The 21st Annual Best Business Cleaver Awards

 

 

Celebrating Excellence in South Africa’s Butchery Industry: The 21st Annual Best Business Cleaver Awards.

 

 

 

The 21st Annual BestBusiness.co.za Cleaver Awards took place from August 19th to 21st, 2026, recognising the most distinguished butchers across South Africa who exemplify excellence in customer service, product quality, and business innovation.

This prestigious event, which marks over two decades of celebrating the nation’s top talent in the meat industry, saw some of South Africa’s finest butchers receive the coveted 21st Annual Cleaver Award Trophy.

Visit bestbusiness.co.za to see the Best of the Best.

 

Ryan Read – Chairman of the Cleaver Awards, Andre Young and Sydney Barlett Beefmaster Factory Shop Kimberley. and Casey-Lee Venter Marketing Communications and Brand Head Arch Retail Solutions

 

 

The BestBusiness.co.za Cleaver Awards are proudly supported by an exceptional group of sponsors whose commitment to South African business, innovation and excellence helps make this prestigious event possible. Arch Retail Solutions, HC Group and Pesuco each bring their own expertise, energy and industry leadership to the Awards, while sharing a common belief in recognising and supporting the country’s Best Butchery businesses.

 

 

Ryan Read – Chairman of the Cleaver Awards, Lance and Susara Venter of Pick n Pay Lephalale, Henk Mac Donald Chief Sales and Marketing Officer of HC Group

 

Each year, the BestBusiness.co.za Cleaver Awards recognise those butchers who go above and beyond in providing exceptional service and quality products to their customers. The awards serve as a hallmark of excellence, showcasing those in the industry who have achieved the highest levels of craftsmanship, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

This year’s recipients of the 21st Annual Cleaver Awards Trophy not only represent the pinnacle of South African butchery but also continue to set new standards for service and innovation. The awards underscore the essential role butchers play in providing high quality products, while maintaining traditional skills and forward-thinking practices.

Highlights from the 2026 Awards:

• The awards ceremony took place over three days, bringing together industry leaders, business owners, and esteemed guests from across the country.
• This year’s winners were recognized for their dedication to maintaining the highest quality standards and their ability to adapt to changing market demands.

We are proud to continue celebrating and honouring those who contribute to the strength of South Africa’s butchery industry and serve their customers with excellence.

An Invitation to Butchers Across South Africa

The BestBusiness.co.za Cleaver Awards extend an invitation to all butcheries across South Africa to be part of this prestigious national recognition programme. Register your butchery today at BestBusiness.co.za and participate for the opportunity to be named and famed as one of South Africa’s best! Whether you’re an independent neighbourhood butcher or an established retail business, this is your chance to showcase your excellence in quality, service and innovation, and earn the national recognition your business deserves.