Fast-food firm diversifies, expands

FAST-food company, Hotplate Grillhouse Zimbabwe plans to diversify its business by incorporating a braai and bar concept in its restaurants as a way to meet market demands amid indications that it plans to open new outlets.

The local franchise, which is part of the South African food outlet Hotplate Grillhouse, has created more than 300 jobs after expanding its footprint to the country and it has been in an expansion drive for the past two years which has seen the opening of new branches in different towns and cities.

Recently, it closed its Bulawayo Jason Moyo branch in readiness for relocation.

Hotplate Grillhouse Zimbabwe managing director, Mr Benson Muneri said the brand is revolving and is incorporating the bar concept due to public demand.

“We are going into an expansion drive where we will incorporate bars in the existing restaurants. We have successfully done so in Harare and Kadoma,” said Mr Muneri. “The Bulawayo Jason Moyo branch is relocating and we have identified a prime site which is 400 square metres and we believe it is big enough to accommodate the new bar and braai concept.”

He said they will not change their traditional food menu as they roll out the new concept.

Mr Muneri said Hotplate Grillhouse is meant to empower entrepreneurs across the country with different initiatives, which include franchise and contract farmers to supply their restaurants.

“Hotpate Grillhouse employees in Zimbabwe are around 300 and we have contracted about 15 farmers who supply produce, which includes chicken, fresh vegetables, dried products and packaging.

“So there is a lot in terms of empowering existing entrepreneurs and investments in Zimbabwe,” he said.

He said several new investments are in the pipeline including in Gwanda and Masvingo. — @SikhulekelaniM1