Dis-Chem’s Lynette & Ivan Saltzman on the right chemistry to build a business

Dis-Chem, founded by Ivan Saltzman and his wife Lynette, both qualified pharmacists, started as a small store with a big dream back in 1978. Over the course of 41 years, the company has grown exponentially to now having more than 125 stores nationwide and continues to expand. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, the Saltzmans shared insights into their journey of building the successful business and the key elements that have contributed to its growth. The Saltzmans' journey began with Ivan's vision of owning his first store before the age of 30. Despite initial skepticism from others about the potential success of the business, they quickly expanded to their second store within three years. Lynette, who initially worked part-time while raising their small children, played a crucial role in handling cash, liaising with suppliers, and eventually took on full-time responsibilities in managing the stores. As the business grew, they divided responsibilities based on expertise, with Lynette focusing on the beauty section, transforming it into a major beauty destination in the country. Reflecting on the challenges faced in building the business, Ivan noted that most challenges were seen as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. While there were hurdles to overcome, such as strikes that disrupted operations, the Saltzmans remained focused on finding solutions and moving forward. They emphasized the importance of teamwork and credited their strong support team for managing relationships with international partners and suppliers effectively. With the business reaching its 40th year milestone, the Saltzmans have involved their children in the company, with one son handling legal work and the others actively engaged in the business operations. While discussing the decision to list on the stock exchange, Ivan highlighted the benefits of monetizing their work and providing rewards to partners and employees through share schemes. Despite fluctuations in share prices, they remain confident in the business's soundness and growth potential. The Saltzmans expressed their optimism for the future, with Ivan noting that the business's strong foundation and dedicated teams instill confidence in continued growth. They also shared their satisfaction in seeing how the Dis-Chem brand has resonated with consumers, becoming almost like a cult favorite among customers. The engagement on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter further reinforces the brand's connection with its customers, creating a sense of community and loyalty. The journey of Dis-Chem is a testament to the vision, resilience, and strategic partnerships that have fueled its success over the years. As the company continues to grow and expand its presence, the Saltzmans remain committed to delivering quality products and services while staying true to their core values and principles.