Business Chamber Chairperson Mr Deon Terblanche expressed his satisfaction with the membership growth during the past year, with an increase both in members and attendance figures at regular meetings.
"It is the Business Chamber’s role to further the interests of its members in a positive way, showing the excitement, passion and prestige associated with a successful business and the important role these businesses play in the economy of the Mossel Bay area," Mr Terblanche said.
"The economic growth rate for Mossel Bay from 2005 to 2010 was a phenomenal 6.5%, compared to the overall South African Gross Domestic Product of 3.1%, which in 2014 has dropped further to 1.9%."
The April 2012 issue of Finweek it stated that Mossel Bay was the best place in South Africa to do business in, with the best potential for growth and opportunities.
Affiliation with AHI was achieved in addition to the existing affiliation with SACCI.
Dr Ivan Meyer,Western Cape Minister of Finance and Provincial Leader of the Democratic Alliance, was the guest speaker.
He insisted that the basis of economic growth is business and that the need exists to look after the taxpayer.
Dr Meyer added that one should spend money where it really counts.
"Look after the enabling companies, stop e-tolling and visa restrictions and investigate the storing of renewable energy," the minister urged.
He also urged government to make big investments in broadband in South Africa.
He mentioned that from April 2015, R500-million has been earmarked for this region, not by mistake, but by design. “Let’s put money in places that work and therefore have a bigger multiplying effect.”
Awards
There was no Business Person of the Year award. A person was elected, but declined.
Small Business - two nominees received awards
1) Inspirations (Home, Garden, Ocean, Gift) - Frances Chamberlain.
2) Winner: Santos Express Train Lodge - Debby Vallentyn, manager.
Bigger Business - three nominees received awards
1) Afro Fishing Pty Ltd - Canning of Pilchards - Pieter Becker on behalf of Dewald Lourens.
2) Winner: VE Reticulation Electrical Infrastructure - Jurgen Bosman.
3) Volkswagen - Amelia Cilliers accepted the award on behalf of Gideon Knoetze.
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Dr Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Finance, with the chairperson of the Mossel Bay Business Chamber and category winners of the various awards made at the year-end awards ceremony.
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