Ask the oldest person you know if they have heard of Simba and you would probably evoke feelings of nostalgia and hear a delightful story from way back when. Simba’s seen some radical changes in South Africa since we first launched our Simba Chips in 1957.
As surprising as it may sound, this billion rand company was born out of the vision of an old lady from the Eastern Cape, Mrs Greyvenstein. Affectionately known as Ouma Greyvenstein, this loveable and caring grandma planted a seed that would one day germinate into a snack empire that spanned across Africa and became an important part of the world’s biggest snack and beverage company.
So, how did Ouma get the ball rolling?
Back in 1939 the world was in turmoil, we were in the throes of a global war and in Molteno, a small town in the Eastern Cape, things were not looking too bright either. Times were tough but some hardships eased a bit as Ouma Greyvenstein started making her now famous Ouma Rusks. This project helped the community generate much needed funds while supplying South Africa with its favourite rusks.
Her son, Leon, decided to diversify the family business and in 1952 a chance meeting and engagements between him and Herman Lay, who was responsible for making Lay’s Chips, sparked an idea that later led to Leon producing Simba Chips. It was at this precise moment in time that Simba became a reality. Something that would one day be part of millions of peoples’ happiness every single day.
In 1957, South Africans were introduced for the very first time to the Simba Chippie. Not only did South Africa receive its very own ‘local is lekker’ chip, but we also caught our first glimpse of Simba the Lion, who would one day become one of our country’s most recognised and loved icons.
We are able to bring you snacks, like Simba Chips, that you want, not only because we are local, but because we are part of a bigger family that specialises in snacks and beverages all over the world. Since 1995, Simba has been part of the PepsiCo stable. This move placed the brand firmly in the international arena, which provides us with untold benefits in terms of global advantage, maintaining unbeatable quality and customer satisfaction.
Simba is a strong brand that has not only stood the test of time but has adapted and evolved to continue reflecting South Africans’ fun-loving and vibrant spirit.
Simba is also committed to bringing you new and exciting flavours and products that reflect your taste preferences, while meeting your need for fun that ROARRRS WITH FLAVOUR!
