BOOK EXCERPT: The brands behind some of SA’s most famous vintage roadside signs

South Africa is home to many iconic vintage roadside signs that tell the story of the country's history. One such sign is the Blikkies Bar in Carnarvon, Northern Cape, which features a wall of empty beer cans from around the world. This makes the Blikkies Bar an icon for travellers looking to explore global beer brands.

The story behind Castle Lager, South Africa's famous beer brand, begins with its founder Charles Glass. Glass's wife, who worked alongside him in the brewery, was known for her temper. The brewery's money men were concerned that their feuding would damage the business, so they bought them out in 1890. This allowed Glass & Co. Ltd, later known as Castle Brewery, to begin operations in Johannesburg.

In the Northern Cape, the Koffiehuis brand has been a beloved instant coffee since 1914. Along with Raadsaal and Frisco, it forms a trio of much-adored home-brewed instant coffees, known as "kits koffies". These brands have become collectibles and popular decor items in South Africa.

Mazawattee Tea, another vintage roadside sign, was registered as a trademark in 1887. The tea marketing success initially featured a painting of a bonneted dowager and her granddaughter, which is now a collectible. In 1895, the company expanded into cocoa and chocolate production due to the high costs of tea during the South African War.

Signs for Five Roses Tea have been common in South African life since 1905. The brand's roots can be traced back to a small Port Elizabeth company that quickly gained a reputation for quality tea. The famed slogan "Nobody makes better tea than you and Five Roses" became part of national folklore and remains an iconic symbol of South African life.