Astute Business Services (Pty) Ltd

Project Name: Astute Business Services (Pty) Ltd

Project Location: Gingindlovu

Project Background:

Astute Business Services (Pty) Ltd is a 100% Black-male-owned private company incorporated in 2012. The project was established with the main aim of becoming a commercial mixed agricultural business consultancy and farming. The company operates on a 156-hectare mixed farm, comprising egg production, vegetables, broiler, piggery, and sugarcane.

When the company approached the ADA, its egg production operation had been halted since 2022 due to floods. These floods had destroyed the poultry infrastructure and forced operations to a halt.

The company’s vision is to become a key player in domestic free-range egg production. With changing global views on the need for healthier and naturally produced food, free-range eggs offer such alternatives produced under humane and natural environments. The chickens produce their eggs whilst living in a free-range environment and having access to grazing and freedom of movement.

ADA Intervention:

1. Refurbished three sheds, with a capacity of 9000 chickens
2. Refurbished 96m2 egg packhouse
3. Supply packhouse equipment and aircons
4. Supply of equipment for chicken houses (9000 birds)
5. Purchased 6000 pullets
6. Purchased feed

Impact of ADA Funding:

1. Expansion of job creation: 6 permanent jobs, 6 casual jobs. More than 20 temporal jobs during construction
2. Excess to market
3. Business growth: currently operating at 6000 birds/pullets
4. Farm productivity and profitability: currently producing 5000 eggs per day