"Selling your business is our business"
"Selling your business is our business"
Fully describe the business's activities?
This bespoke lodge and function venue is tucked away in a lush bushveld valley on the outskirts of Pretoria. Only a fifteen-minute drive from the Eastern suburbs and major retail centres, Simbali offers an exceptional and convenient escape into the tranquillity of the natural bushveld â a setting that feels remote yet remains easily accessible for both local and out-of-town guests.
Simbali specializes in premium weddings and private events, offering a fully equipped, all-inclusive experience. The venue is distinguished by its modern industrial design softened with organic textures and Bali-inspired finishes â a visual identity that has captured the attention of engaged couples across Gauteng and beyond. Its curated atmosphere is complemented by a strong operational foundation, capable of hosting both intimate celebrations and large-scale functions.
The property features a range of purpose-built facilities, including:
A covered bush chapel overlooking nestled in the bush
A striking reception hall with high-volume ceilings and a large wraparound deck with views of the valley
Outdoor boma and bar areas nestled under mature trees
Luxurious bridal and groom suites
On-site accommodation for guests
Simbali offers turnkey wedding packages that include catering, venue styling, coordination, bar services, and optional add-ons via established partnerships with trusted local vendors. The business has built a strong brand reputation and online presence, resulting in forward bookings of up to a year in advance.
With minimal seasonal downtime, efficient staffing, and strong margins, Simbali is a high-performing lifestyle business with proven demand, scalability, and future potential for expansion in the events, hospitality, or boutique accommodation sectors.
This is a rare opportunity to acquire a profitable, beautifully maintained venue with a loyal customer base, distinctive aesthetic appeal, and a solid foothold in South Africaâs booming wedding and event market.
How long has the business been established?
Since 2020
How long has the owner had the business?
Since inception
How does the business operate on a daily basis?
Simbali operates with a small, dedicated team that manages both administrative and operational functions. On weekdays, the focus is on client consultations, venue viewings, bookings, supplier coordination, site maintenance, and event planning. Staff prepare the venue and ensure all logistics are in place for upcoming functions.
On event days â typically weekends and select weekdays â the team oversees full event execution, including venue setup, catering coordination, guest management, bar service, and post-event clean-up. The business works closely with a network of trusted service providers and vendors to deliver a seamless, all-inclusive experience to clients.
The owner plays a hands-on role in operations and finance management, however management staff handles mostly client relations, staff management, and quality control including operational tasks and event coordination. The venue runs efficiently with a lean but experienced team, supported by part-time and freelance staff when needed for larger events
How are the clients attracted to the business?
Clients are primarily attracted to Simbali through its strong digital presence, with a major focus on visibility via Google. The venue ranks highly in local search results for wedding and function venues near Pretoria, thanks to ongoing SEO efforts, positive Google reviews, and optimized website content. This ensures consistent organic traffic from engaged couples actively searching for venues online.
Simbali also benefits from high-quality visual content shared on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, which help reinforce brand awareness and drive additional traffic to the website.
Word-of-mouth referrals and vendor recommendations further strengthen client acquisition, but the majority of enquiries originate from the venueâs prominent position on Google â making it a trusted first choice for couples exploring wedding options in Gauteng.
What Advertising/Marketing is carried out?
Social media campaigns.
Website
Google AdWords
SEO spend
Does the business have any contract work?
Not currently
What competition exists?
Simbali operates in a competitive market, as Gauteng has a variety of wedding and event venues ranging from game lodges and estates to urban and industrial-style locations. However, Simbali differentiates itself through its unique blend of modern industrial architecture with natural bushveld and Bali-inspired elements â a distinctive visual identity that few competitors offer.
While there are other venues in the region, Simbaliâs combination of convenient location (just 15 minutes from Pretoria East), all-inclusive offerings, year-round availability, and strong brand reputation gives it a significant competitive edge. Many competitors either lack the natural setting, the same level of aesthetic appeal, or do not offer the seamless, full-service experience that Simbali provides.
This unique positioning has allowed the venue to maintain consistent bookings, with the calendar typically filled a year in advance â even in the face of growing competition.
What are the seasonal trends?
Simbali experiences year-round demand, with peak popularity during the warmer spring and summer months (September to April), when outdoor ceremonies and receptions are most desirable. However, the lodge continues to trade well during the cooler winter months, hosting both weddings and private functions with minimal seasonal downtime.
This year-round appeal reflects the strength of the Simbali brand and the consistent demand it attracts. The venueâs versatile indoor-outdoor design, cozy atmosphere, and adaptable facilities make it an attractive option in any season â allowing for a steady flow of bookings across all months
Is the business VAT Registered?
Yes
What VAT documentation is on file?
All SARS good standing and CIPS documents
Are there up-to-date Management Accounts available?
Yes
What Balance Sheet and Income Statements are available?
All available on request - to date.
What percentage of the business is cash/credit?
The majority of payments are made via electronic transfer (EFT), which accounts for approximately 95% of all revenue. A small percentage (around 5%) is processed through card payments, typically for bar sales or on-the-day purchases. The business does not operate on a credit basis; all event bookings require advance deposits and full payment prior to the event date, ensuring healthy cash flow and minimal financial risk
What is the age analysis of the debtors book?
Simbali operates on a pre-payment model, meaning clients are required to pay deposits to secure their bookings and settle the full balance before the event takes place. As a result, the business does not carry a traditional debtors book.
There are no long-outstanding accounts, and the business maintains healthy cash flow with minimal exposure to bad debt.
How could the profitability of the business be improved?
There are several clear avenues to improve profitability at Simbali:
Midweek and Off-Season Bookings: Introducing more tailored packages for weekdays and winter months could increase venue utilization during quieter periods.
On-Site Accommodation Expansion: Increasing or upgrading guest accommodation would create additional revenue streams, particularly for destination weddings and overnight guests.
Bar and Beverage Margins: Enhancing bar service options, offering premium beverage packages, and improving stock management could boost bar profitability â a high-margin area.
Vendor Commissions and In-House Services: Expanding in-house offerings such as decor, coordination, photography, or DJ services (or taking a commission on preferred suppliers) would increase per-event revenue.
Marketing Investment: Scaling up targeted digital marketing and leveraging paid Google Ads could drive even more high-quality leads, particularly for off-peak dates.
Corporate and Private Events: Actively marketing the venue for year-end functions, team building, and milestone celebrations could diversify the client base beyond weddings.
With a strong brand, established reputation, and solid infrastructure already in place, these enhancements could drive both top-line growth and higher profit margins with minimal additional overhead
Is Seller finance available and for what amount?
Not currently.
What is the total staff complement?
13 Staff
Give a breakdown of staff/ functions/ length of service?
Ownership and Executive Management:
CEO / Owner: Oversees all business functions with a specialization in maintenance, facility upgrades, and property management.
CFO & COO / Owner: Manages financial operations, client accounts, overall business operations, and leads marketing efforts.
Permanent Management Team:
Head Coordinator: Responsible for client liaison, staff management, and coordination of all event-related activities.
Head of Sales: Supports client liaison and event coordination while overseeing sales and operational organization.
Operational and Support Staff:
Head of Housekeeping: Manages laundry and cleaning operations and assists with scullery duties during events.
Laundry Staff (2): Handle laundry services and support scullery duties during events.
Housekeeping Staff (2): Responsible for cleaning duties and also serve as bar attendants during events.
Bar Staff: Includes one dedicated bartender and additional bar attendants as noted above.
Caretaker: Oversees daily upkeep and general property care.
Gardener & Exterior Maintenance: Responsible for garden and outdoor area maintenance.
Maintenance Person: Handles repairs and general maintenance, assisting with gardening and exterior upkeep as needed.
Outsourced Services:
In addition to the permanent and semi-permanent staff, Simbali contracts specialized service providers for waiter services, catering, and security. Wedding-specific vendors such as florists, DJs, photographers, and other event suppliers are engaged on a case-by-case basis, ensuring high-quality, professional service delivery for each event.
Do any receive special perks or incentives?
Yes, the two managers receive incentives in the form of commission based on sales performance.
Are they on contract?
Yes, the 2 permanent employees on payroll are both on 1-year contracts that renews annually.
Do any have management potential?
Yes, our 2 permanent management staff.
How involved is the Owner in running the business?
The owner is partially involved providing oversight and financials; The business is manager run with all functions managed by an experienced events co-ordinator.
When does the current lease end?
The property is owned by the seller forms part of the sale.
Is there an option of renewal & what period?
N.A.
What is the annual escalation %?
N.A
What are the trading hours?
Weekdays from 08:30 till 16:30 and Saturdays during events till 00:00
What is the square meters of the business?
The total property size is 10 Ha
Is a copy of the lease available?
Yes - an internal lease between the company (Pty) and the owner.
Do you require a licence?
The venue has a liquor licence.
What lease deposit and/or other surety is required?
N.A.
What are the main assets of the business?
A comprehensive asset list will be provided to qualified buyers.
The property and lodge amenities make up a large portion of the asset value.
Are any items not included in the sale?
Possibly the owners house content - but this is negotiable.
What is their overall condition?
The property, facilities, and equipment at Simbali are well-maintained and kept in excellent condition.
Do any require repairing?
No
How have they been valued ?
Business valuation done by independent auditor.
Property valuation - not yet.
Which assets are on lease/HP and with whom?
N.A.
What are their settlement amounts?
N.A
Are they presently insured?
All assets are comprehensively insured.
Strengths?
Unique Venue Concept: A distinctive blend of modern industrial design with natural bushveld and Bali-inspired elements creates a one-of-a-kind, highly sought-after aesthetic.
Prime Location: Situated just 15 minutes from Pretoriaâs Eastern suburbs, offering easy access combined with a tranquil bushveld environment.
Strong Brand Reputation: Well-established in the Gauteng wedding market with a loyal customer base and consistent bookings up to a year in advance.
All-Inclusive Packages: Turnkey wedding solutions including catering, decor, and coordination simplify planning for clients and enhance customer satisfaction.
Experienced Management Team: Owners and managers with complementary skills cover all operational, financial, marketing, and client-facing functions effectively.
Versatile Facilities: Multiple indoor and outdoor event spaces, bridal/groom suites, and on-site accommodation provide flexibility for various event types and sizes.
Robust Digital Presence: High visibility on Google and active social media engagement drive consistent lead generation.
Strong Vendor Network: Established partnerships with trusted local suppliers enhance service quality and client experience.
Weaknesses?
Limited guest capacity (up to 120 guests), which may restrict larger events.
Weather dependency for outdoor areas like the bush bar and alfresco lounge.
Potential overbooking risk, as the venue is often booked a year in advance.
Reliance on seasonal trends, with warmer months being more popular.
Opportunities?
Expand corporate offerings, as weekday bookings by large companies are already a strong income stream.
Leverage vendor partnerships for bundled wedding packages (e.g. catering, photography, decor).
Introduce virtual tours and immersive online experiences to attract remote clients.
Capitalize on destination weddings, promoting the bushveld charm to international couples.
Introduce mid-week spa experiences.
Threats?
Economic fluctuations that may impact discretionary spending on weddings and events.
What is the reason for the sale?
The owners are looking to relocate.
Why is this a good business?
1. Established Reputation & Loyal Clientele
The venue is booked out a year in advance, indicating strong demand and customer trust.
Glowing reviews and word-of-mouth have positioned it as a top-tier destination near Pretoria.
2. Diversified Income Streams
Weekday bookings by corporates for functions generate steady, high-margin revenue.
Weddings, parties, and private events provide weekend earnings, maximizing calendar utilization.
Unique design and natural bushveld setting near Pretoria.
Strong brand reputation with bookings secured up to a year in advance.
Multiple income streams: venue hire, catering, bar, and accommodation.
Efficient operations with a skilled, lean team in place.
Growth potential through midweek events, expanded accommodation, and targeted marketing.
Lifestyle appeal with a well-maintained property in a tranquil setting.
Annual Turnover Amount between R 500 thousand and R 6 million
