Buy Local campaign continues to flourish on the KZN South Coast
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 06 November 2023 Buy Local campaign continues to flourish on the KZN South Coast The membership benefits of Buy Local continue to attract KZN South Coast businesses to the platform, with the exquisite private guesthouse, Villa Doré the latest addition. Local businesses are encouraged to take advantage of the free Buy Local membership extending until 30 June 2025 which unlocks a number of revenue-generating rewards. Located in Port Edward, Villa Doré is a private, self-catering guesthouse offering six en-suite rooms, a pool, a braai, and an entertainment area with a 180-degree view of the Indian Ocean. Established seven years ago, and nestled on a stunning banana and macadamia nut farm, Villa Doré is also the birthplace of the famous Green Banana Crisps. These are a healthy – and delicious – alternative to potato chips, made using green bananas and macadamia nut oil, and are sold throughout the KZN South Coast. “Buy Local is an important initiative as supporting locals allows opportunities for small businesses, without access to bigger markets, to showcase and sell unique products,” explained Andrew Doré, owner of the latest member, Villa Doré. “My personal experience of local support is phenomenal. The community that continues to buy our Green Banana Crisps has helped us expand into national health shops and food retail chains.” Doré said he strongly encourages others to become members: “…since a greater network of business realises synergies in the collective offering of products and services, improving the overall attractiveness of the region for visitors.” Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), welcomed Villa Doré to the Buy Local membership: “It’s so rewarding to see businesses across all our sectors joining the platform and enjoying the support that Buy Local offers. As Andrew Doré says, the more organisations that form part of this network, the better it is both for local businesses, and visitors to the area.” Buy Local Membership Buy Local forms part of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition’s (dtic) Buy Back SA initiative that encourages local business support. Companies that qualify for the Buy Local membership include those providing products and services of high quality, with at least 50% of the cost of production of products or services incurred within KZN South Coast. The business needs to currently create employment opportunities for people within the region, or intend to create such opportunities in future. Once signed up, Buy Local members enjoy extensive marketing exposure across all of SCTIE’s offline and digital marketing channels; business support and networking opportunities; as well as member credibility and valuable information sharing. Beyond the direct membership benefits, being part of the Buy Local campaign means enjoying a stronger local and national economy, while attracting more investment. This also leads to better community relationships as local value chains are strengthened. The Buy Local campaign continues to support the rural sector’s inclusion in the mainstream tourism economy by developing platforms and business connections for SMMEs such as those between crafters, farmers, and growers with retailers. To support the Buy Local campaign, find out more about members, or become a member, visit Buy Local on the www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za website or click here for a membership form. To find out more about these and more investment opportunities, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email info@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. To become a Buy Local member or find out more, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. Keep updated on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. Follow the hashtags #uncover #uncoverkznsouthcoast #uncoverpotential #kznsouthcoast! And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. /ENDS All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct image credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by Villa Doré) CAPTION: Villa Doré is also the birthplace of the famous Green Banana Crisps. About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Issued on behalf of: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: media@oliviajones.co.za
KZN South Coast coffee now stocked at vida e caffè across KZN
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 17 November 2023 KZN South Coast coffee now stocked at vida e caffè across KZN The South African coffee industry is fast finding its place in the global market with demand expected to rise from 10 million to 12 million tonnes worldwide by 2032. One coffee collective, with members from the KZN South Coast, is rising to meet that demand, and a partnership with vida e caffè will see Redberry Coffee supplied at stores throughout the province from 8 November 2023. “We would like to congratulate the Redberry Coffee Collective on this important partnership,” commented Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “The KZN South Coast’s agricultural sector is well-established, and it’s exciting to see new developments and investment opportunities emerging. There is a growing demand for quality coffee and the KZN South Coast is ready to deliver!” The latest seasonal blend of home-grown RedBerry coffee can now be found at vida e caffè, the renowned South African coffee brand. RedBerry is a 100% Arabica coffee cultivated by the RedBerry Collective emanating from the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, Zululand, and Mpumalanga. This delectable coffee has a rich and distinct flavour reflective of the South African landscape and the people who nurture it. RedBerry Coffee Collective, driven by Dylan Cumming of Beaver Creek Coffee Estate near Port Edward on the KZN South Coast, consists of close to 50 members nationwide. Cumming himself is a third-generation coffee grower, leveraging this extensive agricultural knowledge to meet the international demand, while also empowering local farmers. The collective supports start-up coffee farmers by providing agronomic services to strengthen the existing value chain. This commitment to sustainability extends to the ethical sourcing of coffee beans with RedBerry dedicated to a greener future. “We are very excited about showcasing our RedBerry coffee at vida stores,” says Cumming. “This is a massive opportunity for us to show the fruits of our work. We’ve chosen some of our best coffee from this season for vida, which is about 100 000 cups of coffee that people will get to taste of 100% South African coffee. There couldn’t be any better partner than vida e caffè.” Beyond its focus on sustainability, Cumming said several other factors set the RedBerry blend apart: “RedBerry is exclusively crafted from Arabica beans which are renowned for their superior flavour and quality and, being home-grown in South Africa ensures coffee lovers are enjoying the freshest and most authentic taste. We also have a team of skilled baristas who have meticulously developed the RedBerry coffee, guaranteeing a consistent and exceptional coffee experience with every cup!” Darren Levy, CEO of vida e caffè explains: “We are really proud to announce that in early November, people can visit our stores and ask for RedBerry. We have purchased the entire crop, which is still quite small. However, a lot more will be grown, harvested, and produced in the future. Not just for vida but hopefully for a wider market. We are excited by this opportunity to support our local farmers and for you to come to a Vida store and try RedBerry.” Beaver Creek Coffee Estate, a member of the RedBerry Coffee Collective, is not only a local producer of premium-grade coffee, it also forms part of the SCTIE’s Agri Tours packages, giving visitors an authentic, farm-based experience on the KZN South Coast. The Buy Local campaign continues to support the rural sector’s inclusion in the local economy by developing platforms and business connections for SMMEs such as those between crafters, farmers, and growers with retailers. To support the Buy Local campaign, find out more about members, or become a member, visit Buy Local on the www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za website or click here for a membership form. To find out more about these and more investment opportunities, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email info@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. To become a Buy Local member or find out more, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. Keep updated on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. Follow the hashtags #uncover #uncoverkznsouthcoast #uncoverpotential #kznsouthcoast! And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. /ENDS All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct image credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Issued on behalf of: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: media@oliviajones.co.za
Upgrade of Marine Drive will increase accessibility within the KZN South Coast
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 23 November 2023 Upgrade of Marine Drive will increase accessibility within the KZN South Coast The much-anticipated rehabilitation of Marine Drive which connects Port Shepstone with Southbroom is underway. Contractors are working tirelessly to ensure the road is open for use from 14 December 2023 to 9 January 2024, when construction will resume again. While this may cause some inconvenience for holidaymakers flocking to the KZN South Coast this festive season, the long-term gain will be well worth it for the future of tourism and investment in the region. According to contractors on site, there is currently a stop-and-go implemented, however, they will increase resources if necessary to ensure the road is open for the peak holiday period. The major construction work will be completed, making it safe for motorists to use, with only minor work to be done thereafter. “We would like to ask all our residents and holidaymakers to bear with us as construction continues on Marine Drive,” commented Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “The rehabilitation started in September, and is expected to last around 30 months, resulting in a massive upgrade to a vital network within the region. The plan is for the road to be open during our busiest time, but we do ask that all road users take note of the limited access outside of these times and use alternative routes where possible.” The project was launched by the Department of Transport MEC Sipho Hlomuka in June. Twenty-five kilometres of Marine Drive (the P395) is undergoing a R580-million upgrade. This will improve accessibility to Port Shepstone which is the area’s administrative, educational, distribution, commercial, and cultural centre. Mangcu said the duration of the construction meant it would coincide with peak holiday times regardless of when it started: “We are anticipating another bumper festive season, following on from last year’s incredible visitor numbers. We are so fortunate that our beaches are all open and safe for bathing, with the KZN South Coast also home to the highest number of Blue Flag Beaches in the province – a key indicator of international-standard safety and quality. We also boast two world-class dive sites, hinterland excursions, township tours, extreme adventures, and more, making this a top summer destination for families!” In addition to the tourism assets on the KZN South Coast, the rehabilitation of Marine Drive will also enhance the area’s significant investment potential across key catalytic sectors, including the Port Shepstone business hub, agriculture, renewable energy, and the ocean economy. These are all supported by the ongoing KZN South Coast Buy Local campaign which encourages support for local businesses. The membership continues to grow with free Buy Local Membership running until 30 June 2025. To find out about investment opportunities on the KZN South Coast, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email info@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. To become a Buy Local member or find out more, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. Uncover all the adventure on the KZN South Coast by downloading the ‘Explore KZN South Coast’ app, visiting the website, checking out the Events Calendar, the KZN South Coast Meeting Planner Guide and more! Don’t miss out on the action by following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Follow the hashtags #uncover #uncoverkznsouthcoast #uncoveradventure #kznsouthcoast /ENDS All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct image credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) Construction on Marine Drive. Margate Beach on the KZN South Coast. Construction on Marine Drive. Uvongo Beach on the KZN South Coast. About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Issued on behalf of: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: media@oliviajones.co.za
New Buy Local members extend rural and township tourism on the KZN South Coast
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 30 November 2023 New Buy Local members extend rural and township tourism on the KZN South Coast Tourism is the lifeblood of the KZN South Coast economy, and while significant strides are being made in various key investment sectors, there is still massive potential yet to be uncovered for tourism beyond the coast. Two new Buy Local members, Monate Outdoor Activities and Kasified Eksperience, are providing visitors with completely unique cultural and adventure experiences in townships and beyond. “There is so much investment potential in the township economy and we are so happy to celebrate the inclusion of new offerings such as the Kasified Eksperience,” Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “Likewise, our rural tourism offerings are showing incredible promise, with the tourism trends focused on nature-based, adventure activities such as those offered by Monate Outdoor Activities. By joining our Buy Local campaign, they will receive extensive support in the form of networking, marketing, and collaborations, further strengthening the sector.” Monate Outdoor Activities offers visitors great hiking trails, camping, and outdoor adventures with township packages on offer. In addition to extending the tourism offering, they are creating impactful employment opportunities for local tour guides. Founder of Monate Outdoor Activities, Mbongeni Mthembu, who recently received a recognition award for being a social entrepreneur from the Mangosuthu University of Technology, said the team ensures a fun-filled vacation: “We started in March 2020 and have continued to grow, offering deals on hikes, outdoor activities, and everything from township tours to the Margate nightlife.” Another Buy Local member offering dynamic tourism activities is Kasified Eksperience, a township tourism organisation which focuses on shisanyama and local events in Gamalakhe. They recently hosted top artists such as DJ Thukzin, and Khuzani & Mlindo at the Ugu Maskandi Music Festival. The team has also launched Kasified Extreme offering great outdoor experiences such as quad biking, paintball, and biking trails. Buy Local Membership Buy Local forms part of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition’s (dtic) Buy Back SA initiative that encourages local business support. Companies that qualify for the Buy Local membership include those providing products and services of high quality, with at least 50% of the cost of production of products or services incurred within KZN South Coast. The business needs to currently create employment opportunities for people within the region, or intend to create such opportunities in future. Once signed up, Buy Local members enjoy extensive marketing exposure across all of SCTIE’s offline and digital marketing channels; business support and networking opportunities; as well as member credibility and valuable information sharing. Beyond the direct membership benefits, being part of the Buy Local campaign means enjoying a stronger local and national economy, while attracting more investment. The Buy Local campaign continues to support the rural sector’s inclusion in the mainstream tourism economy by developing platforms and business connections for SMMEs such as those between crafters, farmers, and growers with retailers. To support the Buy Local campaign, find out more about members, or become a member, visit Buy Local on the www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za website or click here for a membership form. Invest in the KZN South Coast To find out more about these and more investment opportunities, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email info@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. To become a Buy Local member or find out more, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. Keep updated on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. Follow the hashtags #uncover #uncoverkznsouthcoast #uncoverpotential #kznsouthcoast! And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. /ENDS All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct image credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Issued on behalf of: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: media@oliviajones.co.za