By Lebogang Mashala
In commemorating World Bee Day, Cape Coastal Honey, a division of the Libstar Group, has recognised what it calls an unsung hero by highlighting the importance of the honeybee, not only to the agricultural industry but also to the entire ecosystem.
According to the company, South Africa’s agricultural heartbeat depends on the honeybee.
Cape Coastal Honey (CCH), established in 1978, has grown from a family-run business into one of the largest sustainable honey producers in South Africa.
“As a keystone species, bees pollinate over 50 crop types, playing a central role in biodiversity, food security and rural economies. Without them, entire ecosystems and industries would begin to unravel,” said Bianca Harford, sales and marketing representative at CCH.
The company believes ethical, sustainable honey production is not only possible but also profitable.
A model for ethical sourcing
According to Harford, at the heart of CCH’s business is its commitment to local farmers. She said the company sources 100% non-irradiated, badger-friendly honey from a growing network of beekeepers across South Africa, many of whom are supported with training in sustainable beekeeping practices. These relationships are built not just on trade, but on trust and shared values.
“Not all honey has the same market appeal, and CCH is helping farmers capitalise on this opportunity,” she explained. Harford added that by working closely with local beekeepers, the business is developing sales channels for lesser-known honey varieties that would typically be used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics or as sweeteners. “Now, these honeys are being repositioned for retail shelves, opening new income streams for farmers and encouraging greater crop diversity in hives,” said Harford.
At its processing facility in Vredenburg on the Cape’s West Coast, a wide range of multi-flora and single-varietal honeys, including orange blossom, fynbos, aloe, blue gum, wild blossom, wilde-ertjie, apple, litchi and macadamia, are processed and packaged.
CCH also implemented clean flake labels to enhance bottle recyclability, transitioned to fully recyclable label materials, and replaced plastic pallet wraps with biodegradable alternatives as part of its commitment to minimising its environmental impact.
Roan Dowling, category head at Libstar, notes that CCH’s growth exemplifies the strength of purpose-driven, sustainable business practices. According to Dowling, by partnering with local farmers, investing in ethical sourcing, and responding to changing consumer demands, they’ve established a resilient business in a competitive market. “As we look to the future, we’re excited to expand our presence, particularly in foodservice and private labelling, while continuing to protect our pollinators, support our communities, and deliver quality honey products that positively impact every level of the value chain,” he said.
The sweet spot between people and planet
“While honey may be the product, the real story behind CCH is rooted in systems thinking. It involves nurturing bees to strengthen biodiversity, empowering beekeepers to develop sustainable livelihoods, and delivering products that are environmentally friendly,” said Harford.
She emphasised that in a world where pollinators are threatened by habitat loss, climate change and pesticide exposure, Cape Coastal Honey’s model provides a hopeful blueprint, demonstrating that what benefits bees can also benefit businesses.
“Therefore, the message for this World Bee Day is clear: Protecting pollinators is not just an environmental necessity – it is an investment in our collective future,” she concluded.
