Turnaround

What does ‘turnaround’ mean to you? In a business sense you’re talking of turning a company back into profitability. Personally it would mean hitting some good fortune after a series of bad luck.  Bonnie Tyler demands an emotional turnaround in “Total Eclipse of the Heart”.

Turnaround can also mean just that, to turn on your heels and go back as you came. Only, let us this time have a renewed mind and some vigour in our step. A good question would be: “Why would you want to?” The French like to say “Pourquoi pas.”  

Bike in FMS colours - thanks to street wire artists

So get on your bike and let’s go.  On a personal level once you know why you’ve lost there are two ways to go forward. Enjoy the memories, learn from it, and move on; or try yet again to recapture those magical moments. Being passionate about your business career, the process remains the same. Yet here you have no choice: you must turn it around. The same accounts for a company.

Reflection on the current status quo should ideally be part of a continuous quest for renewal.  To affect this successfully you first need to have a vision of what it can be, then have the guts to cut whatever doesn’t work, adding new product categories and operating platforms. How? Get the big picture first and don’t bother about the details of how you’re going to get there. Start with a broad all-encompassing view and then zoom in. View your company as a client would, from the outside.

·         What are their first impressions? How do they find you?  – Digitally, physically, staff, voice.

·         Do you ask questions that will solve their queries? Are you flexible, customer-driven?

·         Do you consistently over-deliver on value? Does the company display moral courage?

·         What product categories are you competing against? What business are you in (not what you’re selling)?

·         Do you invest in your employees and then trust them to do their job? Do they display a quest for achievement, integrity, a propensity to learn?

New Beginnings Wines - a decade of success as illustrated in Platter's SA Wine Guide

Going through this process you need to be diligent in implementing the changes and ruthless in making cuts. See your company as a corporate brand; creating a unique company culture, with each platform having an over-arching theme. Consult your top management, utilizing their expertise to gain special insights. But don’t omit getting the enthusiasm of all staff, asking for practical inputs. Then, unlike the politicians, you need to do a progress report every 30 days, not only after a 100...

FMS does this very exercise twice annually, spending two months mid-year and another two at year-end to actively reinvent the company, keeping it on an accelerated growth path. So far we are looking pretty good thank you, ahead of all expectations. What about you?  Can you parade all the staff onto a podium, turn up Tina Turner and sing: You’re simply the Best!?

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Photo credits:-

FMS bike – Anton Blignault

New Beginnings & Platter’s – Arthur de Magalhaes

References:-

Arthur de Magalhaes, FMS

Bonnie Tyler “Total Eclipse of the Heart” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcOxhH8N3Bo

Dave Kahle – Kahle Way® Sales Systems

Jane Zhang “Dream It Possible” c/o Huawei https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtWJfcLEEv0

Juliette Salmon, FMS

Street wire artists, Cape Town: Rasta & Victor

The Holy Bible: NKJV - Haggai 2:4; Isaiah 41:10; Jeremia 8: 4; Isaiah 43:19

Tina Turner “The Best” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GC5E8ie2pdM

Winesave® “Recapture the Moment” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4h_oag2I0bo

© Anton Blignault, Cape Town

Private Label Project # 2

With FMS creating its Private Label Division in 2014, it has finally come into its own during 2015.

The successful launch of Skipper’s (2^nd brand of New Beginnings) in 2014 led us to develop a private label for a client in Côte d’Ivoire (OloPam Nest). Focusing on Private Label Projects since January, it brought in three orders in quick succession from clients in Kenya (ADUA), Denmark (The Full Fifteen Africans) and Bolivia. This is for both still and sparkling wines with quantities ranging from one pallet to a 20’ container. With another three in progress to China and the USA (Africa Promise & Freedom Wines), FMS is becoming quite expert in sourcing wines for specific target markets – all within budget and deadline.

La principale raison du succès is that FMS provides a full turn-key service to you as client - choosing wine from barrel, tank or unlabelled bottles, negotiating with several wineries, providing you a quality wine at best price, and labelling these on schedule. Some clients prefer to handle their own design, while we can advise you on international design contests or using our appointed designer. All labels are printed locally using a trusted associate.

FMS verifies that cellars we propose consistently produce wine of excellent quality, rated independently. The wines can be part of the cellar’s regular range, or we can create a specific blend, style, or varietal to fit your brief. Dependant on volume, you can choose the bottle type, closure and capsule colour. Production lead time is 2 to 6 weeks. Price depends on quality, volume, varietal/s, vintage and region. We will quote you FOB Cape Town, plus handling the full logistical export process to include the CIF destination port of your choice.

La Rue Mouffetard, Paris 1954

At first we need a clear direction to establish: what styles would suit your target market, quantities (840 to 13,200 bottles), launch date, price and quality levels. This wish list is modified into a final brief once we’ve done internal market research on your chosen market. Next, we will access a wine industry B2B website to ensure that we discover and taste all the best options according to these criteria. Chosen samples will be provided free FOB Cape Town, with courier costs for your account.

Brands that we developed for Bolivia are targeted to compete directly against market leaders in their respective categories, namely sparkling wine and apple cider. The product image must compete at a specific price level, using a designated marketing strategy for your target market. We can recommend several options for US clients that require an importer to take care of regulations such as product and label compliance, importation, warehousing and distribution to various states, charging task-based fees. It includes managing the COLA and TTB process to achieve federal regulatory compliance.

FMS can request a graphic design specialist to quote on label, logo and brand name design according to your brief. Apart from essential design elements, the creation of the label is considered in terms of its market position while contextualising your brand’s story. It is a project fee-based task. Regardless of who you use as designer, FMS provides guidance with label approval on technical aspects such as mandatory items, health warnings, importer details and barcodes. FMS has connections with several trademark attorneys and can advise you on these, including foreign translation services.

Label printing is cleared when we receive the SAWIS approval certificate. Labels are printed digital, flexo or litho, depending on quality and quantity. If required, magnetic label dies has a 48-hour lead time. Label printing costs depends on size, quantity, paper and is quoted in full sets. Paper stock is dictated by the brand’s image and wine type. Lead time for design and printing ranges from 2 to 4 weeks. Branded cartons are an important marketing tool. Printing of these can be done at a nominal cost and depends on volume, design and colour. There is a once-off cost for the design stereo.

Once production or labelling is set up we can ask the relevant WOSA country market manager for advice on a launch strategy, potential clients, and creating additional media awareness. FMS could also publish an article in the Wine Marketing Services blog, add it to the FMS website and create ads for the brand on two B2B portals where FMS is registered, providing your contact details.

Due to the correct brief being critical for the wine search and label design, we will guide you on both. We don’t compromise on quality at any step along this exciting journey. With FMS providing you with a cost-effective, turn-key private label solution, you can capitalise on these synergies and expertise in place to launch your own brand, directing your own future.

wine civilization

Photo credits: Thinkstock, Robert DOISNEAU, FMS & Coralie FLANDRE

It’s never too late for a New Beginning # 2

It’s never too late to start again. In fact, each new day is the perfect new beginning (Psalm 118: 24). You can turn things around. Take that first step! This is part two.

“If I can see it, then I can do it. If I just believe it, there's nothing to it… If I can see it, then I can be it. If I just believe it, there's nothing to it.” ‘I believe I can fly’ by R. Kelly

Have a dream. Define the goal and outcome. Use all your senses – see, hear, feel, smell, taste. Contextualise it – where, when, with whom, how often, what circumstances. Be decisive. Make a decision, else you’ll lose the opportunity. Act on it. Now!

“Miracles come in CANS!”

Have a can-do attitude. Live with the belief that you can handle whatever comes your way.

“Always act as if it was impossible to fail, and God will see you through.” Elena Zelayeta in ‘The Amazing Results of Positive Thinking’ by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale

Have the inner conviction that what you start you will finish, albeit with some help from above.

“In all you do, explore all avenues and test limitations.” Isobel April in “Destiny” December 2008

Attack each difficulty with confidence and an optimistic attitude. Focus on what’s right, not what’s wrong. State what you want to achieve positively.

“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.” Proverbs 23: 7 KJV

“Human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.” William James

Conditions are created by thoughts. Start thinking differently. Give yourself a makeover – from the inside!  Challenge your set ideas and do a spring-cleaning of the mind. Be prepared to learn from anyone – young and old.

“Today is gonna be the day… Because maybe you’re gonna be the one that saves me…” ‘Wonderwall’ by Oasis

Once you forget about yourself and focus on doing something for someone else, real magic starts to happen. And best of all, you will rise with the tide and will be doubly blessed. Believe that something good is going to happen to you today.

“ You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” C.S. Lewis

Age is entirely dependant on your mindset, not your actual age. In short, as long as you’re planning eagerly for the future with scant regard for the past, then you’re in the right league. Dream on, then do!

“To accomplish great things we must not only act, but also dream. Not only plan but also believe.” Anonymous

You need to believe in yourself to succeed and have a burning desire to turn that vision into reality.

Each time when you and your loved ones enjoy a special time together, see it as a celebration of love and life – a new beginning to be enjoyed in the present; with no dark clouds of the past or the future clouding your happiness. Chin!

It’s never too late for a New Beginning # 1

 Take that second chance! Be the comeback kid. You can begin again. You can rebuild your life! Here is part one.

 “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven…” Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8 KJV

“Turn! Turn! Turn!” by Pete Seeger

Know when it is your time to step up and shine. Then take that bow and go on to do great things!

“The winds of grace blow all the time – all we need to do is set our sails.” Ramakrishna

It is only when I am still and completely relaxed that I get my brightest inspirations. Then I can embrace the winds with my focus on the task at hand so intense that everything else around me loses traction.

“Take risks… If you win, you will be happy. If you loose, you will be wise.” Debby Witter

Be bold. Claim the victory before you start. Take responsibility. When you’re wrong, say you’re sorry - immediately.

“Play without fear of failure. When no one gives you a chance you may as well give it your best shot. Just relax the shackles and play with freedom. Just express yourself.” Herschelle Gibbs (175 runs from 111 balls) in world record 438 runs ODI (One Day International) win by South African Proteas against Australia on 12 March 2006

Enough said!

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.” Thoreau

The secret of achievement is to hold a picture of a successful outcome in mind. Start only once you have envisioned the victorious end result. Then forget about the difficulties in-between.

“It’s an attitude. A decision you make. A confidence.” Anonymous

Believe that you will always make the right decision. Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but acting in the midst of fear. Just pace yourself and tackle each obstacle as it comes. 

“Never, never, never, never give up!” Sir Winston Churchill, 1941

Keep on keeping on. Don’t give up. Ever. Don’t quit. Ever. Doubt your doubt. Take it one step at a time. Devise an action plan with dates and steps. Find out what resources you need in terms of skills, people, time, and money.

And how do you celebrate your new beginning? I’m biased of course, but believe there’s nothing better than sharing a glass of Champagne with your loved ones. Or else a glass of New Beginnings wine will do rather well. But do this realizing that each get-together is a unique once-off experience. Cherish it each time!

New Beginnings & Skipper's wines are going places

We're thrilled to announce that we've launched a new label and presented both brands at an exclusively invited wine tasting event.

During July the Skipper’s label was re-introduced as a tribute to the brothers featuring on the maiden vintage in 1998. This is on request of our importer in Japan who actively supports New Beginnings since its inception. 

New Beginnings are also exported to Germany since 1999, and to Poland since 2010. Wines from both labels remain popular with local and foreign clients. 

NBW 3-tier label vision

Skipper’s brothers logo – mid-level: blends. A tribute to the brothers featuring on the 1^st label in 1998.

Modern family logo – mid-level: single varietals. Will  revert to colour logo.

Renaissance sun logo – premium tier: Created in 2012 using 1999 label as base. Not yet launched.

On 25th August Philani Shongwe, a Cape Winemakers Guild protege, poured both brands at the Directorate of International Relations & Cooperation Heads Of Mission & Ministerial wine tasting event at their conference in Pretoria to 400 delegates. He says "The Expo was phenomenal with the superb setting and delicious food from the stalls... Those who tasted liked the Skippers classic red & white blends, followed by the Chenin Blanc and Pinotage." 
Here are brief wine notes on the seven wines that Philani poured. * indicates screwcap.

Family Collection

Chardonnay 2013: W.O. Klein Karoo *

Unoaked. Sur lie. 50% wild fermented. Green hu with fresh complexity of citrus, lime, quince & white pear on nose. Interlayed with a creamy buttery soft secondary flavour that erupts fresh and crisp with length on palate.

Chenin Blanc 2013: W.O. Paarl *

Fresh lime, Granny Smith apple & granadilla on nose and pallet. Tropical fruits, pineapple in after taste. On lees for 4 months.

Pinotage Rosé 2010: W.O. Paarl *

Cherry blush colour. Spicy, fruity, strawberry and cranberry with brisk, dry acidity.

Cabernet Sauvignon 2010: W.O. Stellenbosch

Cranberry, blueberry & cassis aromas combine with cigar box and hint of mint. A wine with structure and complexity. 12 months fermentation in French barrels.

Pinotage 2012: W.O. Darling

Ruby red colour with purple tinge. Intense nose of strawberries & cherries, enhanced by cinnamon & cloves. Soft tannins, concentrated pallet of ripe red fruit, plums, supported by spices & pepper.

Skipper’s Collection

Classic Dry White 2013: W.O. Darling *

50% Chardonnay, 50% Pinot Noir. Intense nose of ripe orange peel enhanced by ripe berries. Well rounded, medium bodied, crisp acidity, same on nose. Long  lingering finish.

Classic Dry Red 2010: W.O. Darling *

Inky concentration with an unparalleled richness in mouth. 45% Pinotage, 21% Shiraz, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cinsault.

Now it's your turn to enjoy these wonderful wines. Contact us at fmsmarketing@fms-wine-marketing.co.za 

New Beginnings Wines at Prowein 2012, Düsseldorf, Germany from Sunday 4 March to Tuesday 6 March

Well, not quite New Beginnings wines itself, but at least you can meet with me, Anton Blignault, at the South African pavilion to discuss the new labels, new vintages….


To actually taste the exciting New Beginnings range we will need to send you a few bottles from Cape Town. Or you will have to order a case or three from our importers closest to you - in Japan (Masuda Inc. in Hyogo and Osaka), in Germany (Wein aus Südafrika in Frankfurt), and in Poland (Wine Shops Sp. z o.o. in Warsaw). The whole range is certified as sustainable and has achieved 3-star ratings in Platter’s South African Wines 2012, a “step up” from 2011, and this is just the beginning…


For the moment, we are proudly showing off our newly designed labels. It is phased in as we cross over to new vintages and introduce new cultivars, such as the much appreciated Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Shiraz 2009, and Pinotage Rosé 2010.


Please contact me in advance at fmsmarketing@yebo.co.za to set up a meeting at Prowein (I will attend as a trade visitor), and have a look on www.fms-wine-marketing.co.za for detailed information on each wine (via a link to Global Wine & Spirits), plus a full compliment of brands to extend your South African porfolio.


All the best,
Anton Blignault

FMS "Serving wine successfully for 11 years"
FMS is a producer, wine négociant and international trading house focusing on the export of wines at producer list price, from entry level to high-end. Thanks to our professional approach, all our clients choose FMS rather than dealing with the cellar. 4 sales in 4 months to 4 new clients thanks to GWS!

FMS Marketing
FMS Food & Beverages SA
Web: www.fms-wine-marketing.co.za
Blog: http://www.fms-sa.blogspot.com
E-mail: fms@yebo.co.za
Tel: + 27 21 426 5037
Fax: +27 21 413 0825
PO Box 51869
8002 Waterfront
CAPE TOWN SA

People are motivated by passion
& encouraged by empathy.