.co.za/ www. grammarly.com)

Self-publishing is an established trend that has completely changed the world of book publishing. Essentially, it lets writers and readers meet each other directly, without a middle man to take up to 90% of the profits. Self-Publish SA (selfpublishsa.co.za ) demystifies the publishing process … Publishing your book yourself makes sense for a number of reasons. Foremost, with the advent of digital printing, a small number of books can be printed at a viably low cost per copy, and reprinted in small quantities as needed. Previously, lithographic printing was the only option, whereby you needed to print thousands of copies to

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The Script Pharmacy Magazine

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MERCEDES-BENZ A200 HATCH AMG LINE

TEXT: Richard Wiley (Ultimate Drive) F ew would disagree with my assertion that if you make positive statements about yourself, there’s a concomitant need to live up to the claims. So, in the car world we’ve had – among many others – statements such as “Everything keeps going right” and “The best or nothing.” The former was associated with a Japanese make that’s made mighty inroads in RSA (and Africa) and inevitably led to the appearance of cynical home video clips depicting when things didn’t go quite right. It’s the latter though that is of relevance here as the subject of the review is a recently updated Merc which, given that it features a rather significant bought-in component, has a lot to live up to even if the advertising tag line is infused with more puffery than the more quantifiable claim from Toyota! The Merc referred to is the recently refreshed A200 AMG Line in hatchback form, and given that advertising slogan, and the fact that this model carries a

price tag in RSA that makes it surely the most expensive 1300cc car in the country, it came under the closest scrutiny from me. If I heard you react with surprise given that this Merc carries a 200 badge on its rump but is actually a 1300, I would fully understand as in the days of yore, the model nomenclature of a Merc very closely mirrored the cubic capacity of its engine. Things are different today though as this 1332cc engine, dubbed the M282, is not only much smaller than the badge suggests, it’s also shared with Renault and Nissan with the former having done most of the development work as far as I can establish. Two issues arise from this. Firstly, you can be absolutely sure that were the A200 really powered by a 2,0 litre engine, the badge on the back would never read A130. Draw your own conclusions, if you will. Secondly, and I have no wish whatsoever to suggest that Renault is not equipped to design efficient and durable engines, it seems incongruous to me that the world’s

oldest car company should be producing cars adorned with the three-pointed star that are powered by engines sourced from another alliance. Clearly, the bottom line is all-important and reflects the fact that M-B are avoiding the huge costs that are incurred today in producing small capacity engines that comply with stringent emissions regs. Now for the specifics. That four-cylinder M282 engine is a 16-valve turbocharged device that delivers 120kW and 270Nm all of which is directed through the front wheels via a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox. Outright performance figures suggest that 100 can be attained in a competitive 8,2s and for those who wish to swell the cash coffers of the nearest traffic department, a top speed of 225km/h is claimed. In terms of thirst, I recorded 9.4L/100km over a week’s varied use, some way off the typically optimistic figures bandied about by the M-B script writers. It’s not outright pace, though, that matters too much in everyday driving

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REVIEWS

as opposed to how the momentum is delivered and to the acoustics that accompany that delivery. In this regard, the benefits of turbocharging, as applied in particular to small displacement engines, come to the fore as the A200 always feels lively and is mostly free of lag. It just doesn’t sound especially convincing, producing what I would call a “reedy” tone that morphs into a mildly frantic note in the upper reaches. But having said that, the decibel count on the cruise is pleasantly subdued and there is the option of selecting a Dynamic driving mode that adds some substance to the tonal values of the engine, not to mention a mild “exhaust pop” and a propensity to hang onto gears for much longer. Truth is that this is not a charismatic power unit notwithstanding the claims made for it in the factory promotional blurb, but let it be known that it’s certainly assisted by the responsiveness and shift speed of the 7-speed DCT box, with paddles, that keeps cruise revs down while dismissing slip under acceleration. The steering, most especially in “normal” driving mode, is very light and a tag vague, being most suitable in town where the ease of twirling facilitates parking chores. As for ride, the Merc is endowed with an underlying firmness, but regardless of mode, there’s sufficient pliancy on hand to ensure that acceptable comfort levels are there to be experienced, even on broken surfaces. As you’d expect, braking is effected courtesy of an all-disc system backed up by a full array of safety aids. Pedal feel is perfectly judged and the system as a whole could best be described as peerless. In this AMG guise, the A200 is equipped with what is called a lowered comfort suspension, but as already alluded to, that term comfort is relative, most especially given the presence of shallow 225/45R18 rubber mounted on slick 5-spoke AMG polished alloys. All that rubber can set up a din on old coarse tar chippings, but on smoother tar, refinement levels are good as double door seals keep wind noise in check, and at cruising speed at least, the engine keeps its workings to itself. If you were paying due attention earlier in this article you will have noted my reference to a “refreshed” model line but note that the changes are minor and are made up primarily of a fancy star

encrusted grille and revised lighting systems. The test model featured revised bumper designs as part of the AMG Line enhancements, but it was also decked out in the most expensive “package” varietal (one of four) dubbed Premium Plus which is costed in RSA at R119 000 as at September 2023. There are so many bits and pieces that are added to the standard spec (selling in RSA at R824 009) via the various packages and which are already included in the Premium Plus offer that it’s absolutely necessary to visit the configurator at www.mecedes-benz.co.za. Be aware though that the most important additions specific to this package are a panoramic sunroof, memory seats, HUD, Highbeam Assist Plus, Parking Package and MBUX Interior Assistant. If you follow up on line, you’ll note that M-B even charges extra for a rear armrest, but more of that in a moment. For now, let me declare that the decidedly compact cabin of this Merc Hatch is something of a mixed bag in terms of tactile appeal. The front seats, swathed in a mix of alcantara and vinyl (Artico as M-B grandly declares), are really comfy even if they are on the firm side, but rear space is not generous with the low-set, folding seat forcing a knees-up position. And note that hefty roof pillars seriously impair all-round vision. quality carpeting and a nice fabric roof lining most obvious, but the squishy mouldings of the upper regions don’t extend too far downwards which is not quite what you’d expect of a car awash with three-pointed stars. By contrast, the expandable +/- 350L luggage area with its inconvenient high sill is quite beautifully trimmed in cut pile carpet but despite being rather shallow, there’s no spare wheel hidden under the floor! You will, though, be pleased to know that no less than seven airbags do hidden service throughout the cabin. Without any doubt, the large digital display that sweeps across half the dashboard is the highlight of the interior presentation. This display incorporates what is known as the MBUX operating system and is well honed and endowed with a measure of logic that’s not present in some rival systems. The displays are large and clear and super At first glance, the cabin’s overall ambience is appealing with good

informative, and the icing on the cake is the integration of wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Otherwise, all the mod cons you’d expect in an expensive modern hatch are present even if some of them shrink your bank balance beyond expectations. So, talk of bank balances brings me back to where we started, and that long time M-B slogan: “The best or nothing.” Bearing in mind this statement and the fact that this car, as tested, cost R943 000, there are a number of issues at hand. Firstly, and notwithstanding the minor cosmetic upgrades recently applied to this model, the A200 is not endowed with a class leading chassis in terms of feedback, handling prowess or ride. Be under no illusions though, that for everyday use, what the M-B engineers have served up is fine in terms of comfort, ease of control and general feeling of solidity, but it is not the best. And while the panel alignment and fit of add-on components proved to be very good, close inspection of detail finishes reveals issues that fussier buyers would surely be disappointed by. For example, the paintwork, although superficially fine, lacks depth of gloss (what happened to M-B’s much vaunted nano clear coat?) and is marred by lots of orange peel which varies in texture even on a single panel such as the bonnet. And please don’t look too closely in the depths of the door jambs or around the inner reaches of the tailgate. There are more spot welds on show than might be expected and the application of seam sealant is plain untidy. Finally, and as alluded to earlier, there are also rather more hard plastics on show inside than might be expected, and the maker asks potential owners to cough up for many options that are standard on recent Chinese-sourced cars. Finally, it seems that the A-Class model range will disappear from around 2025, so you’ll need to hurry if the idea of a compact Merc hatch appeals to you, but bear in mind that this model is at its best in an unhurried mode. ■ RICHARD WILEY WARRANTY: 2yr/unlimited km MAINTENANCE PLAN: 5yr/100 000km

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The Script Pharmacy Magazine