When Sbusiso Mngomezulu and Mandisa Xulu started their business, Alcophylex (Pty) Ltd in Mamelodi township in 2020, they never expected their journey to be so rewarding. Their business, an automotive paint centre, provides a profitable outlet for their mutual love for cars and a commitment to serve the motor industry.
Specialising in 2K paint, metallic paint, base coats, abrasives, thinners, and industrial paints, Alcophylex aims to provide top-notch services to panel beaters, contributing towards the enhancement and maintenance of vehicles across the region.
Sbusiso and Mandisa had no formal business training before participating in the Nedbank-funded Ranyaka Building Business programme. Both coming from entrepreneurial families, they inherited a resourceful spirit that steered them in the right direction. It was, however, their son’s Cerebral Palsy diagnosis that ultimately inspired their decision to start a business. His strength and positive attitude encouraged them to leap into entrepreneurship. He constantly reminds them that life is what we make of it.
After seeing how well the Mamelodi branch of Alcophylex was doing, Sbusiso and Mandisa opened a second branch in Mpumalanga. Although it was possible to expand their business, the couple still had to deal with challenges involving the scaling of their business and securing sales. While finding solutions to these and other obstacles, they learned valuable lessons about setting goals and the importance of perseverance.
Alcophylex wants to spread their wings. They are working towards opening a third shop soon and would eventually like to start manufacturing their own products instead of being resellers for other manufacturers. By offering top-quality products at affordable prices, they have earned a good reputation in the industry. They believe in allowing everyone to acquire quality products and services, no matter how much they earn.
The Covid-19 pandemic had an unexpected outcome for Alcophylex. They made use of this tough time to enter the market and become noticed. The duo also found themselves even more motivated to design a sound business strategy that will help them grow beyond their initial expectations.
The Ranyaka Building Business programme assisted Sbusiso and Mandisa in many ways in their business journey. It boosted their confidence and provided them with a variety of business and personal skills they needed. The support and advice they got were crucial for their growth.
Their advice for new entrepreneurs? “Never give up. Running your own business is tough, but staying determined is key to success.” Their story shows how they faced challenges and turned them into opportunities, inspiring others to succeed in their own businesses.
Mamelodi is one of 31 communities in 8 provinces across South Africa where Ranyaka is implementing the Nedbank Proud of my Town programme. Building Business is one of 10 programmes that forms part of the Ranyaka and PoMT framework.
Images by Lizelle Lötter Photography