At Adriatic, we believe that the most memorable moments happen around the table — where good food, great wine, and loved ones come together.
We specialise in premium Italian food products, wines, delicatessen, and professional catering equipment, while also offering select items from Spain, Argentina, and France.
Adriatic is open to both the public and the food and beverage industry, serving everyone from home cooks to hospitality professionals with a passion for quality.
Adriatic Ship Supply & Trading Company was founded in 1970 by Renzo Reffo, with a vision rooted in quality and service. Originally focused on supplying ship stores to foreign vessels in Durban, the company held exclusive partnerships with several major shipping lines.
As containerisation changed the face of shipping and reduced the number of passenger vessels in Durban, Adriatic pivoted — turning its attention to importing and distributing authentic Italian food and wine to the South African market. This move laid the foundation for what Adriatic is today: a trusted name in premium imports.
The company’s core philosophy remains unchanged — to offer only the highest quality products from leading Italian producers.
In 1983, the Reffo family expanded operations with a warehouse in Johannesburg, ensuring quicker service to what would become Adriatic’s largest customer base.
Adriatic’s foray into catering equipment began with the import of La San Marco coffee machines, made possible by a strong partnership with Segafredo Zanetti, one of the world’s top espresso producers. This success was followed by the introduction of IGF pizza equipment and the Sirman range, which brought a broad selection of kitchen, bar, and butchery tools to South Africa.
Today, Adriatic offers a comprehensive selection of professional catering equipment, backed by expert after-sales support, technical assistance from trained staff, and a full range of spare parts.
In 2010, Roberto Reffo joined his father Maurizio in leading the company. Shortly after, Renzo Reffo, Maurizio’s second son, also became involved — continuing Adriatic’s legacy as a proud family business.
Adriatic now operates in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, with distribution warehouses and dedicated sales teams in each region — ensuring nationwide reach with a personal touch.
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011 392 4809