Sasol’s Proven Success Formula For Female Franchise Owners

Over the years, the company has built up a powerful network of franchises across the nation. The franchise outlets, known as Sasol Convenience Centres (SCCs), are familiar sites in South Africa. Each forecourt offers fuel as well as a 24-hour Sasol Delight store, stocking a selection of consumer goods.

Buhle Sibuyi: Senior Manager, Retail Sites & Operations at Sasol, says that empowering entrepreneurs through the franchises is one of the key levers Sasol uses to help drive economic growth in South Africa and achieve its economic transformation goals. Growing the base of female franchise owners is a key objective.

Sibuyi says that a Sasol franchise is a compelling opportunity for female entrepreneurs because Sasol offers a proven business model, a credible brand, and systems that deliver consistent results. Sasol also supports franchisees by providing intensive training to ensure that they can thrive.

 “I believed I could make it happen”

For many female franchisees, a Sasol franchise offered them a path into entrepreneurship in a male-dominated sector. “Entering fuel retail was intimidating, given the low female representation in the sector,” says Susan Nkambule of Sasol Risiville, who has run her franchise for around a year.

“It seemed like a daunting challenge, but I believed that with hard work, knowledge, and the right support, I could make it happen,” she says. “Sasol provided excellent training and support, helping me navigate the operational aspects of the business while allowing me the freedom to make it my own.”

Sasol Bowling’s Virginia Sithole is another example of a woman who is building a strong and sustainable business with Sasol. She would never have imagined running a fuel station when she was growing up. After getting a job at Sasol Pinehaven as a bakery assistant in 2006, she moved into the admin team and was promoted to site manager by 2019.

“A big opportunity came when the directors of the company offered me an opportunity to become a shareholder in a Sasol site they were buying,” she says. “I was given full authority to running Sasol Bowling as my own.” This took place in September 2024—and Sithole is driving the business, watching it expand revenues and create jobs.

Sibuyi says that community relationships are one of the key reasons for the success of Sasol’s franchises. Take the example of Nobuntu Gqwede, who won the Best of Mbombela Readers’ Choice Awards 2023 in the petrol station category.  “I got into the industry by persistently approaching the big petroleum franchise groups in South Africa,” she says.

Gqwede’s franchise engages in numerous upliftment initiatives. Their efforts include supporting local black-owned security companies, providing seeds and fertilisers to rural communities, and donating sanitary towels to disadvantaged high schools. Additionally, they sponsor the local primary schools’ netball and soccer teams.

 Breaking barriers with Sasol franchises

Sibuyi stresses that running a Sasol franchise isn’t for everyone. While Sasol provides strong training and support, the franchisee retains independent ownership on an operational level. “To enter into a Sasol Franchise, you need to have an understanding of franchising,” says Sibuyi.

“We support franchisees every step of the way, from capital investment and securing licenses to supplier negotiations and operational setup. But franchising with Sasol requires a commitment to learning about the industry, gaining insights into the business, and understanding the factors that drive success.”

“Running a fuel franchise requires a strong work ethic, patience, and the ability to adapt to unexpected situations,” says Rouhana Jhumka of Sasol Erica Road, who has been a Sasol franchisee for 17 years. “It is more than keeping the pumps going. It involves strategic planning, efficient operations and strong customer relationships.”

Sibuyi adds: “Sasol is committed to transformation in line with the Liquid Fuels Charter. Our focus is on increasing ownership among underprivileged groups and fostering inclusive growth. Barriers to entry in this industry are significant, but we are breaking these down through mentorship, resources, and support for historically disadvantaged individuals.”