Tuesday 5 November 2024

From Delivering Fresh Bread to Fresh Ideas: Blue Ribbon Sponsors Re.Bag.Re.Use, Empowering Craftswomen to Put Bread on the Table by Repurposing Empty Bread Bags


Caption: Re.Bag.Re.Use craftswomen with their products made from used Blue Ribbon bread bags. From left to right: Joanna Mnisi, Darmeris Makovere, Linda Pamire, Margaret Nyika, Sakile Ndlovu and Alice Nyasha


Blue Ribbon is excited to announce its sponsorship of Re.Bag.Re.Use, a dynamic community project that transforms empty bread bags into beautifully crocheted, multifunctional items. What began in Hout Bay, Cape Town, has now expanded to Gauteng and Mpumalanga. With Blue Ribbon’s support over the next twelve months, this innovative initiative is set to grow even further. As part of the sponsorship, Blue Ribbon will supply empty bread bags, host a dedicated page on its website linking to the Re.Bag.Re.Use online store, provide online advertising support, and help amplify media exposure—ensuring even greater reach for this impactful project.

Empty bread bags are getting a second lease on life. No longer just discarded plastic, these bags are being transformed into beautiful, functional items. The transformation and repurposing of bread bags not only limits plastic on landfill, but also empowers women. Currently, 24 talented women across the country are involved in the initiative, cutting and crocheting the bread bags, ensuring they don’t end up in landfills.


“This partnership perfectly aligns with Blue Ribbon’s commitment to sustainability and community development. With Re.Bag.Re.Use repurposing bread bags, they not only reduce waste but also provide women with opportunities to develop valuable skills, helping them build more prosperous futures for their families. This initiative reflects Blue Ribbon’s purpose of supporting moms in creating brighter futures for their children, linking environmental responsibility with family well-being,” shares Stephanie Hoy, Marketing Executive for Bakeries at Premier FMCG.


Regine le Roux, founder of Re.Bag.Re.Use, says, “The partnership with Blue Ribbon resonates with us on so many levels. Just as Blue Ribbon uses three simple ingredients to bake their delicious loaves—flour, water, and yeast—our team uses three basic tools to create their unique creations: empty bread bags, scissors, and a crochet needle. And, just as Blue Ribbon continuously improves their recipe to ensure their loaves are packed with flavour and freshness, always delivering on that ‘mmm Yum Taste,’ Re.Bag.Re.Use is constantly finding innovative ways to transform waste into wonder, delivering creativity, sustainability, and purpose with every stitch. Each product is entirely handcrafted, from cutting each bread bag into strips, to the final stitch of the crocheted items. It takes approximately 150 empty bread bags and eight hours to create just one shopping bag,” adds le Roux.


A key goal of the partnership is to create income generating opportunities for women living in underserviced communities. “We’re launching an online platform where the public can purchase a range of products created by Re.Bag.Re.Use (www.rebagreuse.com/blueribbon.html). This not only supports the initiative but also encourages consumers to make sustainable choices by purchasing items where waste has been transformed into something unique and useful. This partnership with Re.Bag.Re.Use underscores Blue Ribbon’s commitment to sustainability and community development. By repurposing waste, educating the public, and empowering women, we continue to champion our mission of supporting moms, helping them turn houses into homes while contributing to a cleaner, greener environment,” says Hoy.


Blue Ribbon’s collaboration with Re.Bag.Re.Use complements its broader sustainability programme. The Packets of Goodness project educates schoolchildren about recycling and encourages them to collect and return used bread bags. Similarly, the Drop and Swop initiative motivates the public to exchange used bread bags for instant rewards. The bags collected through these initiatives are passed on to Re.Bag.Re.Use, where they are repurposed into new, eco-friendly products.


Beyond environmental initiatives, Blue Ribbon remains deeply committed to uplifting communities. The company regularly donates bread through feeding schemes, supports women’s shelters, and engages with youth through soccer tournaments and other activities that help develop skills and create lasting positive impacts in the communities it serves.


Le Roux adds, “With every Re.Bag.Re.Use product sold, a percentage also gets donated to the Neighbourhood Old Age Home and SPCA, spreading the love as far as possible.”


If you would like to support this initiative please visit: www.rebagreuse.com/blueribbon.html or contact regine@rebagreuse.com or 083 3021528. Or visit www.blueribbon.co.za


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Media Contact

Regine le Roux

0833021528

regine@rebagreuse.com


About Blue Ribbon Bread

Flour. Water. Yeast. The three simple things that make a loaf of bread, but it’s the ability to share, care and connect over Blue Ribbon bread, which has been bringing South Africans together since 1882. Continuous improvements to our product recipe means that our loaves are packed full of flavour and freshness – always delivering on that mmmm Yum Taste.


About Re.Bag.Re.Us

Re.Bag.Re.Use is a community-driven initiative that repurposes discarded bread bags into handcrafted, multifunctional items. Launched in Hout Bay, Cape Town, the project empowers local women by providing them with skills and income opportunities, while promoting environmental sustainability. Each product tells a story of social upliftment, with a portion of the proceeds supporting local charities, including the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA. Re.Bag.Re.Use is transforming waste into opportunity, one stitch at a time.


Friday 25 October 2024

Get Hooked on Gifting: Re.Bag.Re.Use Unique Stocking Fillers Just in Time for the Festive Season

It’s only October, but guess what? It’s already October! In exactly two months—just eight and a half weeks—it’s Christmas! The December festivities are right around the corner. Now’s the perfect time to start thinking about stocking fillers. But why settle for the usual when you can surprise your loved ones with something truly special?


This year, Re.Bag.Re.Use has your holiday gifting all stitched up with a fabulous range of products that not only support the community but are also easy on the environment. And here’s the cherry on top, or should we say, the perfect stitch: a percentage of every sale goes to the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA. So, while you’re picking out that perfect gift, you’ll also be spreading a little holiday cheer to those who need it most.


Wrapping A Blue Ribbon around Creativity

Thanks to the generous sponsorship from Blue Ribbon (watch this space for more!), Re.Bag.Re.Use now offers an exclusive collection of beautiful, handcrafted items made from empty Blue Ribbon bread bags! From practical shopping bags to moon-bags, these Blue Ribbon creations are not only a fun way to repurpose waste but also serve as a reminder that something as simple as a bread bag can be transformed into a work of art (have a sneak peek here: www.rebagreuse.com/blueribbon.html).


Whether it’s a quirky shopping bag or a cute accessory, every piece is lovingly handcrafted by talented craftswomen. From cutting the strips to the final stitch, it takes approximately 150 empty bread bags and eight hours to create just one shopping bag.


Why Re.Bag.Re.Use Makes the Perfect Gift

Finding gifts that are meaningful, sustainable, and support a good cause can be a challenge. But with Re.Bag.Re.Use, you can slip those worries away. Our products make the perfect stocking fillers for friends and family who care about the environment and love unique, handmade items.


Get Your Orders In Today!

Don’t get tangled up in last-minute holiday shopping. Order your Re.Bag.Re.Use gifts today and make sure your stockings are filled with love, creativity, and a whole lot of community spirit.


Visit www.rebagreuse.com to browse the full range and place your orders ahead of the Christmas rush!


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Wednesday 2 October 2024

                                  

Without data, you’re just another person with an opinion ~ renowned statistician W. Edwards Deming.

Today, on World Statistics Day, we celebrate the vital role statistics play in understanding and shaping the world around us. At Reputation Matters, our commitment is to help businesses and communicators quantify their value and leverage data and insights to elevate their reputations. Our focus extends beyond just numbers – we aim to build G.R.E.A.T.E.R. businesses through our core values of Growth, Respect, Ethics, Authenticity, Trust, Excellence, and Relationships.

At Reputation Matters, we give your brand a stronger voice by helping you measure the intangible. Measuring and quantifying your reputation enables you to identify the areas that you are excelling at and the areas that need some work. More often than not, issues can be resolved through strategic communication. Numbers provide credibility to business and communication strategies, allowing professionals to demonstrate their impact, showcase year-on-year progress, and proactively identify risks before they escalate. Effective communication management is a critical function within business leadership.

“The C-suite is far more likely to listen to facts and figures than intuition. Statistics underscore the value of measurement over instinct, giving communicators the credibility they need to be heard at the boardroom table,” says Regine le Roux, founder and managing director of Reputation Matters. This is especially relevant in communication and reputation management, which are often seen as dealing with 'soft' issues like press releases or only being called upon in times of crisis. In reality, communication is about much more:

·         Building strong, mutually beneficial relationships;

·         Understanding and engaging with audiences through timely, appropriate messaging;

·         Ensuring feedback mechanisms are in place to foster two-way communication.

“Building a reputation is proactive; crisis management is reactive,” adds le Roux. It is important to remember that you can’t manage what you have not measured.

“Our proprietary Repudometer® reputation measurement tool, evaluates ten core areas of a business, we provide clear, data-driven insights. This approach empowers business owners and communicators to drive their strategies proactively rather than reactively. By combining the art of communication with the science of measurement, we ensure that messaging is both impactful and measurable.

“Our research-driven approach ensures that our clients' business and communication efforts are grounded in data, allowing them to build trust and authenticity with their stakeholders.

At Reputation Matters, we understand that facts and figures, when paired with authentic communication, create meaningful connections between businesses and their stakeholders, building greater businesses. Our goal is to ensure companies not only communicate effectively but also have the data to validate their impact and reputation.

“Communication professionals play a vital role in every organisation, and by equipping them with the right data and insights, they can contribute meaningfully to strategic decisions,” concludes le Roux.

For more information about how Reputation Matters can help your business quantify its value and enhance its reputation, visit www.reputationmatters.co.za.

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Thursday 19 September 2024

Brand Building: It's a Marathon, So Lace Up!

 


By Regine le Roux, Founder and Managing Director of Reputation Matters

How do you know someone is training for a marathon? They will tell you.

This year, I’m tackling my fifth marathon—because apparently, once wasn’t enough. Surviving such an endeavour (without questioning all my life choices) takes stamina and preparation. Sadly, ‘winging it’ isn’t an option, but neither is having the wrong coach or training plan. Last year, while prepping for marathon number four, the coach let me down, and the training program I ended up using, just wasn’t right for me. The lesson? Your strategy, training, and support need to be tailored to you and your goals. Stamina is key, and there are no shortcuts. You simply have to put in the work.

Running a business is no different. You need a clear strategy and strong support—not only to build your brand but to ensure it stands out. Your reputation is your stamina, helping you weather tough times and build a consistent brand that lasts.

In both marathons and business, quick wins only get you so far. You need a well-rounded plan: strength training, endurance, and yes, those dreaded hill repeats. The same goes for your brand—you need to go beyond flashy campaigns, media releases, or a TikTok video. It’s about steady, sustained effort, and making time for the tasks that may feel like a schlep but are essential for long-term success.

No Short Cuts: Plan for the Long Haul

Success—whether in running or business—starts with a solid strategy and plan. Your strategy should outline clear goals, milestones, and metrics to track progress. A well-crafted plan provides guidance on what to do, when to do it, and for how long. I’ve learned (the hard way) that one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work. You need a plan tailored to your business and its unique challenges. Just like in training, consistency in your actions and communication builds the foundation for a strong reputation. Understand your audience, know your strengths, and trust the process. By knowing both yourself and your audience, you'll be better equipped to navigate challenges, adapt when needed, and stay on course for long-term success.

Core Values: The Energy Bars of Your Brand

A strong reputation isn’t built overnight—it’s the result of consistent actions aligned with core values. At Reputation Matters, we believe in building G.R.E.A.T.E.R businesses, guided by our values: Growth, Respect, Ethics, Authenticity, Trust, Excellence, and Relationships. These aren’t just buzzwords; they shape our decisions and behaviour, much like a disciplined training schedule.

Just as I ask myself whether that whole slab of chocolate (or glass of wine!) will help or hinder my marathon training goals, businesses need to ask if their actions align with their core values. Consistency between what you say and what you do is what builds reputation stamina, laying the foundation for long-term success.

Business Stamina: Strength Training for Your Brand

Running a marathon isn’t just about running. It’s about mental strength, nutrition, and cross-training—doing the tough stuff to prepare for the unexpected. Businesses need the same resilience. This means having the right processes in place and being ready for whatever challenges come your way. Preparation is key.

Fuel for the Finish Line: Teamwork and Tools that Drive Success

Just as good nutrition fuels a marathoner, a strong team and the right tools fuel your business. Surround yourself with people who share your values—they’ll drive your success. Equally important are the tools you use; without the right technology, systems, and resources, even the best team can be held back. It’s like trying to run 42.2 km in sandals—not a great idea. The right combination of a strong team and effective tools is essential for reaching your goals efficiently and sustaining success in the long run.

Consistency: The Long Run’s Secret Weapon

One training session won’t get you through a marathon, and one press release won’t build your reputation. Consistency in action and communication is crucial. Sporadic efforts can do more harm than good, so make sure your internal and external messages align.

Track Your Race: Measuring Progress Along the Way

Marathoners track their performance, and businesses should do the same with their reputation. You can’t manage what you don’t measure. Regularly tracking how your business is perceived helps you adjust and improve.

A strong reputation doesn’t mean you’ll avoid challenges—it just means you’ll be better prepared to handle them. Think of it as building crisis-proof stamina, one kilometer at a time.

Don’t Skip the Rest Days: Recharge for the Next Big Push

In marathons and business, rest is crucial. It’s tempting to push harder, but taking time to reflect and recharge is just as important for long-term success. Don’t skip the rest days—they’re as vital as the work itself. Listen to your body, and in a business context, listen to your stakeholders.

Building a brand is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time, consistency, and commitment to core values. With the right strategy, tools, and team, your brand will develop the kind of lasting reputation that goes the distance—no shortcuts, just results.

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Wednesday 18 September 2024

🌟 Customize Your Re.Bag.Re.Use Bag! 🌟

 

n the spirit of sustainability and supporting local, we're excited to offer a unique customization option for your Re.Bag.Re.Use bag! Partnering with a local entrepreneur, we’re now able to add your company’s logo or a personal name to our eco-friendly bags using off-cut wood. Perfect for your next corporate event or as a thoughtful, personalized gift.


Product Highlights:

🌳 Materials: Made from repurposed empty bread bags, with straps crafted from fabric off-cuts. Each bag also includes a sturdy zip.

🌳 Dimensions: 37 cm wide x 27 cm high

🌳 Wholesale Price: R380 R290.90 each (for orders of 10 or more)


Not only will you be supporting local craftsmanship, but a percentage of each purchase goes to the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA.


Interested? Let’s chat! We’re here to help you create something special. 🌍💚


The Re.Bag.Re.Use Team

🧶 🤗


sales@rebagreuse.com

083 3021528

www.rebagreuse.com


More about Re.Bag.Re.Use


Re.Bag.Re.Use, the initiative behind crocheting these shopping bags, addresses poverty and plastic waste by empowering people to earn income through repurposing plastic bags into multifunctional products and artworks. Focused on socio-economic development and environmental sustainability, this initiative uplifts individuals and promotes stewardship. Currently, seven women cut plastic bags into strips and 16 crochet products, benefiting 23 households in Imizamo Yethu, Hout Bay. Besides earnings, a percentage of each sale is donated to the Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH) and the SPCA.




Friday 5 July 2024

Giant Trolley Installation Elevates Conscious Consumption at V&A Waterfront


When you visit the Waterfront, you're in for a big surprise! Suspended from the rafters, a trolley catches your eye. Five huge, colourful bags made from repurposed materials now tell a bright story of waste turned into art.


A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship


Last Saturday, the V&A Waterfront officially launched the "Our Better Nature" (OBN) platform. Nisha Maharaj, V&A Waterfront senior marketing manager, explains, “OBN is the V&A’s platform that speaks to our commitment to sustainability and an invitation to our community to join the journey as we believe every little act of good culminates in big changes. We encourage conscious consumption as a way to reduce reliance on landfill and inspire our community to be more responsible consumers.”


Central to this platform is a gigantic, suspended shopping trolley, an impressive 2.7 meters high, 3 meters wide, and 1.5 meters broad.


The entire installation is a collaboration between the V&A Waterfront, Platform Creative Agency along with local designers and makers. The concept has been brought to life by designer, Matt Edwards, who shares, “Our aim is to build consumer awareness around waste and promote conscious consumption. By using waste materials in the installation, we hope people will see the value in their discarded materials”


Cathy O’Clery, creative director at Platform Creative, adds, “Our hope is to inspire people to rethink their habits and make more sustainable choices. To do this we collaborated with creative local artists, especially those who could turn waste materials into beautiful art pieces."


Crafted by Brendan Wessels and his talented team from Santa World, this custom-made trolley made from steel has been hand-shaped and welded to perfection. Lifted into place with rope access pulleys and secured to a purpose-built motor box that revolves, this trolley is a testament to engineering excellence and artistic vision.


The trolley features five massive shopping bags, each 1 meter in width and between 1.2 and 1.4meters high, crocheted by the Re.Bag.Re.Use team from Hout Bay.


Repurposed Art: A New Perspective on Waste


Two of these vibrant shopping bags, one pink and one blue, are crocheted using approximately 660 empty bread bags each. The bright orange bag is made from repurposed Discovery Vitality T-shirts, the metallic black one from VHS tapes, and the mottled brown one, from recycled rope. These shopping bags are filled with magnificent artwork by Richard Mandongwe from Makombe Artworks, featuring:

  • Eight oversized toothbrushes made out of powder-coated galvanized wire

  • Eight hangers made out of steel bound in solid panel wire

  • Seven large bleach bottles made out of white recycled plastic bottles

  • Three large shoeboxes made from wood

  • Five AA batteries made from PVC drainpipes with galvanized wire structures inside

Each bag is supported by a wire frame made from steel.

Richard shares, "The project was a challenge as I had to create items I had never made before. It was a learning curve, but an exciting experience to collaborate with other artists. I'm incredibly proud to have my handiwork displayed at the Waterfront; it's an honour for me."


A Community Effort


Darmeris Makovere, part of the Re.Bag.Re.Use team that crocheted the bag made from t-shirts, expressed her amazement: "It is incredible to see our handiwork hanging in the Waterfront! I had no idea that this is how it would come out; it looks fantastic!" Crocheter Portia Chirawu adds, "I am so proud of what we have achieved and being part of a project that shares such an important message."


The Impact of "Our Better Nature"


The installation will be on display until September 2024 in Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre. Its main goal is to encourage people to be more mindful of their shopping habits and packaging usage.


Transforming Waste into Opportunities


"Our Better Nature" is a testament to how acting from our better nature can lead to significant positive changes for the environment.


For more information, visit https://explore.waterfront.co.za/our-better-nature/


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