Latest news with #Kruger
IOL News
15 hours ago
- Business
- IOL News
Crunch time for Beacon chocolate range as Tiger Brands hits uncertain times
Beacon chocolates face an uncertain future as Tiger Brands considers selling the brand. Image: YouTube For countless South Africans, the sight of a Beacon chocolate bar evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort. Whether it's a casual slab snatched at the checkout or special treats like Nosh or the beloved TV Bar, these local delights have become an integral part of sharing sweet moments across generations. Yet, this emblem of South African confectionery may soon vanish from our shelves, as Tiger Brands—a towering figure in the country's food production—has revealed plans to sell its Beacon chocolate range. Founded nearly a century ago, the Beacon brand encompasses an array of popular items, from the iconic chocolate-and-marshmallow Easter eggs to the creamy slopes of Ebony and Ivory chocolates. However, current realities paint a challenging picture. CFO Thushen Govender recently shared with News24 that while no definitive decision has been made, the company is actively pursuing options to divest its chocolate category. "We will continue delivering on the strategic turnaround of the business until such time as an appropriate exit mechanism has been identified," Govender stated, leaving the future of these beloved treats hanging in the balance. CEO Tjaart Kruger further emphasised the difficulties facing the chocolate division, admitting that technological advancements had not kept pace, with the chocolate-making equipment remaining unchanged for over three decades. "The investment required to modernise the facility is now too high to justify," he explained. However, Kruger remains hopeful about the brand's potential, reiterating that 'in the hands of the right person, the Beacon chocolate brand can be a good business.' The competitive landscape presents another hurdle, as Kruger noted the challenges of competing with industry giants. "We price against Cadbury like R4 or R5 a slab cheaper and still don't get the volumes," he remarked. This disparity in scale and marketing prowess has left Beacon struggling to maintain its footprint in a market dominated by formidable competitors. While the future of Beacon chocolates remains uncertain, Tiger Brands has reassured its consumers that other cherished favourites in its sweets portfolio—such as Jelly Tots, Maynards Wine Gums, and Liquorice All Sorts—will remain unaffected by these changes. They have also confirmed that production of Beacon chocolates will continue until a suitable buyer or alternative strategy is established. The prospect of losing such a beloved brand is undoubtedly a troubling thought for loyal fans and casual consumers alike. For many, these chocolates represent more than just a snack; they are a nostalgic reminder of simpler times, family gatherings, and spontaneous treats that could turn an ordinary day into something extraordinary. As we await further announcements from Tiger Brands, our cherished Beacon chocolates might soon transition from a simple indulgence to treasured memories, leaving us all pondering the future of these iconic treats. DAILY NEWS
IOL News
3 days ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Rugby World Cup 1995: Remembering the Springboks' fallen heroes
New Zealand winger Jonah Lomu is tackled by South African scrumhalf Joost Van der Westhuizen during the Rugby World Cup final in 1995. Photo: Mark Baker/Reuters GAME CHANGING MOMENT: New Zealand winger Jonah Lomu is tackled by South African scrumhalf Joost Van der Westhuizen during the Rugby World Cup final in 1995. Photo: Mark Baker/Reuters It is a tragic postscript to the monumental achievements of the 1995 Springboks that, 30 years later, there are just 10 survivors of the team that started the final against the All Blacks. The New Zealanders have also suffered a loss, with Player of the Tournament Jonah Lomu passing away in Auckland in 2015 because of kidney failure. He was 40. The list of Springboks who have died makes for a sad reading because they were household names that contributed enormously to the rich history of the game in South Africa James Small, Joost van der Westhuizen, Chester Williams, Ruben Kruger, and Hannes Strydom were hugely popular public figures and their deaths at relatively young ages remains keenly felt. The first member of the tightly-knit squad to die was Kitch Christie, the coach who engineered an 'ambulance job' by taking over the team only months before the World Cup. He succumbed to leukemia in Pretoria in 1998. He was 58. The latest squad member to perish was lock Strydom. He was in a tragic car accident two years ago. He was also 58. Strydom, a pharmacist, formed a formidable second row partnership with Transvaal teammate Kobus Wiese. The first '95 hero to pass on was the warrior flank Ruben Kruger. The tough Blue Bull scored a crucial try in the semi-final against France in monsoon conditions in Durban and to this day his teammates swear he scored in the final. Kruger seemed to have got over the line but referee Ed Morrison was unsighted and did not award it. If there had been a TMO, Kruger would have scored. Kruger blacked out during a game in 2000 and tests revealed he had a brain tumor. Surgeons removed the tumour but it resurfaced. After fighting the disease for a decade, Kruger died in January 2010 aged 39.
IOL News
7 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
South Africa's take-home pay growth slows as interest rate decision sooms
Average take-home pay in South Africa decelerated for the second consecutive month in April, intensifying focus on the interest rate decision by the SA Reserve Bank scheduled for Thursday. Average take-home pay in South Africa decelerated for the second consecutive month in April, intensifying focus on the interest rate decision by the SA Reserve Bank (SARB) scheduled for Thursday. The BankservAfrica Take-home Pay Index (BTPI), tracking salaries of approximately 3.8 million workers, reported a nominal average take-home pay of R17 495 in April, down 2.0% from R17 846 in March. Despite this slowdown, pay remains 13.8% higher than the R15 370 recorded a year ago. Shergeran Naidoo, BankservAfrica's head of Stakeholder Engagements, noted that while take-home pay has seen gains since mid-2024, recent global and domestic economic pressures are dampening momentum. 'The upward trend in salaries marked a positive shift after years of stagnation, but escalating global trade tensions are weighing on confidence, slowing economic activity,' Naidoo said. Real take-home pay, adjusted for inflation, also declined by 2.2% to R15 005 in April from R15 344 in March, though it remains above year-ago levels. Independent economist Elize Kruger noted that South Africa's consumer inflation, which dropped to 2.8% in April 2025, has bolstered purchasing power. 'With headline CPI projected to average 3.4% in 2025, down from 4.4% in 2024, we're seeing the lowest inflation since 2020's 3.3%,' Kruger said. She attributed this to a stronger Rand and falling international oil prices, which are expected to drive further fuel price cuts in June despite a recent fuel levy hike. However, economic challenges persist. Early data suggest South Africa's quarterly 2025 real gross domestic product growth may be flat or negative, reflecting global trade war impacts and subdued domestic demand. The repo rate, currently at 7.5%, translates to a real repo rate of 4.1% - well above the neutral rate of 2.8%. This restrictive monetary stance, combined with unchanged tax brackets and new levies from the 2025 National Budget, continues to squeeze households. Kruger said a modest 25 basis-point rate cut at the upcoming SARB Monetary Policy Committee meeting could provide relief. 'Lowering borrowing costs would ease pressure on households and businesses, potentially boosting confidence and investment,' she said. However, she cautioned that a more aggressive cut is unlikely given the SARB's cautious approach. Global trade disruptions and sluggish local growth have trimmed economic forecasts, raising concerns about job and income prospects. Kruger stressed the need for structural reforms to address energy, logistics, and governance bottlenecks. 'These reforms are critical to unlocking growth and shielding the economy from external shocks,' she said. The low inflation environment, supported by a recovering Rand and cheaper oil, offers the SARB room to ease monetary policy, following the lead of other developed and developing economies. Yet, debates over lowering the inflation target band could delay relief. 'Prolonged high interest rates are punishing the economy unnecessarily,' Kruger warned. As South Africans await the SARB's decision, the slowdown in take-home pay underscores the delicate balance between fostering growth and managing inflation. With global uncertainties looming, the central bank's next steps will be pivotal for salary earners hoping for financial respite. BUSINESS REPORT Visit:
IOL News
16-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Don't ignore these 5 pregnancy red flags: your baby's safety depends on it
Recognising the warning signs and knowing when to seek help can be critical for both mother and baby Image: Pixabay/pexels Pregnancy is often described as a beautiful journey, a time of joy, hope, and anticipation. But it's also a time when expectant mothers must be extra vigilant about their health. While some discomforts are normal, certain symptoms can signal serious complications that require immediate medical attention. 'Some discomfort is normal in pregnancy, but certain symptoms may signal something serious. Recognising the warning signs and knowing when to seek help can be critical for both mother and baby,' explains Lizeth Kruger, clinic executive at Dis-Chem Baby City. As Kruger highlights, here are five key warning signs to watch for to help you stay attuned to your health during this life-changing journey. 1. Vaginal bleeding, amniotic discharge, or severe abdominal pain While light spotting can be common in the early stages of pregnancy, heavier bleeding or severe abdominal pain is a red flag. These symptoms could indicate a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or placental issues such as placental abruption, a condition where the placenta separates from the uterus prematurely. Similarly, amniotic fluid leakage, which may feel like a sudden gush or a slow trickle, could be a sign of preterm labour. If these symptoms are accompanied by dizziness or weakness, it may indicate a medical emergency. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Miscarriages occur in approximately 10-20% of known pregnancies, and early detection can sometimes prevent complications. Image: João Paulo de Souza Oliveira/pexels Why it matters: Miscarriages occur in approximately 10-20% of known pregnancies, and early detection can sometimes prevent complications. Placental abruption, though rare (affecting about 1 in 100 pregnancies), can pose significant risks for both mother and baby. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms. Regular antenatal check-ups are essential to identify potential risks and ensure both you and your baby are healthy. 2. Severe headaches and blurred vision Headaches are common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, dehydration, or stress. However, when paired with blurred vision, they can signal pre-eclampsia, a condition characterised by high blood pressure that can lead to severe complications, including organ damage, seizures, or premature delivery. Pre-eclampsia facts: Globally, pre-eclampsia affects 2-8% of pregnancies, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). If untreated, it can result in stroke, organ failure, or complications for the baby, such as restricted growth or low birth weight. What to do: Monitor for additional symptoms like swelling in the hands and feet or sudden weight gain. If you notice these signs, contact your healthcare provider immediately for blood pressure monitoring and further evaluation. 3. Any falls during pregnancy Accidental falls can happen to anyone, but during pregnancy, they require extra caution. While the amniotic sac cushions the baby, a significant fall could harm the placenta, cervix, or even trigger preterm labour. Pregnant women are more prone to falls due to a shifted balance and changes in joint stability, particularly in the second and third trimesters. After any fall, watch for signs like bleeding, cramping, or reduced fetal movement. Even if you feel fine, consult your doctor to rule out any internal injuries or risks to the baby. 4. Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing It's normal to feel slightly short of breath during pregnancy as your growing uterus presses against your diaphragm. However, difficulty breathing or rapid breathing that doesn't improve with rest could signal serious conditions like pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs), anaemia, or gestational diabetes. Pulmonary embolism is rare but life-threatening, occurring in about 1 in 1,000 pregnancies, according to studies published in the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis If you experience sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or rapid breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately. Timely treatment can prevent complications such as respiratory failure or fetal distress. 5. Fever and weakness A fever during pregnancy is never something to ignore. It could be a sign of an infection, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), flu, or even more severe conditions like sepsis. UTIs are common during pregnancy, affecting about 8% of expectant mothers, and untreated infections can lead to preterm labour or low birth weight. Paying attention to warning signs and seeking help when something feels off can save lives, yours and your baby's. Image: Анастасия Триббиани/pexels Fevers can also signal dehydration, which increases risks for both the baby and the mother. Watch for accompanying symptoms like chills, body aches, or fatigue. If you suspect an infection, consult your healthcare provider immediately for diagnosis and treatment. Pregnancy is a time of immense change, and it's normal to feel unsure about what's serious and what's not. However, staying proactive about your health can make all the difference. As Kruger emphasises, 'Your well-being and your baby's health are always worth the extra care. If you're ever in doubt, check in with a healthcare provider. Regular check-ups during and after pregnancy help catch potential issues early and ensure continued support for both mother and baby.' Every pregnancy is unique, and only you truly know how your body feels. Paying attention to warning signs and seeking help when something feels off can save lives, yours and your baby's.
Sydney Morning Herald
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Sydney Morning Herald
Murder dramas are everywhere, but this meticulous German one is outstanding
The Black Forest Murders ★★★★ There are no sirens. Adapted from real-life events, this German crime drama operates with a quiet urgency. The momentum is constant, as detectives in the country's rural south attempt to solve the horrifying murder of a young woman, even as circumstances escalate, but the focus is their meticulous, unrelenting investigation. There are no grand deductive leaps, no cat-and-mouse interviews with a prime suspect. This is a gripping procedural founded on detail and diligence. 'The odds are in our favour,' reasons police detective Thomas Reidle (Tilman Strauss) to his senior partner, Barbara Kruger (Nina Kunzendorf), after they have begun investigating the murder of Stefanie Burghoff (Lara Kimpel), a jogger who never returned from her weekend run through the village's rolling hills and vineyards. But his optimism is difficult to maintain, and this show emphasises the tenaciousness – to spot gaps, make difficult requests, motivate tiring officers – that is required. The case is like the jigsaw on Kruger's dinner table: 1000 tiny unsolved pieces. Loading The four episodes of this limited series were adapted from Soko Erle, a 2016 non-fiction book by police officer Walter Roth, who worked as the media liaison officer on a taskforce assembled to investigate a prominent murder. The show's writers, Robert Hummel and Martina Mouchot, have changed names and circumstances from the book, to avoid directly reminding the victim's family and their community of what transpired, but they have kept the granular steps the police went through. Early on, as the case's scope widens after there's no immediate resolution, database scans are assigned. But a junior officer points out a problem they have to get around: the various German states use different IT systems, and they're not all readily compatible. At various points the authorities have nothing new to work on, so they have to go back and redo previous steps, hoping something was overlooked. You watch as officers examine a hedge with magnifying glasses, looking for minute traces. Given the literally microscopic detail, when progress is made it's thrilling. Murder dramas are ubiquitous on our screens, but as with Netflix's outstanding Swedish series The Breakthrough, the day-to-day persistence here is fascinating. Kruger and Reidle take shape through the prosaic reality of their work: professional, but never impersonal. Their outside lives seep in via unorthodox but plausible means. At one point Reidle, who has a growing family, casually asks Kruger if her widowed father is looking to sell his house.
