Author: Azhar Obaray

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RANDBURG OPEN DAY: A CELEBRATION OF HOSPITALITY & COMMUNITY

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

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HERMANUS FRANCHISE: SHOWROOM OPEN DAY

The Core Catering Supplies Hermanus franchise hosted a successful Showroom Open Day this past Tuesday 11 March, welcoming hospitality professionals, local businesses, and valued clients to explore our latest product offerings. With season still in full swing in Hermanus, the event provided a relaxed yet engaging opportunity for networking, product demonstrations, and industry discussions.

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

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SHAPING TOMORROW: CORE’S INSIGHTFUL TIME AT AMBIENTE 2025

Core’s Annual Visit to Ambiente 2025 was another inspiring look into the future of hospitality and consumer goods. This year Directors, Olav and Robbie, attended from Head Office, bringing deep industry insight,  a passion for  innovation and trends with a clear intent to further existing and new business relations.

Ambiente Frankfurt—renowned as the world’s leading trade fair in dining, living, giving, and working—once again showcased cutting-edge designs and sustainable consumer goods. Held alongside Christmasworld and Creativeworld, the event reaffirmed its status as a global networking hub for industry leaders. The energy generated at Ambiente creates endless opportunities for interaction, synergy, and collaboration among global players, niche artisans, and decision-makers from across the distribution chain, including architects, interior designers, and project planners.

A standout moment was witnessing our exclusive brand partner, Steelite International, receive the Fine Dinnerware Award for its acclaimed Alina collection. With a blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian influence, Alina sets new benchmarks in tableware, embodying the innovation and sustainability that Core strives to bring to our HoReCa clients in South Africa.

Our visit once again identified and confirmed key trends for the year ahead. While global trends can take time to reach the Southern African  market, Core is committed to introducing new styles, state-of-the-art products, and exclusive brands with a strong focus on sustainability. We work tirelessly to ensure that our clients receive the best hospitality solutions available.

Looking forward, the next Ambiente fair is scheduled for February 6-10, 2026, with tickets starting from EUR 28 for a one-day pass, and free travel provided to and from the exhibition center. As we look ahead to Ambiente 2026, Core Catering Supplies remains dedicated to supporting the global movement toward sustainable, innovative, and culturally enriched hospitality. Together, we continue to empower the South African hospitality industry—one trend at a time.

#AmbienteFrankfurt #SustainableHospitality #InnovationInDesign #HospitalitySolutions #CoreCateringSupplies #GlobalTrends #FutureRetail #ExclusiveBrands 

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SUPPORTING WOMEN IN CULINARY: CORE’S COMMITMENT TO INDUSTRY GROWTH

At Core Catering Supplies, we believe in championing the hospitality professionals and industry bodies that drive progress, innovation, and inclusivity in our sector. One such initiative making a significant impact is Women in Culinary, a platform launched by the South African Chefs Association (SA Chefs) to empower female chefs, provide mentorship, and create meaningful career opportunities in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

For over 48 years, SA Chefs has been the leading voice for chefs, cooks, and caterers in South Africa. With a network of over 9,600 members, including executive chefs, restaurateurs, culinary educators, and apprentices, the association is dedicated to skills development, transformation, and elevating professional standards across the industry. Chef Coo, President of SA Chefs, is a key advocate for this mission, working alongside industry leaders to shape the future of South Africa’s culinary landscape.

Women in Culinary: A Movement for Change

The Women in Culinary Committee highlights key action points to bridge gender disparities, foster mentorship, and create more opportunities for women in professional kitchens. Beyond individual growth, it also focuses on sustainability and responsible menu choices, encouraging chefs to make a broader impact on both the industry and the planet.

At Core, we work closely with chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals every day. Many of our clients, suppliers, and partners are active members of SA Chefs, and we fully support initiatives that uplift and develop the industry. Core Randburg General Manager, Antony Greene, shared his thoughts on the significance of these efforts, saying, “This is an important initiative, and as a company, we can increase our support for the work being done to drive positive change in the industry.”

By aligning with organizations like SA Chefs, we stay connected to the evolving needs of our customers and ensure that we continue to provide the best hospitality solutions and products to professionals who rely on them. Whether it’s through mentorship, industry collaboration, or creating access to premium hospitality products, Core remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote inclusion and excellence in the industry we serve.

#CoreCateringSupplies #WomenInCulinary #SAChefs #EmpoweringChefs #HospitalityLeadership #CulinaryExcellence #IndustryEquity

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A FAMILY PASSION FOR HOSPITALITY

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

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BLEND IN SILENCE: NOISE-REDUCING BAR BLENDER

blend in silence: noise-resistant bar blender

Is the loud whir of a blender disrupting your customers’ experience? If you’ve ever had a customer flinch at the sound of a blender during their meal or drink, you know how important it is to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Traditional blenders can be noisy, making it hard for guests to enjoy their conversations or fully immerse in the ambiance of your space. That’s where the Marola 2.5L Bar Blender with a Sound Cover comes in – designed to reduce noise and enhance both the customer and staff experience. This game-changing appliance is perfect for restaurants, bars, and cafes looking to combine power and quiet, allowing you to deliver excellent service without the disruption of loud machinery.

Research shows that noise, in a hospitality setting, directly affects the enjoyment customers have, including their willingness to return to a particular venue.

Why Noise Matters in Hospitality Spaces

The sound quality of the environment you create for customers directly shapes their overall experience. This also impacts the customer’s enjoyment of everything your business offers, as well as the mood they hoped to enjoy when they chose to dine at your restaurant or bar.

An environment that emphasizes customer comfort will almost always make a good first impression on new guests and maintain credibility with returning customers. Controlling the noise in your establishment gives you more control over the customer experience and creates a work environment that considers the long-term effects on staff hearing.

Aspects such as sound quality, customer service, and cleanliness contribute to building trust in your business. If there are any errors regarding food or drinks, customers are more likely to overlook these issues due to the environment you’ve created. This leads to consistently positive reviews, which are key to attracting new customers and building credibility within the hospitality industry.

Read the article by the ICHRIE for more info on sound optimization in hospitality settings.

The benefits of noise-reducing Bar Blender Technology

Improved Customer Experience

In the fast-paced hospitality industry, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere is crucial for customer satisfaction. Traditional blenders can reach noise levels similar to a lawnmower, disturbing the dining experience—especially in open kitchens where guests are close to the action. A soundproof blender, with its insulated covering, significantly reduces noise, allowing for a quieter and more serene environment. Customers can engage in conversations without being interrupted by loud machinery, improving the overall ambiance. When patrons feel comfortable, they’re more likely to stay longer, return, and leave positive reviews, ultimately boosting your business reputation and customer loyalty.

Staff Efficiency and Well-Being

In a busy kitchen, communication is key to maintaining smooth operations. Traditional blenders can make it difficult for staff to communicate effectively, leading to miscommunication, frustration, and delays. With soundproof blenders, the noise is greatly reduced, allowing kitchen staff to converse seamlessly without raising their voices. This enables smoother task coordination and better overall workflow, enhancing productivity during peak hours. Additionally, quieter working conditions contribute to a more positive atmosphere for staff. High noise levels can lead to stress and fatigue, but when employees work in a quieter, less chaotic environment, their morale improves. A happier, more focused team translates into better performance, a cohesive work dynamic, reduced turnover, and improved efficiency.

Enhanced Brand Image

Investing in quieter, more efficient kitchen equipment speaks volumes about your brand. Using soundproof blenders not only improves the customer and employee experience but also shows that your business values innovation and comfort. This thoughtful approach to both staff and customer experiences helps create a positive brand image. In a competitive market, attention to these details can set your establishment apart, making it known as a place that cares about quality and well-being. By embracing noise-reducing technology, you signal to customers and employees alike that your business is modern, forward-thinking, and committed to providing the best possible experience.

Read more to learn about noise control.

Why Choose the Bar Blender with Sound Cover by Marola?

When selecting a blender for your hospitality business, performance and reliability are essential. The Bar Blender 2.5L with Sound Cover by Marola is designed to deliver both, ensuring that you can meet the high demands of your bar or kitchen while creating a comfortable and efficient environment.

Here’s why the Marola commercial bar blender should be your go-to choice:

Durability and Performance

Crafted with commercial-grade materials, this blender is built to withstand the demanding conditions of a busy bar or restaurant. Whether you’re mixing cocktails, smoothies, or sauces, the Marola blender delivers exceptional power and performance every time. Its robust motor ensures quick and consistent blending, while the noise-reducing cover minimizes disruption to your workflow. With this blender, you can confidently tackle any task, knowing it’s built to last.

Sleek, Professional Design

In addition to its performance, the Marola blender boasts a sleek, modern design that fits seamlessly into any professional bar setup. The sophisticated black color complements a wide range of kitchen and bar aesthetics, ensuring it looks as good as it performs. Its compact design also means it takes up minimal counter space, making it an ideal choice for establishments looking to maximize efficiency without compromising on style.

Energy Efficiency and Eco-Friendly Design

In today’s eco-conscious world, businesses are increasingly focused on reducing their environmental impact, and the Marola blender is no exception. The durable, high-quality construction ensures it has a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and supporting your eco-friendly goals. Plus, the quiet blending capabilities mean less energy spent on noise control, contributing to a more relaxed and productive environment.

Choosing the noise-reducing Bar Blender 2.5L with Sound Cover by Marola is an investment in both performance and comfort, giving you the durability, design, and efficiency you need to elevate your business.

Noise-Reducing Bar Blender
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Final Thoughts

Reduced noise in your bar or kitchen leads to key benefits that enhance both the customer and staff experience. A quieter environment creates a more comfortable, enjoyable atmosphere for customers, allowing them to converse without the distraction of loud equipment. Staff can work more efficiently in a noise-reduced space, improving communication and fostering a more relaxed work environment. Additionally, a noise-reducing bar blender helps elevate your business’s appeal by demonstrating your commitment to innovation, quality, and customer comfort.

Optimise your bar experience with the latest noise-reducing commercial blender by Marola. Explore our product range today and take the first step toward creating a quieter, more efficient, and customer-friendly space.

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THE APPEAL OF PVC PLACEMATS: A COLOUR FOR EVERY SETTING

PVC placemats have become a staple in the hospitality industry, offering a practical, stylish, and durable solution for table settings. With a range of colours available, each shade brings a unique appeal to different venues and dining experiences. Let’s explore how each colour can add to your hospitality space.

Beige

Beige PVC placemats exude warmth and subtle sophistication, making them perfect for cozy cafes, family-style restaurants, and rustic dining venues. Their neutral tone blends seamlessly with natural wood and earth-toned décor, creating a relaxed yet refined ambiance.

SHOP
60012 Black PVC Placemat

Black

Black placemats are synonymous with elegance and versatility. They provide a sleek, modern backdrop for tableware, making them ideal for upscale restaurants, cocktail bars, and fine dining establishments. Black works beautifully in minimalist settings and makes colourful or metallic tableware stand out.

SHOP
Blue PVC Placemat

Blue

Blue placemats bring a calming and inviting touch to any table. Their rich tones evoke feelings of serenity, making them a great choice for seaside restaurants, breakfast spots, or spaces aiming to create a relaxed dining atmosphere. Blue pairs wonderfully with white, silver, or nautical-themed décor.

SHOP
Platinum PVC Placemat

Platinum

Platinum PVC placemats add a touch of glamour and sophistication to table settings. Their subtle sheen and modern tone make them perfect for special occasions, banquets, or high-end establishments. Platinum pairs effortlessly with sleek tableware, crystal glassware, and metallic accents.

SHOP

Stainless Steel

With a clean, industrial aesthetic, stainless steel-coloured placemats are perfect for modern and urban-inspired venues. Their understated elegance pairs well with contemporary furniture and bold tableware, creating a sleek and polished look that suits chic eateries and trendy cafés.

SHOP
60015 - Silver Grey PVC Placemat

Silver Grey

Silver grey placemats strike a balance between modernity and subtlety. Their versatile hue works well in both casual and formal settings, making them a go-to for venues looking for a practical yet stylish option. They pair beautifully with cool-toned tableware and modern décor.

SHOP
White PVC Placemat

White

White placemats radiate simplicity and sophistication, offering a crisp, clean aesthetic for any dining space. They are particularly popular in banquet halls, weddings, and formal dining venues. White highlights intricate tableware designs and provides a bright, welcoming look.

SHOP

Whether you’re looking to create a cozy, elegant, or modern dining atmosphere, PVC placemats offer a color to suit every hospitality setting. From the timeless appeal of beige to the bold sophistication of black, these placemats provide the perfect finishing touch to complete your table settings while offering practical benefits.

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SOUTH AFRICA’S GROWING INFLUENCE IN GLOBAL HOSPITALITY, CULINARY, AND WINE

South Africa’s hospitality, travel, and wine industries continue to receive prestigious global and local recognition, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a premier destination for culinary enthusiasts, luxury travelers, wine connoisseurs and nature lovers alike. These accolades celebrate South Africa’s commitment to quality, innovative design, and uniquely unforgettable guest experiences, making it a beacon for both travelers and the global hospitality community.

Among the recognitions is The Inside Guide’s “The Hot List”, a curated selection of South Africa’s finest dining spots, artistic spaces, and must-visit hangouts. Such guides, alongside international awards, highlight the depth and diversity of what South Africa has to offer.

South Africa’s vineyards have secured their place on the global stage, with five estates earning spots in the World’s Best Vineyards Awards. Creation Wines in the Hemel an Aarde Valley in Hermanus (Western Cape)….the name translated in Afrikaans to “heaven and earth”, a very fitting name… achieved an outstanding 3rd place globally, also claiming the title of Best Vineyard in Africa. These accolades reflect not only the exceptional quality of South African wines but also the immersive experiences provided by the country’s wine estates—blending breathtaking landscapes, great service, locally sourced ingredients and decor, and unique hospitality.

In the hospitality sector, a luxury lodge in Mpumalanga province earned three global awards at the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2024, showcasing South Africa’s ability to deliver personalized, world-class experiences. These honors, alongside recognition at the Global Brands Magazine Awards, highlight the country’s ability to compete on a global scale and set benchmarks for excellence in service and guest satisfaction.

With so many Core branches customers receiving well-deserved recognition, hubs like Cape Town,  Johannesburg and Durban are celebrated as global hotspots for world-class establishments. Beyond these cities, hidden gems in South Africa’s other provinces also shine brightly, making the country a destination of choice for travelers seeking diverse and enriching experiences. It’s not just about existing clients; this moment is about celebrating South Africa’s place on the global hospitality map and the wider recognition of Africa as a must-visit destination.

Core Catering Supplies is proudly South Africa and proud to support some of the establishments celebrated on these global platforms, and equally as proud to celebrate those that have not yet received the recognition.  Core aims to provide a concierge experience for our customers, helping them make their businesses better. Part of that is offering a unique mix of trusted international names like HEPP for cutlery, Steelite for crockery, APS Buffetware, and ONIS glassware as well as innovative hospitality solutions.  We strive to provide our clients with everything they need to consistently deliver award-winning guest experiences. For those who haven’t yet partnered with us, we invite you to visit a Core branch or explore our products online—and experience how we help you “Enjoy the Difference.”

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THE TIMELESS CRAFT OF CERAMICS

Stoke-on-Trent, the historic heart of UK ceramics, has a legacy steeped in craftsmanship and innovation. Steelite International continues to honor this tradition by combining time-tested techniques with modern advancements to create ceramics that are durable, beautiful, and highly functional.

Forming the Ware

The journey begins with the careful selection of raw materials. China clay from Cornwall is prized for its white-firing properties, while ball clay from Devon and Dorset enhances plasticity. These clays, combined with feldspar and silica, form the basis of Steelite’s ceramics, ensuring strength, stability, and performance.

Steelite’s forming process employs advanced molding techniques to craft consistent, high-quality shapes. Each piece is precision-engineered to meet the rigorous demands of professional kitchens, while bespoke options allow for customization to suit unique requirements. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that every piece embodies both practicality and artistry.

Designing the Ware

Central to Steelite’s appeal is its commitment to exceptional design. Each piece is a collaboration between craftsmanship and creativity, with colors hand-mixed to achieve unique and bespoke finishes. Steelite’s design team works closely with clients, offering tailored solutions that reflect individual styles or branding.

From intricate patterns to subtle textures, the design process ensures that every piece is not only functional but also visually striking. This bespoke service allows hospitality venues to elevate their table settings, creating memorable dining experiences that align with their identity.

Firing the Ware

After forming, the pieces undergo a biscuit firing, transforming the clay into a hardened, durable state. Historically, firing relied on wood and coal in traditional kilns. Today, Steelite uses energy-efficient gas and electric kilns, which significantly reduce environmental impact.

The precise control of firing temperatures results in vitrified ceramics with extremely low porosity (water absorption ≤0.2%), ensuring that each piece meets the highest hygiene standards. This step is critical to creating ceramics that can endure the demands of professional use without compromising quality.

Glazing

Glazing is where functionality meets beauty. Steelite uses lead-free glazes that enhance durability while meeting rigorous safety and environmental standards. The glaze is applied to bisque-fired ceramics through dipping, spraying, or hand-painting, creating smooth, glossy surfaces resistant to wear and tear.

Refractory pins support the items during glaze firing, preventing imperfections on the piece’s foot. After firing, these marks are carefully removed through grinding, ensuring a flawless finish. Steelite’s innovative glazing techniques provide pieces that are both aesthetically appealing and designed to withstand frequent use in hospitality settings.

Sustainability and Innovation

Steelite leads the ceramics industry in eco-conscious practices. From energy-efficient kilns to recycling materials and minimizing waste, the company integrates sustainability into every stage of production. By blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative processes, Steelite creates ceramics that honor the rich heritage of Stoke-on-Trent while addressing modern environmental challenges.

Experience Steelite with Core Catering Supplies

Through its exclusive partnership with Core Catering Supplies, Steelite’s exceptional ceramics are now accessible in Southern Africa. Whether you’re seeking timeless designs, bespoke creations, or durable solutions for professional use, Steelite offers a perfect fusion of tradition, artistry, and innovation. Explore their collections and discover how their ceramics elevate the dining experience.

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CUSTOM BRANDING SOLUTIONS

In a competitive market, a memorable impression is key. At Core Catering Supplies, we provide customisable branding solutions across our premium hospitality and catering products, ensuring your brand is represented with the highest quality. Whether enhancing your restaurant’s ambiance, adding style to your café, or offering personalised corporate gifts, our solutions are designed to meet your unique needs.

Creative Branding Techniques to Bring Your Brand to Life

Our branding services encompass a variety of techniques, each suited to different materials and designed to make a lasting impact. From laser engraving on wood, metal, or glass items, ideal for barware and tableware, to embossing and debossing for adding luxurious texture to leather goods like premium menu covers, our methods ensure your logo shines. We also offer glass printing for custom glassware, a popular choice for restaurants, hotels, and special events. For intricate designs, laser cutting on wood offers a sustainable option perfect for eco-conscious brands.

Our past projects reflect the versatility of our branding services, from engraved and printed glasses, embossed leather aprons and laser cut chef knives for corporate gifts to custom bottle openers and embroidered linens for events and hospitality settings.

Customisation for Every Occasion

No matter the setting, our branding solutions are designed to meet a range of needs:

  • Corporate and Promotional Gifts: Show appreciation to clients and employees with branded gifts, from glassware to leather accessories, that leave a lasting impression.
  • Events and Hospitality: Enhance guest experiences at weddings, conferences, or hotels with personalized items like glasses, wooden signs, and embroidered linens.

For more information or to get started, contact your nearest Core branch or email us Support@corecatering.co.za. Let Core Catering Supplies help you make a lasting impression with branded solutions tailored to your vision

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DISCOVER HEPP’S CUSTOM TABLEWARE FINISHES

At Core Catering Supplies, we are proud to be the exclusive distributor of HEPP, in Southern Africa, a world-renowned German brand known for its craftsmanship and over 160 years of expertise in luxury tableware. HEPP offers an extensive range of bespoke surface finishes, allowing you to elevate the dining experience for your guests with sophisticated, high-quality cutlery and serving pieces. Whether you’re seeking timeless elegance or bold, contemporary designs, HEPP’s finishing techniques provide endless possibilities to personalise your tableware.

HEPP’s Diverse Range of Surface Finishes

Silver-Plating – Classic Brilliance HEPP’s silver-plating technique combines robust stainless steel with a fine layer of silver, using a galvanic bath to form a strong bond. This process imparts a soft, radiant brilliance, adding timeless sophistication to cutlery and serving items. A hallmark of HEPP’s reputation as the inventor of hotel silver, silver-plated pieces reflect decades of expertise and are perfect for those who appreciate tradition.

Real Gold Finishing – Pure Luxury HEPP offers the ultimate in luxury by coating cutlery with pure gold. This exclusive finish lends a warm, radiant glow to your tableware, turning each piece into a precious work of art. Ideal for establishments seeking to provide their guests with an unforgettable dining experience, the gold-plated cutlery exudes elegance and exclusivity.

Glass Bead Blasting – Timeless, Silky Matt Shimmer For a refined, subtle texture, HEPP’s glass bead blasting technique is ideal. By treating the surface with high-speed glass beads, the result is a silky, matt finish with understated elegance. This process creates an even, homogeneous surface, adding a sophisticated touch to any table setting.

Stonewashing – Distinctive and Rustic HEPP’s stonewashing finish brings a vintage, rustic charm to your table. Each piece of cutlery is uniquely crafted with slight variations in texture, providing an authentic, well-worn feel that is perfect for establishments aiming for a more individual and character-filled ambience.

Brushed Finish – Dynamic Elegance HEPP’s brushed finishes are defined by fine, consistent lines worked into the surface with a grinding brush. This dynamic, linear design adds modern sophistication to cutlery, enhancing any contemporary dining concept.

PVD Coating – Bold Color Accents For those seeking to make a bold statement, HEPP’s PVD coating process offers an exciting array of colors and textures. Using physical vapor deposition, this technique produces a durable, resistant surface with brilliant color finishes. Choose from HEPP’s elegant PVD variants, including gold, light gold, copper, anthracite, and black, to make your tableware truly stand out.

Cross-Grafting – Custom Creations For the ultimate in personalised design, HEPP offers cross-grafting, allowing clients to combine multiple finishing techniques for unique results. This bespoke service is ideal for businesses that want to express their individuality with signature tableware collections.

Personalisation and Customisation Options

Lasering

Stamping

Engraving

At HEPP, personalization is an art form. Monograms, logos, and bespoke designs can be incorporated into your cutlery through a range of techniques, including laser engraving, 3D printing, and traditional engraving. Each piece can be customised to suit your establishment’s unique style, ensuring your brand makes an impression at every meal.

Sustainability and Repair Services

HEPP’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond just high-quality products. Their reconditioning and repair services ensure that your investment in HEPP’s tableware lasts for generations. HEPP’s craftsmen, with their 160+ years of expertise, lovingly restore cutlery and serving items, bringing them back to their original beauty and brilliance. By opting for reconditioning, you save valuable resources while preserving the stories behind each cherished piece.

Selected Ranges for the African Market

At Core, we have carefully selected HEPP ranges that are best suited for the African hospitality industry. Each range reflects HEPP’s commitment to quality and aesthetics, and we are excited to bring these exquisite products to your table. To view these ranges check out our digital catalogue keeping in mind that we have access to each and every range created by HEPP if non of these suit your tastes..

Experience HEPP with Core Catering Supplies Whether you’re looking to elevate your establishment with luxurious gold-plated cutlery or opt for rustic, stonewashed finishes, Core can supply the full range of HEPP products. Reach out to us to arrange a consultation or request samples. With stores across South Africa, we proudly serve clients throughout Southern Africa, bringing the best of HEPP directly to you.