Lifestyle

Cater Creators celebrates fifth anniversary of culinary innovation

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Founded in 2020 by Shirley Johannes, the company has flourished from its modest beginnings during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to become one of Botswana’s leading catering firms. According to Johannes, having over 14 years of experience in the food industry, she steered the company through challenges, establishing it as a trusted provider for a wide array of clients, from large corporations to intimate family gatherings. 'The restaurant's journey began in 2020, during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. With no events to cater for and limited resources.

My vision faced an early test. We launched with no events to cater for and scarce resources. But we adapted,' she recalled. However, she explained that faced with that reality, the team shifted its focus to cake baking, which would prove to be the key to survival during those challenging times. She said cake sales sustained them. She added that they gave them immediate cash flow while they awaited catering contracts. That adaptability provided the stability the business needed and laid the foundation for future growth, expanding into gift packs and even opening a restaurant in Gaborone West. Over the years, Johannes said Cater Creators had gone on to secure significant contracts, including catering for the University of Botswana graduations, where they served 6, 200 guests daily, and managing the prestigious Makgadikgadi Epic 2023 event. She explained that their ability to handle everything from small, intimate gatherings of 10 to grand-scale events for 8, 000 guests underscores their operational excellence. She also pointed out that quality sourcing, reliable staff, and strict adherence to timelines were the cornerstones of their success. 'This philosophy has fostered long-term partnerships with government entities, hospitals, and corporations such as MRI Botswana, who trust Cater Creators to deliver exceptional service. At the heart of our success is an unwavering commitment to quality and safety. The company adheres to Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) protocols, with their commercial kitchen in Gaborone West receiving praise for its top-tier stainless-steel infrastructure and impeccable cleanliness. Regular staff training ensures compliance with Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) policies, while technological innovations, particularly social media engagement, keep the brand attuned to evolving consumer trends. Innovation is not optional; it is vital,” Johannes emphasises.

She noted that their cake division once a pandemic passion project had since become a key revenue stream and a source of customer loyalty. She added that Cater Creators' impact extends far beyond culinary excellence, saying the company played an active role in tackling youth unemployment by employing 18 permanent staff and mobilising temporary workers during peak periods. She added that their dream was to establish a culinary school and own a warehouse. Furthermore, she said they wanted to equip young Batswana with valuable skills, offering them career opportunities and a way off the streets. She pointed out that the vision aligned with their broader mission to uplift Botswana’s hospitality sector through education and infrastructure development. 'Guided by the motto, 'Creating delicious food and memorable experiences', the firm approaches every event with equal dedication. Whether catering for a small corporate lunch or a grand 8, 000-person banquet, I believe that smaller jobs often lead to bigger opportunities. This philosophy has helped build a loyal clientele and sparked organic growth through word-of-mouth referrals. As Cater Creators celebrates five years of success, the company is poised for continued growth,' she said.

Moreover, she said with plans to upgrade its facilities in 2025, the company's next chapter is not just about expansion but building a lasting legacy. She pointed out that from humble beginnings during the global crisis to becoming a leader in Botswana’s hospitality industry, Cater Creators exemplified how resilience, innovation and a commitment to community could turn adversity into success.