The plan is sequenced across four years and nine workstreams, front-loading the automation, cold-chain and solar investments that underpin margin, then layering product launches, national retail expansion, phase-2 regional nodes and SADC export. Critical milestones and dependencies are shown in the Gantt chart below.
11.1 Phasing logic and dependencies
- Foundation (FY2026): Close funding, fund the DSRA, and begin automation procurement and cold-chain upgrades. Re-certify HACCP/ISO 22000. Launch lactose-free and high-protein lines. Solar design and EPC procurement commence.
- Build-out (FY2026–27): Automation install and commissioning at the Gauteng hub; solar installation and grid-tie; traceability platform goes live; national retail listings and premium brand campaign; Botswana and Namibia export entry.
- Scale (FY2027–28): Cape Town packaging/distribution node; artisanal cheese launch; Zambia and Mozambique export ramp; AI route-optimisation fully deployed.
- Consolidation (FY2028–29): Durban node build-out; functional/probiotic range launch; de-gearing and dividend initiation as the business reaches net-cash.
NoteCritical path
The automation commissioning and yield ramp (H2 FY2027) is the single most important dependency, it underpins the modelled margin expansion and the cash generation that funds phase-2 nodes and export. Slippage here would push out both the margin curve and the self-funding transition, which is why it is prioritised immediately after funding close.
11.2 Key milestones
|
Milestone |
Target |
Significance |
|---|---|---|
|
Funding close & CP satisfaction |
Q1 FY2026 |
Unlocks the full programme |
|
Automation commissioning & ramp |
H2 FY2027 |
Drives margin expansion |
|
Solar grid-tie live |
FY2027 |
Cost & ESG step-change |
|
Traceability platform live |
FY2027 |
Premium & export enabler |
|
Cape Town node operational |
FY2028 |
Freshness, cost, export reach |
|
Net-cash position reached |
FY2029 |
De-risks the credit |
|
Durban node & functional range |
FY2029 |
Completes the platform |
Table 11.1 Critical milestones and their significance.