The Journey of Botselo Mills: A Family Legacy in Maize Milling
Roots in the Community
Family-run Botselo Mills, located in Delareyville, North West, has transformed remarkably from its humble beginnings. What started as a single bakkie delivering maize to local farmers has evolved into a robust enterprise, now supplying over 120 tons of maize a month. This impressive output is sufficient to feed a small city and reaches more than 1,176 Shoprite and Usave stores through a national distribution network, ensuring affordable food is accessible to many South Africans.
A Surge in Growth
The partnership with the Shoprite Group has proven to be a game-changer for Botselo Mills, leading to staggering revenue growth of over 8,000% in just four years. This ascent has established Botselo as a national brand, enabling it to compete with some of South Africa’s largest maize producers. CEO Fanie Schoeman attributes this success to a pivotal meeting in 2022, where the retailer recognized Botselo’s potential to scale its operations from a regional mill to a vital national supplier, emphasizing their crucial role in the country’s food security.
From Local Mill to National Supplier
Reflecting on the turning point, Schoeman recalls, “They challenged us to supply on a national scale — and we were left with no option but to deliver.” This challenge propelled Botselo into rapid growth, expanding its reach and significantly increasing its production capabilities. The partnership has allowed the company to diversify into packaging Menu items for Shoprite’s Ritebrand and Usave’s Ubrand maize products, further solidifying its market presence.
Community Impact
Despite its national expansion, Botselo Mills remains deeply rooted in the Delareyville community. The company employs 563 people, most of whom live locally. Over the past 15 years, its workforce has grown by nearly 300%, influencing both the business landscape and the town’s development. As Botselo Mills flourished, the ripple effects were palpable: a new commercial bank branch opened to accommodate the increasing workforce, and an on-site clinic was established, providing essential healthcare in a relatively underserved region.
Commitment to Community Wellbeing
Schoeman emphasizes the company’s commitment to the community, stating, “Our work is intertwined with the town’s wellbeing — what’s good for the community is good for us, and vice versa.” Botselo Mills actively supports local schools, crèches, churches, and care homes, reinforcing its role as a responsible corporate citizen. This ethos of giving back is not merely a strategy but an intrinsic part of the company’s culture.
Innovation and Sustainability
Botselo Mills is not just about growth and community; the company also prioritizes innovation and sustainability. Recently, it launched a 2.5kg brick pack to replace traditional plastic bags, significantly enhancing packaging efficiency. Following this initiative, it introduced a brick pack design for its Super White Instant 1kg product. Schoeman notes, “Sustainability remains central to our operations, focusing on responsible local sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, and minimizing environmental impact.”
Legacy of a Family Business
From its modest beginnings with second-hand equipment, Botselo Mills has emerged as a national success story. Driven by strong family values and a commitment to community, the company exemplifies how local enterprises can thrive with the right opportunities and partnerships. With the ongoing support of Shoprite, Botselo Mills is positioned to expand its distribution, scale its operations, and continue providing affordable staples to families across South Africa.
For more insights, watch the story of Botselo Mills in their feature: Botselo Mills: The family business feeding the nation.
