Andrew and Chris Brown, co-founders of The Daily Buzz, an upmarket and speciality chain of coffee bars which service the corporate workplace, was awarded the 2013 Small Business Entrepreneur of the Year® title in the annual Sanlam / Business Partners Entrepreneur of the Year® Competition, which was held in Johannesburg on Wednesday, 4 September 2013.

The Daily Buzz was established in 2006 by brothers, Andrew and Chris Brown, after Andrew spotted a gap in the market for a superior, and easily accessible, coffee spot while working as a risk professional in Johannesburg. The idea to provide quality coffee in such a way that allowed employees to return to their workstations quickly and efficiently was then born.

As part of the start-up plan, Chris trained at the London School of Coffee, as well as other institutes situated in Italy, the United States and Africa in order to perfect the art of delivering a premium coffee experience.

Over the years The Daily Buzz has successfully secured a niche in the market by providing a trendy and convenient spot for employees in corporate buildings to enjoy quality and competitively-priced speciality coffee and fresh food. Another aspect which sets the business apart from its competitors is its on-going skills development programmes and training which is provided to all staff on a frequent basis to ensure exceptional service and product expertise.

Since opening their first coffee bar in the Standard Bank headquarters in Johannesburg with just two employees in 2006, The Daily Buzz has grown to seven outlets and employs approximately 60 people.

Andrew Brown says that it is a great honour for him, and the business, to be recognised by Sanlam / Business Partners Entrepreneur of the Year®. “As entrepreneurs we so often achieve a goal only to replace it with a new goal and neglect to take stock and recognise how far we have come, and how successful our business has become.

“This award is recognition for our business’s success, and provides us with an opportunity to sit back for a brief moment and acknowledge our achievements.”

With five fellow finalists recognised in the small business category, Andrew and Chris were awarded the title as they perfected a simple product, added to it a healthy dose of service, and created a brand which is highly sought after, says Stefan Beyers, a member of the 2013 Sanlam / Business Partners Entrepreneur of the Year® judging panel. “Ultimately what made The Daily Buzz stand out was the combination of a high quality product and a determined focus on customer service and experience.”

Andrew Brown believes that entrepreneurs play a valuable role in the economy by creating sustainable businesses and much needed employment. “Entrepreneurs take risks by converting ideas into a tangible business and by doing so create great value for the economy by providing employment and up-skilling opportunities for employees. At the same time they also create value for customers by providing a new or better service than what existed before an entrepreneur’s business was born,” concludes Brown.

For more information on The Daily Buzz, please visit their website www.thedailybuzz.co.za