At Home with Hirsch's

Page 1

LUCI

EAT, DRINK, ENJOY!

Entertaining with
EXPERIENCE OUR WARMTH AT ZIMBALI LAKES THE ONLY COLD YOU’LL FEEL THIS WINTER IS OUR PRICE FREEZE CONTACT US TO GET THE HOTTEST DEAL ON THE NORTH COAST 087 095 2742 • zimbalilakes.co.za Zimbali Lakes Developer Land Price Freeze – we are committed to freezing prices this winter on the limited stock of developer land. We have a variety of packages to assist our buyers during this current tough economic climate.

NEW SAMSUNG CONCEPT STORE IN Ballito

One of the new kids on the block in the Ballito Junction on the KZN North Coast is the Samsung Store on the top floor of the mall. Samsung Concept stores around the country are powered by Hirsch’s, and this is their sixth Samsung brand store.

“We have a great relationship with Samsung. The Samsung Concept stores really highlight the latest,

greatest and newest TVs, appliances and most importantly cellphones that Samsung has to offer. We are so excited to bring this experience to Ballito and give the community of the North Coast a worldclass store and save them the hassle of travelling to Gateway. Hirsch’s operate Samsung stores in Sandton City, Mall of Africa, Pavilion, Gateway, Constantia Village Mall and now, Ballito,” said the CEO of Hirsch’s, Richard Hirsch, at the grand opening last year. H

ABOVE: Samsung’s Bronwyn Hume, Scott Power from Hirsch’s, and Case Hyun from Samsung. ABOVE: Paul and Edwina Brown, and Nishan Behary.
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 1
ABOVE: The Hirsch’s – Richard, Luci, Allan and Margaret.
HIRSCH’S :: NEW STORE

EDITOR

PRODUCTION EDITOR

Lorna

DESIGNER

Stephanie Osborne

PUBLISHER

Jacques Breytenbach

PHOTOGRAPHS

Cover: Mo, Blonde Zulu

COPYRIGHT: All material in this issue is subject to copyright and belongs to Famous Publishing unless otherwise indicated. No part of the material may be quoted, photocopied, reproduced or stored by an electronic system withour prior written permission from Famous Publishing.

DISCLAIMER: While every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this publication, neither the authors nor the publisher will bear any responsibility for the consequences of any actions based on information contained herein.

PUBLISHED BY: Novus Print (Pty) Ltd t/a Famous Publishing.

Novus Holdings is a Level 2 BBBEE Contributor: novus.holdings/sustainability/transformation

with AT Welcome home Message from the Hirsch’s.........................4 Great reads At home with Luci 14 Mr & Mrs South Africa 22 Healthy partnership 25 Keep it fresh 26 What’s trending in kitchens? 30 Ask the specialists.....................................34 Home is where the heart is 38 Teaming up with the President 46 A helping hand 50 Zimbali Lakes 51 The Verimark brand 62
THE HIRSCH FAMILY Allan Hirsch – Chairman Margaret Hirsch – Executive Director Richard Hirsch – CEO Luci Hirsch – Brand Manager Glenda Thompson King
2 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 HIRSCH’S
CONTENTS
::

We are the specialists!

It was such fun putting together this issue of At Home With Hirsch’s – and as the theme for this issue is Ask The Specialists, we have taken this quite seriously! Almost every feature has some great advice from specialists – and I have to say, we even went the AI route and asked ChatGPT for some advice – but weaved in with our own thoughts, of course.

An expert on the entertainment front is Luci, our cover girl, and we loved her advice on how to put together a successful, stress-free dinner party. We also enjoyed Richard’s thoughts on his must-have kitchen gadgets, and learnt so much from our various specialists in the different departments at Hirsch’s.

With rising food costs, wasting food is a no-no these days, but how often do you find yourself throwing away wilted, dried out vegetables from your fridge? What a shame! But with the latest fridge technology, you can save money. Read our advice on how to prevent this in our Keep It Fresh story on page 26. There’s also a great piece on kitchen decor trends on page 30, as well as all our regular features on the fun events that are held on a weekly basis at Hirsch’s branches around the country – who knows, you may see your photo in one of the features!

Enjoy the read!

Let’s shop Did you know? 10 My favourite kitchen gadgets 42 Air fryer happiness 48 Final word New Samsung Concept store in Ballito 1 Happy chef at Hirsch’s 54 Hirsch’s Homestores celebrate start-ups 56 Fun in the air.............................................58 Stockists 64
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 HIRSCH’S :: CONTENTS AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 3

LETTING GO IS not easy

The year 2022 was my first year in semiretirement – and what a year it was! From the Australian Outback to a road trip through America and Europe. But, without a doubt, one of the highlights of my year was going back to the ECR House and Garden Show in Durban. I just love the interaction with customers and team members. It’s clear to me, getting retail out of my blood is not going to be easy. But no one has been successful by doing something easy, and letting go is probably one of the most difficult things I have done.

Already 2023 is looking exciting, however, my greatest joy would be to see the company run without me. We have a fantastic team in place doing amazing work, and even though the next generation is still at school, hopefully they will join the business in the future and the name will continue for generations to come.

Although we live in troubling times in South Africa, I still have great belief in the country. It is one of the best places in the world to live, and having travelled as much as I have recently, I just cannot wait to get home and look at the opportunities South Africa has to offer.

Ask The Specialists is the theme for this magazine and my 44 years of working with appliances have taught me a thing or two:

WASHING MACHINES AND TUMBLE DRIERS: Forty-four years ago the first brand-new washing machine I sold cost R199. I didn’t make any profit, but that was the going rate at the time. In those days motors, timers and different parts for washing machines would last six or seven years, and spares were a problem – unlike today when they are usually readily available.

Today, with so many different models of washing machines, with different designs and cosmetics, naturally the spares will be different. Suppliers

normally keep spares for five years and cosmetic spares for a period of time. If you ever have a problem sourcing spares, we have a spares departments in every branch to assist.

The secret of tumble driers is in the name. Don’t ever overload a tumble drier because it’s not going to tumble, it’s going to turn, and the warm air flowing through the tumble drier won’t dry the clothing. There are three types of tumble drier: The vented tumble drier that will take the hot air and the moisture and blow it out. Usually there’s a hose to blow the air out. It’s not ideal but they are the most costefficient tumble driers. The next tumble drier is the condenser, which takes the moisture and puts it into a water tank which needs to be emptied. The third type of tumble drier is the heat pump. These are the most expensive, but are also the most cost efficient. It recycles the air and puts it into a tank, but reuses it continuously.

STOVES: When we first

started Hirsch’s, spiral plates were popular because they cooked so quickly, but over a period of time, they wasted electricity and lost their place as first choice. Then solid plates came in, but there was a problem with rusting.

The big advance came with ceramic or glass tops. It took an enormous amount of education to teach people how energy efficient they are – second to induction hobs. Today, gas is popular because of load shedding.

Buying a cooking appliance? Talk to our sales people to help you select the right product.

See our Ask The Specialists story on page 34 for more advice and answers to frequently asked questions. H

4 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 WELCOME HOME :: ALLAN’S MESSAGE
Design your perfect kitchen with BESPOKE. Now with a 20-Year Warranty* . *As of November 2022, the 20-Year Warranty refers to Digital Inverter Technology on the Compressor of fridges. on Digital Inverter Compressor Available at Hirsch’s

IS YOUR WEALTH your health

Some people spend their entire life working to buy material things, then as they age and their health starts failing, their hard-earned savings are needed to keep them alive – rather than enjoying life. The sooner a person realises that their health is their wealth, the better. People between the ages of 25 and 50 now, will probably live till they are over 100.

Imagine an older person, and you visualise someone bent over and shuffling. Today, older people are spending more time looking after their bodies so they can enjoy a long and healthy retirement. But when does this start?

Answer – the sooner the better.

Think of the people you know who are older than 60 who exercise regularly and eat well. Now think of those who don’t exercise, eat the way their parents did, and today feel old and decrepit. Times are changing – and we must change with them, especially from a food and exercise point of view.

So when should you start

looking after your body?

Answer – today! If you want your body to work like a well-oiled machine, then you need to ensure you are putting the correct fuel into it.

I have been a vegetarian for most of my life, and am

energy for 10 people. I have dropped some of my excess weight, my skin and hair have improved, and my general well-being is vastly better. I have written a basic vegan cookbook for those who want to start eating a

decided to eat properly –and that changed his life. (Watch this free webinar: mindvalley eric edmeads first masterclass)

Wildfit gives you lasting permanent results without the struggle – and it’s permanent. As Eric says, it’s not about restriction and it’s not about willpower, it’s about loving what you eat!

Exercising is also essential. Believe me, I’m not one to run on a treadmill, sit on those uncomfortable bikes or start boxing, but I do love swimming which is the only exercise that uses every single muscle in your body.

now a vegan. I cannot begin to tell you how life changing being a vegan has been. I used to feel less than my best, had issues with my gut, and knew I was not functioning at my optimum. Since changing my eating habits, my energy levels are unbelievable – in fact I’d say I have enough

plant-based diet, and am in the throes of writing my second vegan cookbook which shows how good vegan food can look.

I follow the Wildfit diet formulated by Eric Edmeads. If you have never heard of him, he is South African born, Canadian raised, and now an American who was always sick until he

I also absolutely love yoga, which is amazing for the body and mind. Everyone is different and it’s important to find something you really like to do and then do it every day. Consistency is the key!

Living in SA we are blessed with wonderful organic food, fresh air, and wide open spaces. Let’s all make the most of them and ensure we look after our health. At the end of the day, our health is our real wealth. H

6 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 WELCOME HOME :: MARGARET’S MESSAGE

WE LOVE YOUR feedback!

The theme for this issue of our magazine is Ask The Specialists, which is a really important message in our line of business. When you want to spend your hard-earned cash on something important and long-lasting for your home, it makes absolute sense to ask a specialist, to be well informed before making your final decision. We are here to help you choose what’s right for you – and we always love getting your feedback.

At Hirsch’s we spend an enormous amount of time training our team members on all the amazing products we stock, and suppliers also have weekly training sessions with our sales staff in all our stores. This is to ensure that customers who have questions about a product they would like to purchase, will receive knowledgeable

feedback to ease their minds and help them make the right choice. Also, what is unique to Hirsch’s is that we have brand representatives from all our different suppliers based in our stores. Whether it is LG, Samsung, Defy,

Whirlpool and so on, an expert specialist in their field is readily available to assist. This saves our customers the time it takes to research a product. We all lead busy lives, and we know that our customers like the convenience of popping

into our stores where our specialists are happy to share their knowledge and offer great advice and tips on how to get the most out of the products.

It is often quite amazing to see everything come together after a deep dive to find out exactly what the customer needs. We love to be able to locate the right product with the correct features to make your life that much more enjoyable.

Whether it is the right TV to watch your favourite sports game on, the correct coffee machine to make the perfect cappuccino, the ideal air-con to fit into your space while you enjoy your perfectly chilled glass of wine from your wine cooler, or a comfy bed, Hirsch specialists are instore to help, advise and guide you make the right decision.

We look forward to meeting and chatting to you in our Hirsch stores so that we can give you that magical experience. H

8 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 WELCOME HOME :: RICHARD’S MESSAGE

Keep warm this winter with Air conditioners & Heat Pumps.

Alliance provides reliable, locally-focused heating and cooling energy-saving solutions, that help create comfort, simplicity, enhance and add value to any home. Offering a wide range of air conditioners and Water Heaters including both domestic and commercial units, making it one of South Africa’s fastest-growing brands in the airconditioning and water-heating field.

www.allianceafrica.co.za Alliance Africa allianceafrica_

HIRSCH’S :: BEST BUYS

DID YOU

know?

OFTEN CUSTOMERS POP INTO A HIRSCH’S STORE AND ARE AMAZED WHEN THEY SEE CERTAIN ITEMS THAT THEY HAD NO IDEA WE SOLD – LIKE BEDS, AIR-CONS, AND FURNITURE. HERE IS A SMALL SELECTION OF SOME FUN, UNUSUAL STUFF WHICH ARE BIG SELLERS, AND WHICH YOU MAY LIKE TO POP INTO YOUR TROLLEY NEXT TIME YOU’RE IN A BRANCH – OR SHOPPING ONLINE!

 THE CEILING FAN

Ceiling fans have been around since the 1880s, and were invented by Philip Diehl who engineered the electric motor used in the first electrically powered Singer sewing machines. He adapted that motor to create the first ceiling-mounted fan. Today almost every home owns at least one ceiling fan. HIRSCH’S CODE: 4222

DELONGHI CERAMIC FAN HEATER

DeLonghi are famous for coffee machines, but did you know they also make a stylish personal heater for cooler weather? Attractive, safe and efficient, it fits perfectly into any space. HIRSCH’S CODE: 80624

 THE SODASTREAM SPIRIT ONE TOUCH

Founded in 1903 the popular SodaStream was created by George Gilbey – who also ran a famous gin distiller. The latest soda stream, the Spirit One Touch sparkling water maker, is an electric sparkling water machine with three levels of carbonation to choose from. HIRSCH’S CODE: 71050

 THE OONI WOOD AND CHARCOAL FIRED PIZZA OVEN

The Ooni was founded by husbandand-wife team Kristian Tapaninaho and Darina Garland – who were looking for ways to make restaurant quality pizzas at home. They went on to create the world’s first portable wood-fired pizza oven, the OONI! HIRSCH’S CODE: 80059

10 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
NEW NEW

AT HOME WITH

Luci

LUCI AND HER HUSBAND DEN LOVE ENTERTAINING, BUT ONE THING LUCI HAS LEARNT OVER THE YEARS IS THAT IT PAYS TO PLAN AHEAD FOR A STRESS-FREE OCCASION THAT IMPRESSES BOTH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

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ENTERTAINING
HIRSCH’S ::

Ihave always loved hosting functions at home – and over the years (Den and I have been married for 19 years), we have created many memorable experiences for both ourselves and of course our guests.

Luckily, I have never been one to procrastinate, so planning ahead is easy

for me. Once I have set the date and time, the rest just flows. I do have to take into consideration dietary restrictions and preferences (my mom is a vegan so I am used to checking in with my guests regarding food choices), and thoroughly enjoy planning the menu, decorations and special treats. Hosting

has always been a pleasure for me, and I am so grateful to have amazing friends and family to celebrate life’s milestones with.

I love a to-do list, and find myself jotting ideas down to ensure the planning and party run smoothly. Here are some pointers which I find are invaluable.

Welcome drinks:

I often like to serve a signature cocktail or welcome drink – this helps to set a festive tone (and obviously have a nonalcoholic version for the designated drivers).

Always have plenty of ice. The day before the event I do an “ice run” with my ice-maker – filling up a few Ziploc bags with

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 HIRSCH’S :: ENTERTAINING
AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 15

ice and keeping them in the freezer. Then three hours before my guests are due to arrive, I turn the ice-maker on so there’s always lots of ice on hand for the drinks, while the ice from the freezer is used for the ice buckets and water jugs.

A good bottle opener is essential – there’s nothing worse than trying to pull a wine cork out and you end up breaking out in a sweat.

Pay attention to the ambience in your

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It’s imperative to create a welcoming atmosphere:

home. I often joke that it’s really easy to pull off a dinner party – you just need to set the table with the appropriate tableware, add some fresh flowers and a few simple decorations that suit your home and personality, dim the lights so that your candles twinkle, play soft background music, pour the drinks and serve the food – voila!

Keep the menu manageable: Choose dishes you are comfortable preparing and that can be partially prepared in advance. I have included some of my all-time favourite recipes to tempt you.

Prep ahead of time: Prepare as much as you can before the party to minimise stress on the day and to maximise your time socialising with your guests. Chop vegetables, marinate meats, and make sauces in advance. I have my water jugs all ready for the table – about three-quarters full – then just before we sit down I top them up with ice. Preparing ahead allows you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen during the party – which for me is essential.

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven in

advance in case you need to warm food, or use your warming draw feature.

Light your candles: Two hours before your guests arrive, dim the lights and light your candles to create the perfect ambience and mood.

Triple check your table settings: No one wants to sit down to a meal and discover they’re missing a knife or fork.

Find your playlist: If your don’t have a personal playlist, then use your DStv music channel, and start the tunes an hour or so before

Luci would like to thank the following specialists in their field who helped with the photoshoot:

Dress: Karen Millen, Runway Sale

www.myrunway.co.za

Table setting and flowers: Lynda Kapsimalis

Photography: Mo, Blonde Zulu

Make-up: Laura Halgreen, Nixon Make-up

Hair: Jane, The Colour Room

your guests arrive – and make sure the music isn’t too loud.

Give yourself adequate time to get dressed: I try to be completely ready at least 30 minutes before the function starts, giving Den and myself time to sit and have a relaxing drink. It calms everything down and our guests arrive to a far better ambience than what could have been a crazy rush!

Remember, the most important aspect of a successful dinner party is enjoying the time spent with your friends or family. Be present, have fun, and create lasting memories.

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AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 17

HIRSCH’S :: ENTERTAINING

MEDITERRANEAN MEZZA ROLL-UPS

Mediterranean Mezza Roll-ups are a really simple starter for busy mums. This recipe uses only four ingredients, making it reasonably inexpensive to make, and superfast to prepare. Best of all, it can be prepared ahead of time and heated up at the last minute. The flavour combination will be a delight on the taste buds. Serves 6.

Ingredients: 3 large brinjals (aubergines); 50-60ml olive oil; 250ml hummus/red pepper hummus or sun-dried tomato hummus; 250ml (100g) Mozzarella cheese, grated

To make: Wash brinjals and slice thinly, lengthwise. Brush each side

with a little olive oil. Cut each slice in half lengthwise. Heat up a George Foreman Grill or toasted sandwich maker. Place brinjal slices on the grill, then cook for 4-5 minutes. Place brinjal slices on a flat surface, spread with hummus, and top with Mozzarella.

Roll up and secure if necessary with a toothpick. Place rolls on to a suitable plate, and microwave on 100% power for 4-5 minutes until cheese begins to melt slightly. Serve immediately.

Tips

• Prepare ahead of time and put aside, then heat in the microwave when ready to serve.

• Use left-over mushroom or red pepper pâté instead of hummus.

BURMESE CHICKEN

This is my favourite dinner party recipe given to me by my friend, Genevieve. What’s great is it works 100% every time. Serves 4.

Ingredients: 4 skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced across the grain;1 fresh red chilli, deseeded and sliced; 15ml dark brown muscovado sugar; 30-60ml oyster sauce; 30ml sunflower or olive oil; 2 pieces fresh ginger root, peeled and chopped finely; 2 large cloves garlic, peeled and crushed; 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into small julienne strips; 5ml ground turmeric; 75g unsalted cashew nuts; fresh coriander leaves

To make: Place sliced chicken breasts, chilli, sugar and 15ml oyster sauce together in a glass bowl. Toss well to coat and

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combine the flavours. Heat oil in a wok or large frying pan over moderate heat. Add ginger, garlic and carrots, stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Add in the chicken mixture, turmeric and remaining oyster sauce. Stir-fry until chicken is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Add in cashew nuts and fresh coriander leaves. Serve immediately with cooked Chinese noodles or basmati rice.

Tips

• Use a teaspoon to scrape the skin off the ginger root. It works like a charm to get into all the little crevices.

• Want to prepare ahead? Once you have added the chicken mixture, turmeric and oyster sauce, then cool. When ready to serve, reheat quickly, then add the nuts and fresh coriander leaves at the end of the reheating time.

ULTIMATE CHOCOLATE MOUSSE

Very retro, but always a winner. Chocolate mousse is dead easy to make and can be dollied up or down as the budget and mood takes you. Serves 4-6.

Ingredients: 300g dark chocolate, broken into pieces; 4 large eggs; sugar to taste; a splurge of rum or brandy (optional); 1 cup whipped cream

To make: Place chocolate in a bowl and microwave on 70% power for 2 minutes, stirring now and again until chocolate has melted. Using a large electric food mixer with the whisk attachment, beat eggs and sugar in a bowl for about 5 minutes until thick, pale and increased in volume. Fold in the melted chocolate, rum or brandy if using, and the whipped cream. Spoon into 4-6 containers and place in the refrigerator to set for at least 2 hours. Decorate with

HIRSCH’S :: ENTERTAINING

a little extra whipped cream and chocolate leaves or shards.

Note

• This recipe contains raw eggs.

• Do not add warm chocolate to cold cream as it will solidify immediately.

Variations

• Add a dash of peppermint essence and decorate with fresh mint leaves.

• Set in a large ice-cream tub; scoop out portions and fill mini pavlova cases.

• Fill little pastry cases with a scoop of chocolate mousse.

• To decorate the mousse, make curls of white chocolate using a sharp vegetable peeler.

• For a wow factor, use a mixture of dark and white chocolate curls on top of the mousse.

• Serve mousse in small shot glasses or on spoons for a party dessert.

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AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 19

HIRSCH’S :: ENTERTAINING

ROASTED BEETROOT, CARROT & RED PEPPER SALAD

This recipe is an old favourite made bang up-to-date with roasted beetroot, carrots, red peppers and onions, with some balsamic vinegar or glaze, and sweet chilli sauce to lift the flavours sky high. It is colourful and dramatic, and can be made the day before you need it, and best of all it is relatively cheap on the purse. Serves 6-8.

Ingredients: 4 beetroot, peeled, cut in half and then into wedges; 2 red peppers, seeded and cut into cubes; 4 carrots, peeled and cut into julienne strips; 2 red onions, peeled, cut in half and then into wedges; 2 cloves garlic, peeled, and cut into slivers; 125ml olive oil; 4 sprigs

rosemary

To make: Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan/Gas mark 6. Place beetroot, red peppers, carrots, onions and garlic into an oven roasting pan. Pour olive oil over, and toss vegetables until well coated. Add rosemary sprigs to vegetables. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until vegetables are just tender. Alternatively, if you’re using a Combination/Solar Dom, cook at 200°C +70% microwave energy for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are just tender. Cool slightly. Remove rosemary sprigs.

Mix together balsamic vinegar or glaze, sugar, sweet chilli sauce and mustard powder, and pour over the warm vegetables. Mix gently together. Place vegetables into a serving dish, top with feta cheese and fresh rosemary sprigs.

Tips

• Use ready-cooked beetroot to

save on the preparation time. Roast as above.

• Use ready-prepared carrot julienne strips.

• A creamy salad dressing also works well with this salad, instead of the balsamic vinegar mixture.

• Did you know that olive oil is considered a healthy fat? The oleic acid found in olive oil is a

monounsaturated fatty acid which stabilises leptin in the body, and, together with polyunsaturated fats, forms part of a healthy diet.

• Remember, olive oil is high in calories, so use moderately.

• Store olive oil in a cool, dark place because sunlight and heat can destroy certain properties in the oil. H

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WindFree Cooling: 23 000 micro air holes gently & quietly disperse cool air to provide ultimate comfort without cold drafts.

Healthier air, comfort & energy-efficiency

The new AR9500 2.0 WindFree™ inverter air conditioner uses innovative technologies to provide comfort to any space so that you can experience ultimate well-being no matter where you are or what you are doing. Equipped with Artificial Intelligence, it automatically optimises various modes by analysing room conditions and usage patterns. The MDS efficiently regulates movement in the room, so it knows when to switch on and switch off or change temperatures. It also learns occupancy patterns and will automatically reduce run times between occupied and unoccupied times. The PM 1.0 Filter functions as an air purifier by sterilising viruses, bacteria and allergens and extracts ultra-fine dust particles and fibers. Provide your family with an energy efficient aircon with the added advantage of purified air.

www.fourwaysaircon.co.za

Hot/Cold PM 1.0 Filter* AI Auto Cooling Motion Detect Sensor Freeze Wash Wi-Fi Control

SOUTH AFRICA Mr & Mrs

HIRSCH’S BELIEVE IN EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN –AND MEN – WHO IN TURN UPLIFT, MOTIVATE AND INSPIRE OTHERS AROUND THE COUNTRY

As the Executive Director of the Hirsch’s Group, Margaret Hirsch is a big supporter of women’s empowerment, so becoming a sponsor and working with Mrs South Africa contestants was the perfect fit. “I believe in uplifting and empowering women, and this is a fabulous way to do

just that.

“The Mrs South Africa finalists have the perfect platform to travel around the country, uplifting and empowering other women, and I have been delighted to be able to help with this endeavour.”

This year – 2023 – saw 35-yearold wife and mother-of-two, Palesa Matjekane, being crowned as the

new Mrs South Africa during a glamorous crowning event that took place at the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg.

Hirsch’s sponsorship included competitions for the contestants every month with Hirsch’s and their suppliers. Margaret meets with the contestants on a monthly basis for a motivational chat and to announce

22 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 HIRSCH’S
:: CELEBS
ABOVE: Lechar Knezovich (2nd Princess), Palesa Matjekane (Mrs SA 2023), and Hlengiwe Sabela (1st Princess).

the new challenge with amazing prizes up for grabs.

“This is a competition that empowers women to become the women they have always wanted to be. It also shows how versatile they are as daughters, wives, mothers, often stepmothers and businesswomen in their own rights. Some of them have multiple businesses and are still able to balance their family life with their business life – which is admirable,” says Margaret proudly.

MR SA

After much success working with Mrs South Africa, Margaret thought it would be a great opportunity to shine a spotlight on the amazing men of South Africa through the Mr South Africa platform. Hirsch’s sponsorship includes competitions for the contestants every month from Hirsch’s and their suppliers. As she does with the Mrs South Africa contestants every month, Margaret meets with the men for a motivational session.

Mr South Africa is SA's leading male ambassadorship programme for both married and single men of South Africa between the ages of 21 and 35. The Mr South Africa brand annually searches the nation for the next titleholder. Through a pageantry process, the finalists

ABOVE:

are provided with coaching, mentoring and networking opportunities to further their cause and career.

Mentored and moulded into ambassadors of change for South

Africa, each titleholder becomes a role model to South Africa's youth. Taking the title this year at the Indaba Hotel in Johannesburg was the multi-talented Cape model and dental surgeon Fuad Adams.

AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 23 ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 HIRSCH’S :: CELEBS
Mr SA, Fuad Adams.

HIRSCH’S :: CELEBS

Commenting on his win Fuad said: "I will use my newfound platform to bring awareness to issues which are close to my heart. These include

children's homes, abused and neglected animals, hunger and poverty in my community, and helping people to assist the elderly.

I will also focus on helping to fight gender-based violence and will try and help bring education to the forefront of our government’s agenda." H

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
ABOVE: The Hirsch's team welcoming their new Mr SA, Fuad Adams.

PARTNERSHIP healthy

Hirsch’s were delighted to attend the launch of Whirlpool’s W9 Collection at the Discovery Health Food Studio in Gauteng. Peter Brownlee, Whirlpool’s Sales Executive, welcomed guests and expounded upon the cutting-edge advantages of the W9 Collection and the relationship with Discovery Health. “Whirlpool South Africa is delighted to announce our renewed partnership with the Discovery Healthy Food Studio as we introduce the muchanticipated arrival of our latest offering – the state-of-the-art W9 Collection.”

This was followed by a demonstration led by Discovery Healthy Food Studio’s Chef Eli, who showcased the Cook 4 function and 6th Sense Live of the new W9 Collection oven. Chef Eli prepared four distinct dishes simultaneously in a single oven, where guests

THE LAUNCH OF WHIRLPOOL’S W9 COLLECTION AT THE DISCOVERY HEALTH FOOD STUDIO

attested that none of the aromas or flavours mingled with each other during the cooking process, resulting in an extremely pleasant culinary experience.

Healthy cooking was very much in the spotlight. “Our symbiotic relationship operates on a foundation of mutual benefit, where we provide them with our cutting-edge appliances, while receiving value-added trade exchanges in return. Together, we champion brand-building initiatives, supported by our shared commitment to promoting healthy cooking. We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Discovery for their dedication and unwavering efforts, which have contributed to the success of this joint venture. A huge thanks too to our suppliers and customers whose unwavering support has been instrumental in elevating our Whirlpool brand to new heights over the past few years,” Peter concluded. H

TOP: Mrs SA 2023, Palesa Matjekane, pictured with Whirlpool Marketing Executive, Dora Gomory.

MIDDLE: Members of the Hirsch’s management team with Richard. BOTTOM: Chef Eli, head chef at the Discovery Healthy Food Studio.

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HIRSCH’S :: WHIRLPOOL
AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 25

KEEP IT fresh

WITH FOOD PRICES ON THE RISE AND LOAD SHEDDING AFFECTING BOTH

PRICE AND PRESERVATION OF FOOD, OPTIMAL STORAGE IS VITAL TO LOCK IN FRESHNESS AND SAVE YOU MONEY

How many times have you felt like a healthy crisp salad for lunch, reached for the lettuce and cucumber, only to discover that both are wilted and limp, a soft mushy mess. What

a waste! But the good news is the correct way to store food is a key factor in reducing food wastage and saving those hardearned rands and cents.

Hirsch’s have some great fridges with amazing features that will help with food preservation.

COOL AND MISTY

Liebherr’s HydroBreeze feature exemplifies a high standard of freshness. A cold mist covers fruit and vegetables like a protective balm in the BioFresh. The mist ensures crisp freshness, improves structure, and

keeps produce with fine leaves fresh for longer. It also creates an optical wow effect in the BioFresh.

Nature’s freshness secret. The Salinas Valley in California is known as the salad bowl of the USA because of its particularly

26 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
BUYS
HIRSCH’S :: KITCHEN

favourable climatic conditions. Its proximity to the cool waters of the Pacific Ocean means a fine, moist mist covers the valley and its fields in summer. This prevents the crops growing there from drying out. It is precisely this idea which inspired the Liebherr BioFresh Professional with HydroBreeze.

PERFECTLY FRESH

Miele has decided to tackle the food waste issue head on, explains Miele’s Jon Molyneax: “At Miele, we believe that to combat this, we need to develop a more conscious approach to how we handle food, and to include an ultra-effective freshness system in our fridges. This is why PerfectFresh Active technology is now a standard new feature of Miele’s latest built-in K7000 and freestanding K4000 range of refrigerators.”

Fruit and vegetables need moisture in order to stay fresh and crisp. At temperatures between 0°C and 3°C, Miele’s PerfectFresh Active provides long-lasting freshness in a visible way by spraying a fine mist on to the contents of the

crisper drawer, preserving the quality of the food and its vitamins. This is well-known in professional applications, for example in delicatessens, and it ensures that food stays fresh for up to five times longer than it would in a conventional vegetable compartment.

“Extended freshness is guaranteed by the perfect combination of a temperature hovering around the freezing point and humidity. Freshness is communicated through the active moisturising system which produces

HIRSCH’S :: KITCHEN BUYS

a fine mist of water that settles on the food in the veggie drawer. This also helps to protect the quality and vitamins in the produce being stored. This active system is familiar from commercial applications, and is similar to the vegetable cooling systems found in supermarkets,” says Jon.

FRESHER FOR LONGER

Bosch have introduced a technology called VitaFresh in their refrigerators – which helps to keep your meat, fruit

and vegetables fresher for longer. The VitaFresh Plus system offers two different climate zones to help store your groceries for up to three times longer. One zone comes with a low temperature setting where you store fish and meat in a separate drawer. This prevents the transfer of odours as well as bacteria. The bigger drawer has been designed for fruit and vegetables, protecting them from moisture loss. Due to its special sealing, the optimum humidity is always kept inside the drawer.

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AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 27

HIRSCH’S :: KITCHEN BUYS

STORAGE TIPS

• Store fruit and vegetables separately. Fruit produces ethylene gas which can cause vegetables to spoil faster. Keep fruit and veggies in different containers or compartments in the fridge.

• Don’t wash fruit and veggies before storing as moisture can cause them to spoil faster. Wash just before using.

• Keep the fridge temperature between 1°C and 5°C. This temp range helps to slow down the ripening process of fruit and vegetables – keeping them fresher for longer.

• Store root vegetables in a cool, dark place – in the pantry for instance. Do not store them in the fridge. H

Robot Vacuum Cleaner

With 16 sensors and an enhanced mapping software, it will cover all areas with ease.

Capacity: Dust Bin: 600ml / Water Tank: 300ml

Connects to WIFI for easy control

5 Different Cleaning Modes (Auto, Manual, Spot, Edge and Zigzag).

Up to 130 min use on a single charge

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023

A masterpiece of innovative freshness technology.

& Freezing
Refrigeration

WHAT’S TRENDING IN kitchens?

30 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 HIRSCH TRENDS :: KITCHENS

WE CHATTED TO INTERIOR DECORATOR LISA WALTERS FROM LISA WALTERS INTERIORS ABOUT WHAT IS HIP, HOP

HIRSCH TRENDS :: KITCHENS

Accent lighting – other than the standard pendant light above your island, be intentional with the spaces in your kitchen and use wall lighting to create specialised spaces. Beautiful wall fixed lighting in a section of cabinetry can create your own little “coffee and tea station” at home. All it takes is a bit of planning and some thought to elevate a basic kitchen plan to something magic.

Feature tiles or marble on walls – a way to create a bespoke, unique and personal look to your kitchen.

Bespoke hardware/handles on cabinets – this is the “jewellery” of your cabinetry so choose wisely.

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
AND HAPPENING IN TODAY’S KITCHENS
ABOVE: Lisa Walters, an uMhlanga interior designer with her finger on the pulse of decor trends.
AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 31

HIRSCH TRENDS :: KITCHENS

Mixing of metals and hardware – this relates to lighting, cabinetry handles and kitchen mixers. Have fun and mix things up.

Black is back, and a black kitchen is as popular as ever – seen above set against striking marble. Mixing black kitchens with a natural wood grounds and warms the look – be it a striking wood island or against oak herringbone flooring.

The standard 80mm backsplash is a thing of the past – counter tops are running high up the wall and into floating shelves to create a beautiful continuous and seamless feature to house special pieces and decor collections. Personal pieces transform the kitchen into a less clinical and minimal space than we have been used to. H

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023

HIRSCH’S :: EXPERT ADVICE

ASK THE specialists

HIRSCH’S IS NOT JUST ABOUT APPLIANCES AND FURNITURE FOR YOUR HOME. IT’S ALSO ABOUT OFFERING CUSTOMERS EXPERT ADVICE AND GUIDANCE BEFORE SPENDING THEIR HARD-EARNED MONEY ON BIG-TICKET HOME ESSENTIALS. LET OUR EXPERTS ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS AND GIVE YOU TIPS

34 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023

FRIDGE/FREEZERS

Fridges are one of the most used appliances in the home, when you consider how many times a day the doors are opened and closed. So for this reason alone, customers had a few questions regarding maintenance.

Q: How often should I clean my fridge?

It's recommended you clean your fridge every three to four months. However, if you notice any spills or stains, it's best to clean them up immediately.

Q: What should I use to clean my fridge?

You can use a solution of equal parts water and vinegar to clean your fridge. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or sponges as they can scratch the surface.

Q: How often should I replace the water filter in my fridge?

The fridge water filter should be replaced every six months or according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Q: How can I ensure my fridge stays organised? Keep similar items together, use clear containers to store left-overs, and label items with their expiration dates.

Q: How can I prevent odours in my fridge?

Store strong-smelling foods like onions and garlic in airtight containers, use baking soda to absorb odours, and clean up spills promptly.

Q: How often should I defrost my freezer?

Most modern fridges have self-defrosting freezers. However, if you notice a build-up of ice, it's recommended to defrost it manually every six months.

Q: How can I ensure my fridge is running efficiently? Make sure the temperature is set correctly, avoid overloading the fridge, and keep the coils and vents clean. If you notice any issues, contact a professional for repairs.

Q: What is the best TV for gaming?

A 100htz Neo Qled, QN90.

Q: What are the benefits of buying a SMART TV? You can stream movies online, and you can connect mobile and wireless devices to your SMART TV.

Q: What are the benefits of buying an OLED TV?

Deep blacks, clean whites and a wide range of colours with self-illuminating pixels – all driven by Quantum dot which gives you superb picture quality.

Q: What are some of the latest features to look out for in the new TVs coming on to the market?

Multi view, Pantone validated, real depth enhancer, and anti-reflection.

TELEVISIONS

Asheran Naidoo, the Manager of our Samsung store in the Pavilion, is an expert on televisions, and has answered some frequently asked questions when buying a TV.

Q: How do you know what size the TV should be for the size of the room it will be going into?

Firstly, you don’t want a TV to dominate the room. Rather, it should complement the area. As an example, a Qled 85” TV sitting distance is about three to four metres away.

Q: What resolution do you recommend?

4K resolution 3840 x 2160.

Q: What is the best high-end TV to buy?

The Samsung Neo Qled.

Q: What is the best TV to buy for watching sport? This would be 100htz Qled, or NEO Qled TVs.

Q: Can I unpack and install the TV myself? If so, can you offer some tips on how to do this?

Yes, you can unpack it yourself, but we highly recommend an installer as you need to handle the TV with care. The panel is the most sensitive area of the TV so no pressure should be put on the panel. Always carry the TV by the outer bezzle and do not press your hands on the screen of the TV. Depending on the size, it is recommended that two people hold the TV while a third person installs the feet.

Q: Is it advisable to buy an extended warranty with a new TV?

Yes, because it covers you on callouts, parts and labour, and cover lasts for up to five years.

Q: How do I prevent my TV from being damaged during power outages?

Invest in a surge plug for your TV.

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
HIRSCH’S :: EXPERT ADVICE
AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 35

OVENS

Here are some frequently asked questions about oven maintenance.

Q: How often should I clean my oven?

Every three to six months, depending on how frequently you use it.

Q: What is the best way to clean an oven?

The preferred ways for cleaning an oven include using commercial oven cleaners, natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar, and steam cleaning.

Q: How do I remove tough, baked-on grease from my oven?

Try using an oven cleaner specifically designed for heavy-duty cleaning. Alternatively, you can make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stains, letting it sit for several hours before wiping it away.

Q: Can I use a self-cleaning function on my oven?

Yes, most ovens come with a self-cleaning function that can be used to remove debris and stains.

Q: How do I prevent spills and stains in my oven?

Use a baking sheet or oven-safe dish when cooking foods that may spill over. You can also line the bottom of your oven with a sheet of aluminium foil or a special oven liner to catch any drips or spills.

DISHWASHERS

The wonderful, life-saving, marriage-saving dishwasher – where would we be without you? Here are six tips for maintaining your dishwasher.

1. Clean the filters once a month by removing them from the dishwasher and rinsing them under running water. Most dishwashers have filters that trap food particles and debris. If they become clogged, they can affect the performance of your dishwasher.

2. Use a high-quality detergent that is specifically designed for dishwashers. Avoid using regular dish soap or hand soap, as they can create excessive suds that can damage your dishwasher.

3. Make sure you load your dishwasher correctly to ensure your dishes are properly cleaned. Avoid overcrowding the dishwasher.

4. Wipe down the interior of your dishwasher with a damp cloth to remove any food particles or debris that may have accumulated.

5. Make sure the spray arms are clean and free of debris. If they are clogged, you can clean them by removing them and rinsing them under running water.

6. Run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner once every couple of months to remove any build-up or residue that may have accumulated inside your dishwasher.

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HIRSCH’S :: EXPERT ADVICE

CELLPHONES

Cellphones are one of Samsung Concept stores fastest selling items. Branch Manager at the Samsung Concept store in Sandton, Denver James, shares the latest info.

Q: What is the biggest selling phone?

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is the latest and greatest flagship from Samsung – a clean, powerful, and super-refined phone.

Q: What are some of the main features?

One of its stand-out features is that it has a long-lasting battery – 5000mAh – which ultimately saves power, enabling you to game and stream into the night. Any pen can write words, but the S Pen that comes with the phone helps you capture them. Highlight event info from a poster or video, then simply tap to save the date straight into your calendar. It’s so easy!

Q: What about the camera facilities – is this one of the main selling points?

Yes, this is one of the key selling points. Samsung have

WASHING MACHINES

Some frequently asked questions to get the most out of your washing machine.

Q: How often should I clean my washing machine?

At least once a month to prevent build-up of dirt, grime and other contaminants that can affect its efficiency and lifespan.

Q: How do I prevent mould and mildew in my washing machine?

Leave the door open after use to allow the machine to dry out completely. You should also clean the machine regularly and use a washing machine cleaner that is specifically designed to remove mould and mildew.

Q: How much laundry detergent should I use?

This depends on the size of your load. Always read the instructions on the detergent package and measure the

HIRSCH’S :: EXPERT ADVICE

packed Galaxy’s biggest sensor, light-absorbing pixels and video stabilisation technology into one Pro-grade Camera allowing you to take crisp photos and videos from dusk until dawn. Low light and reduced noise are also a feature, and the camera lens clears up the capture by toning down flare. You can gently blur the background to put your friends in focus and let DSLRlevel details shine. Capture up to nine frames backto-back, then bring them together to create a multiple exposure work of art, or go manual to take your time between shots with a preview of how your layered masterpiece will blend.

Q: Do the Samsung stores offer training in their devices?

Yes, we offer in-store training every three months where our product specialist will assist in training you on how to use Samsung devices efficiently. We will also run a free diagnostic to ensure your phone is up to date with the latest firmware.

Q: Tell us about the gaming facilities on the phone? You can maximise your free time with the most powerful chip on a Galaxy smartphone. Improved features across the board means everything from gaming to streaming is optimised and seamless – without draining the battery.

Q: When it comes to work – what is the best phone on the market?

The Galaxy S23 Ultra. It comes with Office 365 preinstalled. With the intelligent S Pen you can remotely control your phone with air actions making it easier for you to control your presentations remotely, extract translated text from articles, and most importantly,

detergent carefully to avoid using too much or too little.

Q: Can I use vinegar to clean my washing machine? Yes, vinegar can be used to clean your washing machine. It is a natural cleaner that can remove soap scum, mineral build-up and other contaminants. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and run a cycle with the mixture to clean your machine. H

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023

IS WHERE THE HEART IS home

NEW HOME? TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF SHOPPING FOR THE BASICS WHEN YOU VISIT HIRSCH’S

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or renter, it’s very often a daunting experience moving into a home and not having a clue what to buy for your newly acquired space. But one thing that’s certain –irrespective of whether you’re renting or buying – you really do need to purchase items that will

38 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 LET’S SHOP :: BEST HOME BUYS

make your life as seamless as possible.

Over the 44 years that they have been in business, the Hirsch’s have helped thousands of homeowners or renters to furnish their homes – whether it be their first homes, or their “downsizing” homes.

Here are some furnishing ideas and appliance choices that

can help you get started: Bedroom furniture: Beds, mattresses, side tables, lamps, mirrors – all essential items to turn your bedroom into a cosy sanctuary.

Living room furniture: A comfortable sofa, a few armchairs and a coffee table are essential items for any living room. You’ll also need to consider purchasing a rug, some

throw cushions and a TV stand – or wall mount for the TV.

Window coverings: Curtains or blinds are important for privacy and light control.

Furnishing a new home can be exciting, but remember to prioritise your needs and budget accordingly. It’s OK to start with the basics and gradually add to your

collection over time.

Lighting: Good lighting can make a huge difference in how your home looks and feels. Invest in some lamps and overhead lights – and don’t forget candles, for the romance of them ... or for load shedding.

Laundry appliances: A washing machine, tumble dryer, ironing board, iron and a drying rack.

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 LET’S SHOP :: BEST HOME BUYS
AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 39

LET’S SHOP :: BEST HOME BUYS

Cleaning supplies: A vacuum cleaner, broom, mop, cleaning solutions.

Storage solutions: Consider investing in some storage solutions such as shelves, cabinets and storage boxes to keep your home organised, neat and tidy.

Kitchen appliances: A fridge, stove, and dishwasher are the basic big appliances that every kitchen needs. Then nice optional extras to have are a microwave oven, toaster, kettle, coffee maker, air fryer, Nutribullet, and a beautiful stand mixer –

there’s something about moving into a new home that brings out the secret baker in many of us!

Outdoor: South Africans love to be outside, no matter the time of year. A braai is another must-have and so is a good set of veranda furniture, a patio light and the all-essential icemaker!

Air-conditioning units: Yes, throughout your new home! Preferably inverters as they are more economical. Don’t forget the fact that air-cons cool the home in summer and warm up the home in winter. Welcome home! H

40 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023

LET’S SHOP :: BEST HOME BUYS

CHALLENGES FACING FIRST-TIME BUYERS AND HOW TO OVERCOME THEM

Yael Geffen, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, offers some sound, practical advice.

5 Tips for first-time buyers:

• Do your homework: Start by doing research on the home-buying process and the costs involved. Speak to an experienced estate agent in your preferred areas to find out what types of properties are the best investments.

• Pre-approval: Consult a bond originator to get a clear idea of your budget and to determine what type of mortgage you can afford. This also helps you get a head-start on the paperwork.

• Start saving for a down payment as early as possible: This will help to qualify for a mortgage, and a larger deposit will reduce the amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan.

• Clear debt: Pay off as much of your existing debt as you can and don’t apply for more credit in the run-up to applying for a bond.

• Be patient and don’t rush into a purchase: Take your time to find the right property and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price is too high or the property doesn’t meet your needs.

With careful planning and research, it is possible for first-time buyers to navigate these challenges and to find a home that fits their budget and their needs.

AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 41 ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023

All of us wear many hats at Hirsch's, and one of the many hats I wear is that I am also the buyer of all the amazing kitchenware in our stores. This is the perfect job for me as I love testing kitchenware, so it’s really a privilege to share my favourite gadgets and gizmos with you.

MY FAVOURITE KITCHEN gadgets

BUSINESSMAN, SON, HUSBAND, FATHER, AND AVID COOK, RICHARD HIRSCH

KNOWS ALL TOO WELL WHAT KITCHEN GADGETS AND GIZMOS WILL MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER IN THE KITCHEN – AND PRODUCE THE BEST RESULTS THAT IMPRESS FAMILY AND FRIENDS TIME AFTER TIME

42 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 LET’S SHOP :: BEST KITCHEN GADGETS

 AIR FRYER LINERS

Aren’t air fryers the most amazing product ever?

But for me, the challenge comes when it’s time to clean up. AWG NoStik Air Fryer Liners come in a set of two and are reusable. They come out easily and can go straight into the sink for a quick and easy clean up. HIRSCH’S CODE: 78307

LET’S SHOP :: BEST KITCHEN GADGETS

KITCHEN TONGS

The one product I use the most in the kitchen are the kitchen tongs. Legend PS 30cm tongs are great for turning food in your frying pan or taking something out the oven. For me, I use them the most to get food out of the air fryer. What a winner! HIRSCH’S CODE: 75353

 KITCHEN SCISSORS

When I was growing up, one of the things we never had in our kitchen was a pair of kitchen scissors. I vowed that when I had my own kitchen, I would definitely have a pair of the best. The Powergrip Kitchen Scissors by Joseph Joseph not only look good, but they cut up veggies and herbs with ease, and best of all, are super easy to find in the drawer because of their bright colour.

HIRSCH’S CODE: 77347

 THE CAN OPENER

The humble can opener. Nothing makes your life better or easier than having a good can opener in your kitchen. The struggle is real, and this Legend Can Opener is the easiest solution when you need to open a can in a hurry.

HIRSCH’S CODE: 600618

 4 DRAWERSTORE COMPACT 2-TIER KNIFE HOLDER

My wife and I always like everything to be neat and tidy, and what better way to keep knives in the drawer organised and in place than with this Joseph Joseph Knife Holder, which is easy to clean and easy to access.

HIRSCH’S CODE: 72096

 1-LITRE MEASURING JUG

A Pyrex measuring jug is a staple in any kitchen as it’s freezer, microwave and oven proof. It’s the best way to make a cheese sauce or Bar One sauce in the microwave, and with 101 different uses, you can’t cook without it. HIRSCH’S CODE: 264B000

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 43

 CHOP2POT

The Joseph Joseph Chop2Pot is my favourite chopping board – and it’s so easy to use. Laid flat use as a conventional chopping board, then squeeze the handle to form a chute to add the food to the pan. Available in two sizes. HIRSCH’S CODE: 80390

 THE QUICK SLICER

The ZYL Quick Slicer will transform your kitchen – and make your life so easy! Whether it’s slicing a cucumber, tomato or mushrooms, this cool little product is a multi-slicer that will save you the time of getting the food processor out or slicing it up yourself. HIRSCH’S CODE: 75611

 LEMON SQUEEZER

There is something about lemon in food that ticks all the boxes. The Progressive Lemon Squeezer is so popular it flies off our shelves! Of course, the best thing about it is that it keeps all the pips inside and gets all the juice out of the lemon. With this little must-have gadget, it’s easy to add lemon to a salad dressing, sauce, or you can use it for a dessert. HIRSCH’S CODE: 12656

 BAG CLIPS

Living in Durban means that once anything is opened and left unsealed, it never quite tastes the same the next day. It’s better to keep bread, cereal and crisps fresh by using these Presto Bag Clips – probably the product that gets used the most in my home. HIRSCH’S CODE: 76806

 CUPBOARDSTORE EXPANDABLE ORGANISER

I used to have a challenge with my pantry cupboard. Because it’s so deep, it’s difficult to see what’s at the back of the cupboard. This expandable organiser from Joseph Joseph is a real treat to have in the cupboard. Nothing ever gets forgotten at the back of the cupboard, and it makes things easy to see and access. A must-have in the kitchen. HIRSCH’S CODE: 75611

 THE TRUSTY EGG LIFTER

Looking for the perfect egg lifter? Then look no further. This nifty gadget from Oxo is fantastic. This silicone, flexible omelette turner makes turning eggs, omelettes and hamburger patties really easy. HIRSCH’S CODE: 51018

44 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 LET’S SHOP :: BEST KITCHEN GADGETS

REVOLUTIONARY HOMEWARE FOR OVER 20 YEARS

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• 2200W Blending power

• 45 000RPM Powerful motor

• 2200W Blending power

• 45 000RPM Powerful motor

• 9 Different speeds and timer

• Adjustable suction power

• 9 Different speeds and timer

• Tamper safety protection

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EVEN HEAT DISTRIBUTION FOR PERFECT COOKING EVERY TIME

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• Unique tilt & roll cooking for even heat distribution

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• Includes chrome plated rack & detachable handle

• Includes chrome plated rack & detachable handle

• Preset timer and temperature control

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• Drip drain system for healthier cooking

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TURBO POWER WET & DRY WATER FILTRATION

VACUUM SYSTEM FOR A DUST-FREE HOME

• Perfect for pet owners & allergy sufferers

• Perfect for pet owners & allergy sufferers

• 4-Stage hydro cyclonic filtration system

• 4-Stage hydro cyclonic filtration system

• Turbo cleaning power

• Turbo cleaning power

• Wet & dry cleaning

• Adjustable suction power

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• Unique blowing system

• Adjustable suction power

• 2 Year guarantee

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HIRSCH’S :: HOTELS

teaming

UP WITH THE PRESIDENT

HIRSCH’S HAVE BEEN APPROACHED TO SUPPLY A VARIETY OF ITEMS FOR MANY ACCOMMODATION ESTABLISHMENTS AROUND THE COUNTRY, AND WERE DELIGHTED TO BE ASKED TO SUPPLY APPLIANCES AND ELECTRONIC GOODS TO ONE OF CAPE TOWN’S MOST LOVED HOTELS – THE PRESIDENT IN BANTRY BAY

46 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023

One of the many facilities offered by The President Hotel is the wine-tasting space –kitted out with SnoMaster wine coolers from Hirsch’s, in addition to the Samsung and Hisense TVs, microwave ovens and other small appliances available in the suites.

The President Hotel has a long and interesting history that can be traced back to the very beginnings of the areas now known as Bantry Bay and Sea Point. The hotel has stood on the site for some 150 years, and before that, the Society House – the first substantial building in the area – stood on this portion of land that once

stretched down to the sea and up the slopes of Lion’s Head to Kloof Road.

It was Nelson Mandela himself who opened the newer, even more impressive, entirely rebuilt, 351-bedroom President Hotel on June 3, 1998. Today the new President Hotel operates as South Africa’s largest independent hotel. H

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 HIRSCH’S :: HOTELS
AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 47

LET’S SHOP :: AIR FRYERS

HAPPINESS air fryer

DESIGNED TO SIMULATE DEEP FRYING WITHOUT SUBMERGING THE FOOD IN OIL, AIR FRYERS ARE THE ANSWER TO FAST, HEALTHY FOOD WITH A LOT LESS FUSS

Air fryers most definitely seem to have become an absolute staple in every home! Almost every kitchen has one – and Hirsch’s has one of the hottest ranges of air fryers on the market to tempt you. But what exactly is an air fryer? In a nutshell, it’s a kitchen appliance that uses hot air – not oil or fat – to cook food.

If you’re undecided about buying your first air fryer, here are some points to consider that may convert you to tastier and healthier food choices.

Healthier cooking: Air fryers use little to no oil which makes them a much healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. This can help reduce the amount of fat and calories in your diet.

Time-saving: Air fryers can cook food so much faster than traditional ovens or stove tops. Why? Because the hot air circulates around the food, cooking it evenly and quickly.

Easy to use: Air fryers are very easy to use. Simply place the food in the basket, set the temperature and time – and the air fryer does the rest. It really is the ideal choice for busy people who want to prepare healthy and tasty meals quickly.

Versatile: Absolutely no doubt about this. The air fryer can cook

a wide range of food – including vegetables, most meats and desserts.

Here are some frequently asked questions about these versatile little heroes in the kitchen.

Q: Can I use aluminium foil in my air fryer?

Yes, you can use aluminium foil in your air fryer, however, make sure you only use it on the basket. Don’t cover the heating element or restrict the airflow.

Q: How often should I clean my air fryer?

It is recommended that you clean your air fryer after every use to prevent grease and food debris from building up.

Q: Can I leave my air fryer unattended while food is cooking? It is advisable not to leave it for long periods of time. Always keep an eye on the cooking process to ensure nothing goes wrong.

Q: Can I cook frozen food in my air fryer?

Yes you can. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature to ensure the food is cooked thoroughly.

 THE INSTANT POT VORTEX PLUS 6-IN-1 AIR FRYER

The ClearCook window with internal light allows you to check cooking progress, and the EvenCrisp airflow technology ensures crispy, delicious results. The insulated cooking chamber ensures that this air fryer has the lowest noise levels while you cook. The smart dial control allows you to quickly and very easily adjust the temperature from 35 to 205 degrees C. HIRSCH’S CODE: 78483

48 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
HERE ARE SOME OF OUR LITTLE HEROES WORTH LOOKING AT …

 THE PHILIPS PREMIUM AIR FRYER XXL

The Philips XXL is the only air fryer with Fat Removal technology that separates and captures excess fat – so you can savour the flavour of roast chicken with crispy skin and tender meat with up to 50% less saturated fat. You can fry, bake, grill, roast and reheat meals. Browse through hundreds of recipes with the Nutriu air fryer app. HIRSCH’S CODE: 72318

 THE DEFY 3-LT 1300 AIR FRYER

This is the ideal air fryer for a small kitchen or a holiday home. It has a 3-litre/500g frozen ingredients capacity and a 30-minute timer – and an adjustable temperature control – from 80 to 200 degrees C. It’s also quiet. Great value for money.

HIRSCH’S CODE: 75316

 THE DNA SMART AIR FRYER

With a large 5,7-litre capacity, there’s a visible window that allows you to view the progress of your meal cooking without opening the basket. It is Wi-Fi App enabled, and comes with a 12-button digital touch screen, one basket, user manual and a recipe book. HIRSCH’S CODE: 79381 H

 THE KENWOOD DUAL AIR FRYER

The double air basket capacity –8-litres in total – allows you to quickly prepare two different foods at the same time! The Max Crisp Function speeds up cooking time – resulting in hot, super-crispy food, and the Synch Function synchronises the finishing time of each food type – allowing you to dish up everything at once. We love the fact that there are eight preset programmes, including dehydrate.

HIRSCH’S CODE: 78181

 THE RUSSELL HOBBS PURIFY

MAX 2.0 AIR FRYER

This is a powerful – 1800W – air fryer offering the fastest, crispiest cooking results. The 7-litre capacity is ideal for a family of four to five – with the 5,8-litre basket capacity ideal for a whole chicken plus a kilo of fries. It’s simple to use and easy to clean, and has an intelligent pause-and-stop button, so you are able to remove the pot while cooking, and the machine will resume cooking once the pot has been put back into the tray.

HIRSCH’S CODE: 78011

AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 49 ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 LET’S SHOP :: AIR FRYERS

:: SPORT

Former SA women’s cricket captain Dane van Niekerk has been playing cricket for the last 14 years and captained the SA Ladies side from 2016 to 2021, but injury saw her being ruled out of playing in the T20 World Cup earlier this year.

Dane is married to one of the top SA Women’s International cricketers, Marizanne Kapp, and they have a home in the Kragga Kamma Game Park near Port Elizabeth.

As the couple travel overseas frequently for matches, they have chosen to keep items in storage, but unfortunately, in 2021, they lost everything they had in a storage unit due to a fire.

When Allan Hirsch – a great supporter of South African cricket – heard the story he came to the rescue, kitting the ladies out with a variety of home appliances. “We were so incredibly grateful to Allan and his team. They came to our rescue when we were at a very low point and we cannot thank them enough. Every time we come home to our little oasis in Kragga Kamma we are reminded of Hirsch’s generosity,” Dane explains.

We spoke to Dane while she was in Hong Kong playing at the FairBreak Invitational. She was also part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore squad at the recent inaugural Women’s Premier League in India. After a short break she will head off to England to take up a contract with Sunrisers to play regional T20 cricket.

Dane’s love for cricket started in her family’s back garden. Her father could see her potential and took her to coaching sessions, where she developed her skill as a leg spinner and was the first bowler for South Africa to take 100 wickets in WODIs.

A HELPING hand

FROM ONE CRICKET LOVER TO ANOTHER, ALLAN HIRSCH WAS ABLE TO LEND A HELPING HAND WHEN DISASTER STRUCK DANE VAN NIEKERK AND MARIZANNE KAPP

Marizanne has been playing cricket for the same length of time and is the first cricketer from South Africa to take a hat-trick in a Women’s T20 International match. Both Dane and Marizanne have no qualms in saying that South Africa is lagging behind countries like Australia, India and England when it comes to support for women in cricket. Women cricket players in

all three countries receive much the same remuneration as their male counterparts. “It would be fantastic to see this happen in South Africa as we feel it would be a huge boost for the sport for women. Parity is important in cricket,” says Dane. With regards to the future, Dane says that commentating is something she may pursue as a career. She was one of the main commentators at this year’s Women’s World Cup T20 in the Cape. H

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HIRSCH’S
TOP: Marizanne Kapp. ABOVE: Dane van Niekerk.

LAKES zimbali

OFFERING MULTI-GENERATIONAL LIVING IN A UNIQUE LIFESTYLE COMBINED WITH COMMERCIAL, SPORTING AND RETAIL OPTIONS, ZIMBALI

LAKES RESORT ON THE KZN

NORTH COAST IS ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING AREAS IN SOUTH AFRICA. WE WERE DELIGHTED TO BE GIVEN A TOUR OF THIS MASSIVE COASTAL HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

TELL US A LITTLE OF THE HISTORY OF ZIMBALI LAKES.

Twenty years ago Zimbali Coastal Resort put KwaZulu-Natal on the global property map when Kuwaitiowned IFA Hotels and Resorts sunk R1,6-billion into South Africa in what was then dubbed the biggest foreign direct investment into KZN. In 2017 IFA officially launched its

next project – Zimbali Lakes Resort – which promises to cement the company’s reputation for signature, gold-standard developments.

WHAT WAS THE REASON BEHIND THE ZIMBALI LAKES RESORT DEVELOPMENT?

It was all about demand. The appetite for Zimbali Coastal Resort

property and the catalytic role it played in Ballito, prompted IFA to ratchet up the delivery of Zimbali Lakes. The array of developments that is currently underway, mostly fronts 20-hectares of Lakes or is built around a new 18-hole golf course with forest and sea views.

In total 2 600 opportunities (single residences, PUD sites and sectional title units) will be built at Zimbali

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AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 51

Lakes over the next 10 years, ranging from retirement units to mansions.

The first houses in Lakes are almost complete and about 15 homeowners are months away from moving in. Phases one and two are situated in the northern half of Zimbali Lakes’ 300-hectares total footprint.

EXACTLY WHERE IS ZIMBALI LAKES SITUATED?

With quick access to the M4 and N2 highways, the estate is a 15-minute drive to King Shaka International Airport as well as Dube TradePort, and a short drive to the bustling hubs of uMhlanga and Ballito.

Its central location means you have accessibility to the nearby Netcare Alberlito Hospital, Ashton

International College, the Ballito Lifestyle Shopping Centre, and Ballito Junction Shopping Mall.

HOW IS THIS DEVELOPMENT UPLIFTING THE REGION?

There has been collaboration with Ballito UIP on initiatives to ensure that Ballito and surrounds are destinations of choice to visit and live in.

The wider social and economic impact of Zimbali Lakes is profound. The entire site is a hive of activity. The total spend thus far is R652-million, but we project a total figure of R1,45-billion on infrastructure over the next 10 years as well as the creation of 40 000 construction jobs during the construction period.

Zimbali Lakes Resort is the paradigm of multi-generational living, offering retirees, young professionals and families the opportunity to live,

love, laugh and share in a unique lifestyle.

The estate caters to the market’s needs by offering lock-up-and-go living, modern retirement options, and the chance to design and build a dream home.

GIVE US A PICTURE OF THE COMMUNITY LIFE OFFERED

Community life at Zimbali Lakes will be based on four fundamentals: security, fast broadband, stable electricity, and water supply.

Keen interest in Zimbali Lakes is down to a number of factors. These include location (schools and King Shaka International Airport) as well as the diverse offerings of the estate (commercial, sporting, residential, retirement and retail). And a great added plus is that the estate is pet friendly! H

Thanks to Krishnee Pillay,

for answering questions on the Zimbali Lakes development.

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PROPERTY
HIRSCH’S ::
INVESTMENT
on 032 946 7400
rahindn@hirschs.co.za
Hirsch’s Ballito has been chosen as the preferred supplier for Zimbali Lakes residents. Call them
or email:

CHEF AT HIRSCH’S

SPREADING A LARGE DOSE OF HAPPINESS IN A VARIETY OF KITCHENS AROUND THE WORLD IS EX-SOUTH AFRICAN (NOW AUSTRALIAN) CHEF MELANIE ALAFACE, AKA CHEF MEL, THE HAPPY CHEF

Hhappyot off a tour of Japan and Mexico demonstrating her skills and promoting her Culinary Quickies cookbook, Chef Mel joined forces with Hirsch’s in May for some special Mother’s Day feasting table ideas along with a live cooking demo as part of Hirsch’s ongoing Kitchen Capers in-store event series. Hirsch’s Milnerton, uMhlanga and Centurion were in the spotlight for the events which were sponsored by Siemens and Bosch.

54 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 COOKING :: GUEST CHEF

As a globally recognised chef, culinary personality and founder of one of the most well-known cooking schools in Australia, Vanilla Zulu in Brisbane, Chef Mel’s mission is to make cooking fun for both professional chefs and home cooks –and this she did in spades at the Hirsch’s Kitchen Capers events.

Mel – who attended ML Sultan cookery school in Durban in the 90s –travelled around the UK working in the culinary industry after she left college, before heading back home and starting her Gecko cooking school in Westville. Before cooking up a storm at the Hirsch’s uMhlanga branch, Mel met up with old classmates from ML Sultan and some of her students from Gecko, who were all delighted to step in and help with preparation for the event.

COOKING :: GUEST CHEF

To add an additional sparkle to Mel’s events, Diemersfontein wines came on board for a wine pairing session for the different dishes Mel served at the demonstrations.

Mel’s first book, Culinary Quickies, upskills readers on fundamental cooking techniques, how to avoid common culinary mistakes, adopting “cheffy” shortcuts, plus lots of tips and tricks that make you look like a master chef.

“I love nothing more than encouraging people to get excited in their kitchens,” said Mel. “Food has its own language and I love empowering people to think in that language. I love teaching culinary enthusiasts at any level, how to cook with passion and have fun in the kitchen. Anyone can make any dish or ingredient look and taste exciting, and most of

all I want to help people feel comfortable and confident in the kitchen,” she explained. “Food is like clothing – we can dress it up, add colour, texture, and accessories that can elevate even the simplest weeknight meal,” she added.

Commenting on their collaboration with Chef Mel, CEO of Hirsch’s, Richard said: “We are delighted to welcome Chef Mel back to South Africa and into some of our stores for our pre-Mother’s Day Kitchen Capers events. We have run these Kitchen Capers events for many years now, showcasing some of the versatile products we sell – and with the experts making full use of them. Thanks so much to Chef Mel and her team for gracing us with her extremely talented presence.” H

 Chef Mel adding the finishing touches to a dish.

 Easy Panna Cotta.

 Pear and Parma Carpaccio.

 Milnerton: A happy group of guests looking forward to Chef Mel’s demonstration.

 uMhlanga: Chef Mel with Luci Hirsch Jackson and Debbie Kennedy from Bosch Siemens.

 Centurion: Ishara, Eemola, and Senita with Chef Mel.

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
    

HIRSCH’S :: START-UPS

HIRSCH’S HOMESTORES CELEBRATE start-ups

IN A SHOW OF OPTIMISM FOR SOUTH AFRICA’S ENTREPRENEURS, PARTICULARLY SMME’S, HIRSCH’S HOMESTORES ARE CELEBRATING START-UPS AT ALL THEIR BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENTS

Headlining the first event that took place at Hirsch’s Hillcrest were Michael Currin, the founder of Homefarm, an innovative indoor farming system; and partners in business, Theosan Moodley and Dr Astin Anuridh who founded VRome – a virtual reality business that brings global VR technology applications into the South African real estate industry.

Forty-four years ago and with savings of R900, Hirsch’s was just a small start-up. Today

they have grown into a billion-rand business. “We love the concept of giving other start-ups – who sometimes may battle to find ways to get exposure – a platform to promote their businesses,” says Richard Hirsch.

If you would like to showcase YOUR business at these Business Networking/Start-up events, please contact the Regional PRO in your area. In KZN it’s crystal@ hirschs.co.za; Cape Town: shane@hirschs. co.za; Gauteng: natania@ hirschs.co.za and bertus@hirschs.co.za

 Antoinette Kleingeld and Ency Litsoane, Somerset West.

 Este Pretorius, LinkedIn Guru at Fourways Networking.

 Margaret with a group of networking guests.

 Start-up launch at Hillcrest. Michael Currin, Katlego Malesa, Richard Hirsch, Theosan Moodley and Dr Astin Anirudh.

 Margaret with Aritha Aleka.

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 

HIRSCH’S :: START-UPS

LINKEDIN FACTS

A regular guest speaker at our Business Networking events in Gauteng is LinkedIn guru, Este Pretorius. Here are some top tips from Este on LinkedIn.

• People are unaware of the massive potential LinkedIn has to help find new clients so they can grow their business. It is still a hugely important site for recruiters and candidates. Six people are hired through LinkedIn every minute and 91% of recruiters regularly use it to find talent and discover more about potential candidates.

• 80% of LinkedIn members are the key decision-makers in their organisation. That’s at least 61-million senior-level influencers and 40-million decision-makers that your business could be connecting with. It’s also the most used social media platform amongst Fortune 500 companies.

• 77% of content marketers say LinkedIn provides the best organic results.

• LinkedIn is 277% more effective for lead generation than Facebook and Twitter.

• It’s safe to say that all the clients you’re ever going to need are there already. It’s just a case of knowing how and where to find them, and once you have, knowing how to engage with them in a meaningful way that adds value and builds on that all-important know, like and trust factors. H

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
   AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 57

HIRSCH’S :: KITCHEN CAPERS

IN THE AIR fun

CATCH UP ON ALL THE FUN, LAUGHTER AND TASTINGS AT HIRSCH’S KITCHEN CAPERS EVENTS AROUND THE COUNTRY!

Every week there is something cooking at a Hirsch’s branch! Whether it’s something sizzling in the air fryer, or steaming up a storm in one of the state-of-the-art steam ovens in the showrooms, or something quick, easy and nutritious in the

Instant Pot or microwave, there’s always something happening that draws people into the shops to find out “what’s cooking?”

Here are some of the many events that Hirsch’s have put together to bring fun, entertainment, and of course a good dollop of knowledge, into people’s lives.

CHEF LINDA’S SEAFOOD EXTRAVAGANZA!

Chef Linda Mnikathi has been a popular guest chef at Hirsch’s branches in KZN. He recently wowed the audience with a delicious seafood paella using the Instant Pot, and at the same time highlighted all the amazing things one can do with this appliance. As he pointed out, making an entire meal in it is not only cost effective, but quick, clean and easy too.

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 

HIRSCH’S :: KITCHEN CAPERS

LOVE IS IN THE AIR FRYER

To celebrate Valentine’s month Hirsch’s hosted a couples cook-off around the country with the couples cooking against each other using just a Philips Air Fryer. At Hirsch’s Milnerton, the Pieterson sisters – Candice and Chanel – were the overall winners, going home with their very own air fryer from Philips. However, the other teams did not go away empty-handed and also received fantastic prizes from Philips.

HIRSCH’S WORLD BUNNY CHOW COMPETITION FINALS

The unmistakable aroma of Durban curry spices wafted through the Food Hall at the East Coast Radio House and Garden Show with the Hirsch’s World Bunny Chow competition finals in full swing. Celebrating the day and carrying out a demonstration for the public were Margaret Hirsch, who produced a delicious vegan bunny chow, and SA MasterChef’s Deena Naidoo and Dr Harri. They went on to judge six contestants who had entered their own recipes to see who would be selected to compete in the finals.

The top three – Meg Jinhu, Pritha Fakir and Nishan Bissessar – vied for the first prize, a fabulous Defy Multicooker, while the two runners-up also received fantastic prizes.

Judges Allan Hirsch, Deena Naidoo and Dr Harri agreed that the chicken and prawn bunny produced by Meg Jinhu was unbeatable, and she was crowned the 2022 World Bunny Chow Champion!

 Chef Linda demonstrating how to use the Instant Pot.

 Meg Jhinu (centre), winner of the Hirsch’s World Bunny Chow competition.

 Margaret with her vegan bunny chow.

 Love is in the Air Fryer – Milnerton.

 Love is in the Air Fryer – Fourways.

AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 59 ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
  

TIK TOK SENSATION FEHMZ WOWS WITH THE INSTANT POT

Tik Tok sensation Fehmz wowed the crowds at Hirsch’s Fourways with an interactive cooking demonstration she did in the Instant Pot which was loved and appreciated by all.

HIRSCH’S HERITAGE MONTH AIR FRYER CHALLENGE

Cooking up a healthy storm at Hirsch’s Ballito with the Philips Air Fryer for Heritage month were a team of students from Ashton International College. Kitted out in their Heritage month gear, the teams – consisting of the Springbok Sisters (Ella Backeberg and Isabella Moodley), the Igazi Brothers (Nicolas Kopman and Kayson Holthauze), and Back to the Kazi (Owethu Ngcobo and Rokhy Thiam), battled it out to see who would win the coveted prize of a pair of Phillips Air Fryers.

It was the delicious chicken kebabs, corn on the cob, hand-cut chips and peppermint crisp cheesecake prepared by the Springbok Sisters that won the day! They were followed by the Igazi Brothers with their traditional babotie and buttermilk pudding, and in a very close third spot was the Back to the Kazi team with an old school kota and malva pudding.

“This was such a fantastic way for students to be introduced to exciting new products like the air fryer, and we commend Hirsch’s and Philips for this initiative,” commented Ashton International College Home Economics teacher Vanessa Andreou. H

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KITCHEN CAPERS
HIRSCH’S ::
 Ashton Air Fryer competition contestants.  Tik Tok Sensation Fehmz.
 

Be the first to experience WOW

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Samsung’s innovative OLED offers deep blacks, clean whites and full shades of colors thanks to cutting-edge self-illuminating pixels driven by Quantum Dot.

Source – Omdia, January 2023. Results are not an endorsement of Samsung Any reliance on these results is at the third-party’s own risk.

THE VERIMARK brand

A PROUDLY SOUTH AFRICAN AND FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS, THE VERIMARK BRAND IS AVAILABLE AT HIRSCH’S

Hirsch’s are proud to be associated with all of their suppliers. In this issue of At Home With Hirsch’s we chat with the lovely Simone van Straaten, Chief Operations Officer at Verimark, and her father, CEO Michael van Straaten.

HOW DID VERIMARK START?

Michael’s brother Willie started Verimark in 1977, and he joined him four years later – straight out of university. During his varsity holidays he sold household products door-to-door, and this is where his love for direct selling started.

“Verimark still operates very

62 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 HIRSCH’S :: SUPPLIER
LEFT AND ABOVE: Verimark Ambassadors in Hirsch's branches showing off the upright vac and the Bastille pot and pan set.

much like a family. My daughter joined the business seven years ago, but I introduced her to the business model at a very young age. She used to sell Magic Markers on the show when she was seven, and I reminded her back then that she’d better be nice to the other kids and look friendly. She currently works as the head of operations. I’m still heavily involved in the marketing department, and although everyone says it’s time to slow down, I still work seven days a week,” says Michael.

“Not many people know this, but Verimark was historically started by operating on a consumer show model. At one point we had about forty stands at the Rand Easter Show, selling products such as Window Mate (a magnetic window cleaner). Our main pitchman would demonstrate our innovative, topquality products, and large groups of people gathered around the stands all putting their hands up to buy,” says daughter Simone.

“The ‘As Seen on TV’ concept was only introduced into the business at a later point, but was a similar concept to ‘Wow’ – demonstrations of innovative products that South Africans had never seen before. This model further evolved and ‘pitchmen’ were placed into retail stores such as Hirsch’s. We are proud to be the first company in the world to take ‘As Seen on TV’ products into retail,” continues Simone.

WHAT PRODUCTS DID YOU START WITH AND WHAT HAVE BEEN STAND-OUT PRODUCTS?

“We are still selling some of our very first products today! The Floorwiz Pro – which was at one point rated South Africa’s preferred mop by an independent study – is more than twenty-five years old. Pool Gobbler was also one of our firsts, boasting a more than twenty-fiveyear track record. Twista Pro – which was endorsed by Isabel Jones – was certainly noteworthy and we sold over two-million pieces in South Africa,” says Michael.

YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH HIRSCH’S

“We became part of the Hirsch’s family in 2021 after having a chat with Margaret. I have always admired the Hirsch’s business model,

scaling to the level they have, but still managing to maintain a sense of family. I think that is largely what their success has been attributed to. Their employees all feel that they are part of the family and are working towards a shared, common goal (similar to Verimark).

“This personalisation certainly spills over to how customers are interacted with, and their view on important aspects like customer service and the value proposition Hirsch’s is offering. We are extremely proud to call ourselves a supplier of Hirsch’s and look forward to many more years of trade with them,” concludes Michael. H

BELOW: Simone van Straaten, Chief Operations Officer at Verimark, and her father, CEO Michael van Straaten – two proud members of their familyrun business Verimark.

ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023 HIRSCH’S :: SUPPLIER
AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S • 63

STOCKISTS

FIND A HIRSCH’S STORE

near you

Western Cape

Head Office, Distribution & Service Centre

1121 Umgeni Rd Tel: 031 582 4400

Fax: 031 564 8492

uMhlanga Tetford Circle (HOME STORE)

Tel: 031 570 4000

Hirsch’s Air Tetford Circle

Tel: 031 570 4000

Ballito

Wimble Close

Tel: 032 946 7400

SAMSUNG CONCEPT STORES

Gateway Theatre of Shopping

uMhlanga

Tel: 031 566 6795

Springfield Park Royal Palm Ave (SUPER STORE)

Tel: 031 242 2600

Hillcrest Old Main Rd Tel: 031 761 7500

Cape Town Koeberg Rd, Milnerton (HOME STORE)

Tel: 021 528 6700

Somerset West 7 Dynagel Rd, Firgrove Rural

Cape Town

Tel: 021 001 1066

Ballito Junction

Regional Mall

Tel: 032 001 0388

The Pavilion Shopping Centre

Westville Tel: 031 001 0424

Strubens Valley

Cnr Hendrik Potgieter & Christian De Wet Tel: 011 858 4600

Hyde Park 226 Jan Smuts Ave

Tel: 00 001 8590

Fourways 1 Forest Drive

Tel: 011 707 8000

Meadowdale Herman Rd

Tel: 011 657 2400

Carnival, Brakpan 22 Nossob St

Tel: 010 822 2050

Clearwater Mall Strubens Valley Tel: 011 675 0010

Mall of Africa

Midrand Tel: 010 001 9441

Centurion Gateway Plaza, Cnr

Sarel Baard & Old Jhb Rds Tel: 012 621 6300

Silverlakes

Cnr Graham & Silverlakes Rds

Tel: 012 001 2640

Waterfall Cnr Woodmead & Waterfall Drs Tel: 010 0011088

SMEG STORE

Constantia Village Shopping Centre

Constantia

Tel: 021 001 0684

Sandton City

Sandton Tel: 010 001 9440

Constantia Village

Constantia

Tel: 021 001 0685

KwaZulu-Natal
Gauteng
64 • AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S ISSUE 15 WINTER 2023
100L9H
AT HOME WITH HIRSCH’S
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