Homemakers Expo boasts something for everyone

WHETHER they are seeking lavish touches for their homes or aspiring to get off the grid, shoppers are spoiled for choice at this year’s Cape Homemakers Expo.

Hosted at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, the exhibition, which opened on Thursday, has been abuzz.

Celebrating its 20th year, the expo theme – Create, Decorate, Renovate – includes the latest kitchen gadgets, furniture, décor and handmade homeware as well as gourmet delicacies and boutique wines.

Coffee lovers could also test their tasting expertise as a judge in the Barista Showdown between 10am and 6pm. The finals, which will see six top baristas compete, will be hosted tomorrow from 10am.

Given the country’s power supply woes, it is unsurprising that one of the busiest stands has been that of ITS, which offers solar heat pumps for the home and pool.

Sales agent for the company’s Boland branch, David Raath, said load shedding coupled with the high cost of electricity was “driving” their business.

He said it was their second time at the expo and he hoped it would prove as successful as last year where they had good sales.

“But it’s not only about making business, it’s also about educating the public about renewable energy and what’s available to reduce their carbon footprint,” said Raath.

All the way from Botswana, husband and wife Kefiloe and Lawrence Mashungwa popped into the expo during their vacation here in the city.

The couple had brought their kids along, daughter Sebilo, 7 and son Seetsele, 11.

”I got myself some wooden frames and wine racks made using paper,” Kefiloe said.

Nelson Mandela inspired some of the items displayed at the proudly SA stand of the Spaza Home Store which has on display handmade aprons and tea towels with prints from the designs seen on some of the lively shirts popularly worn by Mandela.

● Tickets cost R70 while pensioners pay R50 and children under 12 have free entry.

The expo continues today until 8pm and tomorrow the doors open at 10am.