Thursday, 24 September 2026

The Soweto Kota Festival has grown from 2,000 attendees to more than 16,000 over two days, while organisers help township food businesses meet municipal and food-safety requirements.

Guests said township cuisine is gaining commercial appeal beyond affordability, but profits often fail to reach originating communities; stronger support, compliance assistance and potential protection for heritage foods were proposed.

Wine entrepreneurs said quality alone does not sell bottles: business models, storytelling, distribution and consumer experiences are essential, with small producers reinvesting margins into production and growth.

Wine tourism and collaborations with restaurants can create crucial value for producers without their own estates, offering tasting-room-style experiences and helping brands reach customers through hospitality partnerships.

The wine market is attracting younger consumers, with producers urged to innovate, avoid judging customers by appearance, and focus on preferences rather than assuming premium wine buyers are older.