Rapid intervention from the Red Tape Reduction Unit sustained 35 – 40 jobs at Cape Town-based restaurant, Rick’s Café Americain

The Restaurant industry is a key source of jobs for many citizens in the Western Cape as well as tourists who visit the Province. It is important that the ease with which businesses in the restaurant industry can operate is optimised, and business concerns be addressed.

When the owner of Rick’s Café Americain, Per Menko, contacted the Department via the Business Support Helpline Service, Miss Bronwyn Kay from the Red Tape Reduction Unit swiftly intervened.

During the renovation of the building that housed the business, the City of Cape Town changed the water meter to a digital one. This meant that the water usage now had a limit, which would have many consequences for a business in the restaurant industry.

What challenges did the business face as a result of the water limit?

The water limit resulted in the business not having water for the toilets or for cooking. Additionally, the business’ coffee machine had burnt out, which incurred cost of R35 000.

When Mr. Menko contacted the City, he was advised that the issue could take 21 days to resolve – Rick’s Café Americain owner had no choice but to close the restaurant in the evenings as they had run out of the 250 litres of water allocated per day. 40 of the staff members had to be sent home during this period without an income.

How did the Department intervene to help resolve the challenge?

Miss Bronwyn Kay immediately connected with the City of Cape Town. The economic impact of the water limit in terms of costs and jobs lost was communicated to the City. City officials urgently attended to the matter.

Within 5 hours, the issue was resolved, and water was restored to its full capacity at the business premises.

The impressive and efficient resolution of the problem sustained 35 – 40 jobs! The sustenance of existing jobs is just as important as the creation of new jobs – the Department hopes to continue placing the needs of business at the centre of the Red Tape Reduction Unit’s service delivery.