Author: Azhar Obaray

In March 2026, HOSTEX turns 40.

Four decades of ideas exchanged, partnerships formed, trends launched, careers shaped, and an industry that has grown, adapted, regrouped, and re-imagined itself many times over. For Core Catering Supplies, HOSTEX has been a part of that journey for more than 20 years. Not consecutively, not without pause, and certainly not without change, but always with intent.

This year feels different.

HOSTEX 2026 is not only a milestone for the show itself; it marks a defining moment for Core. We’re returning with our largest stand ever, one of the biggest on the exhibition floor, and the most ambitious presence in Core’s HOSTEX history.

A Show That Grew With the Industry

What began in 1986 as Caterex – a single hall at NASREC created to bring the readers of Professional Caterer magazine together, quickly became something much bigger. Rebranded as HOSTEX, the show evolved into South Africa’s most trusted hospitality trade platform, shaped by chefs, suppliers, educators, technologists, and operators who understood the value of meeting face-to-face.

Over the years, HOSTEX has mirrored the industry it serves:
hands-on, energetic, occasionally experimental, and always rooted in connection.

From the establishment of the SA Chefs Pavilion in the early 1990s to live competitions, product launches, and the evolution into focused industry zones, HOSTEX has consistently been about more than selling, it’s about learning, sharing, andopening doors.

Core at HOSTEX: A Longstanding Relationship

Core Catering Supplies has grown alongside this platform. Over the past two decades, HOSTEX has been where we’ve showcased new exclusive brands, introduced global suppliers to the local market, connected with chefs and operators, and even met future Core Franchise owners, all while listening closely to the evolving needs of the hospitality industry.

We’ve seen the industry through boom cycles, consolidation, reinvention, and the pause imposed by COVID – a reminder that nothing in hospitality should be taken for granted. Like HOSTEX itself, Core adapted. We leaned into digital, strengthened our national footprint, expanded our franchise network, and stayed close to the trade when it mattered most.

Returning to HOSTEX now, at 40, feels earned.

2026: Opening Doors, Setting the Bar

The 2026 theme, “Opening Doors,” couldn’t be more fitting.

For HOSTEX, it honours four decades of bringing people together.
For Core, it reflects where we are as a business – opening doors to new regions, new partnerships, new ways of supporting the industry, and new conversations around quality, durability, sustainability, and service.

Our 2026 stand will be the biggest we’ve ever built, not for spectacle alone, but to create space:
space to explore product properly, to talk, to demonstrate, to connect. It will bring together our exclusive brands, preferred suppliers, and Core team members from across the country, a reflection of how we actually work, day in and day out.

Why HOSTEX Still Matters

In an era of online catalogues, virtual meetings, and digital launches, HOSTEX remains irreplaceable. It’s where ideas are tested in real time, where operators compare notes, where young talent sees what’s possible, and where long-standing relationships are reinforced face-to-face.

That’s why it has lasted 40 years.
And that’s why Core continues to show up.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare for March 2026, we do so with a sense of responsibility – to the industry, to our partners, and to the next generation coming through. HOSTEX has always been about more than a moment; it’s about momentum.

We’re proud to be part of its past, present, and future.
And we look forward to opening doors together.

HOSTEX | 8–10 March 2026 | Sandton Convention Centre
Come see what it means to Enjoy the Difference – at scale.

Where It All Began

Desleen, known to many as Des or Dessy, began her sales journey at Core Catering Supplies in a telesales role with no prior experience in the field. Coming from many years in the restaurant industry, she entered a completely new environment that required her to adjust quickly. Moving into an office setting, learning product knowledge on her own, and competing in a highly competitive market were some of the biggest challenges she faced early on.

Despite this, Des remained focused. She pushed herself to learn fast, often relying on her own initiative and by watching others around her. Competition was tough, but perseverance and consistency became the foundation of how she approached her role. Following through and staying committed, even when things were difficult, helped her find her footing.

Her work ethic has always stood out. Des is often one of the first in the office and one of the last to leave, long after the doors have closed. For her, the extra effort is not about hours worked, but about ensuring her clients are taken care of and that nothing is left undone.

Growing Through Consistency and Service

As her product knowledge grew, so did her confidence. Being able to offer relevant knowledge allowed her to add real value to her clients. This marked a turning point in her journey, where things began to click. Des learned that success comes from perseverance, consistency, and always following through.

Over time, she continued to grow by constantly improving her knowledge, providing timeous feedback and quotes, ensuring deliveries ran smoothly, and sourcing the right products for her clients. Building relationships became central to her approach, with trust and service always coming first.

When asked about her success, Des does not measure it by sales figures or revenue. Instead, she measures it by how happy her clients are. Knowing that her clients are satisfied with both the service and the products they receive is, to her, the greatest achievement.

Impact as a Mentor

Beyond her success with clients, Des has made a meaningful impact by mentoring and inspiring those around her.

From someone she mentors: What stands out most to me is her determination and the genuine love she has for every one of her clients. She has given 19 years of loyalty to this company and has truly poured her heart and soul into her work. We look up to her ambition every day and pray that one day I can be even half the representative she is. I’m incredibly grateful to have her not only as a mentor, but as someone I truly admire.

Where She Is Today

Today, Des is a senior road representative and one of the most successful reps in the company. Her role is more challenging, involving increased driving and more face to face interaction with clients. Seeing clients in their own environments allows her to better understand their needs and provide more meaningful solutions.

Des is quick to acknowledge that she has not achieved this success alone. She strongly believes in the importance of having a supportive team around her, including operations and a strong backup sales team that supports and encourages her. That support plays a key role in allowing her to deliver consistent service.

She also credits Rolf as a key mentor in her journey. Through his guidance, she learned a great deal about dealing with clients and building strong working relationships. Alongside this, Des values learning by observing others and drawing from their experience. Her faith has also played a significant role in helping her stay grounded and motivated throughout her journey.

A Message from the Core Team

Watching Des grow has been incredibly rewarding for the Core team. Her journey is a true reflection of what hard work, perseverance, and consistency can achieve. She shows up every day with dedication, heart, and a genuine commitment to service.

We are proud to have Des as part of the Core family and proud of the success she has earned. Her growth did not happen overnight, but through persistence and effort. Seeing that hard work finally pay off is something we celebrate, and we look forward to supporting her continued success.

At Core Catering Supplies, we’ve always championed products that blend functionality with refined design, and HEPP’s PVD‑coated cutlery is a perfect example of this ethos in action. Whether you’re outfitting a boutique hotel restaurant or a high‑turnover dining room, the right finish can elevate the guest experience, and HEPP’s PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) coatings are crafted specifically to do just that.

What Makes PVD Special?

PVD coating is a cutting‑edge finishing technique that bonds a highly durable, visually expressive surface to cutlery and tabletop items. Unlike traditional plating or painting, PVD creates a resistant surface layer with excellent scratch, wear, and corrosion resistance – ideal for environments where items are in daily use and machine-washed.

HEPP currently offers five elegant PVD colour variants:

Gold

Pale Gold

Copper

Gun Metal

Black

Each colour brings its own character to the table, from striking and premium to subtle and contemporary.

Which HEPP Ranges Come in PVD Finishes?

While HEPP produces a broad portfolio of classic and modern cutlery collections, several key ranges are available with PVD finishes, either from stock or on order with standard lead times:

CARLTON

With soft, rounded contours and a timeless presence, the CARLTON range features options like PVD Gold and PVD Gun Metal Brushed, allowing you to match sophistication with personality in fine‑dining setups.

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PROFILE

Known for its minimalist and modern design language, PROFILE is available in PVD Copper, PVD Black, and PVD Gold, making it a versatile choice for both classic and contemporary table concepts.

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MEDAN

A refined range with gently rounded shapes, MEDAN has also been featured with PVD Copper Brushed and PVD Gun Metal Stonewashed finishes for a more textured, expressive look.

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CHIPPENDALE

Although traditionally known for classic silver‑plated looks, HEPP’s PVD offerings in this range include PVD Gold and PVD Black Stonewashed options, ideal for creating contrast or dramatic table aesthetics.

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ECCO

A versatile and durable collection, ECCO is now available in Stonewashed and Black PVD finishes. Its clean lines and reliable form make it ideal for high‑turnover hospitality environments seeking a modern yet classic presentation.

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TRILOGIE

Known for its distinctive three‑sided handle profile and contemporary appeal, TRILOGIE is now offered with PVD Gun Metal and PVD Copper finishes – providing a bold option for style‑driven table settings.

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Note: Availability varies by model and stock status; Speak to your local Core branch to confirm current stock and delivery timelines for specific pieces and finishes.

Mix & Match: Cross Finishes and Custom Options

In addition to standalone PVD colours, HEPP also allows cross finishes, combining PVD coating with surface treatments like stonewashing, brushing, or glass bead blasting, which can further enhance texture and depth. This gives hoteliers and restaurateurs even more creative freedom when designing distinctive table settings.

What This Means For You

For hospitality professionals, PVD coating isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about durability, design flexibility, and guest experience. HEPP’s expanded PVD programme extends these benefits across popular collections, so you can confidently specify items that look exceptional and stand up to daily use.

In busy hospitality environments consistency matters. Whether you’re running a high-volume restaurant, boutique hotel kitchen, or large-scale catering service, the ability to control heat, moisture and timing without guesswork is essential. That’s where PI.DOM ovens stand out, bringing intelligent kitchen technology into everyday use for chefs and operators across the industry.

At their core, PI.DOM ovens are designed around the idea that precision should be simple and reliable. Built on the long-standing Italian tradition of craftsmanship, the brand has evolved with technology that meets the exacting needs of today’s professional kitchens while staying true to the spirit of Made in Italy.

The Heart of the Oven Is Technology

What makes PI.DOM ovens different is not just the robust build quality but the way technology works with the chef rather than against them. Through continuous investment in research and development, these ovens offer features that help bring more control to cooking without unnecessary complexity:

Smart Interface

• Actions history
• Diagnostics
• Multiple user profiles
• HACCP function

Digital Control

• Fast and easy-to-use
• Cooking parameters
• Reverse rotation
• Multi-timer

Eco-friendly

• 2-in-1 Detergent formula
• 3 Washing cycles
• 1 Rinsing cycle

Programmable

• Settable recipes
• Product categories
• USB Interface
• Last recipe saved

What This Means for Hospitality Businesses

For kitchens where efficiency and reliability are crucial, technology that supports control makes everyday operations smoother. With PI.DOM ovens you gain:

• Repeatable results that reduce waste and staff stress.
• Consistent heat and moisture control that helps protect food quality.
• Smart features that free up headspace for creativity and service.

These qualities matter not just in fine dining, but across cafes, hotels, bakeries, and catering services that need equipment to perform day after day without compromise.

Explore more PI.DOM ovens

If you want precision and performance backed by thoughtful design and intelligent control, the PI.DOM ranges available at Core Catering Supplies cover a wide spectrum of professional needs:

• Evoluzione combi steam ovens with digital controls and programmable settings, available in multiple pan capacities.
• Marconi digital convection ovens with steam injection and uniform baking for artisanal and high-volume kitchens.

These ovens pair traditional Italian engineering with modern digital technology, supporting kitchen teams with tools that are both reliable and easy to use.

Grill O Steakery in Boksburg offers the kind of dining experience that stays with you long after the meal is over and it is easy to understand why it has become a favourite for so many locals. The moment you step inside you feel a sense of warmth and familiarity as if you have walked into a place that truly values hospitality. Their team works with confidence and ease creating an inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for a relaxed and enjoyable meal. Even before your food arrives the environment encourages you to unwind and savour the moment. For those in the hospitality industry it is also a reminder of how important reliable tools and equipment are which is why businesses like Core Catering Supplies are such valuable partners in helping restaurants consistently deliver excellent service.

Once you are seated the Grill O Steakery experience really begins to unfold. Known for hearty plates, generous portions and unforgettable flavour each dish feels carefully prepared and packed with character. The aroma of sizzling meat drifts through the air promising a meal that will satisfy both hunger and craving. Their steaks are tender and flavourful, their sides are well thought out and their menu offers a mix of comforting favourites and bold options for those who enjoy trying something new. Whether you are dining with family, catching up with friends or treating yourself to a well deserved meal, the food has a way of making the occasion feel special.

The staff contribute just as much to the experience as the food itself. They greet guests with genuine warmth, offer helpful recommendations and maintain attentive service throughout your visit. Their friendliness is effortless and their pride in the restaurant shines through in every interaction. It is the kind of service that makes you want to return not just for the meal but for the people who help create it.

Grill O Steakery is more than a place to eat, it is a place to enjoy good company, great flavours and sincere hospitality. If you have visited before what stands out as your favourite part of the experience and if you have not yet been what dish do you imagine trying first?

My name is Jacquline Elizabeth Rucker, and I am a 40-year-old mom, wife, and woman who has lived two lives: the one I knew before my accident and the one I live now on wheels. For 20 years, I worked in the hospitality industry. My husband has worked in this industry for more than 40 years. Together, we understood hospitality deeply. We believed we knew what it meant to welcome someone, to serve them, and to create a space where people could relax and feel valued. But the truth is, even with all our experience, we never really understood accessibility until life forced us to see it from a completely different angle.

Four years ago, my world changed in a moment. A car accident fractured my C3 and C4 vertebrae, leading to an incomplete spinal cord injury that left me a quadriplegic. I cannot move my legs or my arms. In the beginning, I felt hopeless. I felt like everything I was before had disappeared. I didn’t recognize my life, and I couldn’t see any of the strength people kept telling me I had. But slowly, through my children, my husband, and my own spirit, I began to understand something important: life does not end when your body changes. It shifts. It reshapes. It becomes something new.

I am still a wife. I am still a mother. I have four beautiful children: a young adult navigating independence, two teenagers learning who they are, and a toddler who approaches the world with pure innocence and curiosity. They are my reason for choosing to keep living fully. They still want to go out, celebrate birthdays, enjoy cake dates, have dinners together, and make memories out in the world. And I want to share all of that with them.

But the reality is that our experiences now depend heavily on whether the places we visit are truly accessible. My husband, who has been in hospitality his entire life, often says that if this accident hadn’t happened, we never would have noticed the things we see now. We never would have understood how different the world feels when your body cannot move the way it used to. We would have continued believing that a simple ramp or a wide door was enough. Working inside the industry gives you one perspective. Living like this gives you another one entirely. And only now, from this new view, can we truly see where hospitality often falls short.

My experience begins in the parking lot. I cannot simply step out of a car. I need stable, level, secure ground where my caregiver or family can transfer me safely into my wheelchair. If the surface is uneven, slanted, or cramped, that moment becomes frightening. Already, before I even reach your entrance, I am reminded of how different my world has become.

Inside, I rarely get to choose my table. A path that looks spacious to someone walking can feel impossibly tight for a wheelchair. I often end up placed near the entrance because it is the only spot I can fit through. My teenagers notice it every time. My young adult notices it. Even my toddler tilts their head as if to ask why we always sit in the same kind of spot. These are small moments, but they add up. They teach my children something about whether their mother is expected or welcomed in the world.

And then there is the human interaction, perhaps the most important part of hospitality. There have been moments when staff have spoken to my husband or my children instead of speaking directly to me. My husband, after four decades in the industry, sees it instantly. He notices the discomfort, the hesitation, the uncertainty. My teenagers see it too, and it affects them. My toddler, even without words, senses when I am being treated as if I am different. These moments leave a mark not just on me, but on the people who love me.

My family still wants to experience life together. My young adult wants to take me out proudly. My teenagers want to show me new cafés or restaurants they love. My toddler wants to sit beside Mommy while we share something sweet. I want all of that too. I want to be present in their memories, not limited by buildings that were not designed with people like me in mind.

When I look at the hospitality industry now, I see it through two sets of eyes: the eyes of someone who worked in it for decades and the eyes of someone who now depends on true accessibility. The difference between those two perspectives is bigger than I ever imagined. My husband often says that if this accident had never happened, we would never have understood how much change is still needed. We would never have questioned what accessibility really means. Now we see that accessibility is not just about meeting a standard. It is about creating a world where families like mine can enjoy life without barriers.

So when you look at your establishment, I hope you think of me. I hope you think of my husband, who has spent his life perfecting the art of hospitality, and how even he never noticed the gaps until we were forced to live with them. I hope you think of my children, who just want their mom included. I hope you think of the families you serve, the ones you may not even realize are struggling quietly because the world was not built for bodies like mine.

True hospitality is not just about food, service, or ambiance. It is about making every person feel like they belong. And belonging should never depend on whether someone can walk through your door.