Catering Equipment in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s culinary capital, is a thriving hub for the hospitality industry, where high-quality catering equipment is essential for restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses. From commercial kitchens to small-scale food ventures, the city offers a diverse range of suppliers providing everything from ovens and fryers to stainless steel tables and refrigeration units. This evergreen guide highlights the top 10 catering equipment suppliers in Johannesburg for 2025, selected based on product quality, variety, customer reviews, and industry reputation. Whether you’re launching a new restaurant, upgrading a bakery, or equipping a catering service, these suppliers deliver durable, professional-grade tools to elevate your operations. With insights on pricing, services, and safety tips, this article is your go-to resource for sourcing the best catering equipment in the City of Gold.

List of 10 Best Catering Equipment Suppliers in Johannesburg

1. Africa Catering Equipment Supplies

  • Location: 58 12th Rd, Kew, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 4.8/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Price Range: R6,650–R138,995 (e.g., fryers, ovens)

  • Key Features: Established in 1979, this supplier offers new and used equipment for bakeries, butcheries, supermarkets, and restaurants. Products include cold rooms, freezers, shelving, and cooking utensils. They provide trade-ins, export to Africa, and serve clients like Spar and Pick n Pay. Known for same-day delivery and competitive pricing.

  • Why Choose?: Ideal for businesses needing a wide range of equipment with fast delivery and excellent service.

  • Contact: +27 11 026 5666, acessa.co.za

2. Boss Catering Equipment

  • Location: Linbro Park, Sandton, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (Customer feedback)

  • Price Range: R5,000–R100,000 (e.g., ice cream machines, ovens)

  • Key Features: Operating since 2012, Boss offers online and in-store shopping for bakery, butchery, and restaurant equipment. Popular combos include ice cream machines with supplies (R25,000+) and bakery packages with ovens and mixers. All products come with warranties.

  • Why Choose?: Perfect for startups and established businesses seeking affordable, high-quality equipment with reliable support.

  • Contact: +27 11 608 0060, bosscateringequipment.co.za

3. Soft-Ice Catering Equipment

  • Location: Montana, Pretoria (distributes to Johannesburg)

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (Industry reviews)

  • Price Range: R10,000–R150,000 (e.g., soft serve machines, fryers)

  • Key Features: Suppliers of Beiqi and ChromeCater brands, offering soft serve machines, fryers, and refrigeration units. Features a fully equipped workshop for repairs and an online store. Exports to Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia.

  • Why Choose?: Great for businesses needing specialized equipment like soft serve machines with strong after-sales support.

  • Contact: +27 12 548 2745, cateringequipment.co.za

4. Absolute Catering Equipment

  • Location: 11 Mooi St, City and Suburban, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Price Range: R10,887–R91,827 (e.g., bakery equipment, fridges)

  • Key Features: Specializes in new and second-hand equipment, including bakery, butchery, and refrigeration units. Offers custom package deals and buys/sells used equipment with free collection. Known for tailored solutions.

  • Why Choose?: Ideal for budget-conscious businesses seeking second-hand or custom equipment packages.

  • Contact: +27 11 334 0825, absolutecateringequipment.co.za

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5. Catercare

  • Location: Operates nationwide (Johannesburg distribution)

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (Customer feedback)

  • Price Range: R4,000–R80,000 (e.g., bain maries, dough mixers)

  • Key Features: Direct importer with over 31 years of experience, offering bain maries, ice cream machines, and butchery knives. Provides free shipping on smalls over R4,000 to main city centers. All equipment includes a guarantee.

  • Why Choose?: Best for businesses wanting reliable, guaranteed equipment with free shipping perks.

  • Contact: +27 21 981 8077, catercare.co.za

6. Avocat Catering Equipment

  • Location: Germiston, Johannesburg

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (Industry reviews)

  • Price Range: R20,000–R200,000 (e.g., commercial stoves, cold rooms)

  • Key Features: Manufactures stainless steel furniture, commercial stoves, and oil-jacketed pots. Specializes in bakery equipment and custom kitchen layouts. Offers 12-month carry-in guarantees and cold/freezer room installations.

  • Why Choose?: Perfect for restaurants needing custom stainless steel solutions and heavy-duty equipment.

  • Contact: +27 11 615 5432, avocatcateringequipment.com

7. Cater Pro Africa

  • Location: Johannesburg (specific address on inquiry)

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (Google Reviews)

  • Price Range: R5,000–R120,000 (e.g., refrigeration, tableware)

  • Key Features: Over 10 years in business, offering new and refurbished equipment from brands like Salvadore and Brema. Specializes in refrigeration, tableware, and food storage solutions. Provides delivery in Gauteng and expert consultations.

  • Why Choose?: Great for businesses seeking both new and used equipment with personalized service.

  • Contact: +27 11 028 0916, caterpro.co.za

8. Vulcan Catering and Bakery Equipment

  • Location: Johannesburg (nationwide distribution)

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (Customer feedback)

  • Price Range: R15,000–R250,000 (e.g., ovens, mixers)

  • Key Features: With 70 years of experience, Vulcan manufactures and supplies commercial kitchen equipment, including ovens and mixers. Offers test kitchen facilities and professional kitchen design services.

  • Why Choose?: Ideal for large-scale projects needing expert design and high-quality equipment.

  • Contact: +27 11 249 8500, vulcan.co.za

9. BCE Foodservice Equipment

  • Location: Johannesburg (southern Africa distribution)

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (Industry reviews)

  • Price Range: R10,000–R200,000 (e.g., cookware, appliances)

  • Key Features: Leading supplier of kitchen utensils, industrial cookware, and commercial appliances. Serves hotels, restaurants, and catering companies with an extensive dealer network. Known for durability and variety.

  • Why Choose?: Perfect for hospitality businesses needing premium, reliable equipment.

  • Contact: +27 11 701 2200, bce.co.za

10. Catermarket

  • Location: Johannesburg (nationwide distribution)

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (Customer feedback)

  • Price Range: R5,000–R150,000 (e.g., beverage equipment, fryers)

  • Key Features: Offers commercial cooking, cooling, and buffet equipment. Known for speedy service, site visits, and after-sales support. Clients praise their attention to detail and project management.

  • Why Choose?: Best for businesses seeking comprehensive catering solutions with exceptional service.

  • Contact: +27 11 888 5450, catermarket.co.za

Why Choose Catering Equipment Suppliers in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg’s status as a culinary and commercial hub makes it ideal for sourcing catering equipment. Here’s why these suppliers stand out:

  • Quality and Durability: Suppliers like Vulcan and BCE offer premium, long-lasting equipment backed by warranties.

  • Variety: From soft serve machines (Soft-Ice) to custom stoves (Avocat), there’s equipment for every need.

  • Affordability: Absolute and Catercare provide budget-friendly options, including second-hand and discounted smalls.

  • Expert Support: Cater Pro Africa and Vulcan offer consultations and kitchen design services for tailored solutions.

  • Accessibility: Most suppliers are in or near Johannesburg (Sandton, Germiston) with nationwide delivery.

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How to Choose the Right Catering Equipment Supplier

Selecting the right supplier depends on your business needs. Consider these factors:

  • Equipment Type: Choose suppliers like Soft-Ice for soft serve machines or Avocat for stainless steel furniture.

  • Budget: Absolute offers second-hand deals; BCE and Vulcan cater to premium budgets.

  • Warranty and Support: Boss and Catercare provide warranties; Soft-Ice and Cater Pro offer repair services.

  • Customization: Avocat and Absolute excel in custom packages and kitchen layouts.

  • Location: Sandton (Boss) and Germiston (Avocat) are central; Soft-Ice serves Johannesburg from Pretoria.

  • Reviews: Check Google Reviews or industry feedback for reliability, as seen with Africa Catering’s 4.8/5 rating.

Types of Catering Equipment Available

Johannesburg suppliers offer a wide range of equipment, including:

  • Cooking Equipment: Gas/electric fryers, ovens, grillers (Boss, Avocat)

  • Refrigeration: Freezers, cold rooms, display fridges (Cater Pro, Africa Catering)

  • Bakery Equipment: Dough mixers, deck ovens, proofers (Vulcan, Absolute)

  • Butchery Equipment: Meat mincers, sausage fillers, knives (Catercare, Africa Catering)

  • Small Appliances: Blenders, coffee machines, urns (BCE, Catermarket)

  • Stainless Steel Furniture: Tables, sinks, shelving (Avocat, Soft-Ice)

  • Specialty Machines: Soft serve, popcorn, candy floss machines (Soft-Ice, Catercare)

Tips for Sourcing Catering Equipment in Johannesburg

  • Request Quotes: Contact suppliers like Catermarket or Avocat for custom quotes tailored to your needs.

  • Check Warranties: Ensure equipment from Boss or Catercare includes at least a 12-month guarantee.

  • Inspect Used Equipment: For second-hand purchases from Absolute, verify condition and testing periods.

  • Plan Delivery: Confirm shipping costs; Catercare offers free shipping on smalls over R4,000.

  • Visit Showrooms: Explore Boss’s Sandton showroom or Soft-Ice’s Pretoria facility for hands-on selection.

  • Negotiate Packages: Absolute and Africa Catering offer combo deals for bulk purchases.

Benefits of Sourcing Catering Equipment in Johannesburg

  • Commercial Hub: Johannesburg’s logistics network ensures fast delivery from suppliers like Catercare.

  • Competitive Pricing: Africa Catering and Absolute offer budget-friendly options for startups.

  • Industry Expertise: Vulcan’s 70-year experience and Cater Pro’s consultations provide professional guidance.

  • Export Opportunities: Suppliers like Soft-Ice and Africa Catering export to Africa, ideal for regional businesses.

  • Sustainability: Some suppliers offer energy-efficient equipment, reducing operational costs.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

  • High Costs: Premium equipment from BCE can be pricey. Solution: Opt for second-hand from Absolute or budget options from Catercare.

  • Availability: Specialized items may be out of stock. Solution: Contact Cater Pro or Soft-Ice for sourcing assistance.

  • Maintenance: Equipment requires regular upkeep. Solution: Choose suppliers like Soft-Ice with repair services.

  • Delivery Delays: Remote areas may face delays. Solution: Prioritize Gauteng-based suppliers like Boss or Avocat.

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Best Areas for Catering Equipment Suppliers in Johannesburg

  • Sandton: Home to Boss Catering, offering premium equipment in a business-friendly area.

  • Germiston: Avocat’s base, ideal for custom stainless steel and heavy-duty equipment.

  • City and Suburban: Absolute’s location, great for second-hand and package deals.

  • Kew: Africa Catering’s hub, known for variety and fast delivery.

  • Pretoria (Nearby): Soft-Ice serves Johannesburg with specialized machines.

Things to Do Near These Suppliers

  • Business Networking: Attend events at Sandton Convention Centre, near Boss Catering.

  • Cultural Sites: Visit the Apartheid Museum, a short drive from City and Suburban.

  • Dining: Enjoy Nelson Mandela Square (Sandton) or Fordsburg’s food markets (near Kew).

  • Shopping: Explore Sandton City Mall or Eastgate Shopping Centre (near Germiston).

Safety and Practical Tips

  • Safe Areas: Sandton and Germiston are secure; use Uber for evening visits to Kew or City and Suburban.

  • Best Time to Visit: November to February for pleasant weather (20–25°C).

  • Verify Suppliers: Check credentials on websites like catercare.co.za or Google Reviews.

  • Payment Security: Use PayFast (Catercare) or secure online platforms for transactions.

  • Equipment Testing: Request demonstrations at Vulcan’s test kitchen or Absolute’s showroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best catering equipment supplier in Johannesburg?

Africa Catering Equipment Supplies leads with a 4.8/5 rating for its variety, fast delivery, and competitive pricing, followed by Boss for affordability.

Are there budget-friendly catering equipment suppliers in Johannesburg?

Absolute and Catercare offer second-hand and smalls starting at R4,000, with free shipping on qualifying orders.

Can I get custom catering equipment in Johannesburg?

Yes, Avocat and Absolute provide custom stainless steel furniture and package deals tailored to your kitchen.

Do these suppliers offer warranties?

Most suppliers, including Boss, Catercare, and Avocat, provide 12-month carry-in guarantees on equipment.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 10 catering equipment suppliers, from Africa Catering’s extensive range to Avocat’s custom solutions, offer everything you need to equip a professional kitchen. With options for new and used equipment, warranties, and expert support, these suppliers cater to startups, restaurants, and large-scale operations. Visit showrooms in Sandton or Germiston, request quotes from catermarket.co.za or bosscateringequipment.co.za, and prioritize warranties for peace of mind. Pair your sourcing trip with Johannesburg’s cultural attractions or dining at Nelson Mandela Square for a complete experience in the City of Gold.