"I Love Uju," the brainchild of Brett Emmerson and Suzanne Thomson, has its roots deeply embedded in the picturesque landscapes of Cape Town. The idea for Uju was born on their family farm in Stilbaai, where they have their own hives, while Brett was born in Port Elizabeth. Suzanne continues to cherish her Cape Town origins. Their story is not just about the journey from two different corners of South Africa but also about the shared vision that brought them together to create something extraordinary.
Before we spoke to Uju, we were curious to hear what makes the duo excited about a new year, and as the calendar turns its pages, ushering in the excitement of a new year, Brett and Suzanne find joy in the endless possibilities it promises. The anticipation of growth, new opportunities, and the chance to make a positive impact fuel their enthusiasm. After a demanding year, they retreat to their family farm, a sanctuary of love, good food, and relaxation, ensuring they step into the new year with renewed vigour.
The brand Uju Honey Gummies emerged as the result of Brett Emmerson's ingenious idea. What started as a solo endeavour soon became a collaborative effort when Suzanne Thomson, his son's partner, joined in, captivated by the product and its potential. Their mission: to craft a delectable and healthy honey gummy sweet. Harvesting honey from their family farm, they collaborated with expert food chemists for years to create a wholesome alternative to sugar-laden treats.
Uju Gummies, a patented and one-of-a-kind product in Africa, boast a divine chewy texture reminiscent of Turkish Delights. These sweets are not just a delight for the taste buds but also cater to diverse preferences. With nine delicious flavours including Original, Ginger, Almond, Rooibos, Rose Geranium, Chai, Liquorice, Espresso, and Cocoa Nibs, Uju ensures there's something for everyone. Vegetarian, halal, and free from refined sugar, gelatine, gluten, dairy, preservatives, colorants, and flavourings, Uju Gummies redefine guilt-free indulgence. Uju Gummies advocate for a healthier alternative by leveraging the natural sugar in honey. This not only causes a modest insulin spike but also facilitates the entry of tryptophan into the brain. The subsequent conversion to serotonin and melatonin helps stabilize blood sugar levels, presenting a compelling case for choosing honey over refined sugar.
What it takes to run a small business: Running Uju as a small business demands dedication, resilience, and an unwavering passion. Beyond the challenges and triumphs, Uju represents a shift toward healthier choices without compromising on enjoyment and satisfaction. Providing a healthier option for customers is a source of satisfaction for Brett and Suzanne, contributing positively to the lives of those who choose Uju.
Uju’s Product Offering: Their honey gummies are a Halaal-certified, vegetarian delight crafted from local honey. Free from various additives, they offer a guilt-free alternative to traditional sweets. With nine natural flavors, Uju provides a unique taste experience for the whole family. As a Proudly South African brand, the use of local honey underscores their commitment to supporting local produce.
Importance of Collaborations: Recognizing the value of collaboration, Uju, which launched in November 2022, is eager to build lasting partnerships with other brands. In the words of Helen Keller, "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." Uju aims to amplify its impact by joining forces with like-minded businesses.
Business Highlights: Uju's significant achievements include securing a patent for their unique honey gummy formula, setting them apart as pioneers in offering a healthier alternative. Despite a modest beginning with no marketing budget and juggling Uju alongside full-time jobs, the brand has secured retail space in over 70 stores across every province in South Africa. Partnerships with prominent health retailers such as Faithful to Nature and Wellness Warehouse highlight Uju's rapid growth.
Unwinding: Away from the buzzing world of Uju, both Brett and Suzanne have their preferred ways to unwind. Suzanne finds solace in hiking, spending time with family and friends, and immersing herself in nature. On the other hand, Brett is pursuing his pilot's license, finding peace in the skies or on the family farm in Stillbaai, a serene escape from city life.
Future Plans: As they gaze into the future, Brett and Suzanne are thrilled by the possibilities that lie ahead. Engaging with large retailers interested in stocking Uju and the product making its way to Canada signal the brand's global aspirations. Balancing brand growth with a commitment to continuous product development, Uju Honey Gummies promises more exciting developments in the months and years to come. The public can expect a journey of health and delight as Uju continues to redefine the sweet experience.