Bolstering the beverage business in Braam
BRAAMFONTEIN - Two of the world's most popular beverages, coffee and tea, are often associated with South America, Europe and the Far East – but certainly not Braamfontein.
But a popular spot in the trendy neighbourhood has proved that Africa can hold its own when it comes to these celebrated fruits of the earth.
Doubleshot Coffee and Tea has, for three years, brought an exotic selection of blends from Malawi’s Satemwa tea and coffee estate to Joburgers who want more than the same old same old.
The establishment is owned by Alex Kay, the third generation owner of Satemwa, and Alain Rosa.
“The partnership is a way that Kay and I can follow our love of fine tea, and introduce the concept of high-end tea into the South African market while expanding [the] international tea business,” said Rosa, adding that people had responded well to Doubleshot and its offerings.
“We get very positive feedback, [and] because we have a constantly changing selection, there is usually something that will appeal regardless of personal preference,” he said.
The offerings are not limited to one Malawian estate, however, as Kay and Rosa prefer a global approach, and bring tea and coffee in from other parts of Africa and the world.
Firm favourites among his customers include the Malawi cappuccino, and iced teas such as peach black, and hibiscus and vanilla.
Rosa said that, while South Africans were clued up about coffee, tea was still something of a mystery to many.
“Tea is still a subject of confusion to South Africans, posing a challenge and an opportunity. [It’s an] exciting segment, but everyone can related to [tea] in [its] iced version,” he said.
As much as the Doubleshot team helps educate people about the wonders of tea, they’re also learning from their customers, who have influenced how Rosa and Kay trade.
“The original idea was to be retail heavy, offering no food and [only] limited seating,” he said.
“Now the store looks very different [to] that concept. We have definitely had to adjust to the area’s specific needs, and we are still doing so. It’s dynamic, but very challenging.”
Doubleshot Coffee and Tea is at 1 Peppermint Place, corner of Juta and Melle streets, Braamfontein.
Details: 011 100 5241; www.doubleshot.co.za; info@doubleshot.co.za
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