Every business owner knows the chaos of a busy counter. The lunchtime rush and last-minute orders, the printer that decides today’s the day to jam. 

At Yoco, we love hearing from the people who make that magic happen every day, because no one understands the rhythm of running a business like the entrepreneurs living it.

That’s what Yoco Meets is all about: real conversations with real entrepreneurs, sharing what works and what doesn’t behind the counter.

At our latest Yoco Meets event, we caught up with the team from Sparkys, the burger spot that’s become a Johannesburg favourite. They started small, grew fast, and learned plenty along the way; from mastering their menu to making the most of their Yoco Counter setup.

Here are five lessons we took away from their story.

1. Start small, learn fast

“When people speak about the great privilege of what you learn on the job - that’s exactly what it was.”

Michael Sparkes, co-founder and owner

Sparkys began on a shoestring budget, inspired by the success of international burger chains. But instead of waiting for the perfect plan or big funding, they simply started testing, learning, and improving every day.

That experimental mindset is something every small business can relate to. The best insights often come from being hands-on, paying attention, and staying open to change.

The lesson: Don’t wait to be ready. Start small, learn fast, and refine as you grow.

2. Never compromise on quality, even when costs rise

As food costs surged with beef prices jumping over 35%, Sparkys made a bold choice: instead of cutting corners, they made their burgers bigger.

“You are not leaving here thinking, ‘I could still eat later.’ You’re leaving full, and we’ve never compromised on that.”

Nicholas McWilliams, co-founder and owner

That commitment to quality has helped them build loyalty that no discount could buy. It’s a reminder that consistency and care behind the counter create repeat customers, even when times are tough.

The lesson: Quality and trust are your strongest currencies.

3. Choose tech that works for you, not against you

Before switching to Counter, Sparkys struggled with a legacy POS system that required cables, installation downtime, and monthly fees - even once forcing them to close for six hours during setup.

“Legacy brands are dead. Wireless is the future. Plug and play - just like Yoco Counter - is the way any business needs to move now.”

Nicholas McWilliams, co-founder and owner

With Counter, their setup became simple, flexible, and mobile. No wiring and no waiting - just a smooth, reliable flow that keeps orders (and customers) moving.

The lesson: The right tools should save you time, not take it from you.

4. Let customer curiosity guide your growth

Sparkys started as a dark kitchen, serving customers online. But soon, something unexpected happened: people began showing up at their door.

“People wanted to see our faces, to connect. That’s when we knew retail would be bigger than online.”

Nicholas McWilliams, co-founder and owner

They shifted their entire business model to meet that demand, proving how powerful it is to listen to your customers. Whether it’s face-to-face service or new delivery options, paying attention to how people actually want to experience your brand can unlock huge growth.

The lesson: Stay curious - your customers might show you your next big move.

5. Keep innovating, keep connecting

One of the most inspiring things about Sparkys is their relationship with Yoco’s product team. They don’t just use Counter - they help us make it better.

“Once a week I get a WhatsApp or Zoom call from the Yoco product team. They’re constantly innovating, not resting on their laurels.”

Nicholas McWilliams, co-founder and owner

That collaboration reflects something bigger: the shared drive between business owners and builders to keep improving. Whether it’s adding integrations or testing new features, innovation happens faster when feedback flows both ways.

The lesson: Growth is a team sport - stay close to the partners and platforms that evolve with you.

The takeaway

From shoestring beginnings to steady growth, Sparkys’ story is proof that running a great business is about more than what’s on the menu. It’s about adaptability, consistency, and the tools that make it all flow smoothly behind the counter.

At Yoco Meets, that’s the kind of insight we’re proud to share, because when merchants learn from merchants, everyone grows stronger.

Curious how Yoco Counter can transform your business? Learn more here.