VWSA to host its first Black-Owned Supplier's Day

©HONGQI ZHANG via 123RF

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to display their products and services to VWSA, its suppliers and other automotive OEMs, with a possibility of securing significant contracts.

"This process stems from our determination to expand our business with black-owned suppliers so that we continue to support the economic transformation in South Africa", said Thomas Schaefer, chairman and managing director of Volkswagen Group South Africa. Schaefer added: "VWSA views the issue of procurement from black-owned suppliers as a priority from both a moral and legislative compliance perspective".

Companies that supply manufactured components or services and non-automotive related products and services, including organisations in the defence/military, agricultural, mining, IT, services and other related manufacturing industries that would benefit from diversification have been invited to apply.

Successful organisations must have a minimum of 51% black ownership (includes Coloured, Indian and Chinese as per B-BBEE guidelines) and/or a minimum of 30% black female ownership. Other key requirements that VWSA is looking for are companies that are owned or managed by disabled persons or war veterans. While VWSA is seeking primarily component manufacturers, non-manufacturing suppliers are also welcome to apply.