LEARNING TO COOK AT HIRSCH'S

Due to popular demand, Hirsch’s Centurion recently hosted their first Domestic Cooking course, with 23 ladies in attendance.

 

Said Hirsch’s Joanne Brunette “With the kind assistance of our Suppliers Snappy Chef and Zwilling, the course was a huge success.  Copies of the recipes were given to all participants, who could follow the different steps.” 

The different recipes that were demonstrated were:

Egg Muffins

Basic Tuna Tart

Chicken Stroganoff

Curry for Beginners

Banana Pancakes

 

The Domestics were able to sample all of the dishes, and if the ‘oohs and aahs’ and the empty plates afterwards was anything to go by, the food was enjoyed by all! 

 

Certificates of completion were presented to all Attendees. 

Hirsch’s plan to repeat this course on a monthly basis.  Contact joanne@hirschs.co.za for more information.

www.hirschs.co.za

INVEST IN YOUR POTENTIAL!

 

The Monthly Business Networking event held at Hirsch’s Centurion was well supported by the business community, with more than 60 people in attendance. Guest speaker, Eberhard Niklaus addressed the group on the topic ‘Invest in your Potential’.

 

Eberhard, who has lectured numerous audiences, and coached dozens of business owners to manage successful businesses spoke about  the importance of having a positive mindset, using the acronym INVEST to illustrate how we can invest in ourselves:

Inspiration – get inspired, read positive books, make positive affirmations, surround yourself with positive people

No Problems, only opportunities – look for the opportunity in each challenge

Vision – have crystal clear vision of where you want to go

Enthusiasm – nothing happens without you being enthusiastic about it

Self Worth – write down 100 things you have accomplished, this will help you to see your own worth

Thoughts create reality – we can choose to change our thoughts and our emotional state

 

First time visitor, Nico Prinsloo, commented: “Thank you so much for this opportunity, I will definitely be attending these events on a regular basis as I have made valuable contacts today.”

Contact Joanne Brunette at joanne@hirschs.co.za to book your seat for the next networking event!

www.hirschs.co.za

ESTER - A SHINING STAR IN THE HOME!

As a way of acknowledging the stalwarts in our homes, our Domestic Workers, Hirsch’s branches around the country hold a monthly competition whereby employers nominate their Domestic Worker, motivating why they deserve to win.  The monthly winner receives a R300,00 Hirsch Voucher and Certificate and their names go forward for the title of Hirsch’s Domestic Worker of the Year, with a prize of R5000,00.

 

The Hirsch Centurion winner this month was Ester Mutambirwa.  She was handed the award in the presence of her peers. Cindy Schutte, Ester’s Employer said:  “She has been a part of our family for the past 7 years.  Not only is she a brilliant housekeeper, but she takes care of our family with so much love!  She is my son’s second Mom when I am not around.  Without her our lives and our home would never be the same!”

www.hirschs.co.za

MAKING ONE-HANDED COOKING A REALITY!

BRAUN’S MULTIQUICK 7 HANDBLENDER...

 

Available from all Hirsch branches (stock code 47872) The Braun Multiquick 7 hand blender (MQ735) brings amazing new technology to the science of hand blenders – Smart Speed. The more you squeeze the more power you get. Yep! One squeeze, all speeds!

 

This means that you can literally prepare meals with one hand behind your back. By gently pressing the extra-large speed button on the regulator, the blender goes faster or slower.

 

What’s more, the Multiquick 7 comes with the kind of extras that make food preparation a piece of cake. There’s the PowerBell blender with ultra-hard stainless steel blades and unique bell-shaped blending shaft – easily attachable with a single click – that gives a finer, more even, perfect blend. There’s a BPA-free plastic beaker with both ml and fl oz measurements.  And there’s also a whisk and chopper.

 

www.hirschs.co.za

 

Strawberry and vanilla semifreddo with Braun

Ingredients

Serves 4

 

• 500 g fresh strawberries
• 3 eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• 220 g sugar
• 1 vanilla pod (halved and scraped)
• 400 ml double cream

 

Method

1. Attach the MQ 40 chopper/ blender accessory to Braun’s Identity Collection MQ 7 hand blender. Blend the strawberries in two batches. Thanks to the variable one-hand speed control, you maintain maximum precision and control performance with one hand. For best blending results, use highest speed.

 

2. Place a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water (make sure the bottom of the bowl is not touching the water).

 

3. Whisk the eggs, egg yolks, sugar and vanilla pod using Braun’s MQ 10 whisk accessory. Start blending slowly and continue for 5 minutes until pale and thickened.

 

4. Remove from the heat and continue whisking at a medium speed until it has cooled and reached the desired texture.

 

5. Still using the MQ 10 whisk accessory, whisk the cream in the 600 ml beaker until soft peaks form and then gently fold through the egg mixture (make sure you have washed the whisk attachment). To achieve best results, start at low speed and increase the speed while whipping.

 

6. Combine half the cream mixture with the puréed strawberries. Alternatively layer the strawberry mixture with the plain cream into ramekins or glasses. Freeze overnight until firm.

 

7. Garnish with fresh strawberries and serve.

 

 

This recipe was prepared using Braun’s Identity Collection Multiquick 5 Vario hand blender, its MQ 40 chopper/ blender accessory, its MQ 10 whisk accessory and the 600 ml beaker.

 

www.hirschs.co.za

 

 

LADIES NETWORKING MORNING WITH ANNIE COETZEE

The monthly Ladies Networking Event held in Centurion is a highlight on our calendar, as this is when the finalist for the prestigious Margaret Hirsch Woman in Business Achiever Award is announced.

 

The winner for September is Karen de Villiers.  Karen is a CA and owner of Bizzacc, as well as President of BNI Fusion Chapter in Pretoria.  Her business offers Outsourced Financial Management, Financial Management Workshops, Accounting, Taxation Services, Financial Statements and Statutory Audits.  Unfortunately Karen had a last- minute business emergency in Bloemfontein, and was not able to take acceptance of her Award – which will be handed to her at the next Ladies Networking Event.

 

The Guest Speaker for today was Annie Coetzee.  Annie is an International Speaker, Human Intelligence Specialist and Self-Empowerment Author. She has 16 years’ experience in the Public and Corporate arena in the field of Human Development, which included high level Motivational ‘Power Hours’ and Inspirational In-House Workshops. 

 

The Topic of Annie’s talk was titled ‘Transformation from the Inside out’ where she emphasised the fact that to change our circumstances, we firstly need to change our thinking.  She spoke about the Truth about our belief systems – and how positive self-talk and affirmations are extremely important, and should be done on a daily basis.  Annie is working with some older people, and stressed that if they could change – anybody could change.  Between our current reality and our vision, there is a journey – and we are being drawn to what we ‘activate’ in our subconscious mind through visualising and constant affirmation.  We need to realise that we are constantly being influenced by the media and even our culture, family and friends influence our belief systems.  To overcome negative influences we need to set goals, have a vision (vision boarding is excellent), and read books that can positively influence us.  Imagine what is possible, and then act in excellence.   Annie interspersed the talk with some fun songs – getting everybody to sing and dance together – adding that it is important to add emotion to our beliefs.

 

We had some lovely compliments from the ladies attending the event, and everybody had a great time.

 

Miele was kind enough to partner with us, and supply all the eats for the morning.  A big thank you goes  to the Miele team - and especially to Liezil van Wyk.

 

As always we had some lovely lucky draws, with extra gifts sponsored by Annique, Miglio and The Print Factory.

 

www.hirschs.co.za

www.anniecoetzee.co.za

www.bizzacc.co.za

SMEG SMALL APPLIANCES AT HIRSCH'S CENTURION

Brighten up your kitchen this summer with SMEG’S gorgeous range of SMALL APPLIANCES!

Available at all Hirsch branches.

www.hirschs.co.za

NEED FRIDGE FILTERS?

We have them!

If you’re looking for a filter for your fridge/freezer, Hirsch’s have an excellent

supply of generic and brand specific filters.  They’re available at their spares

department in all Hirsch branches!

Remember – filters need to be changed every six months.

www.hirschs.co.za

MARGARET HIRSCH NOMINATED TO TAKE PART IN INTERNATIONAL ENTEPRENEURAL CHALLENGE.

Margaret Hirsch, Chief Operations Officer of the Hirsch Group and winner of many business awards, was recently chosen to represent the Cape Chamber of Commerce at an International Women’s Entrepreneural Challenge in the City of Istanbul in Turkey in November.

She will be joined by two other Cape Town Business Women, Shona McDonald who runs a company making wheelchairs for children and Wendy Kemp, the owner of a Credit Control company.

The three women were nominated and received awards from the Chamber in recognition of their pioneering work in business.

The International Entrepreneural Challenge for women was initiated by the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce and takes place in a different Capital city around the globe every year.  The competition will be judged by the Challenges previous winners.

www.hirschs.co.za

THERESA ROBBERTS- MARGARET HIRSCH WOMAN IN BUSINESS ACHIEVER OF THE MONTH IN CENTURION.

The Margaret Hirsch Woman in Business Achiever Award finalist for August, Theresa Robberts,  was announced at the monthly Ladies Networking morning held at Hirsch’s Centurion.  Theresa is sight impaired, but in spite of her disability – and with the help of her trusted guide dog Kelsey – participates in a variety of sports including blind tennis, sailing and cricket.  She has also carried the Paralympic torch representing the first UK female blind cricket team.  Theresa works at The Success Academy,   striving to inspire others in business to achieve their goals and overcome all perceived obstacles.

 

This month’s guest speaker was life coach Tracy Minnie.  Tracy has won various pageant titles including being a Mrs SA finalist 2011, Mrs Tshwane 2012 and Mrs Northern Gauteng 2014 and she spoke about the ‘woman in the mirror’ and the importance of learning to ‘change’ what can be changed, and ‘accept’ what cannot be changed.  She explained that each woman is made ‘imperfectly’ perfect and the importance of celebrating our individuality whilst never losing our sense of humour.

 

“What stood out for me from Tracy’s talk was that we need to be Confident in our own skin.  I really appreciated that she was able to share from her own experiences and challenges – this was just so inspiring”  said Kamala Ahomed, one of the guests.

www.hirschs.co.za

THERESA ROBBERTS- MARGARET HIRSCH WOMAN IN BUSINESS ACHIEVER OF THE MONTH IN CENTURION.

The Margaret Hirsch Woman in Business Achiever Award finalist for August, Theresa Robberts,  was announced at the monthly Ladies Networking morning held at Hirsch’s Centurion.  Theresa is sight impaired, but in spite of her disability – and with the help of her trusted guide dog Kelsey – participates in a variety of sports including blind tennis, sailing and cricket.  She has also carried the Paralympic torch representing the first UK female blind cricket team.  Theresa works at The Success Academy,   striving to inspire others in business to achieve their goals and overcome all perceived obstacles.

 

This month’s guest speaker was life coach Tracy Minnie.  Tracy has won various pageant titles including being a Mrs SA finalist 2011, Mrs Tshwane 2012 and Mrs Northern Gauteng 2014 and she spoke about the ‘woman in the mirror’ and the importance of learning to ‘change’ what can be changed, and ‘accept’ what cannot be changed.  She explained that each woman is made ‘imperfectly’ perfect and the importance of celebrating our individuality whilst never losing our sense of humour.

 

“What stood out for me from Tracy’s talk was that we need to be Confident in our own skin.  I really appreciated that she was able to share from her own experiences and challenges – this was just so inspiring”  said Kamala Ahomed, one of the guests.

www.hirschs.co.za

GLORIA NTSHANGANE – DOMESTIC SUPERSTAR!

Hirsch’s Centurion recently hosted their monthly Domestic Workers Course, which aims at up-skilling and training Domestic Workers in the basics of cleaning and appliance care and maintenance.  It is also a way to say ‘thank you’ to the men and women behind the scenes, who keep our households running smoothly.

 

An integral part of this program is the monthly Domestic Worker of the Month competition, whereby Employers can nominate their Domestic by completing a motivation to win the award.  The Prize is a R300,00 Gift Voucher compliments of Hirsch’s – but the winner also goes forward for the title of Hirsch’s Domestic Worker of the Year – with a prize of R5000,00. 

 

The winner for August, Gloria Ntshangane, was overjoyed at receiving the award. 

Isabelle Grutman – Gloria’s Employer said: “Gloria is an absolute angel and we are so grateful to have her.  As well as cleaning the house, she packs our orders and sorts out our filing.  She is my right hand - picking up all the pieces that I drop as a business woman, ensuring that my household and business can run successfully.  She is so appreciative and grateful – she definitely deserves to win the competition.”

 

The course was attended by 21 Domestic Workers, keen to hone their skills and learn new tips and tricks for cleaning in the home.  A visit to the Bedroom Boutique where the importance proper mattress care was explained, was followed by a quick cooking demonstration.  A general demonstration on the various appliances, their care and maintenance was also given. An important part of the course was also a presentation on the uses of Vinegar and Baking Soda in cleaning the home.

www.hirschs.co.za

HAPPY 9TH BIRTHDAY HIRSCH’S CENTURION

The stores 9^th birthday was the most exciting day on the calendar for Hirsch’s Centurion.

 

There was a buzz of excitement from early morning with last minute decorations being put up, Suppliers setting up their gazebo’s and beds from the Bedroom Boutique being set up in the parking lot.  Except for the Jumping castle, there was a mini-fleamarket – allowing local vendors to display and sell their wares.  Radio Pretoria’s outside broadcast added interest to the day – with regular interviews ensuring the Pretoria residents stayed informed on the day’s activities and massive savings on offer. The Entertainer and DJ for the day, Wendy Kock from DJ Dakplaat, was a hit outside the store with her endearing personality and lovely singing voice. 

 

The Customers were all spoilt for choice with fantastic specials and massive savings.  All joined in the birthday celebrations with the delicious cakes being served compliments of Miele, Kenwood, ELBA and SMEG.  Snappy Chef, Simmons, Oxo and Samsung ensured there were cupcakes for all to enjoy.  The Promoters were out in full force with coffee being served by Nespresso, DeLonghi, Dolce Gusto, Bosch and Mellita.  Zwilling made popcorn treats, Whirlpool and Miele made scones and muffins, while Bosch – keeping to a German theme – made and served Ricotta on Herbed toast with Bavaria non-alcoholic beer.  Tefal demonstrated the Actifry and Optigrill, while Defy made delicious snacks in their microwave.

 

To add to this, some lucky customers walked off with fantastic prizes – adding to the festivities of the day. 

www.hirschs.co.za

BUSINESS NETWORKING AT HIRSCH'S CENTURION

BUSINESS NETWORKING

 

Hirsch’s Centurion hosted an exceptionally successful Business Networking Event this morning, with more than 60 business people in attendance.

 

The Guest Speaker was our very own Allan Hirsch, Chairman and Founder of Hirsch’s.  Allan addressed the audience about his own experiences in starting the business despite many obstacles, and the importance of believing that anything is possible. 

 

He shared some of the principles which had contributed to the success of Hirsch’s:

Put your staff first – pay them before you pay yourself

Excellent customer service and keeping customers happy

Going the extra mile and having an above average work ethic – being prepared to work after hours

Not confusing Turnover with Profit – this could be fatal for your business

Not to listen to critics – if you believe you have a good idea, go with it.  If it doesn’t work out the first time – try a different way to make it work

 

“I thoroughly enjoyed Allan’s talk.  He has inspired me to believe in myself and never to underestimate the importance of setting goals to my dream” said Herman Coetzee of SureSlim.

 

Afterwards each of the business people in attendance had the opportunity to present themselves and their business.  Ample opportunity was given afterwards to network, and exchange business cards.

 

Bosch Brand Ambassador, David Selai, provided the cappuccino’s for the event and had the chance to display the Bosch Coffee maker.

www.hirschs.co.za

ZUMBA WARM UP FOR MANDELA DAY

Hirsch’s Centurion invited customers in for 67 minutes Zumba session on Mandela day!  Despite the biting cold,  the support was overwhelming and four Zumba instructors, Maggie Kunou, Lee Miller, Tammy Pletschke and Reggi Seloane were ready to put everybody through their paces for 67 minutes. 

 

With the Zumba enthusiasts donating a toothbrush and toothpaste as their entry fee in aid of needy children – and in remembrance of Mandela – the day was not just fun, but a way to contribute to the “67” minutes of good. 

 

 

The toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes that were collected from the event  will be donated to the Viva Children’s Foundation to help ensure that every child has a happy, sparkling smile on their face.

 

www.hirschs.co.za

MARTIE KRUGER – JULY FINALIST IN BUSINESS WOMAN’S COMPETITION.

At a recently held business women’s networking event that was held at Hirsch’s Centurion branch, The ‘Margaret Hirsch Women in Business Achiever Award’ finalist  was announced as Martie Kruger the owner of Martie’s Salon. Martie is also an Annique Distributor, and has won four overseas trips as a result of her successful selling. She received a certificate and a R500,00 Hirsch’s voucher and is goes forward to the finals of the competition – the winner will be announced in February 2016.

 

The Guest Speaker at the event was Sarah Bauling, professional speaker, MC and author of the newly released book “Loyal Raving Fans”.

With 19 years of experience in sales and customer care she has ‘walked the talk’ in terms of understanding what makes customers tick.  Her message was titled ‘The Magic of Customer Service’ and she explained how applying the basics in your business can turn potential customers into ‘loyal, raving fans’ who ultimately make you and your business more profitable. 

 

Sarah shared the 3 ‘M’s’ in business:

Mindful – being aware of why a customer would do business with you; what their expectations are as well as what their fear might be in dealing with you.

Manners – the importance of Thank You and Please – making your customers feel valuable.

Maximise – ensure that your customers know why they should be dealing with you and that they understand all the benefits you can offer.  This in turn will result in referrals.

 

 

Afterwards there was ample time to network with likeminded business women and make new connections.

www.hirschs.co.za

MAGDELINE – A SHINING STAR IN THE HILL HOUSEHOLD!

MAGDELINE – A SHINING STAR IN THE HILL HOUSEHOLD!

 

“Magdeline is my ‘Earth Angel’, arriving – rain or shine – with the biggest smile every working day.  She is my inspiration!” These were the inspirational  words of Bridget Hill, employer of Hirsch’s Centurions Domestic Worker of the Month winner, Magdeline Kutumela.

 

Said Bridget: “She has been working for me for ten years – and has been totally loyal and supportive.  I have grown to love her and have developed a deep respect for her.”

 

The R300.00 Hirsch’s gift voucher, together with a certificate, were handed to a very proud Magdeline by Training Manager, Rudi Louw, at the monthly Domestic Worker Training Course.  The  course is held to empower and upskill Domestic Workers – teaching them the basics of cleaning and also the workings of the different appliances.

 

Commented Hirsch’s Joanne Brunette, “ The highlight of today’s training was a visit to the Bedroom Boutique, where Naomi Durham explained the importance of using a mattress protector and vacuuming one’s mattress regularly.  Quade Harty from AEG demonstrated the different Vacuum cleaners and how to clean and replace filters.  He also educated the ladies on proper iron usage, and on the new Safety iron from AEG.

 

www.hirschs.co.za

HIRSCH’S AT THE HOUSE AND GARDEN SHOW

HIRSCH’S BUOYANT  AT THIS YEAR’S SHOW!

With over 30 House and Garden Shows under their belt, The Hirsch team are extremely buoyant and positive about this year’s show!

“We’ve had a fantastic  response to  water saving appliances on the Show -  especially dishwashers, and there has also been a lot of interest In the latest electronic equipment on the market, especially  the SMART Curved TV’s”  CEO of Hirsch’s, Allan Hirsch told us.

 

www.hirschs.co.za

HIRSCH AND ELLIES – SAVING YOU WATER AND ENERGY

With the Ellies renewable energy range you can start saving water, energy – and money and most importantly help to lay the foundation for a healthier planet.

 

KITCHEN DUAL FLOW REGULATOR –

·         Retro fit a kitchen tap with a kitchen flow regulator and you will save up to 6 litres per minute.

SHOWER HEADS

·         Retro fit your shower with the wide range of shower heads that will save up to 10 litres of water per minute.  They will also keep your water hot for longer – saving energy

 

TOILET FLUSH SAVER

·         Retrofit a single flush toilet cistern with a toilet flush saver and save up to 60% water.  If you flush up to 4 times a day – you will save up to 7,500 litres

SAVE WATER WITH THE FOLLOWNG APPLIANCES AND GADGETS from HIRSCH’S

Front loader washing machine are far more water efficient than top loaders.  They also wash clothes a lot cleaner!

A dishwashing machine uses a lot less water than sink washed cutlery, crockery and pots.  Sink washing uses up approximately 40 litres of water for a family of five.  A dish washer would use 10 – 12 litres for the same amount of items.

Ellies Shower Heads and adaptors, available from Hirsch’s are far more water efficient than standard fittings.  Try the 47616 and the 35366.  The toiler flush saver is also an excellent water saving product – stock code 35376

 

See our Website for more detail
www.hirschs.co.za

 

Business Networking with SJ Pretorius - 5 Essential Time Horizons for a Practical Strategic Plan

Hirsch’s Centurion once again hosted a successful Business Networking Morning, with almost 80% of those in attendance being business owners and entrepreneurs.

 

Our guest speaker, SJ Pretorius spoke on ‘5 Essential Time Horizons for a Practical Strategic plan’.

SJ is a Passionate Business Coach, owner and founder of Ubequity Coaching and Mentoring.  His latest customer’s Sales Team saw an average monthly sales increase of 40% in 6 months. SJ is also the BNI Tshwane-Area Director Consultant, and is a sought after Master of Ceremonies.

 

He shared on various tools which he has adapted from the book ‘Mastering The Rockefeller Habits’  by author Verne Harnish ©2002.  Importance is placed on firstly determining what your Core Values and Beliefs are: “when your values are clear, all your decisions are easier”.  Some of the other principles touched on where:

 

Targets (Where) – Measuring Revenue, Profitability and Market value

Goals (What) – Where do you want your Organisation to be one year from now

Actions (How) – How you plan to meet your targets and goals

Immediate Execution – Daily and weekly micro-goals, and making sure that you are held accountable for these

 

The feedback afterwards was very positive, with one of our guests, Lelanie Greef (who holds her Master Degree in Strategic Planning) stating: “all the principles touched on by SJ ring true, and are essential in ensuring your business is run effectively”.

 

With opportunity given to all guests to give a 30 second presentation of their business, invaluable business contacts were made.  This opened the door for effective networking on a more informal basis afterwards.

 

www.hirschs.co.za

Hirsch's Centurion hosts the Defy Junior Super Chef Competition

WIERDA PARK CENTURION PUPIL WINS HIRSCH, DEFY JUNIOR SUPER CHEF COMPETITION

 

Lidene Lubbe (8), a pupil at Wierdapark Laerskool was the winner of the 1st Gauteng leg of the popular Hirsch and Defy Junior Super Chef competition that was held in the Hirsch Centurion recently.  Lidene won a Defy hand Blender together with a Defy hamper and Cookery Book, and will go on to compete in the Regional Finals of the competition that is being held at the Hirsch’s Fourways Branch on July 11.

 

Ten contestants, ranging in age from 8 to 13, battled it out on the showroom floor. They had to show off their cooking skills, using a mystery bag of products and cooking on a Snappy Chef induction plate and Defy Microwave Air oven to impress judges:  Chefs Paul Lotter and Trudie Jansen van Vuuren, Lourine Wannenburg (semi-finalist in the Kokkedoor and Koekedoor reality cooking show on KykNet), and Magda Mitton, Hirsch’s HR Manager.

 

Speaking on behalf of the judges, Trudie Jansen van Vuuren said that she was extremely impressed by the way the little chef’s handled themselves in this particular environment where they had to cook in front of an audience. “Their menus were planned and well thought out and the food was absolutely delicious.” She said.

 

Lourine’s parents, Tania and Herman Lubbe and her entire support group including her sister Elandri, were overwhelmed with excitement. “This competition ran so smoothly and professionally, and it was made so special for the children – we were so impressed.  You definitely exceeded our expectations. Everybody was a winner!” Said Tania.

 

Second place was a tie and went to 13 year old Ian van Nieuwenhuizen and 8 year old Lihle Cristovao.

 

www.hirschs.co.za