Frequently Asked Questions about agriculture-related businesses
A traditional business plan is a detailed document outlining a company’s structure, strategy, and financial projections, often required by lenders and investors. It typically includes key sections such as the executive summary, which provides a brief but compelling overview; the company description, explaining the business’s purpose and uniqueness; and the market analysis, which demonstrates industry knowledge and competitive positioning. The organization and management section details the company’s structure, while the products or services section describes offerings and their value. A customer segmentation breakdown defines the target audience, and the marketing and sales plan outlines promotional strategies. The logistics and operations plan explains how the business will function daily, while the financials section presents projections, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow forecasts. Depending on the business’s needs, an appendix may include supporting documents. While these are standard components, the level of detail can vary based on the plan’s purpose and audience.
What is net profit?
Net Profit is what’s left over after paying all your expenses — like rent, salaries, electricity, ingredients, transport, etc.It’s your actual take-home profit. Example:If you earned R50,000 but spent R40,000 … More
Financial tools
What is gross profit?
Gross Profit is the amount of money your business makes after paying for the goods or materials needed to produce or sell your product or service. As always, you need … More
What is Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)
In order to calculate the cost of goods sold, you need to have a good understanding of the state of your inventory. What is inventory? Inventory is all the items … More
What is cash flow?
There is a simple way to work out what your cash flow is: Decide on a time frame you want to calculate your business’s cash flow. It is usually on … More
What is net profit margin?
The net profit margin tells you if the money you earn is enough to pay for your expenses. Net profit margin is calculated by taking your net profit and dividing … More
Food-related businessess
Starting a food business in South Africa presents several advantages and disadvantages for small entrepreneurs, particularly concerning finances and initial investment. On the positive side, the food and beverage industry … More
What are some key operational aspects I should focus on to run a successful restaurant in South Africa?
Beyond obtaining the necessary licenses and adhering to food safety standards, running a successful restaurant involves understanding the local market and identifying your niche. Creating memorable dining experiences with quality … More
What safety regulations should I be aware of if my food business uses liquefied petroleum gas (LP gas)?
If your food business uses LP gas, it’s essential to adhere to safety regulations. There are restrictions on where gas bottles can be installed in relation to doors, windows, drains, … More
If I want to play music in my restaurant, do I need any specific licenses?
Yes, if you plan to play music in your restaurant, even as background music, you will likely need licenses from both the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) and the … More

