KOPANO MONAHENG
RAIN or shine people have got to go out and have a little bit of fun.
This was the case at the packed to the rafters Newtown in Joburg.
It shows that there’s a strong love for kasi food and that events like the Jozi Kota Festival draw large crowds.
Xolani Machele, CEO of Kota festival, said the 2026 Jozi Kota Festival was a success. “Our biggest vision is to tell our kasi food stories and bring kota to the world,” he said.
This enthusiasm for local cuisine can be a significant asset for businesses in the food industry.
However, there are several factors that can influence the growth of these businesses, making it challenging for them to expand and hire more staff like larger chains such as KFC, Wimpy, McDonald’s, and more.
Kasi to Kasi people buy amaKota/Skhambane as they normally call it in other areas of Mzansi. These businesses are supported big time in the township, but are they thriving?
Here are a few potential reasons why kasi businesses may struggle to grow: Funding and Investment: Many small kasi businesses may lack access to adequate funding or investment opportunities, which can limit their ability to expand operations, improve facilities, or scale their marketing efforts.
*Business Management Skills – Success in the food industry often requires not just culinary skills but also strong business management skills. Small business owners may need training in areas like marketing, finance, and customer service to help them grow.
*Market Competition – While there is a strong demand for kasi food, competition from established brands can be fierce. Larger chains have more resources for advertising and can often offer lower prices due to economies of scale.
*Consistency and Quality – Maintaining a consistent quality of food and service is vital for customer retention.
Small businesses may face challenges in keeping up with demand while ensuring that every dish meets customer expectations.
*Supply Chain Issues – Sourcing quality ingredients can be a challenge for small businesses, especially if they are competing against larger companies that can negotiate better prices with suppliers.
*Brand Awareness – Unlike major chains that have widespread recognition, kasi businesses may struggle with brand visibility. Effective marketing strategies can help, but they often require investment and expertise.
*Location and Accessibility – The location of a business can significantly impact its customer base. A prime location may be expensive, and a less accessible location might deter potential customers.
So participating in Jozi Kota festivals and other events can help raise awareness and attract more customers.
Partnering with other local businesses for joint promotions or marketing efforts can also increase visibility and draw in more customers while also utilising social media platforms to showcase dishes, share customer testimonials, and promote events can help build a loyal customer base.
Owners of these eateries must start investing in training for staff in both culinary skills and customer service for them to succeed.
