Jeanne Esterhuizen, President of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has urged the automotive aftermarket sector to maintain its focus on elevating standards in safety, sustainability, and operational excellence—principles she describes as essential to creating a robust and responsible industry.
Addressing the automotive community whilst serving as a judge at the recent MasterDrive Fleet Safety Awards during Automechanika, Esterhuizen praised the exceptional quality of submissions and stressed that outstanding fleet management and road safety outcomes are always intentional. "These achievements stem from purposeful decisions, sustained practices, and demonstrable dedication," she explained.
According to Esterhuizen, the 2025 awards reflected significant advancement, with organisations increasingly demonstrating evidence-led methodologies that extend well beyond mere regulatory adherence to establish an embedded safety culture. "We're witnessing more businesses that don't simply discuss best practice but actively deploy tangible strategies to preserve lives, enhance operational efficiency, and advance environmental responsibility."
She drew attention to the intrinsic link between safety and environmental stewardship, noting that the same rigorous approach that protects human life also safeguards our natural environment. "Whether through eco-driving programmes, route optimisation initiatives, or the adoption of hybrid and electric vehicle fleets, these actions reflect a sincere dedication to future generations. Safety and sustainability are no longer distinct objectives—they are fundamentally interconnected," she observed.
Esterhuizen further emphasised that sustainability extends to human dignity. "When truck stops and rest facilities are secure, hygienic, and provide appropriate amenities, they demonstrate respect for the drivers who are vital to our economic infrastructure. Respect for people must always be at the heart of operational excellence."
Drawing on her extensive experience within the automotive aftermarket, she reinforced that sustained vigilance remains fundamental to safety. "Risk increases the moment attention wavers. Whilst technology and monitoring systems are invaluable resources, they only fulfil their protective function when the information they produce is properly reviewed and acted upon."
The RMI President explained that her organisation's strategic priorities are closely aligned with these values, as it continues to champion road safety, uphold ethical and professional standards across its member associations, and promote ongoing development through training, regulatory compliance, and an unwavering focus on quantifiable improvement.
"As a sector, we share a collective duty to exemplify leadership—ensuring vehicles are serviced to the highest standards, technicians receive comprehensive training, and business proprietors place the wellbeing of their employees and clients at the forefront. This is how we make a meaningful contribution to South Africa's road safety record," she stated.
In her concluding remarks, Esterhuizen extended her congratulations to all winners and finalists of the MasterDrive Fleet Safety Awards for establishing new standards of excellence. "Excellence isn't about achieving perfection; it's about demonstrating progress—measured one safer journey at a time. Working together, we can continue developing an industry characterised by accountability, innovation, and genuine concern for everyone who uses our roads."
