Warren Hickinbotham, co-founder and organiser of the expo, said the focus is largely on exposing small, micro, and medium enterprises (SMMEs) to market opportunities.
“This industry is dominated by SMMEs, but many can’t afford to be at the expo. Sponsorship by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Standard Bank, the Small Enterprise Finance Agency, and other government entities has been critical to enable a platform [the expo] for so many small businesses.”
Exhibitors from across South Africa displayed their products for tasting, testing, and sale. The event also drew visitors and exhibitors from other African countries, including Kenya, Namibia, Lesotho, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Rooibos tea and garlic farmers, along with their wives who produce value-added products such as teas and soaps, were among the exhibitors. The exhibition hall also featured healthy juices, water, organic fertiliser, and a range of clothing and homeware items made from natural materials. Ostrich and sheep oil soap from Beaufort West was also on display.
The expo saw the launch of V Root’s new unisex vitality capsule and chocolate bar, which are designed to support vitality, libido, menopause, and male performance. Business partners Jeff Gradwell and Mandy Edwards from Knysna said they were happy with the strong interest from visitors, which led to immediate sales.
Industry growth and innovation
During the conference portion of the event, various speakers addressed the audience on topics within the organic and natural products industry.
Dr Adriaan Smit, managing director of the South African Gourmet Mushroom Academy, noted how the industry has grown since 2001.
“Back then, it was only button mushrooms, with little support from mainstream retailers. That has changed, with wider support and different types of mushrooms now grown and sold in the country,” he explained.
Local businessman Lufefe Nomjana, owner of Espinaca Innovations, is known in his community as ‘The Spinach King’. He recounted his journey from being unemployed in a Cape Town township to becoming a community garden entrepreneur.
Using spinach grown in several township-based gardens, he and his mother produce gluten-free bread for leading retail stores.
Hickinbotham concluded: “This is our third year in Cape Town, and we intend to continue here. Going forward, we’re looking to add an Eastern Cape event that will be more of an agriculture-based show. We’ve also been invited to Namibia and
