Nonhlanhla Mbonambi
The Joburg Market’s Property and Facility Department is strengthening support for SMMEs by offering them rental spaces at its premises. This initiative allows entrepreneurs to expand their reach, sell products directly to consumers, and grow their businesses. In turn, the Joburg Market benefits by serving as a central hub for fresh produce, supporting these enterprises in their supply needs.
One of the successful tenants is Vuyisile Siboza, the owner of Raw Liquide Juice, who began renting space at Joburg Market in September 2024. Siboza has transformed his business from a home kitchen setup into a full-scale commercial operation, expanding both his customer base and target market.
“With support from the eKasiLab incubation programme, I was able to acquire commercial equipment, allowing Raw Liquide to meet growing product demand,” says Siboza.
The relocation has been pivotal in enhancing operational efficiency, as Siboza can now source ingredients directly from local farmers for fresher products. Additionally, by using unsold, overripe avocados from market agents, he creates frozen smoothies, reducing food waste and diversifying his offerings. “Since moving here, we’ve attracted new clients who weren’t previously visiting the market, particularly those looking for health-focused options,” he shared.
Raw Liquide’s dedication to whole food ingredients with no preservatives has made it popular among health-conscious consumers, including athletes and runners, whom Siboza hopes to draw to Joburg Market.
Siboza’s success story was recently showcased at the recent Joburg Market’s Farmers and SMME Day, where he introduced his fresh, nutritious juices to a larger audience. With a vision of scaling across Africa, He aims to see Raw Liquide’s products in neighbouring countries within the next five years, establishing the brand as a continental leader in health beverages.
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
