Feeding ambitions and fuelling dreams - FitFoodz
In 2019, Willem Reynders launched FitFoodz, fuelled by nothing more than passion, belief and faith in his capabilities. Since then he has become a leader of change in the meal prep industry. Incredibly, this story started with an initial investment of just R800 worth of mince and rice. Knowing that the journey towards a healthier lifestyle can often feel like an uphill battle, Willem was intent on providing the right support and resources. As a former IT student and personal trainer, he saw a need for healthy, pre-prepared meals to help people stay on track with their fitness goals after leaving the gym. There was clearly a market for this approach and today, FitFoodz is a thriving business that delivers its popular frozen meals nationwide.
Adapting despite the odds
Willem's journey almost came to a complete stop as soon as it started with the onset of Covid-19 in 2020, FitFoodz took a serious hit losing roughly 90% of its client base within the first stage of lockdown. With a baby girl on the way, Willem's doubts intensified on whether or not he'd be able to leave a legacy behind for his daughter. Willem chose to hang on to his dream. He pivoted his business from preparing pre-package meals for students and the local community to preparing and started delivering frozen, pre-packed meals nationwide. Despite the uncertainty of the times, FitFoodz began to grow rapidly, exceeding previous expectations and Willem knew it was time to take the next step.
Taking a big step forward with a new partner
Fortunately, Willem didn't have to do it alone. With the help of FNB, he was able to secure a commercial property loan enabling him to purchase a larger premise. This gave FitFoodz the room it needed to expand and provide better space to manage logistics and its business as a whole.
If it weren't for FNB, and the solutions they offered us, we wouldn't have been able to maintain that exponential level of growth' said Willem.
After months of successful growth and expansion, FitFoodz was able to create more jobs to support the local community.
A bright solution to a new challenge
It was at this point that Willem encountered yet another problem: the impact of continuous load shedding that had already impacted South African businesses enormously. With his freezers defrosting and production come to a screeching halt every few hours, Willem reached out to FNB, who readily assisted him with financing for solar solutions - ensuring that his business was up and running no matter what.
Today, Willem's dream of leaving a legacy for his daughter is a reality, and he knows that FNB will be there to support him every step of the way as he continues to grow and expand.
The story of FitFoodz and Willem is a testament to the power of change and the impact that partnerships can have on small businesses. It's proof that with determination, hard work, and getting the help you need, anything is possible. So, if you have a dream, don't be afraid to take a risk and start your journey towards change. You never know where it might take you.
For more information about FitFoodz please visit https://fitfoodz.co.za/
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