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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on December 11, 2025
White Star, one of South Africa’s most trusted and loved maize meal brands, has made a heartfelt comeback to KwaZulu-Natal with its new campaign titled “Own Your Shine.” More than a relaunch, the initiative celebrates the deep cultural roots, strong food traditions and vibrant community spirit that define the province.
For years, White Star has held a special place in South African homes. It is more than maize meal, it represents comfort, togetherness and heritage passed down across generations. With this new campaign, the brand strengthens its bond with the people of KZN, reaffirming its connection with families who have grown up with its familiar taste.
The campaign highlights three inspiring personalities who proudly represent KZN: • Zamani Mbatha, a well-known actor from Umlazi, admired for his ambition, values and storytelling. • Azana, an award-winning Afro-soul singer from Durban whose voice captures the feeling of homecoming. • Chef Lucia Mthiyane, a celebrated KZN-born chef known for her passion for traditional flavours and generational recipes.
From township kitchens to large family gatherings, White Star has long been part of everyday life in KZN. Through this campaign, the brand will reconnect with communities through vibrant local activations and uplifting initiatives across Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Umlazi, KwaMashu, Inanda and surrounding areas.
“KwaZulu-Natal holds a powerful place in the heart of our national narrative. It is a province rich in culture and community spirit,” says Jonita Cuff, Marketing Manager for White Star. “Our brand’s values are deeply rooted in these same qualities. Through this campaign, we are honouring the proud spirit of KwaZulu-Natal and celebrating local families with a brand that has always belonged here. No matter where life takes us, the taste of home will always be White Star.”
As a tribute to KZN’s artistic heritage, White Star has partnered with Cosmo Extraordinary Creations, a local artisan group known for their beautiful beadwork inspired by Zulu culture. This collaboration includes a limited-edition set of beaded wooden spoons, a meaningful nod to the traditional role wooden spoons play in preparing pap. The partnership seamlessly blends culture, craft and cuisine, celebrating homegrown artistry and everyday cooking traditions.
Cosmo Mafoti, founder of Cosmo Extraordinary Creations, shares, "Being part of a brand that has been an integral part of so many South African homes is truly an honour. Our beadwork tells the story of Zulu culture and tradition, and to see it paired with something as cherished as White Star pap feels like a perfect harmony of heritage and community. We are proud to bring this beautiful art to the everyday kitchen, making each meal a celebration of who we are."
The “Own Your Shine” campaign will roll out through Shisa Nyama activations, in-store visits, product sampling, media events and township engagements. Along with this, consumer rewards will bring added value and joy to families across the province, reinforcing White Star’s place as a brand that truly belongs to KZN.
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By Hariharan U
Published on July 16, 2026
Italian luxury furniture brand Poltrona Frau has unveiled Infinitamente 2.0, a new sculptural dining table designed by Roberto Lazzeroni, marking a new chapter in the evolution of the Infinito family. The latest creation was presented during Milan Design Week 2026 and joins the brand’s permanent collection following the limited-edition Infinito table launched in 2021 and the Infinitamente table introduced in 2023.
Designed as an expression of timeless elegance and Italian craftsmanship, Infinitamente 2.0 expands the original concept into an extra-large dining table measuring over three metres in length and capable of seating up to twelve guests. The design continues Poltrona Frau’s philosophy of creating furniture pieces that transcend trends and become part of personal stories, memories, and everyday experiences.
At the centre of the design is a distinctive staggered double-oval marble top, inspired by the symbolism of infinity and the complementary balance of Yin and Yang. The sculptural form represents harmony, continuity, and connection, making the table a statement piece designed for contemporary spaces focused on gathering and shared experiences.
The table’s two helicoidal bases feature softly chamfered surfaces upholstered in Pelle Frau® ColorSphere® Impact Less leather, showcasing Poltrona Frau’s renowned craftsmanship. The leather application technique draws inspiration from luxury automotive interiors, reflecting the brand’s expertise in combining traditional artisan skills with advanced manufacturing processes.
Infinitamente 2.0 offers a wide range of marble options, including Bianco Carrara, Calacatta, Arabescato Venato, and Ombra di Caravaggio, available in polished, semi-polished, and naturally polished finishes. Each marble top is crafted from a single slab divided into two sections and reinforced with technical mesh to improve resistance against bending, breakage, and impact.
A stainless steel blade insert elegantly completes the connection between the two marble sections, adding both structural strength and visual refinement. The different surface treatments enhance the natural character of the stone while improving durability and resistance for everyday use.
The table base is constructed using MDF and birch plywood components, with internal beech pins and metal plates ensuring stability and strength. The leather-covered supports create a contrast between the natural richness of marble and the warmth of handcrafted upholstery.
Infinitamente 2.0 represents the continuation of Roberto Lazzeroni’s exploration of sculptural furniture design. The original Infinito table, presented in 2021 as a numbered limited edition, featured an exclusive Rosso Lepanto marble top sourced by Poltrona Frau and positioned as a collectible objet d’art. The 2023 Infinitamente edition further developed the concept with a white Versilia marble top and multiple size variations.
With the new Infinitamente 2.0, Poltrona Frau transforms the artistic vision into a permanent collection piece designed for luxury residences, hospitality environments, and sophisticated interiors worldwide.
The table debuted exclusively on April 14, 2026, at the Poltrona Frau flagship store on Via Manzoni 30 in Milan during Milano Design Week. It will subsequently become available through selected Poltrona Frau stores globally and the brand’s European e-commerce platforms.
Part of Haworth Lifestyle, Poltrona Frau continues to represent the intersection of Italian design heritage, craftsmanship, and contemporary luxury. Founded in 1912, the brand has built a global reputation for premium furnishings, leather craftsmanship, custom interiors, and collaborations with leading international designers.
Through Infinitamente 2.0, Poltrona Frau reinforces its commitment to creating enduring design pieces that celebrate material innovation, artistic expression, and the timeless value of handcrafted luxury.
Spain secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final with a commanding 2-0 victory over France in the second semifinal played on Tuesday, July 14, at AT&T Stadium, Arlington.
Mikel Oyarzabal gave Spain the lead from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute, while Pedro Porro added the second goal in the 58th minute, sealing a confident win for La Roja.
With the victory, Spain also created FIFA World Cup history by becoming the first team to keep six clean sheets in a single edition of the tournament. The result sends Spain into the final, where they will face the winner of the semifinal between England and Argentina on July 19.
While the action on the pitch has captured global attention, discussions around the FIFA World Cup final have also centred on ticket pricing, particularly the premium hospitality packages.
For fans looking for the most exclusive experience at MetLife Stadium, FIFA is offering a pitch-side lounge hospitality package priced at USD 57,500 per person. The package has become one of the most talked-about hospitality offerings of the tournament.
FIFA has also released an additional batch of World Cup final tickets priced at USD 32,970 each, adding to the ongoing debate over affordability. Many supporters have expressed concerns that the pricing places the final beyond the reach of regular football fans.
Although premium hospitality experiences have long been a part of major sporting events, the pricing for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final has sparked widespread discussion, with many questioning whether such packages are accessible even for dedicated supporters.
Published on July 14, 2026
The FIFA World Cup 2026 continues to create excitement both on and off the pitch, with Argentina and England securing important victories, while Australia's hospitality industry is witnessing a noticeable rise in consumer spending during the tournament.
Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the next stage after defeating Switzerland 3-1 in extra time. The match finished 1-1 at the end of regulation after Alexis Mac Allister gave Argentina an early lead from a Lionel Messi assist before Dan Ndoye equalised for Switzerland in the second half.
Argentina sealed the win in extra time with goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez. Switzerland's challenge became tougher after Breel Embolo was sent off for simulation following a VAR review.
In another fixture, England registered a 2-1 victory over Norway to continue its FIFA World Cup campaign.
Away from the action on the field, the tournament has also delivered a strong boost to Australia's hospitality sector. According to new insights from ANZ, Australians have spent more than $7 billion during the FIFA World Cup period so far, with increased spending across food, dining and entertainment categories.
The data shows spending on takeaway food rose 6.75%, while cafes and restaurants recorded a 5.5% increase. Spending at bars and hotels grew 5.2%, and purchases of sporting apparel increased 9.3%, highlighting the positive impact of the tournament on consumer activity.
The trend closely reflects the 2022 FIFA Men's World Cup, when ANZ customers spent more than $11 billion, with notable growth across takeaway food, cafes and restaurants, sporting apparel, takeaway alcohol, and bars and hotels.
The findings suggest that major sporting events continue to influence consumer behaviour, even when matches are played overseas or during early morning hours.
Commenting on the trend, Joanna Gurry, Managing Director, Data & Analytics, ANZ, said:
“Whether Australians are gathering with friends at home, heading to their local pub to watch a match, or showing support through purchasing sporting merchandise, we're seeing spending patterns that seem to reflect the excitement and social connection major sporting events create.”
Although Australia's Socceroos have exited the tournament, hospitality venues continue to report strong customer turnout.
To support football fans, the Sydney City Council has declared the FIFA World Cup and the upcoming Sydney Marathon as special events, allowing eligible businesses to operate with extended trading hours. Non-licensed businesses can open early to serve fans during the remaining FIFA World Cup matches.
The extended trading schedule is as follows:
Wednesday, July 15: From 4:00 am
Thursday, July 16: From 4:00 am
Sunday, July 19: From 6:00 am
Monday, July 20: From 4:00 am
The latest figures highlight how global sporting events continue to benefit the hospitality sector by driving footfall, boosting food and beverage sales, and encouraging consumers to gather for shared match-day experiences.
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