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.
