SOUTH AFRICA – Following the successful launch of the Spur Drive Thru format in 2021, Spur Corporation has just introduced the country’s first RocoMamas drive thru, located in Johannesburg.

The move is another step in the group’s strategy of expanding convenient and lucrative channels to meet customer requirements for easy access to their favourite meals.

According to the Spur group, venturing into the drive-through space is a “perfect extension” for the unconventional RocoMamas brand, which popularised the smashburger in South Africa.

“There are widespread changes in the trading environment, as well as shifting consumer trends.

“These create opportunities for innovation, which include providing alternative trading channels, such as drive-through offerings, new meal solutions and expansion of restaurant formats,” said Spur Corporation CEO, Val Nichas.

Nichas added that making RocoMamas the second drive-through outlet was based on it being the group’s biggest takeaways contributor.

A second RocoMamas Drive Thru is planned for Queenswood in Pretoria later this year.

The new Drive Thru space is designed to create a vibrant atmosphere for both customers who drive through or choose to sit down.

Graffiti and custom-made visuals by local artists create a distinctive experience, while staying true to the bold design ethos of the brand.

“This is a key milestone in RocoMamas’ development on the eve of our 10th anniversary next year.

“The brand prides itself on offering customers an exclusive experience by providing interactivity through the iconic ‘Make Your Own burger’ where anyone can create their ultimate burger,” said Nkululeko Zulu, COO of RocoMamas.

In addition to the already existing menu, drive-thru customers have a new item called the Roadster burger. It is smash burger with lettuce, tomato and yo mayo.

“We believe the ‘rockstar’ experience of our brand and the different and fresh flavours of our food and ingredients will set us apart from most traditional drive through restaurants.

“We will also provide value for money offers and a redesigned menu to further expand on our successful product range,” said Nkululeko.

Java to open five new outlets

Meanwhile, Kenyan restaurant chain Java House plans to open five more branches by October as it expands in a market that is becoming increasingly competitive with the growth and entry of more fast-food brands.

The coffee house said it will open two outlets at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi and another one at Moi International Airport in Mombasa targeting hundreds of travelers going through the facilities.

Java will also open a branch in Eastleigh in Nairobi as well as in Machakos town as it seeks to spread its wings across the countries.

“We are opening up five Java outlets by October because there is increased demand for our services in the market,” Java House Africa Group chief executive Derrick Van Houten told the Business Daily in an interview.

“You also need to know that the business is back on its feet and we are making money and so we need to grow.”

The opening of five outlets will raise its total branch count to 87 across the East Africa region. Java at the moment has 75 branches in Kenya, four in Uganda and three in Rwanda.

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