5 minute read
Club 10 Taverns
from Spotong Issue 29
by 3S Media
LOVERS INN
Owner: Mangaliso Dlamini
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How did you get into the tavern trade and what challenges do you face in this industry?
I started my tavern in 1997. It was the only type of business that I was looking to get into and I waited for the right opportunity. I also really wanted to work for myself and I knew that I would be able to run my own tavern successfully. The main challenge that I am facing is the theft of my stock. I have a massive problem with stealing whether from staff members or patrons. I am really struggling with how to get the theft under control and I also battle with patrons who start fights in my tavern. I have had to hire extra security to ensure my patrons’ safety.
How has Club 10 assisted you in the running of your tavern?
Club 10 has really assisted me well. My patrons and I enjoy the events that I am able to host with them and I particularly love the display pieces that they send me for marketing. It brightens up my tavern.
What are your top-selling brands?
My top-selling brands are Heineken and Black Label. My patrons come for the ice-cold beers!
Do you have future plans for your tavern?
Yes, I do! My future plans include a big renovation in the near future to create some much-needed extra space.
THUBALETHU TAVERN
Owner: Nothile Dhlamini
Mangaliso Dlamini
Location: 38861 Freedom Square, Bloemfontein, Free State
How did you get into the tavern trade and what challenges do you face in this industry?
I started my tavern in 1992 all by myself. There was a demand for a tavern in my area as the other taverns are quite a distance away. Many people approached me to start a tavern as everyone in my area knows me and they wanted a tavern which they could have easy access to. A challenge that I face is the problem of crime. I have been robbed before and you just never know when you will be a victim of crime.
How has Club 10 assisted you in the running of your tavern?
Club 10 has assisted me with promotions which allows me to offer my patrons the very best deals and I also benefit from the discounts given to me which makes my money stretch more.
What are your top-selling brands?
I sell so much beer! I would say that my top-seller are definitely Castle Lite, Black Label and Heineken.
Do you have future plans for your tavern?
I would really like to redo the tiles outside! I am also planning to renovate and add more shelter outside – but only when the money comes!
Thubalethu Tavern Ladies
Location: 1060 Msane Street, Ezitendeni Area, Kwamsane Township, Mtubatuba, KZN
ODDFELLOWS HOTEL
Owner: Eneyew “Fifi” Geteye
How did you get into the tavern trade and what challenges do you face in this industry?
I bought Oddfellows in 2012. I operated another tavern previously but sold it. As soon as the opportunity came to buy another tavern, I grabbed it. I don’t have any challenges. I enjoy this business so much and my patrons do too. I have a popular tavern and it is always filled with patrons playing pool, or watching the rugby, cricket and soccer on the TVs.
How has Club 10 assisted you in the running of your tavern?
I have been a member of Club 10 since 2012. I enjoy the discounts, promotions and the marketing material that they send me. I am also the only Club 10 outlet in my area so that brings a lot of feet through my doors because my patrons trust the Club 10 brand.
What are your top-selling brands?
My top-selling beer brands are definitely Castle and Castle Light, and in the spirits range, my patrons enjoy Johnnie Walker Red Label, Old Buck and Smirnoff.
Oddfellows Hotel
As a tavern owner, how do you give back to your community?
I have been donating money to the local football teams for a long time. If any of the players need anything, I assist them. I recently purchased soccer balls and donated it to one of the teams in my area.
Location: 107 Cambridge Street, King Williams Town, Eastern Cape
BLUE HOUSE TAVERN
Owner: John Mayo
How did you get into the tavern trade and what challenges do you face in this industry?
I started my tavern in 2006. Before that, I was operating a tuckshop but my customers convinced me to start a tavern instead because we didn’t have one close by. They convinced me and I did it! The challenges that I face is maintaining the safety and security of my patrons and staff. I have upped my game and we screen and search each patron who comes through our gate. If we do find any weapons, we confiscate them and immediately notify the police. It is working and my searches keep the unwanted elements out of my tavern!
How has Club 10 assisted you in the running of your tavern?
Club 10 blessed me with a brandnew branded fridge which I am very grateful for. I also love the discounts and promotions – whenever I buy stock I always get a great discount from them.
What are your top-selling brands?
My top-sellers are Hunters Dry, Savannah, Hunters Gold, Heineken, Castle Lite and Klipdrift.
Do you have future plans for your tavern?
My future plans include building a cold room in my tavern for the beers to keep them cold. If I have a cold room, I will be able to buy a lot more stock. Beers must never be warm! I would also like to invest in air conditioners for the summer season because it gets so hot and then my patrons will be more comfortable in the heat.
