Making an impact
by driving holistic Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD)
What it's about
Around the world, particularly in developing countries, SMMEs are key drivers of inclusive economic growth and development.
Accordingly, we have developed a holistic Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) strategy. Our aim is to entrench our commitment to ESD and maximise our contribution to the local economy, thereby supporting the communities in which we operate, promoting transformation and fostering economic growth.
In practical terms, we are achieving this by:
- Identifying SMME procurement opportunities
- Providing capacity building programmes for SMMEs
- Establishing partnerships with development agencies and others
- Facilitating access to funding
- Enabling access to infrastructure and other necessary support services.
Key developments
- Established a dedicated ESD department. Its responsibilities are to identify procurement opportunities and oversee the capacity building of SMMEs through training and operations implementation support
- Signed a national memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) to support SMMEs in Sappi’s local communities
- Established an SMME hub at Saiccor Mill to support the developmental needs of SMMEs for exposure and benefit in mill’s ZAR7.7 billion Vulindlela expansion project
- A total of 129 SMMEs have been assessed and trained by our external partners and 28 SMMEs have been integrated into the value chain across the business.
FAQ
Q: How are we supporting ESD beneficiaries?
A:
- Preferential payment terms
- Set aside and ring-fencing of opportunities on procurement requirements
- Funds budgeted annually and allocated for ESD initiatives
- Mentorship and coaching to enhance operational efficiency
- Technical and business skills training
- Facilitate funding through financial institutions
- Safety file compilation and safety training
- Entry medicals
- PPE first issue
- Provide any other enabling support determined on a case-by-case basis.
A more A more
sustainable society = sustainable business
Shared value impact
Transforming our supply chain translates into socio-economic growth for individuals and communities, strengthens security of supply for Sappi and also enhances Sappi’s licence to operate.