Entrepreneur of the Week

Cobus, Fernice and Jenine Botha Fruto Bites

Started by Fernice Botha and her children, Jenine (13) and Cobus (12), in April this year, the small Fruto Bites family business was created with a love of healthy alternatives, such as dried fruits, and of adding value.

Based in Komatipoort but originally from Mbombela, Botha said she initially decided to start this business as an initiative to broaden her children’s entrepreneurial skills.

“Their ideas and companionship have blown us parents away. We are truly proud to take this journey with them to higher levels and see where it goes,” said the proud mother.

“We love attending the markets, talking and engaging with the people. My children have grown and learnt so much being entrepreneurs.”

She said they make their Fruto Bites in their Komatipoort home and sell the products at local events and markets across the Lowveld.

“We use good-quality bags for the dried fruit that is still affordable for both us and the customer,” said Botha.

She said the profits from the business are being saved for her children and their future.

When asked why community support is important to them and Fruto Bites, she said the Lowveld community is the heart of their business.

“We support each other, and appreciate the support of our community,” she said.

“We made business cards that people can take while we are attending the markets, but we would really like to expand in our marketing, making it easier for us and the customer to place orders and taking it further.”

Being a very new small business, Botha said Fruto Bites is not yet on social media, nor does it have a website just yet. However, you can reach Botha via WhatsApp on 084 500 0182.