Review for Business Grading Council SA (BGCSA):

On 11 October 2024, we received a call from the Business Grading Council SA (BGCSA) to join their directory. After being quoted the top, most expensive package, I visited their website and signed up for a package more suited to our budget for the remainder of 2024. The signup process was smooth — except for the shocking fact that our official certificate had “Beauty” misspelled as “Beaty.” This error came directly from BGCSA, despite us providing the correct details in the application form. Frankly, it should have been a red flag at the time.

Fast-forward 10 months later, despite having a valid 12-month contract and agreement, our business listing was removed from their website without any communication, warning, or even the courtesy of a renewal reminder. We were already planning to renew for the 2025–2026 cycle, yet our membership was simply cut off without reason.

Since then, we have sent numerous emails — all ignored. Calling their office line is pointless; the phone rings endlessly, and no one ever answers or calls back. For an organization that claims to “verify and host verified businesses,” the irony is that BGCSA itself seems completely unverified. There is no transparency, no accountability, and no functioning support system.

What’s worse is that as loyal clients, we not only paid our fees but also gave them free exposure by proudly displaying their certificate on our website and business pages — effectively marketing them at no cost. A little common courtesy in return would have gone a long way. Instead, what we received was silence, broken promises, and early cancellation of our contract without explanation.

The idea behind BGCSA is excellent in theory, but in practice, the execution is deeply flawed and misleading. Taking money from small businesses, then failing to honor the contract, provide service, or even respond to communication, borders on abusive business practice.

I am extremely disappointed, upset, and frankly feel cheated by the Business Grading Council SA (BGCSA). Based on my experience, I cannot recommend them to any business that values professionalism, accountability, or even basic customer service.