Health and well-being have understandably been important talking points in recent months, particularly among the workforce. As such, companies like Health Central are blazing the trail in the health and wellness space and taking it to new and innovative heights.

Over the past 20 months, companies have had to restructure their strategies, digitise internal processes and adopt remote working practices. These changes have undoubtedly had a negative effect on motivation, productivity and mental health, which led to soaring levels of absenteeism and cost the economy R15 billion in 2020.

With work-related stress and healthcare costs on the rise, the need for corporate wellness is more important than ever. The good news is that many South African employers are recognising the benefits of investing in the well-being of their employees. With its strong core belief in giving back, Health Central’s recently-launched shared value initiative gives businesses the opportunity to join forces to help working South Africans take care of their mental and physical health.

“Health Central is currently the only e-tailer in South Africa with a prime focus on shared value initiatives,” says General Manager Daniel Nel. “This recently launched campaign sees employees from business partners receive significant discounts on all listed products while employed, as well as rebates on sales. These rebates can be put back into their organisation or donated to selected charities. We invite all companies, organisations, nonprofits and government entities whose values align with ours to benefit from this campaign” added Nel.

As such, all proceeds are earmarked and dedicated to improving the lives of South African citizens and organisation members through skill development. “What’s more, being an e-tailer means shoppers can purchase their products online without the hassle of visiting a brick-and-mortar store. This adds to the convenience of the shopping experience.”

While the brand is affiliated with organisations like the Cannabis Research Institute of South Africa (CRI) as well as JSE listed companies, Nel decided to reach out across South Africa even further. Health Central has since developed beneficial relationships with government entities like The South African Network for Women in Transport (SANWIT), and non-profit organisations like Gift of the Givers and Doctors without Borders.

Giving back to the community

Health Central has steadily been making a name for itself in the wellness industry in South Africa. The online store grew consistently in less than a year, doubling the number of high-quality wellness products available through their e-commerce platform while remaining affordable to the average consumer.

But Nel’s eyes are set on even loftier goals. The company is expanding its network to include professionals offering expert advice in fields such as nutrition, dental hygiene, physiotherapy, fitness and more. These experts will get the chance to discuss health topics and provide valuable information through the upcoming social media platform, Health Central TV.

“Our mission is to become the most progressive online health and wellness e-retailer who cares about our people. Our ultimate goal is to provide free healthcare advice via technology to everyone in South Africa,” concludes Nel.

Health Central is available online or at their first health and wellness store, which opened recently in the Cape Town CBD.