The directors of specialist recruitment agency in the logistics and travel industries, Lee Botti and Associates (LBA), have announced that they’re closing their doors after almost five decades in business.
“With heavy hearts, we have made the decision to close our doors after 49 years of service,” a statement says.
“As a national recruitment agency servicing the travel and logistics industries, we have not just been a service provider but have been very fortunate to be part of two very special industries.”
Lee founded the company in 1977 when she identified a need for companies looking for staff.
She has always had a passion for helping people and this led to a business being built that has changed many people’s lives.
The business grew at a time when recruitment was very different from what we see now. It was all about relationships, trust and deals being done on a gentleman’s handshake, the statement says.
“We feel honoured to be part of people and businesses growing, where our candidates became clients and clients became candidates, and we have been privileged to be part of these two dynamic industries.”
The LBA family has included Lee’s daughters Kim, Jill and Sabina, along with staff who, over the years, have all contributed to sustaining and building a reputable brand.
“We are very grateful to the team, with some having had long service and others who have returned. Their passion and dedication have been greatly appreciated, and we thank them all,” the statement says.
“We have celebrated many milestones over the decades and are able to take away wonderful memories. We have represented a number of organisations, such as Exporters, SKAL, CIETT, APSO, to name a few. We developed the Clearing and Forwarding Salary Survey, which was a useful tool to the industry for over 30 years and our special iThuba workshop, providing guidance to over 14 000 school learners on preparing them for the working world.
“Since Covid, we have seen a shift in the world, with so many factors such as AI and technology playing a role in the recruitment landscape. We have loved the people aspect of this business and are privileged to have had decades of success.
“It is now time for a new era, and we would like to say our heartfelt thank you to all our clients and candidates for your support and the wonderful memories over the years.
“Though we will be watching from the sidelines, we will continue to support the travel and logistics industries, which make invaluable contributions to the South African economy. Thank you all.”
Lee Botti & Associates will cease operations on Thursday, April 30.
