South Africa, Dec. 19 -- Measured in real terms at constant 2019 prices, total income generated by the food and beverages industry increased by 8.4% in October 2025 compared with October 2024.

The strongest annual growth was recorded in 'other' income, which rose by 16.5%, pointing to diversification in revenue streams beyond traditional food and drink sales.

Restaurants and coffee shops lead growth

By type of enterprise, restaurants and coffee shops were the largest contributors to overall growth, recording a 10.1% year-on-year increase and contributing 4.7 percentage points to the total 8.4% rise.

This performance suggests continued recovery in sit-down dining and cafe culture, supported by improved foot traffic and consumer willing...