Words: Denise Mhlanga | Images: Supplied
My Chocolate Box is a specialised monthly subscription service for chocolate lovers. Each month, a hand-picked selection of the finest chocolates is delivered to subscribers. Sylvia Schutte, My Chocolate Box codirector and MD of Stratitude, tells us more about the Randburg-based business.
How did your business start?
My Chocolate Box started in September 2016 in partnership between Stratitude, an integrated marketing agency, and Next Engage, a sales business that specialises in annuity subscription programmes. My business partner and codirector, Adrian Zanetti, saw a niche in the market as there was no existing chocolate box subscription. Our boxes are different each month and include local and globally sourced chocolates that we deliver straight to you.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
Randburg is easily accessible and centrally located close to the highway and major roads.
How did you find your premises?
The Stratitude offices were slightly bigger, so we dedicated one of the boardrooms for packing the chocolate boxes and we also have a cool room where we store the chocolates.
Why are the premises ideally suited to your business?
The fact that our offices are here makes it convenient to manage operations.
Who are your neighbours?
MTN Call Centre and Motheo Construction Group.
What are the shop rental/sales prices like in this area?
Very affordable, with average rental approximately R70/m2.
How many people visit your business each day?
Apart from our staff, our business is subscription based, with a current client base of more than 190 members, with varying monthly delivery figures.
Do you have any expansion plans?
Yes, we would love to deliver nationally. Currently, we deliver in Cape Town, Durban and Gauteng, which is our biggest market.
Do you operate online as well?
We have a website where potential subscribers can contact us to sign up and are then contacted by our sales agents. We’re also active on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.
What’s your most popular product?
Dark and milk chocolate.
For more information on My Chocolate Box, phone 086 177 7279 or visit their website.
