The Photo & Video Experience partners with Lamborghini

Messe Frankfurt South Africa, organizers of the Photo & Video Experience, has announced a premiere partnership with one of the world’s most prestigious motoring brands – Lamborghini South Africa.

The Photo & Video Experience will be held from 26-28 July 2019 at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg. The event has received a very positive response, with leading industry suppliers such as Canon, GoPro, Godox, Outdoorphoto and Broadcast Lighting already onboard. This interactive industry showcase has never been done in South Africa before, and as the name suggests, this event offers you an opportunity to immerse yourself in an experiential world of 6 interactive zones. From live fashion shows, slow motion and action areas, as well as creative, lighting, videography and green screen zones.

“Partnering with Lamborghini South Africa adds extra exhilaration and credibility to the Photo & Video Experience. We are honored to host such a prestigious brand at our event which promises to give show-goers memories and image opportunities like no other,” says Stephen Segal, Show Director of the Photo & Video Experience.

The experience is open to local and international guests and caters for smartphone users, bloggers, photographers and cinematographers, from the novice to the professional. In an ever-changing digital world, it is important that we provide a platform that evolves as fast as the industry demands. Perfect your skills, experience the latest industry innovations and learn from a variety of seminars and workshops suited to your skill level.

“Photographers will have the opportunity to capture fantastic action shots, test cameras and lenses as well as gain knowledge from various seminar sessions paired with demonstrations presented by local and international speakers. The sight and sound of Lamborghinis on the Kyalmai track, as well as a static display of all the latest models, will add incredible excitement to an interactive content driven show”, adds Stephen.

Visitors can also look forward to the splash of colour zone featuring an array of lights, colour, acrobats and something special allowing audiences to capture colour in motion. Showcasing the latest fashion trends and designs, big brands such as David Tlale and Biji La Maison will feature in the fashion show area. With more big names to be announced in the coming week!

Some visitors who already purchased tickets are extremely excited to experience this event.

“I have always seen shows like this advertised, I wanted to attend, however, I thought it was going to be too technically orientated, however, from what I have seen from the various posts on the social media platforms, this show caters for everyone no matter their skill level, tickets bought”. Mrs E. Bezuidenhout

“Being a seasoned veteran in the cinematography space, a friend mentioned the Photo & Video Experience is one to attend. So, I bought my ticket and look forward to the experience” Mr F. Botha

“As an international travel/show blogger I have been to some shows Messe Frankfurt have produced in Frankfurt and I know that if they are behind this show it will be worth attending.” Miss S. Roylance

Competition Time

WIN a Micnova Photography Kit for your smartphone or a Video Slider for your smartphone or camera.

Purchase your tickets to the Photo & Video Experience before end March and you could WIN either a comprehensive kit of components to assist you in capturing images, audio and videos with your smartphone or a conceptional 4-times distance video slider for your smartphone or camera.

Tickets can be purchased at Webtickets or CLICK HERE

For more information about the Photo & Video Experience, visit www.photoandvideoexperience.com

Volkswasgen T-Cross coming to South Africa in 2019

In the second half of the year, Volkswagen will introduce its first compact SUV to the model line-up. The T-Cross will join the Tiguan and Touareg in the Volkswagen SUV model range and advance the company’s offensive strategy in the growing SUV segment.

In 2018, the compact SUV segment consituted 8.7% of the total market. Where most segments have shrunk, the compact SUV segment grew year-on-year from 2014 to 2018. In 2014, the segment accounted for 19 027 of new vehicle sales, whilst in 2018, the sales volume increased to 31 982 units, which equates to a 68% growth. This is one of the many reasons that attracted Volkswagen in the segment. 

The T-Cross is based on the same MQB platform as the new Polo. The 
T-Cross slots into the Volkswagen product portfolio under the Tiguan.

The vehicle is 4 237mm long, boasts a wheelbase of 2 551mm and is 
1 584mm metres high. While it is a compact SUV, the T-Cross is practical with 377 litres of boot space. This can be expanded to 455 litres if the second row of seats is moved forward. By folding the rear seats flat, the carrying capacity is increased to 1 281 litres.

A host of standard as well as optional driver assistance features will be available in the T-Cross.

The T-Cross will be available with optional LED headlightswith wheel sizes of up to 18 inches. The interior of the T-Cross is similar to that of the new Polo and will be offered with optional Active Info Display.

Volkswagen’s compact SUV is a great value for money; the starting price of the T-Cross will be below R300 000.

The T-Cross will be available for pre-orders from the second half of the year and will officially be launched into the South African market towards the end of the year.

As from 2020, Volkswagen will add another SUV model in the line-up for the South African market. The premium, sporty and stylish T-Roc, which is the first Volkswagen SUV that is available to order in two-tone paintwork, will make its way into the local market next year.

Nedbank adds new exciting features into its banking app

Nedbank has become the first South African bank to incorporate a lifestyle
enhancing virtual assistant into its banking app.

It added two new features into Money app. HeyNed, a digital virtual personal assistant and concierge service, uses a vast network of more than 350 000 product and service providers, linking app users to virtually anything they need.

In addition to the convenience of having a virtual personal assistant on call around the clock, HeyNed users benefit from the money saving potential of a digital service that literally negotiates better prices on their behalf. And once a MoneyApp user accepts the quote provided to them by HeyNed, payment can be made easily automatically by a click of a button through the Nedbank Money app.

According to Ciko Thomas, Group Managing Executive, Nedbank Retail and Business Banking, and an avid user of the functionality, the response has been very positive. “HeyNed users appreciate the fact that the service pays for itself through the savings it delivers,” Thomas says, “and that it can be
used to source items and access a host of value-adding services, from restaurant and movie reservations to arranging transport home from school for the kids or finding a recommended supplier for those home repairs and maintenance.”

Nedbank also added an exciting new Home-Buying Toolkit feature into the Money App. The feature is aimed at making life easier and more convenient for prospective home buyers with a comprehensive range of tools and guidelines aimed at equipping them with everything they need to find, finance and purchase their ideal home.

Thomas, further explained that a home is likely to be the biggest, most expensive purchase they will ever make for most people. Therefore, Nedbank created this feature-rich toolkit to make sure they are equipped with all the information and insights they need to optimise the home buying experience and unlock maximum value for new homeowners.

“With these and many more valued features that have already been included in the MoneyApp, we will continue to provide a life-enhancing digital banking experience. We are pleased with the growth in
popularity of the MoneyApp, now with 2 million downloads achieved, allowing our clients to manage their money like never before,” concludes Thomas.

What marketers look for when booking an influencer

Influencers have changed the way marketers communicate with their desired target audiences. They have become the link between brands and the target audience on social media. This is due to their ability to produce niche-based content.

According to WebFluential a great influencer is more than the one who takes beautiful images and has the highest number of followers. However, the one who fits certain criteria and can show marketers their value pre, during and post the campaign. If you want to be an influencer, these are some of the elements that marketers look for before booking an influencer.

1. Who is the influencer?

This might sound obvious, but this is the question that marketers ask. Marketers can’t work with someone they don’t know. Therefore as an influencer you need to write a short bio including where you are based and the markets that you are influential in. For example you can state in your bio that you are a fitness and lifestyle writer based in Johannesburg.

2. Match between the influencer’s online personality and the brand

There needs to be a fit between the brand and the influencer for the influencer campaign to be successful. A fitness brand can’t choose an influencer who enjoys seating at home and watching TV, for example. The brand and influencer’s personality, values and vision need to match.

3. The influencer’s audience

The reason marketers choose to use influencers is because there is a desired audience that they want to reach and influencers can help them do so. Audience demographics e.g age and gender are essential for brands to improve their targeting. With Audience insights, a brand will be able to see if the influencer’s audience aligns with their ideal customer profile. Brands will also be able to find and prioritize influencers based on their audience affinity to the brand and specific topics.

4. Engagement rate

It has emerged that some influencers buy followers so that they appeal to marketers. Some influencers have a huge following but the engagement on their posts is close to zero. This is where the engagement rate of an influencer’s posts becomes an important metric in understanding the level of interaction of an influencer has on their content. An engagement rate is defined as the percentage of the influencer’s audience that responds to their content.

5. Previous work

Like any other “job” experience matters. Marketers need to know who the influencer has previously worked and the kind of work that the influencers have produced. This also helps marketers to see if the influencer has worked with competing brands. Being able to see an influencer’s body of work is an important insight when trying to gauge what kind of content the influencer can produce.

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Mazda Unveils Mazda CX-30 Compact Crossover SUV

azda Motor Corporation made the world premiere of the second model in its new-generation lineup, the Mazda CX-30 compact crossover SUV. As a new core model that sits between the CX-3 and CX-5 models, the new CX-30 will launch to the Southern Africa market in the first quarter of 2020. The Mazda CX-3 and CX-5 will remain part of Mazda SA’s current lineup.

The CX-30 is a new compact crossover that combines the bold proportions of an SUV with elegant styling that embodies Mazda’s Kodo design language. The development team hoped to create a car that would enrich customers’ lives by helping them and their loved ones make new and stimulating discoveries within their daily lives.

Relaxed and user-friendly packaging and a cabin that comfortably seats four adults mean customers can easily enjoy trips to any destination with family and friends. Moreover, the CX-30 was designed to be easy to drive. The increased height over a passenger car provides excellent visibility and makes getting in and out a breeze while the body size makes it easy to maneuver on any road and in any parking lot.

The CX-30 will be on display to the public at the Geneva International Motor Show from the 7th to 17th of March 2019.

PLANET FITNESS SWEAT WORKOUT PARTY WAS A JUMP

Planet Fitness took over Nelson Mandela Square this past Saturday (2 March 2019) for their well attended SWEAT Workout Party, 800 people flocked to the square to for a fun-filled day of working out! The party started out with a warm up of yoga, followed by an exciting line-up of group exercise classes.

Platentfitness aerobics marathon at Nelson Mandela square on Saturday 02 march 2019. Photo: Christiaan Kotze/Backpagepix

We saw the crowd getting their “Zumba on” and dancing up a storm in the square followed by a Planet Fitness exclusive Brazilian Booty Blast™ . The Brazilian Booty Blast focuses on booty sculpting with a variety of lower body exercises performed to upbeat Brazilian music. The MC Siv Ngesi encouraged all to “burn and shake that booty, in his words, if it wasn’t burning-it wasn’t working”, we are certain it was working!

Platentfitness aerobics marathon at Nelson Mandela square on Saturday 02 march 2019. Photo: Christiaan Kotze/Backpagepix

One of the highlights of the day was the newest addition to the Planet Fitness schedule which was unveiled at the end.

“We were extremely happy with the turnout and energy at our SWEAT Workout Party, a success through and through and we hope to build on this success and do this again, possibly in other regions, so that everyone gets the chance to experience a unique day of exhilarating workouts, pumping music, expert trainers and lots of fun” says Planet Fitness CEO, Manny Rivera.

All classes part of the event are available in selected Planet Fitness gyms nationwide. Visit www.planetfitness.co.za clubs & schedules to find out more or follow Planet Fitness: 

Twitter.com/PlanetFitnessZA

Facebook.com/ThePlanetFitness

Instagram.com/planetfitnessza

Why you should complain about brands on social media

Every now and then brands fall short on delivering on their promises and more often than not we keep quiet about it instead of giving them a slap. We think the brands won’t listen to our complaints or it will be a tedious task lodging a complaint. Social media has made it easier for consumers to express their gripes about brands and ultimately get a solution.

Recently, I bought Yum Yum peanut butter from Checkers and when I opened it, it looked as if some has helped him/herself to it before me. I then took a picture of it and posted it on twitter and tagged both brands i.e the @RCLFoods – the peanut butter manufacturer and @CheckersSA where I bought the peanut butter. The two brands in question responded asking me to send to them my contact details.

Within hours both brands contacted me and offered a solution to my problem. The branch manager of the Checkers where I bought the peanut butter also called me to say I must return the product. The two brands sent me vouchers equivalent to the price of the peanut butter to redeem at any Checkers store.

This experience made me realise the effectiveness of complaining about brands on social media and for brands to address customer complaints. Historically, I would have called the customer care line which would cost me time and money and/or wrote a letter or an email that would have taken long for me to get a response.

 Many customer service reports have stated that social media is powerful for consumers tool to air your grievances with a brand. Firstly, every activity on social media takes place in real-time and the probability of a complaint going viral is very high which could cause real damage to the brand that a consumer is complaining about. Therefore brands are required to respond quickly so that they can contain the problem. Secondly, when one complains about a brand on social media they are indirectly informing other potential customers about their bad experience. It has become a known fact that consumers trust each other more than the brands. When a customer sees a negative comment from another customer about a particular brand they lose confidence in the brand irrespective of what the brand says.

Brands are no longer required to have monologues with consumers but required to have dialogues with their consumers and the consumers’ voice is now louder and it cannot be ignored. This is the power that social media has vested onto the consumer.

On the other hand, social media can help brands to improve their customer service and attend to attend customer complaints swiftly. The quicker the brand responds to customer grievances on social media the quicker they restore customer confidence.

In conclusion, the cost of acquiring a new customer is much greater than keeping an existing customer and most brands are aware of this. Therefore it is in the brand’s interest to respond to and solve problems that their customers’ raise on social media.  You should not shy away from complaining about brands on social media as long as you have a legitimate grievance.

The brand-new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross lands in SA

Boasting Mitsubishi’s unique Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC), the all-new Eclipse Cross offers a defiant new-genre coupé approach, fusing stylish design and functionality for trendy individuals who are looking beyond the latest trends.

The latest arrival in the Mitsubishi Motors South Africa stable expands the local product offering to six distinctive models in the range (ASX, Outlander, Pajero, Pajero Sport, Triton and now the Eclipse Cross).

“Eclipse Cross, which surpassed the global sales milestone of 80 000 units since its international launch 12 months ago, boasts a coupé-like exterior and is perceived more modern, distinctive, dynamic, advanced and sportier than most of its competitors,” says Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa.

The all-new Eclipse Cross CVT will be available in 4×2 and all-wheel drive (AWD), both with a 6-speed CVT gearbox with Sports Mode coupled to Mitsubishi’s 2.0-litre MIVEC petrol engine.

The latest model offers cutting-edge technology to deliver a bold action adventure compact SUV that takes you beyond the everyday.

“The three primary product attributes of the all-new Eclipse Cross are stimulating design, confidence-inspiring driving and human connectivity,” says Campbell.

Design Concept and Awards

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The stimulating design concept of the all-new Eclipse Cross brings the new compact SUV into the modern age, combining the latest styling design with incredible driving dynamics and innovative, intuitive safety technology.

Winning a host of international awards, including the prestigious GOOD DESIGN award for Design Excellence and Design Innovation, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross was named the Automotive Researchers’ & Journalists’ Conference of Japan “RJC Car of the Year 2019”.

Judges praised the sharp looks, excellent rough-road performance and well-balanced drivability of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.

The all-new model’s vibrant styling expresses a fresh sportiness and stylishness, making a bold statement on the road. Like the ring of sunlight from behind the moon in a full eclipse, the sharply sculpted character line makes the Eclipse Cross appear as if the body was carved from a single block of metal.

Its defiant design concept focuses on a fine balance between the wedge-shaped coupé style and practicality of space and comfort, with its adventure character creating a sophisticated balance between sport and style. On the outside, the front face expresses dynamism and sportiness based on the “dynamic shield” design concept, with Japanese craftsmanship including a functional and hi-tech lighting design.

Part of the Eclipse Cross’s Japanese Craftsmanship is the new Red Diamond body colour with high brightness and high chrome which emphasises the vehicle’s vibrant styling further. The strikingly lustrous Red Diamond paint is created by a multi-coat process that includes the layering of a semi-transparent red and clear coating for a high-colour saturation and intensity that produces a highly-refined, deeper finish. Red Diamond is the most premium exterior finish ever offered by Mitsubishi Motors.

The cockpit of the all-new Eclipse Cross has a sporty design that stimulates excitement with an ingenious selection of features, making drivers want to invite friends for a ride.

Confidence-inspiring Driving

Powered by Mitsubishi’s proven 2.0-litre MIVEC engine, coupled to a finely-tuned 6-speed CVT with 6-step Sports Mode, the all-new Eclipse Cross offers excellent acceleration that gives the new model a dynamic feeling behind the wheel.

Mitsubishi’s unique Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) ensures outstanding stability in all road and driving conditions, offering agile handling for unequalled safety.

S-AWC is the integration of the vehicle dynamics control system with the controls of each component around the all-wheel drive system, offering the driver additional safety and comfortable driving.

S-AWC guarantees ultimate driving safety through the electronically-controlled AWD System which distributes driving torque as required. This leads to ultimate longitudinal driving force distribution while the Active Yaw Control (AYC) ensures excellent lateral driving force distribution. This allows additional steering assistance on any terrain.

If the driver unintentionally brakes or accelerates too much in a normal turn in slippery conditions, the system helps the driver to maintain control safely with usual steering inputs.

S-AWC detects the vehicle’s position, decides the proper torque distribution between the front and rear and left and right wheels using power and brake control, ensuring sure-footed control.

The highly-efficient power train, with Smart Driving Assist and Active Smart Safety, offers confidence-inspiring driving and ultimate peace of mind.

Another outstanding feature is the full-colour Head Up Display (HUD) that sharpens the sensitivity of human and machine connection.

Human Connectivity

The all-new Eclipse Cross has an advanced human-centric cockpit thanks to its meticulously designed layout, giving the driver intuitive command of the vehicle in all conditions on or off the road.

As an optional extra, connecting your mobile device to a 7″ touchscreen Infotainment system (with built-in GPS) via Bluetooth allows the driver through Voice Control to access the phone’s compatible apps and stored information to get directions, make calls, send and receive messages and enjoy music from the phone or any Apple Car Play and Android compatible device.

Standard equipment is a standard touch-screen radio.

Everything is taken care of thanks to a smartphone storage tray and USB connectors in the centre console.

Model features

Specifications for the local range include a host of interior and exterior characteristics as well as active and passive safety features:

Interior:

On the inside the Eclipse Cross offers complete style and comfort with bolstered seats giving the driver relaxed support and unchallenged visibility.

The HUD conveys relevant vehicle information in full colour above the instrument cluster for easy viewing without the driver having to take his or her eyes off the road. The image brightness and display height can be adjusted to suit driver preference and time of day.

The screen extends or retracts when the ignition is turned on or off.

Apart from the HUD, the sporty, meticulously crafted cockpit includes next-generation technology and connectivity, enhancing driver awareness and control, including:

  • Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
  • Multi-function Leather Steering Wheel with Audio and Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth with Hands-free Voice Control
  • Paddle Shifts
  • Electric Windows (front and rear)
  • Driver Window Auto up/down function
  • Automatic Air-conditioning with Rear Passenger Vent Duct
  • Leather Seats
  • Slide and tilt-adjustable rear seats with 60/40 split
  • Electric Adjustable Driver Seat and Heated Front Seats
  • Accessory Sockets and USB Ports

Exterior:

The distinctive shape and design of the exterior fills the driver with confidence. Like an athlete in motion, the sculpted wedge shape and sharp, dynamic character lines leave a strong impression wherever you go.

Outstanding exterior features include:

  • Electric Adjustable Fold-away Mirrors with Indicator Light
  • Projector Halogen Headlights with Manual Levelling Device
  • DRL (Daytime Running Lights)
  • Dusk Sensing Headlamps
  • Front Fog Lamps
  • Headlamp Washer
  • Rain Sensing Windscreen Wipers
  • Front and Rear Park Distance Control
  • Rear Spoiler with High-mounted Stop Lamp
  • Front Bumper Skid Plate (Silver)
  • Tailgate Garnish (Chrome)
  • 18″ Alloy Wheels
  • Full-size spare wheel
  • Roof Rails

Safety features:

True to all of Mitsubishi’s product offerings in South Africa, the all-new Eclipse Cross boasts a full complement of advanced active and passive safety features.

The new model has 7 airbags, including driver and front passenger, side and curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag, which provides an extra level of protection when the driver might need it most.

Highlighted by the advanced and brand-new S-AWC in the AWD version, both versions have:

  • RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) Body Construction
  • 7 Airbags
  • Side-impact Protection Bars
  • ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors
  • ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
  • AYC (Active Yaw Control)
  • EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
  • BAS (Brake Assist System)
  • HAS (Hill Start Assist System)
  • ASTC (Active Stability and Traction Control)
  • EPB (Electric Parking Brake)
  • EPS (Electronic Power Steering)
  • Central Door Locking with Motion Lock
  • Anti-theft Protection Device
  • Keyless Operating System
  • Rear View Camera

Range in SA

The all-new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross will be offered in two derivatives for the South African market – the two-wheel or front-wheel drive version and the all-wheel drive model.

The 2.0-litre MIVEC DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine uses ECI-Multi Point Fuel Injection with an output of 110 kW @ 6 000 rpm and 198 Nm of torque at 4 200 rpm.

Coupled to this engine, the INVECS-III CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with its 6-step Sports Mode delivers effortless acceleration from any speed, slick gear changes and a smooth ride. The driver can also control the shift steps via the Paddle Shifts behind the steering wheel. Keeping the engine at optimum performance at all times, the CVT enhances fuel efficiency.

All this is possible due to a new modified torque converter & damper assembly, changes in final gear ratios and software.

In the AWD version, the driver can choose the AUTO, SNOW or GRAVEL drive mode depending on road conditions to enhance accuracy, straight-line stability and manoeuvrability on slippery surfaces.

The CVT with 6-step Sports Mode contributes to the 2.0? MIVEC engine’s outstanding fuel consumption of 7.9 ?/100 km (combined cycle) for the 4×2 and 8.1 ?/100km for the AWD derivative.

Both models boast a turning circle of 5.3 m and a ground clearance of 180 mm.

The 4×2 derivative has a fuel tank of 63 litres while that of the AWD comes to 60 litres.

The introduction of Eclipse Cross as part of Mitsubishi Motors’ compact SUV range in South Africa has created the opportunity for the company to realign the ASX range with the introduction of two new derivatives – the ASX ES M/T and an ES 6-speed CVT derivative – with its retail prices at R359 995 and R379 995 respectively. An official press statement to follow in the last week of February 2019.

Pricing:

The all-new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross enters its segment as a massive value-for-money offering.

Eclipse Cross 2.0L CVT 4×2   R399 995

Eclipse Cross 2.0L CVT AWD R449 995

Both models are covered by Mitsubishi’s Manufacturer’s Warranty of 3 years or 100 000km, a 5-year / 90 000 km Service Plan and a 
5-year / unlimited mileage Roadside Assistance.

Service intervals are every 15 000 km.

Suzuki Vitara upgraded for 2019 model year

Suzuki is celebrating three decades of Vitara success with the introduction of a refreshed model range, with an even more generous helping of creature comforts.  

The Vitara has proven very popular, with over 1 700 models sold since its introduction in South Africa in 2015. Its combination of a very high safety level – which includes stability control and seven airbags across the entire range – and its affordable price was recognised through several industry awards, including first place in the Compact Family Car category in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank for two of the last three years.  

The model range upgrade also lays the foundation for the introduction of Suzuki’s turbocharged Boosterjet engine technology, which will be included in this model range later this year in the form of a 1.4 Boosterjet turbo petrol engine. 

Fresh new face 

There will be no mistaking the new Suzuki Vitara for its predecessor, thanks to a fresh new front design, new alloy wheel options and revised rear style with new LED light clusters. 

In front, new clear headlamp clusters flank a redesigned grille with horizontal slats and a large Suzuki S badge. Lower down, the  bumper features a large trapezoidal air intake with deep-set fog lamps (on certain models). For the GLX specification level, the main driving lights are LED. 

The distinctive vertical LED daytime running lights are enclosed in a new J-shaped chrome insert (black on the GL spec level), which extends from the edges of the black number plate housing to the top of the fog lamps. 

Fans of the Vitara SUV will be happy to know that Suzuki has refreshed the optional silver scuff plate and side mouldings to integrate with the new bumper design, both in front and at the rear. 

At the rear, the completely new combination lamp is fitted with LED lights that mimic the daytime running lights in the front, and Vitara GLX fans have the option of new polished 17” alloy rims. On the GLX, the front and rear bumpers are fitted with flush mounted parking sensors. 

Welcome inside! 

Suzuki has fitted the Vitara with new creature comforts, but spent the most time and attention on the fit and feel of the interior. 

As such, the upper instrument panel is now made from premium soft touch materials and on the GLX specification level there is a new seat trim material that is both more luxurious and hardy. On the GL+ model, the designers have replaced the black stitching on all seats with contrasting white stitching and on the GLX specification level, the seats are covered with a combination of luxury suede and synthetic leather. 

For the driver, Suzuki has fitted the GL+ and GLX models with a new 4.2 inch full colour LCD information display and a 3.5 inch monochrome LCD on the GL specification level. This screen displays information such as driving range, average speed, outside temperature, a gear shift indicator and, on AllGrip models, the selected Driving Mode. 

Suzuki added a second large screen in its new Smart Linkage Display Audio system, which replaces the more traditional analogue system on the GL+ and GLX models. This new touchscreen system features smartphone integration, built-in Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity. It will display the reverse camera image in full colour. 

As before, the Vitara has a very long list of standard features. These include electric windows (front only on the GL model), central locking, air conditioner with pollen filter, power steering and foldable rear seats. 

For the GL+ and GLX spec levels, Suzuki added climate control, cruise control, a multifunction steering, all-round electric windows and chrome detailing. And on the GLX model, designers have distinguished this top spec model with a unique instrument panel trim, keyless access with push-button Start/Stop and an electric tilt and sliding panoramic sunroof flanked by chromed roof rails. 

Setting the standard for family safety 

The Suzuki Vitara has been a benchmark for family safety in its class, thanks to Suzuki’s decision to fit all models with seven airbags (including an airbag for the driver’s knees), electronic stability control (ESP) and ABS brakes with emergency brake assistance. With this safety specifications, the Vitara received a full five star rating in the European New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP). 

All Vitara models are also equipped with three-point seatbelts for all passengers, ISOFIX anchorage points for child seats, a high-mounted additional brake light and a full size spare wheel. 

Proven mechanical pedigree 

Powering the Suzuki Vitara is the company’s popular 1.6 VVT petrol engine, which delivers 86 kW at 6 000 rpm and 156 Nm at 4 400 rpm and it’s mated to the choice of a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox. 

As before, Suzuki will offer buyers the choice of either front-wheel drive or its intelligent adaptive AllGrip all-wheel drive system. The latter is available at the GLX specification level coupled with a manual gearbox. 

Suzuki’s AllGrip system allows the driver to select between various driving modes on the fly. In Auto Mode, the system will default to front-wheel drive in normal usage and automatically switch to all-wheel drive when the road conditions or driver inputs necessitate it. 

In Sport Mode, the system will change engine and accelerator response, while delaying ESP intervention for a more spirited drive, and in Mud / Snow mode it will actively spread torque delivery between all four wheels to allow for possible slippery conditions. 

Lastly, the driver can lock the Vitara in all-wheel drive mode for speeds of up to 60 km/h for greater peace of mind and maximum traction when conditions require it. 

Large option list

As before, Vitara owners can customise their vehicles to their heart’s content thanks to a very comprehensive accessory catalogue. This catalogue offers over eighty optional extras, including roof racks, bicycle racks, tow bars, cargo partitions, special deodorised air conditioning filters, custom door sills and even an electric cooler box for the luggage compartment. 

Suzuki will also offer special customisation packs, such as the Suzuki Rugged Pack, which includes a pre-approved set of optional extras, such as front and rear silver scuff plates and other functional and cosmetic trim pieces. 

Pricing 

The refreshed Vitara will be sold with Suzuki’s promotional 200 000 km / 5-year vehicle warranty. It also has a 4-year / 60 000 km service plan and roadside assistance for the duration of the vehicle warranty. 

True to its tradition of offering the best value for money, Suzuki has not increased the prices, despite the new look and additional features. The models available immediately are: 

Suzuki Vitara GL (manual):   R281 900

Suzuki Vitara GL+ (man):   R318 900

Suzuki Vitara GL+ (auto):   R337 900

Suzuki Vitara GLX (auto):   R359 900

Suzuki Vitara GLX AllGrip (man): R374 900 

OPEL CORSA 120Y Special Edition coming to South Africa!

In 2019 OPEL is celebrating 120 years of automotive production, and thereby 120 years full of innovations for car lovers around the globe! The Opel brand has a reputation spanning well over a century of pioneering high-tech advancements and quickly bringing them to series production. This approach to vehicle manufacturing makes mobility affordable for many and OPEL cars safer, cleaner, more comfortable and more practical. The 120 years advertising campaign, ‘Opel. Born in Germany. Made for everyone’ is based on this philosophy. Today this philosophy matches the OPEL CORSA more than any other model in its category.

The OPEL CORSA is as suited to singles and couples as this legendary model in the OPEL line-up is to whole families. It therefore comes as no surprise that more than 13.5 million CORSAs have been produced worldwide since 1982. The OPEL CORSA thus plays a leading role in OPEL’s 120 year anniversary.

OPEL remains in the centre of society today. Across the range, the brand offers features more often found only in much more expensive cars. Now in its fifth generation, the OPEL CORSA is a typical example of OPEL’s ‘democratisation of mobility’.

The OPEL CORSA in general and the CORSA ‘120 Years’ in particular, show that it is a core OPEL brand characteristic to always offer customers more than they expect in the respective vehicle categories in which OPEL competes. OPEL has been in South Africa for 80+ years and has the positive reputation of always offering luxury level specifications that stamps a German-engineered punch high above their price category.

In celebration of our brand’s solid reputation, we’re proud to introduce the OPEL CORSA 120Y SPECIAL EDITION to South Africa. Based on the ever popular CORSA Enjoy, this commemorative model boasts many extra styling and specification features including the New Tech Pack III with Front/Rear Park-Assist and Rear-View Camera; Window Side Lower Beltline with Chrome Moulding; ‘OPEL’ Door Sill Plate; Up-market ‘Allure’ Jet Black Cloth Trim and Velour Floor Mats (Black with ‘120 Years’ Stitching).

*2 The OPEL CORSA 1.0T Enjoy was named the winner in its category at the cars.co.za Consumer Awards in 2017. It impressed with its powerful, small capacity turbocharged engine, value for money, practicality, brand strength, warranty and service plan, ride, handling and comprehensive safety features.

Pricing to be confirmed. Expected arrival March 2019.

New Range Rover Evoque recreates iconic road signs to showcase all-terrain capability and smart tech

Land Rover has brought a series of well-known road signs to life as part of a unique urban capability test for the New Range Rover Evoque. The original compact SUV not only showcased its all-terrain credentials in London’s financial district, but also demonstrated the smart technology that makes it a leader in its class.

Drivers and passers-by watched on as the Evoque traversed obstacles framed by four-metre high warning triangles, recreating the familiar road sign graphics used to warn drivers of ‘uneven road’ and ‘steep hill’. Both challenges showcased the indisputable all-terrain capability of Land Rover’s new vehicle architecture in an urban environment.

Pete Simkin, Chief Programme Engineer, said:“The New Range Rover Evoque is built for the city, but not at the expense of trademark all-terrain capability. Bringing these two worlds together in such an eye-catching and unique way was a great demonstration of the engineering and technical revolution behind our luxury compact SUV.”

On the banks of the River Thames, the smallest SUV in the Range Rover family negotiated a 40-degree ramp representing ‘steep hill’ to demonstrate how the new Evoque’s short overhangs, 25-degree approach angle and use of Land Rover’s renowned Hill Descent Control enable the Evoque to go above and beyond. 

The introduction of second-generation Active Driveline combined with 212mm ground clearance provided optimum traction and assured on-road ability and refinement as the Range Rover Evoque drove across staggered speed humps, representing the ‘uneven road’ warning sign. 

A real-world version of ‘wild animals’ then deftly demonstrated the segment-first ClearSight Rear View Mirror technology. With the flick of a switch, this smart tech enables the driver to see past objects obscuring visibility of the road behind.  

The Range Rover Evoque has been built on Land Rover’s new Premium Transverse Architecture to accommodate a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrain which will join the range later this year. Offered with a suite of advanced technologies from launch – including the world’s first ‘Ground View’ technology – the new Evoque is more capable than ever before providing driving refinement, precise body control and agile handling across any terrain. 

The New Range Rover Evoque will be available in South Africa from May, and can be configured at www.landrover.co.za.Watch the Evoque’s unique urban capability test here.

Samsung Mobile and Cassper Nyovest endorsement deal -Unpacked

Mobile phone giant – Samsung Unpacked the much anticipated Samsung S10 range in Sandton, Johannesburg. A lot was speculated about how the S10 range is going to look like and of course its capabilities. Samsung launched three devices under the S10 range, namely S10E, S10 and S10+. Samsung also announced the Galaxy Fold, the first of its kind by a big brand like Samsung. The Galaxy Fold it is a 4.5” smartphone that folds into a 7.3” tablet with two batteries and six cameras.

Galaxy Fold

No stranger to telecoms

The biggest surprise at the launch was of course the announcement of Cassper Nyovest as the new member of the Samsung family. The announcement saw him trending no. 1 in the country and somewhat stealing the shine from S10 launch. Cassper Nyovest is no stranger in the telecoms industry when it comes to endorsement deals. He is been getting that corporate money. In 2016 Nyovest clinched a deal with MTN for #FillUpOrlandoStadium – a deal which was said to be the biggest deal of his career at the time. Again in 2016, Nyovest got into a partnership with AG Mobile where he played a very integral role in the production process of AG #Hashtag flagship.

A strategic partnership

The selection of Cassper Nyovest as the new brand ambassador is a strategic move by Samsung. Nyovest is a pioneer in the music industry, the same way Samsung is the telecoms space. The success of the #FillUp concept has undoubtedly contributed to the growth of Nyovest’s brand and more so his value. Big brands want to associate with big brands. As the adage goes; birds of a further fly together. The two brands are aligning which is important in any endorsement deals.

It is only a matter of time until we hear Samsung being featured on one of Nyovest’s dope tunes.

 A big Pat on Cassper Nyovest.

New Fiat Advertising Campaign celebrates 2019 Grammy Award Winners Sting & Shaggy for Best Reggae Album

The new Fiat teaser celebrates the 2019 GRAMMY “Best Reggae Album” winners, Sting & Shaggy, for their chart-topping release, 44/876 (Cherrytree/A&M/Interscope Records) and will give a sneak-peak at the upcoming advertising campaign featuring these two iconic artists and their forthcoming single “Just One Lifetime”.

Olivier Francois, Head of Fiat Brand and FCA Global Chief Marketing Officer, commented, “I am delighted by the news of this well-deserved award and our brand is humbled to join hands with these two eminent artists.”

Helmed by illustrious director, Joseph Kahn (Jennifer Lopez, U2, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift), the communications campaign includes a teaser (https://youtu.be/Nox0ixe_uW0) featuring select scenes from Fiat’s new advertising campaign, starring Sting & Shaggy, for the launch of a new special series as a tribute to the brand’s 120th anniversary. Kahn also directed the music video for Sting & Shaggy’s new single, “Just One Lifetime”, of which Fiat is the media sponsor. The campaign will launch in early-March, 2019.

In 2018, Sting & Shaggy released a collaborative, island-influenced album, entitled 44/876, that draws from the many surprising connections at the heart of their music. With its title referencing their home country codes, 44/876 first and foremost honors the duo’s mutual love for Jamaica: Shaggy’s homeland, and the place where Sting penned such classics as The Police’s “Every Breath You Take.” Their chart-topping release debuted at #1 in Germany and Top 10 in the UK. It has spent over 20 weeks atop Billboard’s Reggae Album chart in the US and earned Gold certifications in Poland and France.

Last summer, Sting and Shaggy took their collaboration to the road for the critically-acclaimed 44/876 World Tour, performing their most celebrated hits as well as songs off their GRAMMY-winning album, together. The duo will bring their tour to the UK from May 19 – 25 for a series of intimate and exclusive concerts, hailed “a reggae rock dance party that never lets up”. For further information, please visit: www.sting.com.

ADVANCED SAFETY AND IMPRESSIVE NEW FEATURES FOR NEXT-GENERATION QUANTUM

For the first time in 15 years, Toyota has revealed a new-generation Quantum van and bus range with advanced safety features, powerful new engines, enhanced ride comfort and increased specification.

A shift to a semi-bonneted design has enabled the development team to implement significant changes with a stiffer frame, stronger straight-line performance, greater stability and manoeuvrability, and more pliant suspensions.

Toyota Quantum front

Arriving in South Africa in Q2, the all-new Quantum van will be available with three-seat vans in long (LWB) and super-long wheelbase (SLWB) configurations and six-seat LWB crew cabs. The bus range will comprise of 11 (LWB) and 14-seater (SLWB) versions.

The sixth-generation Quantum range will be offered with a solitary engine on the domestic front – a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel. This will be combined with a 6-speed manual transmission to promote excellent tractability and fuel efficiency.  

Excellent cargo capacity – a hallmark of every Quantum – has been maintained at a maximum of 6.2 (LWB) and 9.3 cubic metres (SLWB) – due to longer wheelbases and clever packaging that increases internal width by 215mm, and height by 5mm without altering overall exterior width.

All-new Quantum features a raft of interior storage space, with clever packaging to maximise ease of use and versatility. LED lighting, console boxes, flip-up seats and netted seat-back pockets help create occupant comfort whilst up to 16 cup/bottle holders are provided.

The bottom edge of the front door is lower and comes with a wider step for easier access. Larger front-door glass and a lower belt line improve visibility. Towing capacity has been expanded to a maximum 2000kg on key variants, an improvement of up to 600kg.

Toyota Quantum Interior

Newly developed MacPherson struts at the front provide excellent handling and stability, as well as ride comfort. In the rear, the new leaf spring suspension span has been increased by 200 mm, extending the bound stroke by an impressive 30 mm for a comfortable ride while enhancing handling and stability.

Customer use has been a priority with new locally developed Toyota Genuine accessories available from launch.

Numerous flat-mount surfaces and anchor points make it easy to alter the vehicle for specialised use. Toyota will also provide a detailed guide to assist body builders.

Full model line-up, specification and pricing will be released closer to launch timing.

ULTRA SOUTH AFRICA 2019 Final Line Up

ULTRA South Africa lands in just one month, with six stages and an incredible showcase of (100) artists, featuring some of the hottest acts in the world on the most spectacular stages in both Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Here are the stages along with the Phase 3 artists.

Main Stage local support includes the best of the best, from Ultra SA veterans Dean FUELFresh and Euphonik – each massive celebrity DJ’s in their own right, to the new Prince of SA Dance Music, Max Hurrell, as well as No Method on the back of a massive 12 months with the lauded release of both City Lights and Wasted Love. They are all prepared to bring some serious heat to Ultra SA, getting the crowd going ahead of international legends including: The Chainsmokers LIVE, Martin Garrix, Infected Mushroom and many more.

RESISTANCE is bringing Black Coffee and his most talented friends to delight your eardrums, along with Thor Rixon LIVE, MKLY, Vicmari, Pierre Johnson and Dwson in Cape Town and Lemon & Herb, Aero Manyelo B2B Bruce Loko and Avi Subban in Johannesburg. Expect hypnotic, deep and dirty sounds from RESISTANCE, keeping fans dancing all night long.

Johannesburg has TWO additional stages: Until Until and Samsung Galaxy.

Samsung Galaxy will feature local celeb DJ’s including 5FM’s Roger Goode, Das Kapital and Kyle Cassim as well as Kyle Watson, Apple Gule, Timo ODVand many more.  This will be the biggest Samsung Galaxy stage to date with some exciting new features, including it’s new space at Nasrec to accommodate its size.  Samsung is always pushing boundaries, and their stage, lineup and overall experience at Ultra SA 2019 will demonstrate just that. 

Until Until, Joburg’s coolest party promoters, have their own stage again which will feature the hottest local hip-hop talent in the country, guaranteeing a fully rounded festival experience.

Dj’s on the stage will include Major League, DJ Spontaneous, Banques, Frank Casino, Menzi XL, Lubonk and many more.

Set times are soon to follow, remaining tickets are limited, make sure you get your tickets today at UltraSouthAfrica.com/tickets

Ultra South Africa 2019 is Presented by SAMSUNG and 5FM.

TICKET PRICING

Cape Town —

General Admission:

Tier 1 – SOLD OUT

R650 – Tier 2

R750 – Tier 3

VIP:

Tier 1 – SOLD OUT

R1250 – Tier 2

R1500 – Tier 3

Johannesburg —

General Admission:

Tier 1 – SOLD OUT

R800 – Tier 2

R950 – Tier 3

VIP:

Tier 1 – SOLD OUT

Tier 2 – SOLD OUT

R2000 – Tier 3

VVIP:

R3000 – Tier 1

R4000 – Tier 2

Johnnie Walker launches new campaign inspired by iconic and pioneering South Africans.

South Africa is filled with many powerful stories of ordinary and extraordinary people who create change for themselves and their communities. Johnnie Walker is proud to announce its new brand campaign commemorating South African achievement and progress. It’s an evolution of the iconic whisky brand’s drive to inspire progress.

Nelson Makamo, Motheo Moeng and Enhle Mbali

The world-famous adjure to ‘Keep Walking’ is particularly meaningful in a South African context. Consumers no longer want to be dictated to and are looking for brands to partner with them in how they are represented and tell their stories in an authentic way. The ‘Keep Walking’ campaign is a push to move forward with optimism and celebrate every milestone reflective of real, inspiring stories.

“Johnnie Walker as a brand exists to inspire personal progress and this campaign has tested our ability to really connect with our local audience under this mission” says Zumi Njongwe, Marketing & Innovation Director at Diageo.

The brand has brought together the likes of South Africa’s most famous media export Trevor Noah, the country’s first black female pilot Refilwe Ledwaba , actress and businesswoman Enhle Mbali and Olympic swimmer Chad le Clos as part of the faces of this campaign.


Enhle Mbali

“In tune with the growing importance of authenticity in storytelling and finding people in different fields who truly embody the brand, we specifically selected South Africans who have had impact both locally and globally in their respective fields. As a brand we realise that South Africans are ambitious and determined. We want to salute those who have taken their steps today, to be an icon tomorrow. A multitude of people, progressing with purpose” says Njongwe.

Other recognizable faces featured in the campaign include fashion designer Thebe Magugu, artist Nelson Makamo, businessman Ze Nxumalo, cinematographer Motheo Moeng and leading female trombone player Siya Makuzeni.

Ze Nxumalo, Refilwe Ledwaba and Nelson Makamo

Njongwe believes that the brand is succeeding in its quest to dispel the stereotypes that exist around whisky lovers and the ‘old boys club’. “Beyond the number of powerful and accomplished women featured in the campaign, we enlisted one of the country’s leading directors, Dani Hynes from Egg Films to help us connect with a broader, previously untapped audience” says Njongwe.

The result is a campaign that pays homage to moving forward together, led by a global champion of ambition and perseverance in the form of Trevor Noah.

The campaign is an important addition to the South African progress narrative.

‘’We chose to shine the spotlight on prominent South African achievers who have contributed to a nation’s growth through times of transition and uncertainty,’ she explains. ‘Every South African – whether they are in the public eye or not – has a role to play and a story to share. By honouring our heroes, and remembering how far we’ve come, we hope to inspire South Africans to always “Keep Walking” Njongwe concludes.

Stay connected with the House of Walker on @johnniewalkersa (Instagram), @johnniewalkersa (Twitter) and Johnnie Walker South Africa (Facebook) #KWSA

Review: The Award-Winning Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL

This past seven days I got to understand why the Suzuki Swift won the best Budget Car award at the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. The car ticks the majority of the of boxes, it super fuel efficient, drives really well and has enough boot space. In terms of the fuel consumption at some point I thought the petrol gauge was not working as I drove the car for quite some time and there was absolutely no movement on the petrol gauge. It lives up to its claimed fuel consumption of 4.9 litres/100km in a combined cycle, which gives it a range of more than 750km on its 37-litre tank.

The Drive

I thoroughly enjoyed how the car drive. When you are behind the wheel it feels sporty and light. Just like its sister (Suzuki Dzire) the Swift is smooth when driving it on the highway. The steering wheel is light and quick. The acceleration and handling of the car is really good, whilst the clutch is really smooth allowing ease on the 5-speed gear box to change gears. You can barely feel that car is moving except for when you drive on a rough surface.

The Interior

The Suzuki Swift looks really small for the outside but you once you are inside it is spacious. There is enough leg, shoulder and head room. The cabin in the car is pretty basic but then again you can’t complain about this on a car that costs less than R200 000. The boot space is sufficient and you can enlarge it by folding the rear seats.

The Swift comes equipped with manual air conditioning, all-round electric windows, power steering, a trip computer, adjustable steering wheel with audio controls, audio system with Bluetooth/USB connectivity and front fog lamps. In terms of safety, all Swift models offer a pair of front airbags, ABS with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and ISOFIX seat anchors.

The car is fitted-out with a manual air conditioning and the windows are all electric. It is also equipped with a power steering and a trip computer. The steering wheel is adjustable and has audio controls. The audio system has Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

Safety

In terms of safety, all Swift models the car is equipped with front airbags, ABS with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and ISOFIX seat anchors.

Price

The new Suzuki Swift is available in six colours and is sold with a 5-year / 200 000 km mechanical warranty and a 2-year / 30 000 km service plan. The price starts from R160 000.

Pat(s)

  • The Suzuki Swift sips petrol which is amazing
  • It is light and drives really good
  • It is priced right

Slap(s)

  • The lack of an infotainment systems works against the car.

How influencers celebrate their Valentine’s Day

Influencers are now at dominating the conversations in marketing boardrooms as of late. Marketers are consistently trying to find ways of understanding influencers and how to use them. In an article published on BizCommunity Sylvester Chauke (CEO of DNA Brand Architects) posed a question on whether influencer marketing is still relevant. The answer is very much so, especially with continued rise on the use of social media.

Influencers are also people, they have needs and they care about the people around. Valentine’s Day is one of those days where people tend to show affection toward the things and people that they love. Also it is a big commercial day for most brands just like Christmas Day. Brands go all out to promote their Valentine’s Day special and in some of their promotions strategy they use influencers.

IndaHash – a popular platform that links brands and influencers conducted a study to understand how influencers celebrate Valentine’s Day. The study was conducted using surveys and just over 1000 influencers partcipated, globally. The aim of the study was to give brands a broader overview of their brands’ advocates behaviours as well as their competitor landscape.

The study discovered some really interesting insights. One of the major findings is that influencers do celebrate Valentine’s Day whether they are in a relationship or not. 91% of the influencers that participated in the study said they celebrate Valentine’s when they are in a relationship whilst 50% of single influencers said they do celebrate Valentine’s Day.

According to the report below is how single influencers celebrate Valentine’s Day:

  1. Celebrate with family (10%)
  2. Treat themselves to gifts or experiences (40%)
  3. Celebrate with friends (50%)

When it comes to shopping for gifts, the study found that 72% of influencers are most likely to be influenced by other influencers and women are as twice as likely to shop on a brand’s website than man.

The question is how will you celebrate Valentine’s Day? Leave your comments.

5 Tech Brands that have become generic terms

Technology has changed the way we live and how we do things. It is now at the centre of our lives because of the convenience it brings. Over the past decade or so we have seen the rise of tech brands taking the lead in terms of brand valuations. Some of these tech brands are more valuable than Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) who used to dominate the brand valuations. According to the Interbrand’s report the top four brands in the world in 2018 were tech brands. Often it does not mean that the brand is the only one in the market or it was the first in market. Some of these brands came in late in the market and surpassed the existing brands in that market due to their platforms being user-friendly, accessible and efficient. We therefore end using these brands’ names to refer to other brands or products in the same category,


The following technology brands have become synonymous with our day-to-day activities and more often than not we could be referring to other brands but we find ourselves to using their name to describe an activity related to the brand or a generic term.

1. Google – online searching
This internet giant was never the first one to launch a search engine. There were few search engines before it was established but today find people saying they will Google things whilst referring to running an online search. In 2006 Google made it to the Oxford English Dictionary as a verb. The dictionary defines of Google as search for information about ( someone or something) on the Internet using the search engine Google.

2. Uber- Ride Sharing

Before Uber there was Zimrides which later started Lyft back in 2007. Today Uber has dominated the ride industry. Most of us cannot imagine the world without Uber It has fundamentally changed how people commute. In South Africa you will often hear people saying “I will Uber home with Taxify” referring to using the Taxify app to get home. Uber is being used as a verb for ride sharing.


4. Photoshop – Photo editing

The first version of Adobe Photoshop was released in 1987. Since then, it has become one of the most popular photo editing programs in the world. It is so popular that many people now use the word “photoshop” to mean photo editing in general.

4. e-Wallet – Mobile Money

Mobile money has undoubtedly transformed how send and receive cash. It has banking more accessible to everyone more the marginalized. M-Pesa was first launched in 2007, in Kenya by Vodafone and Vodacom. In South Africa FNB launched the e-Wallet in 2009 which changed the face of mobile money. Other banks have since followed suit. You will often hear South Africans say “I will e-Wallet you money via Cashsend, it’s like ABSA’s e-Wallet.

5. FitBit- Fitness Trackers

Health and wellness has been getting a lot of attention lately. The majority of people are starting to live active lifestyles e.g they run, walk and cycle. In the process they want to keep track of their time, heart rate, pace etc.
Fitbit, which debuted in 2008 as a clip-on device, was one of the first activity trackers to get mainstream attention. Since then, most people refer any wearable fitness tracker to FitBit even though it wasn’t manufactured by a different brand.

If you know of other tech brands that have dominated the market, please feel free to leave a comment. Remember to share the article if you found it valuable.

LifeStyles Condoms to support Youth against AIDS In Southern Africa

Leading specialist consumer packaged goods distributor, ACDOCO SA has announced that it will be donating R1.00 (One South African Rand) for the next 2 years for every pack of LifeStyles Condoms sold in Southern Africa to Youth against AIDS (YAA).

Rising rates of HIV and AIDS, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unintended pregnancies are a primary reproductive health concern for the youth, and thus awareness and education around National Condom Week is a high priority in South Africa. According to the United Nations Development Programme the youth are most affected by HIV. 430,000 youth per year are infected with the disease in East and Southern Africa, however HIV education and awareness remains below 40%. STDs continue to grow at an alarming rate including chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis which also can increase one’s risk of contracting HIV. Over 120,000 girls between the ages of 10 and 19 became registered mothers in 2017 according to Statistics South Africa.

YAA is one of the leading youth-led initiatives that provides awareness campaigns and sex education in schools & youth facilities across the world. Focussed on talking about sexuality, HIV, and other STDs in their workshops, the organisation provides a safe space for young people to gain knowledge and get educated free from exclusion or fear of stigma.

“YAA are involved in many innovative initiatives across Southern Africa including a pilot for condom vending machines in high schools. Their peer-to-peer approach is perhaps the most important, where youth engage with youth and tackle the biggest challenge which is open, candid conversation to consummately drive desperately needed education and awareness. ACDOCO SA and LifeStyles Healthcare plan to get even further involved leveraging its commercial and state networks in addition to digital and social media augmentation,” states Jason Frichol, ACDOCO SA’s Managing Director.

“At LifeStyles we are committed to work with local partners to help prevent the spread of HIV and support the millions of people living with HIV in our local communities & around the world by doing our part to raise awareness about the issues surrounding HIV and AIDS. Joint collaboration with YAA and ACDOCO SA is a natural extension of our efforts in South Africa,” comments Jeyan Heper, CEO of LifeStyles Healthcare.

“We are the generation which can end AIDS, so it is now up to us to make the difference. Together with ACDOCO SA we want to make an impact in the global HIV response. With local partners we tackle the biggest challenges and realize with our peer-to-peer approach and condom vending machines in schools first important steps in our common fight against HIV/AIDS”, concludes Daniel Nagel, Chairman & CEO of Youth against AIDS.