When Hammanskraal chef Lucas Maponyane crafted a chilli sauce that became a hit at a restaurant where he worked, it was his friend, Koporo Belinda Mogotlane, who recognised the business potential.
Today, the duo is working tirelessly to grow their venture, Sauce Up, to new heights. Speaking to Vuk’uzenzele, Mogotlane shared the journey of their business.
“Lucas and I both work at a bowling club, where he is a chef and I’m a bartender. He makes the sauce from scratch for the restaurant. People loved it, so I saw the business opportunity,” she said.
“Customers say the sauce adds great flavour to the food. While he’s an excellent chef, the sauce simply complements the taste.”
The product was born from a shared passion for condiments, with Mogotlane noting, “We just believe in our sauce.”
Currently, Sauce Up products are available for order via social media, with direct deliveries offered for bulk orders.
“Our sauce isn’t available in stores yet, so it’s tricky to get just one bottle to an individual,” Mogotlane explained. “We’re both new to this business and are eager to learn.” At present, the business only offers one flavour, though they can adjust the heat level upon request, as their sauce is typically milder than most.
The home-based business mainly sells its products to restaurants, chisa nyama joints, and local customers.
Mogotlane hopes her marketing diploma will help her grow the business. “When we started, we asked for a small loan from a customer who believed in us. That’s how we got started. We’re still finding our way in the industry,” she said.
The company’s ultimate goal is to see Sauce Up products on the shelves of major retailers.
“As soon as Sauce Up is well-received, we’ll definitely consider introducing more flavours,” Mogotlane
concluded.
To get in touch with Sauce Up, contact Mogotlane Koporo Belinda Mogotlane at 084 372 1783. You can also reach them on their Facebook page, Sauce Up.
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