Warner Beach-based confectionery company, Candy Chef, has proven to be a recipe for success for its young founder, Simone Raghunundhun, who has now discovered the sweet side of life.
Much like the treats she has created, Raghunundhun is the perfect blend of sweetness and entrepreneurial spirit.
The 27-year-old from Bluff describes herself as a “very motivated, passionate and hard-working individual”.
In an interview with Independent Media Lifestyle, she said business has been a part of her life for the past 25 years.
“Having parents who have owned, franchised, and built numerous businesses, I have always learned, grasped the experience, and further pursued my studies.
“I graduated in 2021 from the International Hotel School in Westville with a Diploma in Hospitality and Business Management which also included culinary arts.
“I established my company ‘Candy Chef' in 2022. My main vision was to create a product with high demand and affordability,” said Raghunundhun.
“I gained a lot of inspiration from studying culinary arts and mastered the art of sweet making. The concept of creating something of my own, the design behind it from recipe development, packaging ideas, quality and consistency of the products, and creating jobs were my greatest goals,” she added.
Raghunundhun said the sweet manufacturing company specialises in marshmallow products such as mallow cones (crisp wafer cones filled to the bottom with vanilla marshmallow) and toasted coconut mallows.
She said there are numerous brands in the market, however hers is incredibly unique and proudly South African.
“We use the best quality ingredients. Our products appeal to all target markets across SA, and all age groups, are affordable, and are also halaal approved.
“Candy Chef has tremendous potential for expansion in the next few years. I aim to grow the brand into different provinces across the country so that our products can be easily accessible and available to more retail outlets.
“I also would like to tap into the export market in due course,” said Raghunundhun.
Asked what an average day looks like in her life, she said: “An average day with me will start at 7.30am; opening the factory, greeting and having a staff production meeting, communicating with clients, doing marketing and admin, purchasing raw materials and ingredients, doing deliveries and merchandising of our marshmallow products. It’s always exciting and lots of work!”
Raghunundhun said the greatest moments of her success are receiving emails and messages regarding the quality of her products and also being recognised by the media for her hard work, growth, and impact on the youth.
She said as a young female entrepreneur she appreciates her customers to the fullest, for making her dream come true.
Commenting on what she hopes to see happen in the confectionery industry in SA soon, Raghunundhun said: “The confectionery industry is constantly evolving into the latest trends, demands, and expectations of individuals. I believe the variety of snacks and treats will increase in the future sector. Sugar-free and different flavour categories will also be a factor.”
Candy Chef currently supplies retail stores, pharmacies, bakeries, and butcheries across Kwa-Zulu Natal. They also have an online store for private clients.