Finding Our Rhythm at the East Coast Radio House and Garden Show 2026

There is an electric energy that fills the air when you step into an expo of the scale of the East Coast Radio (ECR) House and Garden Show. As the Sales Lead and Digital Growth Expert for KhakiBush, I’ve been to my fair share of industry events, but our recent nine-day debut at the Durban ICC was something truly special.

For those who don’t know, KhakiBush isn’t just a magazine; it’s a movement. We are all about promoting a specific lifestyle one that celebrates the rugged beauty of the South African landscape, the thrill of overlanding, and the simple joy of an outdoor adventure. Inspiring adventure, championing conservation & uplifting communities through African stories. I think people see the photos and the stories we share and assume it’s an exclusive club, something that requires a massive bakkie and an endless budget. At the ECR House and Garden Show, our mission was to bridge that gap. We wanted to show people that this lifestyle is not just accessible; it is waiting for them right now.

(All Image credit East Coast Radio House and Garden Show)

The experience for us was nothing short of incredible. For nine straight days, the ICC was a hub of activity, with foot traffic that felt relentless in the best way possible. We were surrounded by inquisitive, high-intent individuals who didn’t just wander by they came to explore, to learn, and to enable their own lives with new tools and ideas.

And here’s a funny observation from the floor: Our KhakiBush stand inadvertently became the "kindergarten" for the husbands. While the wives were off strategically mapping out their new kitchen or bedroom renovations, the guys were drawn to our displays like moths to a flame. The star of the show, without a doubt, was the four-man braai we had on display from Pretzel Designs. It was the ultimate icebreaker. It captured attention, triggered conversations, and gave us the perfect opportunity to dive into what we do at the magazine.

But beyond the public interaction, the business side was equally rewarding. This wasn't just a marketing exercise; it was a networking goldmine. We connected with diverse businesses and industries, finding ways to collaborate and activate our brand in new, creative spaces. It’s through these connections that new ideas are sparked, and we’re already exploring some fascinating collaborations that I can't wait to share with you all.

Looking around the expo, it was impossible not to notice the trends shifting in the home and design sectors. There is a clear move toward bolder, more expressive design. I saw a surge in new shapes—particularly striking cylindrical light fittings—and a commitment to bold, confident colors. Think deep blacks, shimmering golds, and rich, vibrant reds. While the indoor design world is definitely leaning into this sleek, modern aesthetic, it sparked a thought for me: how do we translate this into our world?

I firmly believe that these design choices are going to pour right into the overlanding and outdoor space. For too long, the outdoor experience has been defined solely by

functionality. Why should that be the case? Why can’t an overlanding setup be just as aesthetically pleasing and comfortable as your home?

We are already seeing this shift. As we push toward our projects, the goal is to make the outdoor space feel more personal, more cozy, and more homey. It’s about bringing those "indoor" comforts into the wild. Whether it’s how we organize our storage, the lighting we choose for our campsites, or the way we build out our vehicle interiors, comfort is becoming a priority. If you can make the outside feel as welcoming as the inside, you are far more likely to embrace the adventure.

The ECR House and Garden Show was a testament to that diversity. Everything from the outdoor space to the food market, the deli section, and the handcrafted market showed that there is something for everyone. It was especially heartening to see how much they prioritized the kids watching families discover new ways to enjoy their time together was a highlight of the entire week.

We are already looking ahead. I can confidently say that KhakiBush will be back at this expo, and I expect it to grow even larger from here. The organizers have created something special in Durban, a space where the public and businesses can truly connect, learn from one another, and build something better for the future.

If you caught us at the stand, thanks for stopping by and sharing your stories. And if you didn’t, keep an eye out for us at the next one. The road is long, the adventure is waiting, and we’re just getting started.

For more information on the show click https://housegardenshow.co.za/

This article is written by Branden Meintjes, KhakiBush Magazine’s Sales Lead and Digital Growth Expert. With a passion for adventure, the outdoors, and connecting people with brands that share the KhakiBush vision, Branden brings a unique perspective on marketing, events, and the growth of Africa’s outdoor community. Through his experience in business development, brand partnerships, and digital storytelling, Branden shares insights into the people, places, and opportunities that continue to inspire adventure, conservation, and community upliftment across Africa.

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