Stellenbosch Fietsry at forefront of new development
Prior to the 2020 covid-related lockdowns, Stellenbosch Fietsry hosted a delegation of German academics regarding science and maths (STEM) teaching methodologies, using bicycles and cycling as basis.
During that visit, the German company InnovationsManufaktur, along with Stellenbosch Fietsry, started exploring the possibilities of developing smart cargo solutions in Stellenbosch, for the various economic and ecological benefits that might be created.
Subsequently, as we all had to do, while enduring the lockdowns, a local entrepreneur and founder of Stellenbosch Fietsry, Carinus Lemmer, started Seepglad, an “only mile” micro-logistics service provider for all those stuck at home.
A local innovator and manufacturer, Lark Cycles, embarked on the journey of designing and building a few prototypes that were showcased this past week, at a workshop facilitated by various parties, while also engaging with local community stakeholders, including Visit Stellenbosch, the University, the Municipality, entrepreneurs, wine farmers, distributors, and NGO’s.
The entire initiative is driven by Seepglad, InnovationsManufaktur, while sponsored by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the State of Bavaria (both in Germany), along with the local leadership of the SEED (Stellenbosch Entrepreneur and Enterprise Development NPC), lead by Nicolette Booyens.
Ultimately, the parties hope that this project will catalyze a more climate-friendly and sustainable way to transport goods in Stellenbosch, while creating jobs.
