PIEMANS: South Africa’s favourite pie, serving a legacy of taste and innovation

Since 1982, PIEMANS has been filling South African stomachs – and hearts – with the comfort of warm, ‘hit-the-spot’ pies. What began as a small shop in West Krugersdorp, founded by John Welch and Heinz Andreas with their partners Mike Morgan, and the late Ivan Lesueur, quickly earned a reputation for pies that tasted like home. Their dedication to quality and flavour saw PIEMANS grow from a local favourite into the largest pie manufacturer in South Africa. Yet, despite its success, the brand has never lost sight of its roots. Every pie is still made with the same care and craftsmanship that first won the locals over, making PIEMANS a trusted part of mealtimes, from quick roadside snacks to family favourites.

Growing what matters – feeding the nation and its people
Feeding South Africans has always been about more than just delivering great food – it’s about nurturing communities. One of the brand’s most cherished traditions is ensuring that its workers are able to eat the pies they make free of charge as well as a variety of healthy salads and beverages, including the employees who work on the weekend. This practice was inherited from the original owners and has become a key part of the PIEMANS culture, fostering a deep sense of belonging and pride among the team. It’s this commitment to people that aligns with RCL FOODS belief in growing and empowering both its people and its products – because when communities thrive, so does the food that brings them together.

From humble beginnings to iconic status
It all began in a small shop with just four employees cooking pie fillings in a saucepan on a gas stove, making pastry with a rolling pin and filling the pies by hand with an ice cream scoop. The factory has now grown into an operation that employs over 400 people, with PIEMANS famous pies available at major retailers across South Africa and even internationally, from United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong to Namibia and Zambia. Over the decades, the brand has embraced change and grown with the times, from humble starts to the introduction of 5 automated pie lines. This evolution has ensured that the same quality, loved taste is delivered every time – no matter how large the demand.

The heart of the South African pie industry
As the largest pie manufacturer in South Africa, PIEMANS is not only the most widely distributed pie brand but also a key player in the country’s food manufacturing industry. Extending across every corner of South Africa, feeding millions of people each year. With more than 100 million pies sold annually, PIEMANS is the trusted name behind classic flavours like Pepper Steak, Chicken and Mushroom, and Steak and Kidney. These traditional favourites continue to be enjoyed by generations of South Africans.

Innovation at the core of growth
While PIEMANS is rooted in tradition, it continues to innovate and evolve to meet the needs of today’s consumers. Recent years have seen the launch of exciting new products like PIEMANS Minis, which have taken the market by storm. These convenient, bite-sized pies in flavours like Mini Sausage Rolls, Cheese Puffs, Creamy Chicken, and Saucy Steak are perfect for people on-the-go and reflect the brand’s commitment to satisfying evolving consumer preferences.

Innovation doesn’t stop with the pre-cooked Minis. PIEMANS has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to product development, and the brand has big plans for the future. New products are set to launch soon, with innovations that promise to keep South African taste buds craving more. Watch this space!

More than just pies – a legacy of feeding Mzansi
For over 30 years, PIEMANS has stood as a symbol of quality, trust, and innovation. More than just a pie brand, PIEMANS has become part of the fabric of South African life. As the company continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains unchanged: its dedication to making every bite just as comforting as the last. And with its eyes set on the future, PIEMANS will continue to innovate and serve the same taste people have come to know and love for many more years to come.