Glo Looks (PTY) LTD
| Business Location: | Urban |
| Province | Free State |
| Branch: | Mangaung Branch |
| Business Start Date: | 2016-05-16 |
| Busniess Type: | Company |
Business Dynamics and Challenges
Business Activities:
Manufacturing & Retail –Personal Care Products (Hair)
Challenges/Needs:
The personal care and natural hair industry in South Africa, particularly in the Free State, presents both opportunities and challenges for emerging businesses like Glo Looks. One of the biggest obstacles is limited access to funding, which affects the ability to scale production, invest in research and development, and expand distribution channels. Many financial institutions hesitate to fund small businesses in the beauty sector, making it difficult to compete with well-established multinational brands that dominate retail spaces.
Another major challenge is the high cost of raw materials and production machinery. The personal care industry relies on specialized ingredients such as essential oils and plant-based extracts, many of which are either imported or expensive to source locally.
The cost of advanced machinery needed for large-scale manufacturing is also a barrier to growth, making it difficult for small businesses to meet growing demand efficiently.
Additionally, low marketing budgets limit brand visibility and customer acquisition. Large cosmetic brands have strong retail partnerships and massive advertising budgets, which allow them to dominate supermarkets, pharmacies, and online platforms. Small businesses struggle to gain shelf space and rely heavily on social media marketing, which, while effective, requires constant investment to remain competitive.
Lastly, consumer trust and brand loyalty are significant hurdles. Many consumers prefer established international brands due to perceived quality and availability. Overcoming these challenges requires strategic partnerships, government support, and innovative marketing strategies to build brand recognition and credibility in the South African hair care market.
Intervention Insights and Results
Intervention Details:
SEDFA has played a crucial role in supporting Glo Looks (PTY) LTD by providing key interventions that have contributed to the company’s growth and expansion. One of the most significant forms of assistance was the Asset Assist funding amounting to R249,883.10, which enabled the business to acquire essential equipment and machinery necessary for improving production efficiency. This investment has enhanced the company’s ability to meet increasing demand and maintain high-quality product standards.
In addition to financial support, SEDFA has provided valuable marketing opportunities, including facilitating the company’s participation in the SheTrades Business-to-Business Exhibition in Kenya. This platform allowed Glo Looks to showcase its products to a wider international audience, establish business connections, and explore potential export opportunities. Furthermore, Glo Looks has successfully secured placement as a supplier on major online retail platforms such as Takealot and Makro, increasing its market reach and making its products more accessible to a broader consumer base.
To further strengthen the business, SEDFA is currently working on implementing Productivity Interventions aimed at streamlining production capabilities and increasing capacity. These interventions will ensure that Glo Looks operates efficiently, optimizes its resources, and is well-positioned for long-term sustainability and growth. Through these targeted initiatives, SEDFA continues to support the company in overcoming industry challenges and achieving its vision of becoming a leading personal care brand in Southern Africa.
In addition to financial support, SEDFA has provided valuable marketing opportunities, including facilitating the company’s participation in the SheTrades Business-to-Business Exhibition in Kenya. This platform allowed Glo Looks to showcase its products to a wider international audience, establish business connections, and explore potential export opportunities. Furthermore, Glo Looks has successfully secured placement as a supplier on major online retail platforms such as Takealot and Makro, increasing its market reach and making its products more accessible to a broader consumer base.
To further strengthen the business, SEDFA is currently working on implementing Productivity Interventions aimed at streamlining production capabilities and increasing capacity. These interventions will ensure that Glo Looks operates efficiently, optimizes its resources, and is well-positioned for long-term sustainability and growth. Through these targeted initiatives, SEDFA continues to support the company in overcoming industry challenges and achieving its vision of becoming a leading personal care brand in Southern Africa.
Outcome Details:
The various interventions have yielded positive results. The business has increased its clientele locally and internationally. Glo Looks is finalizing a contract with a company in Zambia to deliver products. The annual turnover increased from R 511 328 to R685 786. Increased marketing. The business also secured grant funding through the Asset Assist program worth R 249 883.10.
Client Feedback
Client Comments:
Seda has assisted my business to secure new markets and funding.
