By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
-It has been a year since Delight Supermarket opened its doors to the community, and what a year it has been! From humble beginnings to becoming a household name, this supermarket has surpassed expectations and exceeded all goals in just a short span of time.
Mr. Motjopi Molise, talks about the successes, challenges, and future plans of Delight Supermarket.
According to Mr. Molise, the business has experienced significant growth in sales, stock, and customers. This growth can be attributed to the supermarket’s commitment to providing quality products at affordable prices. From fresh produce to household essentials, Delight Supermarket has become a one-stop-shop for the local community. Mr. Molise also proudly states that they have been able to employ Basotho, helping to create job opportunities for locals.
But it is not just about sales and stock for Delight Supermarket. They take pride in supporting the local economy by sourcing products from local suppliers. This not only helps to boost the economy but also promotes the use of locally made products. Molise firmly believes in supporting his fellow Basotho businesses, and it has been a win-win situation for both parties.
However, like any business, Delight Supermarket has faced its fair share of challenges, one of which is maintaining consistent suppliers. Molise emphasizes that this is a common issue in the retail industry, and they are continuously working towards finding solutions to ensure a steady supply of products. Another challenge faced is with unbranded Basotho products. This often leads to customers losing confidence in the product’s quality, making it difficult for the supermarket to sell them. But despite these challenges, he remains optimistic and determined to find ways to overcome them.
Another aspect that has been a hindrance to the growth of Delight Supermarket is access to finance. Mr. Molise reveals that banks have been hesitant to provide loans or credit facilities, making it difficult for the business to expand and diversify. This has been a common problem for many small businesses in Lesotho, and it is a major roadblock to growth. With limited access to finance, it becomes challenging for businesses to invest in new products, technology, and employee development.
However, this has not stopped Delight Supermarket from making strides. They have plans in place to continue growing and expanding their business. They are also looking into partnering with local farmers to provide fresh, locally sourced produce to their customers. These and other plans are a testament to Delight Supermarket’s resilience and determination to succeed.
However, for Mr. Molise and his team, business is not the only priority. They are deeply committed to giving back to the community that has supported them throughout the year. Delight Supermarket has actively participated in various community initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty. These efforts have not only helped build a positive reputation for the supermarket but have also made a meaningful impact on the local community.
As our conversation with Mr. Molise comes to a close, he expresses his heartfelt gratitude for the continued support and loyalty of their customers. He also takes a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of his employees, who he credits as the backbone of the supermarket’s success. Looking back, it has been an eventful year for Delight Supermarket, and the team is excited to continue expanding in all districts of Lesotho while making further contributions to the community.
Though, Delight Supermarket’s one-year anniversary is not just a celebration of its existence, but a testament to the resilience, hard work, and community spirit that make this supermarket stand out from the rest. As they continue on their journey, Delight Supermarket remains committed to providing quality products, supporting the local economy, and giving back to the community.
Delight Supermarket’s journey from a small, local grocery store to a pillar of the community is a shining example of the power of hard work, passion, and community spirit. Despite the challenges faced, the business has not only persevered but thrived, becoming a beacon of success for other small businesses and entrepreneurs in the area.
Looking ahead, the future seems bright for Delight Supermarket as they continue to grow, innovate, and give back to the community that has supported them throughout their first year. The success of Delight Supermarket can be attributed to several factors, including:
A clear vision and values from the beginning Molise, had a clear vision for the business and committed to creating a supermarket that not only provided quality products but also gave back to the community. This focus on values and mission has helped to guide the business in its decision-making and strategic planning.