Simply Spotlight shines a light on the stories behind Simply clients and their businesses
Meet Anusha Gowriah, director of Sandon DHW. This specialist procurement company supplies tools, machines, electrical components abrasives, and solves problems across sectors ranging from education to mechanical, electrical and manufacturing.
What would you say has helped your small business to succeed?
“Our vision at Sandon DHW is to be our client’s preferred supplier. We believe profit comes from efficient procurement, so with our vast experience and buying power we will supply a diversified range of products and services at the best possible prices.
“I think taking a holistic approach to our customers’ businesses makes a big difference. That is what has kept us as players in the industry. Our team of procurement specialists strives to personalise and create tailor-made solutions by offering effective consulting services, quality products and excellent service delivery. We become trusted advisors by focusing on risk management and cost reduction thereby driving productivity.
“When I became Director, I had to learn on the job. You need to know your craft so that the customer believes you can help them. And if you don’t know, you listen, and then go back informed with a solution. Learning and growing is an ongoing process, it should not stop. Often our customers don’t know exactly what they need either, so we help them on the journey, which is great. I do whatever it takes to learn and understand. To learn, I do whatever it takes, sometimes literally getting under the bus to see what they were doing and what is required.
“Being a people person really helps. It’s the human touch, even in a technical industry like the one I work in. As a small business owner, you need to understand your own value in that role. That everything you do is vital and makes a difference. With a culture of excellence and integrity, we will remain passionate and committed to our valued customers.”
Although Sandon’s staff numbers declined during Covid, the company’s turnover increased.
“Going in and winning contracts is something I’m super proud of. Especially to have won consecutive three-year contracts with Cummins South Africa. It took three years of perseverance, determination and hard work and we achieved it.”
Following her success, Anusha was invited to be part of a Cummins delegation to the UK to represent diverse global suppliers from South Africa. Most recently, she was presented an Award of Merit by the Consulate General of India Johannesburg in respectful recognition of her achievements and accomplishments on International Woman’s Day, March 2023.
What advice do you have for those starting their own business when it comes to their team?
“My people are the heartbeat of my business, they’re what makes the business a success. It’s key to have people who are capable, well-rounded and hungry to grow and learn. And you’ve got to help your team do that wherever you can. You have to let them work independently and trust them to make decisions if they need to.
“We’re a team of six, and the keyword is ‘team’. It’s all about team effort and teamwork. We back each other up. Everyone can jump in to cover someone else’s job if needed. We can all generate a quote, or do a delivery, or send an invoice.
“When I saw what Simply offered, I said, ‘Yes please!’ I love that I can do this for my team. If something happens to any of them, I want the people who love them to know that they worked for a company that cared for them. If your people feel they are taken care of, they will take care of you.”
What do you think is important when it comes to overcoming business challenges?
“Self-belief and self-care are vital to your growth. Believe in yourself! It was really hard when I took over the business but now, I know: ‘I am the business’.
“I love my business. My work is challenging and exciting. It’s a daily decision to pull something out of yourself. I take one day at a time and know that nothing ventured, nothing gained.
“For me, God is at the centre of my life and business. As a team we pray together every day. My faith is my strength and it gets me through anything.”
Do you have a saying that guides you in business and life?
“Fear doesn’t live here.” If you let fear take over your mind you can’t move forward, you have to speak life and positivity into everything. Stand tall, work with integrity and your efforts will be blessed with favour and fruit.
Thank you Anusha for getting cover for your team, and taking the time to share what you’ve learnt on your business journey.