Five new owner drivers have received the keys to their brand new truck-tractors from Lafarge South Africa. This is part of the cement company’s small business development scheme.

To provide the transport expertise for the owner-driver scheme, Lafarge South Africa joined forces with its long-term transport supply partner Cargo Carriers.  Lafarge arranged the finance for the owner-drivers to purchase the truck-tractors, while Cargo Carriers will supply and retain ownership of the trailers. Cargo Carriers will also mentor the new small enterprises along with relevant technical support.

Tim Nelson, Lafarge’s supply chain manager – cement says, “We believe our owner-driver scheme is a win-win initiative. It not only offers the opportunity of a new future for the drivers but also Lafarge gains loyal drivers who will be good brand ambassadors for the company when they interact with our customers.”

André Jansen van Vuuren, Cargo Carriers’ Marketing Director, adds, “The Owner-Driver scheme fosters true participation in the building of South Africa and the economy.  It is about a continuing partnership; where the drivers are empowered to determine their own success and future, while at the same time leading to increased productivity and enhanced service levels.”

The five drivers will be based at Cargo Carriers Lichtenburg Depot and have contracted to undertake bagged cement deliveries in the Free State, Northern Cape and North West Province. One of the key conditions for participating in the scheme is the requirement to comply at all times with the rigorous Lafarge South Africa safety standards for driving and maintenance of the vehicles.

Nelson concludes, “We are delighted to have Cargo Carriers as our partner for the owner-driver scheme. The project creates the nucleus of five small businesses, operated by individuals who have the character, passion and potential to be entrepreneurs.”