Iconic Durban curry house uses 1996 prices to help ease drought burden

12 February 2016 | Economic factors

An iconic Durban curry house is putting their money where the mouths are, bringing back their prices from 1996 in response to the drought crippling the country.

Sunrise Chip 'n Ranch, also known as Johnny's Rotis, has listed curries, bunny chows and rotis for as little as R5.

The family-owned business has been operating for nearly three decades and remains a Durban staple.

Speaking to News24, owner Akash Brijanund said that in the wake of the drought, food prices had soared and everyone was feeling the pinch.

"The way I look at it... 2015 was a tough year for everyone and the economy at large. This year going to be difficult and it is clear to see that people are struggling out there," he said.

'This is our way of giving back'

Brijanund said they had themselves been feeling the pressure of rising costs, but that the customer would always come first.

"We are feeling it ourselves. The drought which is affecting the country has pushed the price of food up and everything has gone up in price.

"Over the years we have given a service to our customers and they have supported us. This is our way of giving back and giving back to people from all walks of life."

He said that business has been frenetic since the specials were launched, and that they had had to find more bakeries and produce suppliers to keep up with the demand.

"Things are so busy and chaotic and my phones have been ringing non-stop since we started this special. People want to know if it is real or if this whole thing is a joke.

"People can't believe that we have brought back the prices we used 20 years ago, but we are here for our public. My late dad told me to look after the man on the street. They will be the ones who support you when business is good and when business is bad.

"For 27 years we have been known for having the largest rotis in the country. My dad decided to increase the size... so that our customer gets value at an affordable price. Our rotis will give you many meals," Brijanund said.

The special offer started on February 1 and will go on until March 15.