Expansion Continues

Mozambik Restaurant Group heads for Cape Town and Lusaka as expansion momentum continues

Johannesburg: One of the fastest growing restaurant brands in South Africa, Mozambik, will be opening its 7^th new store in 9 months at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town in August. Thirty days later, the group will launch its first international restaurant in Lusaka, Zambia followed by 3 more stores in Gauteng. By December the company would have seen growth in excess of 150% this year despite turbulent economic conditions.

“Concomitant to our growth are the substantial brand equity gains made over the past 8 months,” says chief executive Manny Nichas who assumed the reins in August last year. “Mozambik has gained solid traction in the communities that our restaurants serve with positive upward movement in franchisee interest.” Conditions are tough, but Nichas believes that approaching business unusual with a strong brand and a solid value proposition remains key to sustained success. 

As the economy continues to struggle with recessionary pressures and GDP growth expected to remain below 2%, Nichas says that “success today demands a different approach, shape shifting to better market match and, in many instances, anticipate socio-economic mood and leading and at times, challenging trends and the norm. It is tough, but when the going gets tough, the tough get going, as they say.” He is confident that quality and value will continue to attract custom.

“Disposable income and consumer spend will remain challenged in the near-term, but I believe that well positioned brands

in the dining and entertainment sector, that deliver consistently, will not only see sustained benefit but enjoy latitude to grow.” Consequently, in-store average spend per customer has seen limited pressure over the past 6 months.

“Mozambik combines a strong product offering with value,” says Nichas. “It’s about family, friends and a relaxed atmosphere with a flavourful and accessible Afro-Porto fusion menu.” Nichas adds that the focus will remain on an authentic, unpretentious customer experience where expectations are always met, but preferably exceeded. “As a franchised brand on an upward trajectory we have built solid quality assurance protocols across every aspect of the operation with a hands-on approach throughout.”