Author: Azhar Obaray

At Core Catering Supplies, we’re proud to work with some of South Africa’s most exceptional hospitality brands, establishments that share our passion for quality, care, and the art of creating unforgettable guest experiences.

One of those shining examples is the Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City, the flagship of the Courtyard Hotels brand within City Lodge Hotels.

Effortless Elegance and Genuine Warmth

From the moment you arrive, Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City makes it clear that luxury doesn’t have to shout. Instead, it’s calm, considered, and effortlessly elegant. Living by their brand’s motto, “The Soft Life Made Easy,” the team brings that promise to life through warm, personalised service and exceptional attention to detail.

Design That Tells a Story

Every corner of the Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City tells a story of comfort and intention. The interiors strike the perfect balance between contemporary sophistication and homely warmth.

From the calm, welcoming lobby to the perfectly plated meals in the restaurant, every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create a space that feels both luxurious and inviting – a true sanctuary away from home.

A Shared Commitment to Excellence

At Core Catering Supplies, we’re honoured to support spaces like this. Our commitment to providing premium hospitality products and professional service mirrors Courtyard Hotel’s own pursuit of excellence.

The glassware, table settings, and service essentials we supply are carefully chosen to complement their refined, modern aesthetic, enhancing the guest experience from the first sip to the last bite.

Why Relationships Like This Matter

Relationships like these remind us why we love what we do. It’s not just about products, it’s about being part of the journey that shapes exceptional hospitality. When a team like Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City delivers such care and consistency, it raises the bar for what it means to truly make guests feel at home.

We stay inspired by their dedication to living “The Soft Life Made Easy” and proud to play even a small part in helping them achieve it. After all, true hospitality is about people, passion, and those perfect little details that make someone’s day.

Running a kitchen or bar isn’t just about what happens in front of guests. It’s about what goes on behind the scenes. The way you store, wash, and transport your glassware, cutlery, equipment, and groceries can completely change how smoothly your service runs. Proper storage methods can dramatically reduce losses while ensuring your service remains efficient, hygienic, and professional.

Smart Storage: The Role of Rack Systems

If you’ve ever had to rewash clean glasses or found a few chipped ones right before service, you’ll know how valuable proper storage really is. Cambro racks are made from durable, high-temperature-resistant plastic and designed with clever compartments that keep each glass safe and secure. The open interior allows for thorough washing, while the closed outer walls protect everything from dust, dirt, and unnecessary handling. With different sizes and compartment options available, you can choose a rack that fits your glassware perfectly.

Add a Cambro cover and dolly, and you’ve got a sealed, mobile, and stackable system that makes moving between wash-up and service areas effortless.

• Reduce breakage: enclosed racks prevent glass-on-glass contact
• Save labour: stored glasses stay dust-free and ready for service
• Cut waste: fewer damaged items and less re-washing

Handling and Hygiene Practices

Good storage isn’t just about keeping things tidy. It’s about protecting your investment and maintaining hygiene. When everything has its place, there’s less risk of breakage, less time wasted searching for items, and a lot more confidence during those busy service rushes. Systems like the Camrack make life easier by letting you wash, store, and serve directly from the same rack, saving time and reducing unnecessary handling. Train your team to:

• Carry racks from the base, never the edges
• Avoid stacking above shoulder height
• Let glasses air-dry fully before storage
• Clean racks regularly and replace cracked dividers

Overall Cost Savings

Layout and Workflow

Set up a dedicated glassware zone separate from heavy equipment and chemicals. Keep racks on wheeled dollies or sturdy shelving for easy mobility. Position this zone near your dishwashing area but away from busy traffic routes to minimise the chance of accidents.

Use the Edition 13 Catalogue Glass Rack Guide

Our brand-new Edition 13 Catalogue features a Glass Rack and Compartment Guide in the glassware section, an invaluable tool for hospitality professionals.

How confident are you in your current storage setup? Are your glasses, utensils, and equipment truly protected and ready for service, or could a smarter system help your next shift run even better?

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Browse the glassware section of our new Edition 13 Core Catalogue

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As Halloween increasingly gains foothold in South Africa’s social calendar, hospitality operators – from hotels and restaurants to event venues and catering companies – are presented with creative opportunities to engage guests in seasonal programming. But doing Halloween “well” requires more than a veneer of cobwebs and skeletons: it demands narrative, logistical precision, and sensitivity to local context. In this article, we explore trends, exemplary events around the country, challenges and best practices to inspire your own Halloween activations.

Context & Consumer Appetite

Why this matters to hospitality operators
Halloween, once a niche or novelty event in South Africa, is steadily being embraced – particularly in urban centers and among younger demographics – providing a seasonal anchor for thematic marketing and guest engagement.

Though trick-or-treating in the street is rare (largely due to safety concerns), Halloween in South Africa is often expressed through curated events (film festivals, haunted walks, dinner parties, costume nights) rather than casual door-to-door participation.

Halloween is no longer a fringe novelty in South Africa – it’s evolving into a recognized cultural moment offering imaginative space for hospitality brands to tell stories, deepen guest connection, and drive incremental revenue. The keys to success lie in balancing atmosphere with operational control, integrating F&B and décor thoughtfully, and aligning with local sensitivities.

If your venue or catering operation is exploring Halloween programming this year, think beyond gimmicks: treat it as a narrative arc, with modular layers for different guest types, and partner with trusted suppliers (like Core Catering Supplies) for themed serveware to bring your vision to life.

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HospitalityTrends #HalloweenCatering #ExperientialEvents #CapeTownHalloween #JoburgHaunted #SpookySeasonSA

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In today’s competitive hospitality world, presentation has become just as important as taste. Therefore, chefs and restaurateurs are constantly exploring new ways to make desserts memorable. The Onis Endura range of glassware, available from Core Catering Supplies, offers a stylish yet practical way to serve desserts that impress both visually and textually.

Designed with busy service environments in mind, the Endura collection combines laser-cut rims for a refined lip feel with reinforced construction for lasting durability. As a result, it stands up beautifully to high-volume use while maintaining an air of sophistication. Moreover, these glasses are not just for drinks – they create a perfect stage for imaginative dessert presentations.

Why Glassware Matters in Dessert Service

In the professional kitchen, every detail contributes to the guest experience. Consequently, glassware has evolved from being a simple vessel to a key part of dessert presentation. With the Onis Endura range, transparency, proportion, and design all work together to highlight the artistry of the dessert itself.

Furthermore, glassware allows guests to appreciate the visual layers – creamy textures, fruit colors, and delicate garnishes – before even taking a bite. Each piece in the range is balanced for comfort, ensuring it feels right in the hand while looking effortlessly elegant on the table. In short, it merges practicality with visual appeal, a combination every hospitality professional values.

Dessert Inspirations for the Onis Endura Collection

The Onis Endura range adapts beautifully to modern dessert plating trends, blending visual sophistication with operational practicality. Here are a few chef-approved pairings to inspire your next menu innovation:

• Fruit Salad with Sparkling Juice: Bright seasonal fruits layered with effervescent juice bring a refreshing twist to summer service.
• Wine Jelly with Cream: A timeless European-inspired dessert that reflects sophistication and pairs perfectly with wine-focused menus.

Each dessert benefits from the clarity and sleek silhouette of Endura glassware, creating a sense of refinement without sacrificing ease of service. The synergy between desserts and drinks served in uniform glassware creates a cohesive visual language.

Occasions that Shine with Onis Endura

Hospitality professionals know that presentation should adapt seamlessly to the moment. The Endura range transitions easily across settings – from a casual family braai to a wine country lunch or a sunset garden event.

Because of its balance between durability and finesse, this glassware line works as effortlessly outdoors as it does in elegant dining rooms. Best enjoyed from lunch through sunset, the Endura range makes every occasion feel thoughtful and curated.

The Smart Investment for Hospitality Professionals

Choosing the Onis Endura range is a decision that combines design intelligence, cost-effectiveness, and operational efficiency. For chefs, caterers, and restaurateurs aiming to create memorable dessert presentations without compromising on practicality, this glassware collection offers lasting value.

With the trusted quality of Core Catering Supplies, professionals can access the full Onis Endura range, backed by product expertise and reliable service.

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Introduction: Bringing Sustainability to South Africa

Since 2020, Core Catering Supplies has been the sole distributor of APS Germany in South Africa, giving local hotels, restaurants, and catering professionals access to one of Europe’s most innovative and environmentally conscious brands. At Core Catering, we focus on suppliers who not only deliver quality and design but also actively reduce their environmental impact. APS exemplifies this approach, offering products that minimize waste, extend lifespans, and encourage sustainable practices in every aspect of hospitality.

Sustainability as a Business Priority

For hospitality businesses today, sustainability is more than a trend – it is essential. APS demonstrates that environmental responsibility and innovation can coexist. Their products help reduce waste, lower energy consumption, and support ethical sourcing, allowing businesses to meet environmental goals while maintaining efficiency and style.

APS Germany: A German Brand with Global Responsibility

APS is known for its commitment to quality, design, and sustainable practices. While production takes place at multiple sites, the brand ensures strict environmental and ethical standards throughout its operations. By focusing on durability, efficient manufacturing, and responsible materials, APS provides solutions that help the hospitality industry operate more sustainably worldwide.

Durable, Long-Lasting Products

APS designs products with longevity in mind. Melamine buffetware combines elegance with resilience, reducing breakage and waste. Stainless steel and slate are fully recyclable, and washable cotton textiles replace single-use fabrics. By prioritizing reuse and resilience, APS enables hospitality businesses to cut waste and operate sustainably without compromising quality.

Innovation and Circularity

APS invests in energy-efficient machinery and highly trained staff to optimize production processes, reduce raw material waste, and maximize recycling. Their products are designed to be reused, recycled, or repurposed, supporting a circular economy and moving the hospitality industry away from single-use solutions.

Ethical Sourcing and Social Responsibility

APS is certified as a family-friendly company and a member of the Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI), reflecting a commitment to employee well-being and ethical supply chains. By adhering to German and EU environmental standards, APS ensures that every product is responsibly sourced and produced.

Reducing Waste in Hotels and Catering

APS products help hospitality businesses significantly reduce waste. Melamine buffetware minimizes breakages, slate and stainless-steel items replace disposable trays, and washable cotton textiles cut down on single-use fabrics. Modular, stackable designs reduce storage and transport needs, making operations more sustainable and efficient without compromising the guest experience.

Core Catering and APS Germany in South Africa

Through Core Catering, South African hospitality professionals can access APS Germany’s sustainable solutions. By choosing APS, businesses can reduce waste, lower emissions, and embrace environmentally conscious practices while maintaining premium quality and presentation.

Are You Ready to Lead the Way?

Sustainability in hospitality is no longer optional. With APS Germany’s eco-conscious solutions and Core Catering’s commitment to responsible sourcing, your hotel, restaurant, or catering business can reduce waste, conserve resources, and embrace a greener future. Are you ready to make choices that benefit both your business and the planet?

Every year, from 3 to 5 October 2025, the coastal town of Hermanus comes alive with the Hermanus Whale Festival. Indeed, it is one of the world’s only Eco-Marine Festivals, dedicated to the return of the southern right whales along the Walker Bay coastline.

For hospitality operators, this event is far more than a tourist curiosity. It is a concentrated period of higher demand, a branding opportunity, and a platform to showcase sustainability credentials.

Scale, Growth & Profile

The Hermanus Whale Festival typically draws between 75,000 and 130,000 visitors over its three-day span. The programming includes the Eco-Marine Village, craft & artisan markets, a street parade, live music and performances, the “Whales & Wheels” classic car show, a 10 km fun run, and marine talks. From modest beginnings, the Festival now commands international attention as a highlight of South Africa’s ecotourism calendar.

The scale and fixed schedule create a “peak window” with predictable surges. Advance preparation and capacity scaling are not optional, but essential.

Spiking Demand, Opportunity and Pressure

Many establishments employ dynamic pricing or differentiated packages (festival bundles, three-night rates, breakfast-included offers) to manage yield during the festival period.

The festival’s food courts and mobile vendor spaces are vital to satisfying guest expectations of diverse, high-quality event dining. This is a moment for suppliers like Core to step in and providing bulk cutlery, disposables, dinnerware, cold boxes, chafing, bar equipment, and other catering supplies.

Hotels can bundle whale-watching, local wine tastings, eco-marine talks, and festival event passes to differentiate. Hotels, restaurants, and event operators can leverage the festival’s marketing reach (print, social media, official festival partners) to showcase their brand.

Partnering with the festival’s conservation ethos strengthens brand positioning among eco-conscious travelers.

For a specialist catering / hospitality-supplier, the Hermanus Whale Festival offers a high-impact opportunity to strengthen partnerships, gain visibility, and cement reputation, not only of Core Catering Supplies, but the reputation of our trusted clients.

#corecateringsupplies #HermanusWhaleFestival #HospitalitySA #EventCatering #FestivalCatering #EcoMarineFestival #SouthAfricaHospitality #OverbergTourism #SustainableEvents

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New Franchise Strengthens Core’s Presence in Limpopo

Core Catering Supplies is proud to announce the opening of its newest franchise in Hoedspruit, Limpopo Province. Building on the success of Core Mbombela, which launched in 2024, franchise owner Michelle Schnepel and her team are extending their expertise and service into another key hospitality hub.

The Hoedspruit store officially opened its doors on Tuesday, 16th September 2025 with an Open Day that showcased the very best of Core’s offering and community spirit.

Guests began arriving before the official 9am start, eager to explore the new store and its extensive stockholding. The shop is bursting with displays from  preferred suppliers Tramontina and BCE, alongside a diverse range of Core’s Exclusive Brands —giving the hospitality trade, caterers, and even domestic enthusiasts a clear sense of the quality and variety available daily, or on pre-order.

Throughout the day, refreshments flowed thanks to Slo Jo and CaterMarket, with waffles, coffee frezzo, fruity slushies, and more delighting visitors. Local catering and bar service provider Buntu Kitchen kept the energy high with freshly prepared snacks, while the late afternoon turned into a lively networking session with gin cocktails, wine, soft drinks, and sparkling water flowing. Music carried across Zandspruit Boulevard and into the new three-story building that houses both Core and Michem Hoedspruit in one store.

With its bar, balcony overlooking a wildlife reserve, and an adjoining amphitheatre space, the venue made a strong impression on local industry professionals—many of whom manage or operate some of the region’s most prestigious global lodges and thriving independent businesses. The feedback was unanimous: this new addition to Hoedspruit is a welcome boost for the local hospitality community.

Why Hoedspruit?

Known as the “gateway to the Kruger,” Hoedspruit sits at the heart of Limpopo’s eco-tourism and hospitality sector. With its proximity to private game reserves, luxury lodges, and the Kruger National Park, the town is a vibrant and growing destination for both domestic and international visitors. Hospitality businesses here require reliable, top-quality suppliers—and Core is stepping in to meet that demand.

As Michelle explains:

“With Core Hoedspruit alongside our long-standing Michem business, we can now offer our combined client base even more choice, quality, and consistency. Together with our Mbombela branch, this expansion allows us to serve the region more effectively than ever – providing everything from everyday essentials to world-class hospitality brands.”

 Core Exclusive Brands

\Core Hoedspruit showcases the full suite of Exclusive Global Brands, trusted by hospitality professionals nationwide:

• Steelite International – Award-winning ceramic tableware, crafted for durability and sustainability.
  
• ONIS & Royal Leerdam (Leerdam Crisal Glass) – European glassware leaders with a focus on design, clarity, and eco-conscious production.
  
• Libbey – Over 200 years of innovation in durable, stylish glassware for hospitality.
  
• APS Germany – Modular buffetware and display solutions for every dining occasion.
  
• HEPP Germany – Precision-engineered cutlery, designed for luxury and fine dining.
  
• FuchsThaler – Core’s in-house cutlery brand, combining affordability with everyday durability.
  
• Marola – Elegant and versatile crockery for high-volume use.
  

These brands, along with Core’s preferred suppliers, ensure Hoedspruit’s hospitality operators have access to the best the market has to offer—backed by expertise and personalised service.

A National Footprint, Local Focus

Core Catering Supplies operates a national network of corporate and franchise stores, supported by the Head Office in Cape Town. From Hoedspruit to Hermanus, Randburg to Durban, this footprint ensures fast, efficient service while tailoring solutions to local markets. Our online platform further extends this reach, giving retail and trade customers access to Core’s full catalogue with the option of direct delivery and bulk discounts.

Join the Core Community

The Hoedspruit Open Day set the tone for an exciting new chapter, with strong attendance, sales and quotes generated, and invaluable connections made. Local industry leaders and small business owners alike expressed enthusiasm about the new store and its contribution to the community.

We invite hospitality professionals across Limpopo to visit Core Hoedspruit, meet Michelle and her team, and explore the full range of Core’s products and solutions. Whether you’re outfitting a game lodge, upgrading your restaurant, sourcing for a special project or hosting a dinner party, Core is here to help.

Experience why Core Catering Supplies is the trusted one-stop solution for hospitality nationwide.     

Enjoy the Difference.

In South Africa, the braai is more than a meal – it’s a tradition that runs through our culture, our kitchens, and our hospitality spaces. For chefs, caterers, and restaurateurs, it’s also one of the most authentic ways to connect with guests. Few experiences capture the spirit of togetherness quite like the smell of wood smoke, the glow of hot coals, and the sizzle of steak and boerewors on the fire.

At Core Catering Supplies, we’ve seen how a well-planned braai service can transform an event, whether it’s a hotel terrace gathering or a family celebration. It’s not just about serving food – it’s about creating an atmosphere where people linger, share, and savour.

Why Steak and Boerewors?

These two classics remain the backbone of any memorable braai. A juicy cut of steak paired with traditional boerewors delivers the kind of hearty, comforting flavour South Africans know and love. Add pap and tomato smoor to the table, and you’ve got the essence of home on a plate – something guests instinctively connect with.

What You’ll Need

For the Steak Marinade

• 4 rump or sirloin steaks
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• 1 tsp paprika
• Freshly ground black pepper

For the Boerewors

• 500 g traditional boerewors (one coil)

On the Side

• Pap (maize porridge)
• Tomato-and-onion smoor
• Fresh green salad or garlic bread

Method

Marinate the Steaks
Combine all marinade ingredients, coat the steaks, and let them rest for at least a few hours – ideally overnight. This step ensures the flavours develop fully while tenderising the meat.

Build the Fire
For authentic flavour, opt for wood such as rooikrans or kameeldoring. Let the flames burn down until you have glowing coals – this is the secret to consistent heat and that distinct braai taste.

Grill the Steak
Place steaks over medium-hot coals. Cook 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting for thickness or preference. Rest the meat before slicing to lock in juices.

Cook the Boerewors
Lay the coil on the grid over medium heat. Turn gently every few minutes and avoid piercing the casing. Slow cooking for 15–20 minutes delivers a juicy, evenly cooked wors.

Dish Up
Serve the steak and boerewors alongside pap and smoor, with a green salad or garlic bread to round out the table. Pair with a cold beer or a robust red wine for a perfect finish.

Expert Braai Tips

• Avoid overcrowding the grid – good airflow and space improve the cook.
• If using charcoal, wait until it’s white-hot before adding meat.
• Resist flipping too often – let the grill marks and flavour develop naturally.

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When most people think of Oktoberfest, they picture overflowing beer steins, lively brass bands, and packed Bavarian beer tents. But for hospitality professionals, Oktoberfest is a masterclass in event logistics, cultural authenticity, and guest management. While Munich is the festival’s spiritual home, Oktoberfest-style events are increasingly popular in South Africa – from Cape Town to Johannesburg, drawing both locals and tourists looking for a taste of Bavarian tradition.

Here’s what hospitality experts can learn from the world’s largest folk festival, and how we can create successful Oktoberfest-inspired events in South Africa.

Why Oktoberfest Matters

Global Appeal: Oktoberfest attracts over six million visitors annually in Munich – proof of its pulling power. South African venues can leverage the same festive spirit, especially given the country’s beer culture and growing craft beer scene.

Cultural Tourism: When done authentically, events that celebrate global traditions attract diverse audiences. For South Africa, where tourism is a vital industry, Oktoberfest is an opportunity to draw both domestic and international guests.

Guest Experiences

Authenticity: Lederhosen, Dirndls, traditional Bavarian cuisine – even when adapted locally, authenticity matters. Pretzels, roast chicken, and pork knuckles paired with South African craft beers create a unique fusion.

Atmosphere: Bavarian décor, communal tables, music, and lively staff interaction set the tone. Hospitality staff must be trained to serve quickly, manage volume, and maintain the cheerful, high-energy feel.

Safety & Comfort: Crowd flow, sanitation, waste management, and weather-appropriate setups are crucial for outdoor events in South Africa.

Logistics & Operations: Munich Lessons, SA Context

Seating & Reservations: Munich balances reserved tables and walk-ins. For South Africa, pre-sold tickets and VIP sections can be combined with walk-in areas to maximize accessibility and profitability.

Payment Systems: Oktoberfest leans heavily on cash; in SA, reliable card and mobile payment systems are a must. Having both options avoids bottlenecks.

High-Volume Service: Beer steins, heavy-duty glassware, and durable crockery are essential. South African events can’t risk running short on supplies – procurement must anticipate high volume.

What Core Catering Supplies Brings to the Table

Durable, authentic glassware and tableware – beer steins, pint glasses, heavy plates, and cutlery built for high-volume use.

Food service equipment – from ovens and grills for traditional roasts to catering-grade refrigeration for beer and food storage.

Décor and event styling essentials – helping venues replicate Bavarian tent aesthetics with communal seating, serving equipment, and themed table setups.

Safety and compliance supplies – sanitation stations, waste management solutions, and fire-safety equipment.

Sustainable solutions – compostable disposables, eco-friendly serving ware, and waste-sorting options for greener festivals.

Opportunities for the SA Hospitality Industry

Seasonal Attraction: Hosting Oktoberfest in September/October fills a key slot in the SA events calendar before the summer season peaks.

Corporate Packages: Companies increasingly book Oktoberfest-style events for staff functions. Corporate hospitality can be a lucrative market for venues and suppliers.

Tourism Drawcard: Oktoberfest resonates with international tourists – a Bavarian celebration with a South African twist can become a signature annual attraction.

For South Africa’s hospitality industry, Oktoberfest is more than a fun, themed event. It is a case study in cultural celebration, logistics mastery, and guest experience.

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Known worldwide for its outstanding safari experiences, Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge shows how true hospitality leaves a lasting impact. With tools, equipment, and support from Core Catering Supplies, the Sabi Sabi team delivers service that sets them apart in a highly competitive industry.

Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge is more than a destination – it’s a retreat where luxury meets nature. In the heart of the Sabi Sand Reserve, the lodge invites guests to connect with the African wilderness while enjoying every comfort. Its design blends contemporary elegance with authentic African style, creating a space that feels both sophisticated and warm. From the spacious suites to the communal areas overlooking the bushveld, every detail immerses guests in the magic of safari living.

The lodge also delights guests with world-class dining. With equipment and catering solutions from Core Catering Supplies, the culinary team creates meals that celebrate South Africa’s rich flavors. Guests savor breakfasts after exhilarating game drives, elegant dinners beneath the stars, and traditional feasts around the iconic boma fire. Each experience reflects the lodge’s passion for quality, creativity, and unforgettable moments.

What sets Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge apart is its power to create lasting memories. Guests encounter the Big Five, share stories around a glowing fire, or relax in an atmosphere untouched by time. Families, couples, and friends leave with experiences that capture Sabi Sabi’s unique blend of adventure and comfort.