Client: Exotic Taste

Industry: Food

Company Size: Small to Medium Enterprise (SME)


Location: Western Cape

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Exotic Taste was born in 2006 when Amina Abrahams, a resilient mother of two, turned personal hardship into purpose. From her kitchen in Kensington, she built a flavour-forward food business that’s grown into a recognised private label manufacturer.

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Despite the challenges of COVID-19, the company expanded in 2020 to a 544sqm facility in Beaconvale, more than doubling its size and team. Now home to 25 staff, the facility includes three production rooms (one gluten-free) and a cold chain for frozen goods.

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In May 2025, Exotic Taste earned ISO 22000 certification, a testament to its world-class food safety standards. With products like Mascoville Hot Sauce and Die Vis Fabriek reaching local shelves and global markets, including the UAE, Amina’s vision continues to drive impact, empowering women and building a proudly South African brand with global ambition.

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As Exotic Taste geared up to launch its new paste range, the team faced a familiar challenge: needing funding to scale production and invest in small equipment. When Shoprite in Gauteng came knocking, the opportunity was huge, but so was the need for extra working capital to fulfil the order without disrupting day-to-day operations or salary commitments.

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The Challenge

As Exotic Taste geared up to launch its new paste range, the team faced a familiar challenge: needing funding to scale production and invest in small equipment. When Shoprite in Gauteng came knocking, the opportunity was huge, but so was the need for extra working capital to fulfil the order without disrupting day-to-day operations or salary commitments.

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The Solution

Pumpkn stepped in with fast and flexible support. Through purchase order (PO) financing and short-term working capital, Exotic Taste was able to meet its Gauteng supply commitments while continuing to run day-to-day operations smoothly. According to Amina, it was the speed and professionalism of Pumpkn’s team that made all the difference, quickly understanding the urgency and responding without delay.
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The Outcome

The impact of Pumpkn’s support was immediate and significant. Supplying Shoprite Gauteng opened the door for Shoprite KZN to also list the new paste range. Revenue has since quadrupled, four new team members have been hired, and private label clients have committed to new product lines. This increase in production demand has pushed the business into its next phase of growth.
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Conclusion

Pumpkn’s partnership gave Exotic Taste more than just capital; it gave the team peace of mind. With access to fast funding, the business now operates with greater confidence and agility. Faster production turnaround means quicker invoicing and a more efficient path to market. This allows Exotic Taste to keep moving forward, planning new product launches and scaling.

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