Established in 1936, Catra is the oldest and largest representative association in South Africa, not only serving the hospitality industry, but all other industries nationally.
It is a registered employer’s association that represents, protects and promotes the interests of employers and their employees, as well as consumers.
Providing services and benefits to its members, it also strives to foster harmonious relationships between members and their employees through the process of conciliation and dialogue.

Although not confined to the hospitality industry, Catra is the only body representing employers at the Bargaining Council for the Restaurant, Catering and Allied Trades.
The purpose of the Bargaining Council, which is established by the unions and employers, is to set terms and conditions of employment, and then to implement them. Catra plays a major role in these negotiations.

The results of these negotiations become a collective agreement that, once published in the Government Gazette by the Minister of Labour, must be complied with by all employers and employees within the jurisdiction of the Bargaining Council.

Catra also provides a wide range of services to all its members, like representation at the CCMA and other industry’s bargaining councils. It also assists in the drafting of policies and procedures, as well as chairing of disciplinary enquiries.

After more than 70 years, it continues to play a role in making recommendations on the various acts promulgated by government.
Not only does Catra make representations on behalf of its members, it will continue to have discussions with the Department of Labour to achieve a more balanced and equitable Labour Relations Act to improve employer/employee relationships.