Inspection Report Review: Urbanature Distilling Co.
Audit Summary: An inspection was conducted at Urbanature Distilling Co. on 13 May 2025 to assess the company's compliance and readiness for the registration of a Type 35 warehouse (VMP) under the Customs and Excise Act. The findings indicate that the company has established a compliant manufacturing facility equipped for gin production with intentions for future diversification into whisky manufacturing.
Inspection Details:
- Date of Inspection: 13 May 2025
- Location: Cnr Lenchen South and South Street, Erf 1930, Zwartkops Shop 3A.
- Welcoming Officer: Mr. Mathys Vosloo
- Purpose of Visit: Evaluation of application for VMP registration and preparedness for manufacturing operations.
Findings:
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Regulatory Compliance: Upon arrival, the client confirmed that they applied for both VMP and VMS registrations, with the Pretoria Office scheduled to conduct an inspection regarding VMS. This indicates proactive engagement with regulatory authorities.
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Facility Overview:
- Manufacturing Area: The facility is segregated into operational zones for manufacturing, bottling, labeling, and warehousing raw materials. The layout was navigated effectively, indicating adequate planning and compliance with warehouse regulations.
- Production Capacity: The company intends to produce 650 bottles (750 ml) monthly from 250 liters of alcohol, sourced from Alco NCP. This production plan aligns with initial projections and supports viability for both local and export markets.
- Infrastructure Review: The facility consists of an appropriate brick structure with an iron ceiling, a single roller door for access (secured with a Customs lock), and a comprehensive monitored alarm system, which reflects sound security measures.
- Fire Safety Compliance: Fire extinguishers are available and scheduled for servicing by May 2026, fulfilling safety requirements.
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Equipment Inventory:
- The establishment includes:
- 2 x 500L stainless steel holding tanks.
- 1 x 100L mobile holding tank. This equipment meets the necessary capacity requirements for the anticipated production processes.
- The establishment includes:
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Employee Count: The workforce comprises one full-time and one part-time employee, indicating a lean operational model at this stage, which may be scalable as production volumes increase.
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Documental and Tax Compliance: The client is registered under the following tax types:
- 9578318207
- 4860316506
- C25555469 This highlights the company’s compliance with tax obligations pertinent to their business operations.
Conclusion:
- Registration Recommendation: Based on the comprehensive inspection carried out and the absence of any irregularities, it is concluded that Urbanature Distilling Co. has met all necessary requirements for the licensing and registration of a VMP warehouse as per the Customs and Excise Act.
- The findings substantiate the company's readiness to commence manufacturing operations aligned with regulatory standards, warranting an approval recommendation for the registration of the VMP warehouse.
Sign-Off: The inspection report is hereby submitted for your review, with a recommendation for the issuance of the VMP warehouse registration based on compliance with all applicable regulations and operational readiness observed during the inspection.
Audit Prepared By: [Auditor's Name]
Date of Report Submission: [Insert Date]
Position: [Auditor's Position]
Signature: ___________________