Author: Azhar Obaray

At Core Catering Supplies, our commitment goes beyond supplying world-class hospitality products. It’s rooted in people, partnerships, and the places we serve. Across the country, our corporate-owned and franchise stores continue to invest in initiatives that uplift communities, support talent development, and promote wellness through sport and shared experiences. Here’s a look at some recent efforts that reflect the Core difference.

Head Office Leads the Way

Our Woodstock branch, home to Core Holdings’ Head Office, kicked off 2025 with purpose. During the Cape Town Cycle Tour, Africa’s biggest timed cycling event, our MD and Woodstock GM set up a water and support station in Noordhoek—offering essential refreshments like water and bananas to riders. More than just a race, the Cycle Tour celebrates health, sustainability, and community. Supporting events like this aligns with our brand’s energy, drive, and people-first values.

We also proudly sponsored new team shirts for the Enable Centre, a Cape Town-based rehabilitation facility offering physical and cognitive therapy to individuals with neurological and orthopedic conditions. Their message of thanks said it best:

“Your generosity helps us move, play, and make a difference at the Enable Centre every day.”

At Core, we know that dignity in care begins with feeling supported—sometimes, even a uniform can make all the difference.

Franchise Highlights

The Hermanus franchise once again supported the “Overberg Aspiring Chef of the Year” competition for high school learners. Organised by Kevin and Sumien Warwick, the competition gives students a platform to showcase their skills by reimagining family favourites. Our Hermanus team, alongside, Core Franchise and preferred suppliers, provided tools and prizes—reaffirming Core’s long-standing commitment to hospitality education.

Further up the coast, our Tableview & West Coast franchise sponsored the Mykonos Golf Day, a lively gathering of regional businesses and hospitality professionals. With support from LiQ-Core – featuring tastings from Wilderer Distillery and more, the event delivered great conversations, delicious drinks, and valuable industry networking.

The Core Culture of Community

Whether corporate-owned or franchise-run, every Core store is encouraged to invest in meaningful local partnerships. From sports events to chef schools, wellness programmes to charitable giving , we’re committed to backing causes that reflect our shared brand values: Integrity, Trust, Service, Accountability, Value, Energy, and Solutions (IT SAVES)

We also recognise that sponsorships and support are about relationships. They build pride, fuel connection, and strengthen our industry one experience at a time.

Let’s Do More, Together

If you’re part of an initiative that aligns with Core’s hospitality mission—whether it’s education, wellness, sustainability, or community upliftment—we’d love to hear from you. Giving back is part of who we are.

Because at Core, it’s not just about supply—it’s about support.
Enjoy the Difference.

At Core Catering Supplies, we believe every choice matters—especially when it comes to sustainability.  As an importer and distributor in the hospitality supply industry, we are fully aware that our business model isn’t inherently eco-friendly. That’s why we take our responsibility seriously, choosing to work with brands that align with our values and backing that up with everyday efforts at branch level to reduce our footprint—through recycling packaging materials, consolidating deliveries, and streamlining operations wherever possible.  

This Earth Day, we’re highlighting some of our exclusive brand partners who are leading the way in sustainable design and production—brands that don’t just manufacture for the moment, but for the future.  

Steelite International is a recognised leader in sustainable ceramic tableware. Manufactured in the UK, their products are ISO 14001 certified and designed to last—complete with a lifetime edge-chip warranty. Their environmental initiatives focus on reducing water, energy, and raw material usage across all stages of production.  

HEPP, one of Germany’s most respected names in cutlery, combines precision manufacturing with sustainability commitments that include refurbishment services, local sourcing, and global standards like ISO 14001 and the UN Global Compact. Products are designed for longevity in even the most high-end hospitality environments.  

Leerdam Crisal Glass—makers of ONIS and Royal Leerdam glassware—have taken bold steps with their ESG Sustainability Update, aligning their production with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. With centuries of heritage, their modern glassware is both stylish and increasingly efficient to produce.  

Libbey Glassware, with a legacy spanning over 200 years, is designed for durability and volume, reducing the need for frequent replacements. The brand also champions recyclable packaging and environmentally-conscious operations that support circular economy principles.  

APS Buffetware is known for durable, long-lasting buffet displays. Manufactured in Germany, APS uses recycled materials as well as strong materials like polycarbonate and stainless steel, and their modular food service systems help reduce overproduction and improve presentation efficiency.  

Core’s product philosophy is simple: high quality and longevity equals less waste. Whether it’s vitrified crockery, reinforced glassware, or sustainable buffetware, our brand portfolio is intentionally curated to provide lasting value—reducing the frequency of replacements and the environmental impact of operations. Our digital catalogue and QR-access tools also help reduce the need for printed materials across the network. 

This Earth Day, we acknowledge the challenges of our industry, but remain committed to playing our part in a more responsible and sustainable hospitality future. Through the brands we champion, the partners we trust, and the practices we adopt, we strive to do better—for our clients and the planet.  

Visit a Core store or explore our online platform to learn more about the brands helping lead the way in sustainable hospitality.  

#EarthDay2025 #CoreCateringSupplies  #SustainableHospitality #GreenSupplies #HospitalityIndustry #Steelite #Crockery #HEPP #Cutlery #ONIS #Libbey #Glassware #APS #Buffetware #EnjoytheDifference #EcoFriendlyDining #HORECA #HospitalityWithPurpose

Few things bring people together quite like the smell of fresh fish sizzling over open flames. The art of the fish braai—a uniquely South African take on grilling—is not just a cooking method but a culinary experience. Whether you’re running a boutique guest lodge, a bustling beachside bistro, or simply braaing at home, knowing how to prepare and serve fish to perfection is essential. Here’s how you can up your fish braai game—featuring expert tips, key tools, and product recommendations.

The Beauty of Braaied Fish

From the firm, flaky flesh of dorado to the bold, oily richness of snoek, fish brings texture, flavour, and versatility to the table. Unlike red meats, fish demands delicacy. It cooks quickly, and even minor mistakes can lead to dryness or breakage. But with the right techniques and tools, your guests will remember your fish dishes long after their plates are cleared.

Pro Tip #1: Choose the Right Fish

Not all fish are created equal when it comes to braaing. Here are some top choices:

• Dorado (mahi-mahi) – Great for fillets, dorado holds its shape and soaks up marinades beautifully.
• Snoek – A South African favourite. Best served basted with apricot glaze or traditional sweet-and-sour sauces.
• Yellowtail – Meaty and perfect for grilling whole or in thick steaks.
• Hake – Delicate and mild, ideal for wrapped or pan-based braais.

For consistency and sustainability, source your seafood from trusted suppliers—quality makes all the difference when it hits the flames.

Pro Tip #2: Master the Marinade

Hospitality chefs know that seasoning is everything. Create house marinades that complement the fish’s natural flavours. A mix of lemon juice, garlic, fresh herbs, olive oil, and a dash of chilli works wonders for dorado or yellowtail. For snoek, traditional South African apricot jam blends beautifully with vinegar and black pepper.

Insider tip: marinate for 30 minutes to an hour—no more, or the acids may start “cooking” the fish before it hits the grill.

Pro Tip #3: Equipment Matters

Your fish braai is only as good as your gear. At Core Catering Supplies, you’ll find a range of commercial-grade braais, fish grids, and heat-resistant utensils built for high-volume service. Look out for:

• Stainless-steel fish grids – Keeps fillets intact and evenly cooked.
• Adjustable braai stands – Let you control heat exposure.
• Smoker boxes – Add a wood-fired aroma guests will rave about.

With professional catering tools, your braai setup becomes more efficient and guest-ready.

Pro Tip #4: Perfect the Cook

Grill fish skin-side down first—it helps hold the fillet together and adds a delicious crisp. Don’t over-flip. Let the fish cook most of the way on one side before gently turning. For whole fish, slice a few incisions along the sides to ensure even heat penetration.

Use your thermometer—an internal temp of 63°C ensures it’s cooked through but still moist.

Pro Tip #5: Presentation Seals the Deal

Serve grilled fish with grilled lemon wedges, herb butters, and seasonal sides. For an upscale touch, plate it on wooden boards or cast iron pans for that rustic-meets-luxury feel. Use garnishes like fresh dill, edible flowers, or pickled onions for vibrant colour.

Beyond the Grill: Boosting Guest Experience

Fish braais can elevate themed nights, buffet spreads, or plated menus. Consider offering live braai stations where chefs interact with guests—this adds entertainment value and showcases culinary flair. With the right setup from Core Catering Supplies, your outdoor cooking space becomes an extension of your kitchen’s excellence.

In the hospitality game, details matter. Mastering the fish braai is a skill that blends tradition, technique, and presentation—qualities that set great venues apart. With the right know-how, premium equipment from CoreCateringSupplies, and a dash of South African spirit, you can transform a simple fish dish into a signature experience.

Libbey Glassware, a name synonymous with quality and innovation, is making a celebrated return to the South African market through Core Catering Supplies. This reintroduction not only revives a legacy but also reinforces our commitment to offering durable, high-performance glassware to the hospitality industry.

A Legacy of Strength and Craftsmanship

Founded in 1818 as the New England Glass Company, Libbey has been at the forefront of glassmaking for over 200 years. With a move to Toledo, Ohio, in 1888, the company established itself as a global leader, pioneering advancements in durability and manufacturing efficiency.

What set Libbey apart, and what still defines it today, is its extraordinary strength. When Core first introduced Libbey glassware to South Africa over 20 years ago, it came with a higher price point—not just for its premium quality, but because of the unmatched durability that allowed the brand to offer a chip warranty. To prove its resilience, we didn’t just talk about it—we demonstrated it. At trade shows and expos, Core representatives would bash Libbey glasses on tables and even stand on them to showcase their strength. The result? Wide-eyed amazement and a growing demand for one of the most durable glassware ranges on the market.

From a Tough Start to a Hospitality Favourite

Breaking into the South African market took time, but once hospitality professionals saw the value of investing in glassware that lasted longer and looked great, Libbey became one of Core’s most sought-after brands nationwide. With its chip-resistant quality, elegant designs, and long-lasting durability, it quickly won over chefs, baristas, and restaurateurs who needed reliable glassware that could withstand the demands of a fast-paced service environment.

Libbey Returns – Stronger Than Ever

Now, Libbey is back, and we are thrilled to bring this powerhouse of glassware back into the Core portfolio. Alongside our growing range of exclusive glassware, Libbey will once again be available to our customers nationwide.

Both Libbey and our expanded glassware collection will be available from April 2025—giving hospitality professionals access to the same high-performance glassware that wowed the industry all those years ago.

Stay tuned for more details as we reintroduce a true icon of durability and design!

Bridge on Bond Centre in Randburg came alive on 19 March 2025 as Core Catering Supplies hosted an exclusive Open Day, welcoming industry professionals, suppliers, and long-standing clients to experience the best in hospitality solutions. Despite challenges caused by the Ekurhuleni Metro Police strike, the event was a resounding success, filled with live demonstrations, networking, and plenty of great food and drinks.

Randburg is home to one of Core Catering Supplies’ flagship corporate branches, serving the greater Johannesburg hospitality and catering industry for nearly two decades. The past 2 years have been under the leadership of General Manager Antony Greene, the branch has recently welcomed four sales new team members, making this event the perfect opportunity to introduce them to the industry and immerse them in Core’s culture of service, expertise, and innovation.

As always, Core’s mission is to support hospitality professionals by providing top-tier products, fostering connections, and helping businesses grow. This Open Day was not just about showcasing products – it was about building relationships, supporting local suppliers, and celebrating the industry as a whole.

Live Demos & Supplier Highlights

Guests were treated to live cooking demonstrations, testing, and exclusive tastings from some of Core’s most valued partners:

• The Tramontina team grilled up premium picanha, paired with refreshing Caipirinhas, showcasing their high-performance cookware and boasting a freshly stocked section of the shop.
• The BCE  team were out in full force and demonstrated a selection of equipment including; ovens, coffee machine, waffle maker and tableware proving why they remain a leader in commercial catering equipment.
• Stefanie and the Socks team seamlessly worked alongside Mia from Delta Distillery creating an impressive mixology showcase, featuring a selection of handcrafted cocktails, mocktails and yummy milkshakes, bringing South Africa’s finest cocktail syrups into the mix, demonstrating how local ingredients can elevate any bar program.

Steytton Wines and Wilderer Distillery provided tastings of their award-winning blends, available exclusively through LiQ-Core Woodstock.

A Space for Innovation & Collaboration

The Randburg showroom and retail space has undergone a major transformation, making it more immersive and interactive than ever before.

Guests were invited to Experience the new-look showroom—a fresh, modern space designed for inspiration and be served at Core’s newly branded mobile bar, a perfect addition for events, activations, and special functions. Core is open to collaborations, so if you’d like to partner with us, let’s talk!

Giving Back & Supporting Industry Growth

Core Catering Supplies is built on partnerships—not just with top global brands, but with local businesses, artisans, and rising entrepreneurs.

One highlight of the event was Core’s sponsor of a Marola blender to Mia from Delta Distillery, supporting her to demonstrate high-quality equipment to clients. Another familiar face, Saskia from Saskia Interiors, joined in, bringing her design expertise and signature energy—a long-standing Core partner whose vision has helped shape many of our showroom aesthetics and retail spaces.

These collaborations reflect Core’s deep-rooted belief that supporting local businesses and fostering industry connections is just as important as working with international brands.

Exclusive Brands & Hospitality Solutions

Core Catering Supplies Randburg continues to provide top-tier products from local and globally trusted brands, including:

• Marola – Elegant, durable hospitality essentials, blending affordability with quality for high-volume use.
• Steelite International – Award-winning ceramic tableware, recognized for sustainability, durability, and timeless design, backed by a lifetime edge-chip warranty.
• FuchsThaler Cutlery – Core’s in-house cutlery range, offering cost-effective, stylish, and durable solutions for everyday hospitality needs.
• HEPP Cutlery – Luxury German cutlery, known for precision craftsmanship, sustainable production, and fine dining appeal.
• Leerdam Crisal Glass – Featuring both ONIS and Royal Leerdam, this high-clarity European glassware combines innovative design with classic elegance, perfect for bars and restaurants.
• Libbey Glassware – A bold and durable drinkware brand with over 200 years of innovation, built for high-volume hospitality environments.
• APS Buffetware – Stylish, modular, and functional buffet displays, setting the benchmark for contemporary food presentation.

More Events to Come!

This Randburg Open Day was just the beginning. Core Catering Supplies will continue to host events across the country, bringing together industry professionals, innovative products, and global hospitality trends.

Connect with us on Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn to Stay tuned for upcoming industry events & exclusive promotions!

#CoreCateringSuppliesRandburg #ShowroomOpenDay #HospitalitySupplies #CateringEquipment #SouthAfricanHospitality #RandburgHospitality #CoreFranchise #SouthAfrica #BCE #PrefferedSupplier #LaMotte #Steytton #LiQCore #APSBuffetware #ONISGlassware #HEPPCutlery  #ExclusiveBrand #SouthernAfricanDistribution #TeamSpirit

A Day of Hospitality & Innovation

With strong representation from Head Office Directors and team members, the event highlighted Core’s dedication to supporting its franchisees and fostering collaboration across all branches. The Hermanus team was in full force, engaging with customers, providing product insights, and securing orders and quotes for exciting new ranges, including the latest APS Buffetware displays.

Live Demonstrations & Delicious Tastings

A highlight of the day was a live product demonstration by BCE, one of Core’s preferred suppliers, showcasing an Anvil Belgium waffle machine and a multi-use Forge heavy duty grill station—offering guests a firsthand look at the efficiency and performance of these top-tier appliances and some yummy snacks!

The event also celebrated local flavors, with guests enjoying a selection of La Motte wines and the award winning Chardonnay-Pinot Noir blend from Steytton, available via Core’s sister company, LiQ-Core at our Woodstock branch. This emphasis on pairing premium hospitality supplies with exceptional food and drink experiences reflects Core’s ongoing commitment to elevating industry standards.

Strengthening Hospitality in Hermanus

As one of South Africa’s most scenic coastal hospitality hubs, Hermanus is an ideal location for Core’s continued growth. Positioned strategically along the R43 coastal route, the town serves as a key link between Cape Town, the Overberg region, and the Garden Route, making it an essential destination for hoteliers, restaurateurs, and hospitality-driven businesses.

The Showroom Open Day reaffirmed Core’s role as a trusted hospitality supplier, dedicated to introducing innovative products, strengthening industry partnerships, and delivering premium service to businesses across the region.

Visit Core Catering Supplies Hermanus

With a curated range of local and international hospitality brands, Core Hermanus is well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of the hospitality and food service industry. Whether you’re looking for high-performance catering equipment, stylish buffetware, or premium glassware and cutlery, our Hermanus team is ready to assist.

#CoreCateringSuppliesHermanus #ShowroomOpenDay #HospitalitySupplies #CateringEquipment #SouthAfricanHospitality #HermanusHospitality #CoreFranchise #WesternCape #SouthAfrica #BCE #PrefferedSupplier #LaMotte #Steytton #LiQCore #APSBuffetware #ONISGlassware #HEPPCutlery  #ExclusiveBrand #SouthernAfricanDistribution #TeamSpirit

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, starting on February 28, 2025, the hospitality industry is gearing up to accommodate the unique needs and preferences of guests observing this significant period. Ramadan is a time of reflection, fasting, and community, and it presents a valuable opportunity for hospitality professionals to improve guest experiences through thoughtful services and offerings.

According to the New York Times, Ramadan, the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar, begins at different times across various countries – some starting on Monday, while others mark it on Tuesday. This difference arises from how Islamic authorities in each region determine the sighting of the new moon, which signals the start of the holy month.

The timing of Ramadan follows the Hijri calendar, a lunar-based system where each month starts with the first sighting of the crescent moon. Because this observation depends on factors like visibility conditions, regional traditions, and the methods used to confirm the sighting, the exact beginning of Ramadan can vary from one location to another. These centuries-old customs continue to shape how Muslim communities worldwide commence their month of fasting, prayer, and reflection.

Focus on Suhoor and Iftar Services

During Ramadan, two primary meals are observed: Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal (generally around 5:00 am), and Iftar, the meal to break the fast (generally around 6:00 – 8:00 pm) at sunset. Providing well-planned Suhoor and Iftar services is essential. This includes offering diverse menus that cater to both traditional and modern tastes, ensuring meals are available at appropriate times, and creating a communal dining atmosphere that fosters a sense of togetherness.

Incorporating Cultural and Religious Sensitivities

Understanding and respecting the cultural and religious practices associated with Ramadan is crucial. This involves training staff on appropriate greetings, being mindful of fasting guests during daylight hours, and providing designated prayer spaces, as well as simply switching off loud music/TV noise for just 15-20 min for customers to break their fast. Such considerations display inclusivity, making the guest experience more comfortable and respectful.

Health-Conscious and Sustainable Menu Options

With a growing emphasis on health and sustainability, offering nutritious and eco-friendly menu options is becoming increasingly important. Incorporating plant-based dishes, sourcing local ingredients, and minimizing food waste align with current food and beverage trends in the Middle East. This approach not only appeals to health-conscious guests but also reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

Ramadan is a time of giving and community. Hospitality establishments can engage in social responsibility initiatives such as organizing charity events, partnering with local organizations to provide meals for those in need, or hosting community Iftar gatherings. These actions not only contribute positively to the community but also strengthen the establishment’s reputation and guest loyalty.

Inclusive and Diverse Offerings

Recognizing the diverse backgrounds of guests, and offering inclusive services is vital. This includes providing prayer facilities, accommodating dietary restrictions, and creating family-friendly environments. Ensuring that all guests feel welcome and respected improves their overall experience and encourages repeat visits.

By incorporating these trends into your hospitality offerings during Ramadan, you can make a lasting impression on guests and position your establishment as a thoughtful and culturally aware destination. Focusing on personalized service, cultural sensitivity, and community engagement will help create meaningful and memorable experiences for your guests during this special time.

Spending time with Joke Gonggrijp, co-owner of several of Hermanus’ most beloved establishments, it’s clear that energy, vision, and a mission to create exceptional experiences are at the heart of everything she does. Together with her family, she has built a thriving hospitality business, transforming overlooked spaces into some of the town’s most sought-after destinations along the southern coast of the Western Cape.

One of the first ventures was Dutchies, a beachfront eatery that has evolved from a simple takeaway into a beautifully expanded restaurant. With ocean and mountain views and a fresh menu including sushi, seafood and some dutch speciality dishes, it has become a local and international favorite, known for its relaxed yet polished atmosphere—and, as one Dutch guest put it, “the best bitterballen in town.”

Then came Ficks Pool Restaurant, a bold vision led by Daan, the creative force behind the businesses. What was once just a rocky outcrop and unusable toilet block is now a breathtaking sundowner spot, dramatically clinging to the cliffs. Many doubted its viability, but against all odds, Ficks opened in December 2019—just months before the world shut down.

When the pandemic hit, the hospitality sector was one of the hardest affected, in South Africa and the world over. Many businesses didn’t survive, but with resilience, adaptability, and strong partnerships, Joke and her family pushed through. Core Catering Supplies’ Hermanus franchise played a key role, ensuring a steady supply chain during uncertain times.

During lockdown, sourcing fresh bread became a challenge. While searching for a supplier, Daan had a bold idea: “Why not open our own bakery?” Though launching a new business in a crisis seemed impossible, Daan’s Bakery was born. Starting with one baker in a small space, it has since grown to a team of five, supplying their own restaurants, other businesses, and the wider community.

Perhaps the most meaningful of all their ventures, Only Specials is more than just a coffee shop. It serves as a training center for individuals with intellectual disabilities, giving students a work experience and a pathway to employment. Partnering with Camphill Village, Only Specials runs a one- to two-year training program aimed at securing jobs for its students. In December 2023, five of the first eight trainees successfully completed the program. One is already set to work at Dutchies, while others are securing placements. The goal is for Only Specials to be financially self-sustaining within two years.

Joke Gonggrijp: Passionate Entrepreneur and Catalyst for Social Change

Joke’s story is a testament to vision, resilience, and the strength of good industry relationships.  The Core Catering Hermanus team is proud to support their journey, supplying the products, service and support that help their businesses thrive.

From transforming  spaces to pioneering social enterprise, Dutchies, Ficks, Daan’s Bakery, and Only Specials showcase the impact of passion-driven hospitality. At Core, we are honored to support the people and places that bring these inspiring stories to life.

#CoreCatering #Hermanus #CustomerStories #HospitalityInnovation #EmpoweringCommunities #OnlySpecials #LocalBusiness #InclusiveWorkplaces #SustainableHospitality