Core Mbombela recently celebrated its first year in business—marking a steady, purpose-driven journey of growth in the Lowveld hospitality sector. Under the leadership of Michelle Schnepel, a long-time entrepreneur and owner of Michem, the team has worked to establish meaningful relationships, earn client trust, and bring Core’s exclusive hospitality ranges to Mpumalanga with care and consistency.
The success of the branch is not Michelle’s alone—it’s a reflection of the dedication of the entire Core Mbombela team, who have committed to building a presence in a region that is both demanding and full of potential. Now, with expansion plans underway into Hoedspruit, the team is embracing the same collaborative mindset that has helped them find their footing so far.
Slo Jo + Core Mbombela: A Co-Trade Partnership with Purpose
A standout initiative from the past quarter has been the launch of an in-store partnership with Slo Jo, a leading South African beverage solutions company known for its wide range of syrups, bases, coffee products, iced drinks, and more.
Slo Jo places a strong emphasis on local production—a factor that brings significant advantages in both supply chain reliability and economic empowerment. While their premium legacy products are imported, much of their popular range is proudly made in South Africa, allowing for faster turnaround, regional relevance, and practical flexibility.
This partnership isn’t just a product placement—it’s a co-trade collaboration. Based from the Core Mbombela showroom’s branded bar area, the Slo Jo team now offers on-site tastings, product demos, and fresh cups of coffee or hot chocolate to visiting customers. The space also serves as an informal industry hub—a place where clients can meet, taste, learn, and plan their next menu move.
The same model is already being integrated into the upcoming Hoedspruit expansion, with cross-trade partnerships forming a key part of Core’s regional growth strategy.
Local Solutions, Expert Support
From flavour-forward concentrates like strawberry-orange-basil to nostalgic local blends like ginger beer (add your own raisins), Slo Jo’s range meets the needs of an evolving beverage market. The products are versatile—used in everything from slushies and smoothies to cocktails, welcome drinks, milkshakes, and desserts.
To help clients get the most out of the range, Core Mbombela also offers in-store consulting—helping hospitality businesses design drink menus, choose the right glassware or dispensers (such as from ONIS or APS), and ensure their bar or welcome station reflects both creativity and consistency.
Whether you’re looking to refresh your café offerings or elevate your hotel reception experience, this kind of hands-on support is part of what sets the Core network apart.
A First Year Rooted in Purpose
While Mbombela is a relatively new branch, the people behind it bring decades of experience and a commitment to growing hospitality the right way—through trust, service, and local investment. With thanks to our team, partners like Slo Jo, and the growing support of the local market, year one is only the beginning.
We look forward to serving more of Mpumalanga and beyond—with great products, expert advice, and partnerships that make a difference.
Visit us in store, grab a coffee, and let’s talk about how we can support your business.
Enjoy the Difference.
