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ECDC gives life to Uitenhage entrepreneur’s business aspirations

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September 17, 2013: The world is an oyster for Uitenhage start-up businessman David Jacobs who realised his dream of starting his own successful grilled chicken business with a R500 000 capital from development financier, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC).

When Jacobs was making the rounds to various financial institutions a year ago, getting doors closed in his face and faced with the prospect of giving up on his aspirations, his saving grace came in the form of ECDC.

With 12 years experience as a buyer of perishable goods at a leading retail chain, Jacobs is today the proud owner of Kekkel and Kraai – Uitenhage’s “one-stop shop for fresh, frozen and grilled chicken.” His brand has been so popular among the area’s residents so much that he will soon open another Kekkel and Kraai in Port Elizabeth with ECDC assistance.

“For years, I always wondered why I had to be the individual that was buying fresh and frozen chicken and sitting in that department for years and years, while my colleagues only stayed there for six months to a year. Now I understand why I had to be the one who was there for longer than everyone else. I’m now in the chicken business and the experience that I gained when I was employed is now serving me well.

“Without help from ECDC, it would have been impossible to get this business off the ground. I had been to so many institutions who did not believe in my vision. ECDC took into consideration my vast experience in this industry and the determination I have to make this business a success,” explains Jacobs.

ECDC senior account manager Wayne Mahoney says Jacobs’ vast retail experience and in particular the fresh produce chicken market was a significant factor in ECDCs decision to fund the business. Kekkel and Kraai opened its doors in October 2012 initially employing five people. The business has now expanded to employ eight people.

“The business has demonstrated significant growth potential starting off with five initial employees and growing to eight in under a year. Another key area is the location of the business. Kekkel en Kraai is situated at a taxi rank in Uitenhage, which makes the business accessible to many residents whom make use of public transport,” explains Mahoney.

Jacobs says aspirant entrepreneurs know what they are good at, and understand how they can turn that talent into a successful business venture. He credits his time working at a chain retailer for teaching him important business lessons such as understanding target market and how to keep the business afloat when sales are slow.

Author: Lunga Mtshizana

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