The DeMaR Movement
Established in 2013 by Valdemar Strydom Pretorius, The DeMaR Movement (DMR) stands as a comprehensive hospitality consultancy distinguished by a rich legacy of excellence. Prior to his foray into the hospitality sector, Valdemar garnered invaluable experience in luxury retail, serving prestigious brands such as Gucci, Chopard, and Audemars Piguet.
His tenure encompassed luxury retail, branding, and the nuanced art of high-end client management. Transitioning seamlessly into hospitality, Valdemar lent his expertise to The Test Kitchen, an internationally renowned establishment, recipient of the EatOut Service Excellence Award, a recurrent winner of South Africa’s Best Restaurant, and a fixture on the esteemed World’s 50 Best list.
At the heart of DMR lies a steadfast commitment to three fundamental pillars vital to any enterprise catering to guests or clients:
SERVICE: Recognizing that the bedrock of any successful hospitality venture lies in its personnel, DMR places paramount importance on cultivating a conducive, supportive environment for its team members. Prioritising the well-being and motivation of staff translates into unparalleled service excellence, where every guest interaction is imbued with warmth and professionalism.
SYSTEMS: Regardless of scale, from boutique owner-operated ventures to sprawling upmarket establishments, the hallmark of success lies in unwavering commitment to excellence. DMR advocates for the implementation of efficient, user-friendly systems that underpin seamless operations. From meticulous product preparation to the attentive care of guests in pristine, secure surroundings, the pursuit of perfection is non-negotiable.
IDENTITY: Central to the DMR ethos is the interrogation of brand identity — meticulously scrutinising the minutiae to ensure seamless alignment with overarching brand concepts. Beyond mere signage, DMR delves into the nuanced intricacies of branding, facilitating a cohesive narrative that resonates with clientele on a profound level.
Valdemar’s illustrious career in hospitality spans the successful launch of 13 restaurants and pop-ups, a testament to his unwavering dedication to the craft. Now, he extends his wealth of knowledge and expertise to fellow luminaries within South Africa’s vibrant hospitality landscape.
In a strategic collaboration, DMR has partnered with Aimy Viljoen, visionary proprietor of Radical Cuisine—a dynamic entity specialising in food product manufacturing and bespoke design solutions encompassing digital, print, and signage. Aimy’s prowess in design augments DMR’s holistic approach, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all design requisites for hospitality and retail enterprises alike.
In essence, The DeMaR Movement emerges as a beacon of excellence, poised to elevate and redefine the standards of hospitality and retail across South Africa and beyond.