Block & Chisel has won South Africa’s ‘Most Loved Local Business’ in the Home Decor industry, via an independent survey commissioned by Santam in the 2021 edition of the Most Loved Local Report.
Partnered with the business technology experts at World Wide Worx, Santam’s aim was to uncover South Africa’s most loved local businesses across 12 different categories: Eatery, Butcher, Bakery and Café, Spa, Entertainment Spot, Gym, Home Décor, Market, Dry Cleaner, Car Wash, Pharmacy and Building Materials and Supplies Company.
Explains Gerald Van Wyk, Head of Business & Market Development for Santam, “We understand that local businesses are an important driver of our economy and pivotal to the communities in which they operate as far as job creation and economic activities are concerned. So, we at Santam are passionate about supporting entrepreneurs and showing appreciation for that important role that they play.”
“The most successful of them [businesses] have managed to win the hearts of their customers by turning that customer base into a fan base. The research shows that the more of a fan base the entrepreneur can build, the better his or her chances of creating a business that lasts, and that’s really what this survey is about.”Susan McCoubrey, Block & Chisel’s Creative Director, says, “We are so pleased with this particular award because it is focused on the public’s passion and love for a brand. We pride ourselves on good service and sourcing beautiful pieces that change your living experience.
“These changes can transform the way we feel when we are home, or now, at work. I think over these last 21 months, we have needed a sanctuary to quieten all the COVID-19 stress, as well as a comfortable workplace for some who are remote working.”
Paul McAdam, Managing Director, adds, “For two years we have focused on our digital business so that anyone around South Africa could view, purchase and receive our products by delivery. Our social media following is over 100 000 now on Facebook and nearly 70 000 on Instagram. It shows the boom in South Africa’s use of digital devices and platforms as well as our growing trust in e-commerce.”
“Block & Chisel has so many people to thank, from our hard-working team, our customers, and our logistics team that make it all happen, reaching every corner of the country. It’s a huge effort.
Perhaps most importantly, many people don’t know that we employ many people as we also manufacture, handcraft and paint finish many of the ranges we have, and this added interest has ensured everyone’s jobs have been retained. Right now, that matters, the public’s support of local brands is so important.”
Block & Chisel was originally founded almost 35 years ago in Cape Town by Lynn and Sibley McAdam who sold their carved wooden ducks. Slowly, the business evolved to making furniture and learning beautiful paint and antiquing techniques. Over three decades on, the business is known for vibrant colour, sophistication and a blend of materials and textiles that make a home stand out. It is now run by their son and daughter, and has a number of superstores and boutique outlets in Johannesburg – Illovo and Parkhurst – and Cape Town, in Kloof Street, Wynberg’s Chelsea Village and also the Flagship Store in Diep River.
