Many companies found 2009 to be a difficult year. Although, even with some of the difficulties we at least did see a recovery towards the end of the year. Smart businesses used empowerment very successfully to secure deals and keep existing customers which is a huge positive for business in general.

2009 was the first year where businesses actively pursued becoming BEE compliant. Genuine “True Empowerment” has also come to the forefront. Businesses are focusing on making a meaningful difference while at the same time optimising their scorecard points.

EconoServ has seen a wonderful growth in the number of clients who have succeeded in their BEE journey. In addition, we welcomed a number of new staff to the team. 2010 will see a bigger effort placed on earning genuine “True Empowerment” points that add value to the business and economy.

Moving forward to 2010. Undoubtedly the key next year will be long term sustainable business strategies. These strategies should be optimised further to ensure maximum benefit. Key areas include: Sound Enterprise Development investments, core Skills Development and supplier development. Ownership, Management and Employment Equity need long term commitment to ensure success.

A common argument has been between Narrow Based BEE (the discredited enrichment model) and Broad Based BEE (where the people who most need help are given support). We have always supported the Broad Based model and because it is the law we believe that Broad Based BEE will ultimately win the day. Therefore the scorecard will become considerably more important.

Fortunately we have much to look forward to in 2010. The World Cup will give a great boost to the economy and motivate all South Africans. Hopefully the worst of the recession is behind us so everyone should look forward to growing their businesses.

We would like to whole heartedly thank every one who sent us good wishes during the year – our customers who continue to happily and successfully use our services, our associates who we have learnt from and who we have helped and every one we have come in contact with during the year.

We wish you all Compliments of the Season and a very successful and prosperous 2010.

About EconoBEE

EconoBEE is a BEE consultancy that has developed extremely effective tools to measure and implement Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment. Our services focus on the business side of BEE.  Our services include EconoBEE Scorecard, BEE Scorecard Workshops, EME Pack, Document Pack, EconoLog and the 10 Step Process to BEE Compliance.

Our company supports various organisations and drives the BEE Expert Group to help maintain and develop knowledge in the BEE industry.

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