Due to globalization many products we use every day are now produced in Asia instead of Europe. Global pressure for cheap goods has lead to the demise of traditional production methods in the west leading to a flood of poor quality merchandise on our shelves. South Africa has not been immune to this shift, and products from electronics to stoves are now produced en mass in factories by unskilled labourers in countries such as China or Vietnam.

The Culinary Equipment Company, founded by Wehrner Gutstadt in 2002 has endeavoured to buck this trend. The company’s mission is to import brands only of the highest possible quality solely from Europe, thereby supporting master artisans in their traditional craft. The Culinary Equipment Co is the only company of its kind to support this ideal in South Africa.

Established primarily as the importer of the world-renowned Lacanche range of French range cookers, the company has grown to include over seven thousand line items. Today, forty brands make up a formidable contingent of products that cover everything from cutlery, vegetable slicers, espresso machines, to copper or ceramic cookware.

With many companies finding themselves compromised by high rent and staffing costs, the Culinary Equipment Company has grown organically to include a small, highly-trained team that is renowned for delivering exemplary service, and long-standing client relationships. Situated in Lanseria, Stellenbosch and Cape Town (August 2009) the group boasts an enormous 1500 square meter showroom in its Johannesburg headquarters - including a full commercial demonstration kitchen and the facility to cater for high-end functions. Culinary Commercial, lead by Wehrner Gutstadt, is the professional arm of the Culinary Group. With several large scale commercial projects on the go at any instant and a history of developing restaurant kitchens and concepts which go straight into the nation’s top ten listings, it provides first-rate industry knowledge and experience.

About our products

The brands and products the Culinary Group supports all adhere to a strict profile. All products and components are produced in the European Union. Brands also feature the highest levels of quality, durability, and design. Brands represent superior craftsmanship and dedication to their craft. The Culinary Group headed by Wehrner Gutstadt is the sole importer of all ranges, whereby we develop a strong active working relationship with each of our suppliers. Acting as sole agents for over 50 top tier companies means that we carry a great deal of responsibility towards each product. This commitment and responsibility is communicated to our clients.