Out the box
When Lynne Scullard bought herself a scooter 18 months ago as part of a personal cost-cutting plan, it led to one of the most original business ideas South Africa has seen in a while.
Kick-start for success
Her new venture, self-funded and developed after hours, has attracted the attention of Anglo American’s Entrepreneur Internship Programme, an accelerated learning experience for high-potential entrepreneurs who have the capacity to build businesses that can achieve rapid growth. Combining experiential learning with industry exposure, mentoring and networking, the programme is a kick-start to success.
The cheaper option
“A month after I bought my scooter I stopped to fill up and it cost me R50,” Scullard says. “I’ve always had an interest in finding ways to make people’s lives better, and I realised then that this was my chance. Transport costs in this country are disproportionately high compared to what the majority earn. It makes so much sense to get people on scooters.”
Scullard personally interviewed more than 200 waiters, bartenders and casino workers and found that once she explained scootering to them, they all agreed they would be super-keen to try it out.
A package with a difference
But many people who earn between R6 000 and R8 000 a month have no credit record and cannot access loans. Scullard tackled this by marketing her scooter package to corporates who are keen to empower their employees.
Scully Scooters offers the packaged option through a vehicle finance fund held by BEESA. It enables companies to lend money to their employees through the fund and to accumulate enterprise skills development points for their BEE scorecard. Regular vehicle finance for individuals is also available. The package includes a helmet, gloves, a reflective jacket, a learner’s licence booking, insurance and a scooter.
Safety first
Most importantly, it includes SETA-accredited safety and mobility training. This was a key concern for Scullard, given South Africa’s shocking road accident numbers.
Don’t dream it, be it
Scullard says she is hugely encouraged by Anglo American’s faith in the business.
“For a 46-year old white woman, this type of support, which includes an annual stipend of R300 000 as well as extensive business development assistance, proves that if you have an innovative idea and a good business plan, you can do anything you want.”