Sweet Legacy: How Simone Nel turned her grandmother's fudge recipe into a thriving business

AT JUST 24 years old, Simone Nel has taken a beloved family tradition and turned it into a modern, full-time business that continues to win hearts across Johannesburg and beyond.

- ASHLEY LECHMAN

What began as a way for her grandmother, Rina Nel, to stay busy and earn a little extra income has become a growing artisanal fudge brand built on heritage, heart, and a commitment to quality.

“My gran started the business after her kids moved out. She had more time on her hands and wanted to do something for herself,” Simone told Business Report.

“She did everything by herself at first, from cooking the fudge to delivering it. As demand grew, she hired help, and her fudge started showing up in more and more stores. I used to be so proud pointing it out to shop assistants, saying, “That's my granny’s fudge,” Simone said.

Simone fondly remembers Rina’s meticulous approach, “She was very particular about her ingredients, never chopped and changed anything. Her blocks were always perfectly cut and beautifully packed.”

While the roots of the business are steeped in tradition, Simone’s own journey into entrepreneurship came from necessity. After struggling to find work despite holding a BSc in Human Physiology from the University of Pretoria, Simone decided to take control of her future.

“There was a growing demand from friends and family, for gifts, weddings, holidays and I realised people genuinely loved the product,” she said.

“With encouragement from my fiancé, family, and friends, I decided to register the business, rent a kitchen, and take the leap.”

The leap came with challenges