Armed with a colourful bouquet of meticulously spun and sealed candy floss, Ronald Coetzee can be found on the corner of Dudley Smith and President Brand Street every weekend.
Braving the blistering sun and snapping cold, the 76-year-old Boksburg South resident takes his position hoping to entice motorists to indulge in his sweet bounty, which also includes crispy home-made koeksisters.
It is a Sunday morning, and most of the city’s residents are lazily emerging from their slumber; however, Ronald is already at his post, waving as lone vehicles pass by.
“I worked for Transnet for most of my life. Raising a family, finances became tight, so I invested in a candy floss machine to supplement our income,” he said, keeping his eye out for potential clients.
“Four years ago, my wife, Jackie, suffered a stroke and a heart attack. Finances once again started dwindling, and I decided to dust the old machine off in an effort to put food on the table.”
Holding up his products with the flair of a seasoned salesman, Ronald said the treats, made each week by his wife and daughter, Clio, are not just colourful confections but a burst of flavour.
“The strawberry candyfloss is a hit with the girls, while the boys tend to prefer the bubblegum flavour,” he said.
“Each colour has its own flavour, and the kids love it. Since 1978, we’ve perfected the flavour balance and texture.”
Turning to another of his favourites, Ronald said the koeksisters in his range are, by far, the best treats in town.
“I only work over weekends. During the week motorists are in a hurry and do not give me a second glance,” he said.
“This counts in my favour. Over the weekends people are more relaxed and would take the time to buy my products. Then over the next seven days the craving grows, urging them to pop around and buy more.”
However, business is not guaranteed.
“Some days I am sold out by midday and go home to put my feet up and relax a bit,” he said.
“Other days I will remain on my post until after sunset to ensure maximum sales. Quitting on the slower days is not an option; I need every cent in order for us to survive.”
Casting another hopeful wave as a stream of cars approached the stop sign, Ronald said their business was steadily growing and now offered a made-to-order service.
“Whether you are hosting a party, sports event or an afternoon tea, we can make candyfloss and koeksisters for any occasion,” he said, his chest expanding with pride. Our products are a delicious indulgence.”
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