This month (April) marks the silver jubilee of industry leader West Peak Speciality Meats, which is “celebrating 25 years of quality in every bite since 1999.”
Previously known as Ribcor Meat Products, the legacy of four generations of meat merchants, with knowledge passed down from one generation to the next.
The first business had been established by Juan Slabbert’s great-grandfather in the picturesque town of Riebeek-Kasteel.
Over time, the meat wholesaler’s operations moved to the charming town of Malmesbury, where Juan’s grandfather made a bold decision to open a butchery that would shape the future of the Slabbert family venture.
Eventually, the business found its way to the vibrant community of Somerset West. After the untimely passing of Jakobus, Jan’s father, at the early age of 51, Jan eventually took over the business from his mother after finishing school and military service.
With Jan at the helm, the business quickly flourished beyond imagination which culminated in the building of the original Helderberg Bacon Factory – in those days situated next to Gants Cannery.
Hard work and dedication propelled it forward, culminating in the establishment of a remarkable industry unit.
It was within the walls of that very first butchery, and under the watchful eye of Jan’s mother, that the delectable meat recipes were born and crafted with love and a commitment to tradition.
In 1999, with the wisdom of three generations of knowledge and treasured recipes, Juan Slabbert embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in the meat industry.
Building on the business success obtained by Ribcor’s signature product precooked spareribs, he developed and introduced a unique range of high-quality, expertly blended, and flavourful smoked-meat products and sausages to the industry under the West Peak name.
The company name change was to suit future strategy, aspirations, and an extensive product portfolio.
The name ‘West Peak’ pays tribute to the name ‘Helderberg’ in Helderberg Bacon Factory, the business Juan’s father built up as a young man.
Today, West Peak strives to provide superior-quality products that have been handcrafted by a resolute team and influenced by four generations, since 1908.
West Peak pivots around its core values of providing outstanding customer service and the highest quality products, while always striving to be ahead of the pack.
By staying ahead of new developments in the industry we endeavour to continuously develop and deliver superior-quality products to our customers within the public and retail arenas.Among other accolades, West Peak is proud to have been named the Shoprite Group’s National Supplier of the Year.
The limited-edition Stuffed Chicken Roast, specially manufactured for Checkers, was voted SA’s #1 chicken product by The Sunday Times.
Furthermore, it boasts of being a preferred supplier to most retail chains in the country and creating full-time employment for many individuals from previously disadvantaged communities.
Of the 100+ employees, West Peak boasts staff members with up to 15 years of service to the business.
What’s next for the industry leader?
“We are looking forward to enlarging our footprint into Namibia and expanding further into Africa in 2024,” the statement related.
For those in search of West Peak products or looking to contact the business, its premises are located at 85 Lourens Street, Somerset West.
A small factory shop is open to the public, with a variety of products also available at most retailers in the province.
West Peak is a proud supplier of the food service industry and makes use of distributors in certain areas.
“Join us as we continue to honour our legacy, celebrating our roots while embracing innovation. From our family to yours, we invite you to savour the taste of tradition with every bite.”
- For a list of distributors, or more information, reach out by sending an email to info@westpeakmeats.co.za or calling 021 852 1187.
