Heritage Day is appreciably celebrated in South Africa annually on the 24th of September. It is a day that commemorates the country’s heritage and its people while promoting cultural diversity.
South Africa is known as a ‘Rainbow nation’ and emanates from its rich cultural history and heritage. The day was first celebrated in 1995 post-apartheid and is also known as National Braai Day.
Many iconic brands have blended well into the South African heritage and have existed for generations, immensely contributing to the country’s identity.
Here are three heritage brands that are not South African:
Zam-Buk
Zam-Buk has been around since 1902 and has become part of many South African households. Zam-Buk was founded by Charles Edward Fulford, a businessman from England, and owner of Zam-Buk Company of Leeds. The product was first sold through his Bile Beans company as a herbal balm and antiseptic ointment.
Aromat
Most households have incorporated Aromat in the food generation after generation, but this commonly used spice is not South African. In 1952 a man named Walter Obrist, who worked for Knorr developed Aromat. The product is of Swiss origin but has added zest to many South African households that it feels like a national brand.
Carling Black Label
The most popular beer beverage in South Africa, loved by many, is originally a Canadian product developed by Thomas Carling in 1840. Over the years, the brand found its way into the South African lands sponsoring the pre-season friendly match featuring two of the most popular football clubs, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
Sunlight
Sunlight has been the go-to brand when it comes to washing dishes or removing tough stains. The brand has become essential in many households.
However, Sunlight was founded in late Victorian England by William Hesketh Lever in 1885during the country’s era of poverty and ill-health and was introduced to South Africa in 1891.
