By: Mpho Shelile
In the ever-evolving landscape of the meat delivery business, few stories are as compelling as that of Lecholi. What began as a modest modal enterprise, bridging the gap between farmers and buyers, has transformed into a formidable player in the meat industry.
Lecholi’s journey from its humble beginnings to owning its branches and butcher shops is a testament to strategic vision, customer-centric innovation, and an unyielding commitment to giving Basotho quality services.
In an interview with Informative Newspaper, Mokhesi Hlalele one of the co-founders of Lecholi states that Lecholi was founded with a straightforward yet profound mission during Covid-19, to connect buyers with fresh, high-quality meat from local butchers.
In its early days, the business operated on a modal platform, facilitating the delivery of meat from butchers to customers. This model proved successful, leveraging technology to streamline the supply chain and ensure that customers received their orders promptly and in optimal condition. “Henceforth our motto ‘deliciously at your door step,” says Mokhesi.
He further states that recognizing the potential to scale and improve control over the entire supply chain, Lecholi embarked on a strategic expansion. The company began acquiring its branches, allowing it to manage operations more directly and ensure consistent quality across all touch points. This move marked a significant shift from a purely intermediary role to a more integrated approach in the meat market.
“The achievement of branches was not merely about growth,” says Mokhesi. He further states that it was about enhancing the customer experience. By owning branches, Lecholi has implemented uniform standards of service, hygiene, and product quality, thereby building stronger trust and loyalty among its customer base.
Mokhesi further states that Lecholi has also taken an initiative to give back to the economy by donating food and necessities to the people around Setibing community where they host their biggest events. “We provide to the needy and the less privileged like shepherds normally following that event, as to make sure that we are not the only ones benefiting,” he says.
He emphasizes Lecholi’s unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. The company donates food and essential items to the people in the Setibing community, especially during their largest events held at Lekhalong-la-Baroa ‘Setibing.’ This unique Mountain Drive and Braai Experience has become one of the most significant events in Lesotho, showcasing Lecholi’s dedication to both business success and social responsibility.
Mokhesi states that the next logical step in Lecholi’s expansion was vertical integration. The company started to acquire and operate its butcher shops. This strategic move had multiple benefits, owning butcher shops allowed Lecholi to maintain rigorous standards of meat selection, handling, and preparation, ensuring that only the best products reached their customers.
Throughout its evolution, Lecholi remains committed to innovation and customer satisfaction. The company has invested in state-of-the-art logistics and cold chain technologies to maintain the freshness and safety of its products. Additionally, Lecholi has developed a robust ‘Sunday chill-out’ event at making it easy for customers to get to rewind, but also to give support to support their businesses because there are stalls to market and sell their products free of charge.
Customer feedback has been a cornerstone of Lecholi’s strategy. By actively engaging with its clientele and responding to their needs and preferences, Lecholi has continuously refined its offerings and service models. This customer-centric approach has not only driven growth but also fostered a loyal and satisfied customer base.
Looking ahead, Mokhesi specifies that Lecholi aims to further solidify its presence in the meat market. “Our plans for the future include expanding our geographic footprint, we want to have branches in all the 10 districts of Lesotho, and the whole of Southern Africa, exploring new product lines, and integrating sustainable practices into its operation,” he says. Adding that as the company grows, it remains dedicated to its founding principles of quality, transparency, and exceptional customer service.
Lecholi’s journey from a modal business to owning its branches and butcher shops is a remarkable narrative of growth and transformation. It serves as an inspiring example of how a clear vision, strategic expansion, and a relentless focus on quality can propel a business to new heights in a competitive industry.