The idea of infusing ice cream and liqueurs to make scrumptious desserts came about when entrepreneur Thobekile Mchunu was casually minding her business.
While enjoying both at the same time, Mchunu thought it would be a great idea to give ice cream a twist by adding crème liqueurs produced from marula and strawberry fruits.
Today, her concept has received the thumbs up from many quarters, including family members and friends.
The rave reviews inspired her to embark on her start-up business.
Last month, the proudly black-owned GelaToh was launched at Rivonia Village Mall in Sandton.
“I am a baker by nature, and I always loved the taste of alcohol in my cake desserts, and since I love marula liqueurs, I would add a bit of the liqueur to my cake mix,” Mchunu said, explaining how her business idea came about.
“I started making 0.1% non-alcoholic ice creams, but as time went by, I realised that the idea was working, so I decided to add 7% alcohol to the 250ml ice-cream cups. I don’t allow my kids to help me to taste the ones containing alcohol because they are not of legal age,” said Mchunu.
The 42-year-old businesswoman said she started working from home in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni, and is proud of herself and her team. In the early days of her business, they started by supplying Tops at Spar supermarkets.
Mchunu has also ensured she trades within the confines of the law and acquired a liquor licence before marketing her product.
She said the ice cream did not make anyone drunk if enjoyed responsibly, but she would at times get tipsy from tasting different products.
“I am looking forward to expanding the business. So far, research shows we are the first business to sell these rich and creamy liqueur ice creams. I believe people sometimes want the taste of alcohol in desserts.
“Extending the business would mean I can hire more people. In whatever way we can, I think it is important for us to play our part in creating employment.”
Mchunu currently hires two employees, and as the business expands, more people will be roped in.
She said she would always ensure she brings more flavours to the table.
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