Eskort expands Western Cape presence with new George store

SOUTH AFRICA – Eskort, a household name in South Africa’s pork industry, has launched its first store in the Western Cape, setting up shop in George’s Eden Meander Lifestyle Centre. 

The grand opening, held on 21 November, marked a milestone for the 107-year-old brand as it continues its national retail expansion, now operating 28 outlets across the country.

Located next to New Harvest, the new store brings Eskort’s renowned quality directly to the Garden Route community, offering an extensive range of fresh and processed pork products, including exclusive items not available in supermarkets. 

The outlet also features a takeaway meal section serving pork-based dishes such as burgers and eisbein, along with freshly braaied meat from an outdoor kiosk.

Meeting demand for versatility and affordability

Marcelle Pienaar, Eskort’s Marketing Director, highlighted the global appeal of pork, which ranks as the most consumed meat worldwide. 

However, in South Africa, pork sits in third place, trailing behind beef and chicken. Pienaar noted that pork’s affordability—costing nearly one-third the price of mutton—makes it a valuable option for South Africans facing financial pressures.

“With budgets under strain, pork offers excellent value for money, and when prepared correctly, it’s both versatile and flavorful,” said Pienaar.

Eskort has tailored its product offerings to cater to diverse customer needs, introducing items such as frozen meals and platter packs designed for busy lifestyles. 

The company’s vertically integrated operations ensure quality control, with meat sourced exclusively from its two farms adhering to stringent food safety standards.

Century of quality

Established in 1917, Eskort has built its reputation on delivering uncompromised quality, earning the title of South Africa’s Best Loved Bacon and Gold Medal Pork Sausages. 

By owning its retail outlets, Eskort provides customers access to its full range of products, from frozen and processed items to fresh cuts, enhancing its value proposition.

The George store’s launch was accompanied by special promotions and instant prizes, drawing enthusiastic shoppers. The event also offered factory-price deals, attracting both loyal Eskort customers and newcomers eager to explore the brand’s offerings.

National expansion plans

The George outlet is the first of several new Eskort stores planned in the coming weeks, with three additional locations in development. 

This expansion aligns with Eskort’s strategy to deepen its footprint across South Africa, bringing its century-old heritage and trusted products to more communities.

Pork’s growing popularity worldwide has positioned it as a competitive protein choice, particularly in value-conscious markets. 

In South Africa, the shift toward convenience foods and versatile meat options has supported the rise of brands like Eskort. 

As the company expands its presence, it taps into both global consumption trends and local consumer needs, maintaining its leadership in the pork category.