by Keneilwe Velaphi
Sabelo Mkhwanazi’s business, Mayanda Fresh supermarket, is centred on providing fresh produce to the community of oThongathi, KwaZulu-Natal.
Mkhwanazi said prior to launching the establishment, he realised that his community was complaining about purchasing expired and rotten goods from nearby shops, which prompted him to start the business model.
Mayanda Fresh was officially opened in June 2023.
“I entered the supermarket industry because I was driven by passion and the need to supply fresh high-quality produce to my community,” said Mkhwanazi.
The goal of Mayanda Fresh was to create a welcoming and convenient shopping experience to customers, while also supporting local farmers and suppliers.
“There is a need to offer a wide variety of fresh products at affordable prices. Another goal is to strive towards becoming a trusted name in the retail industry in South Africa.”
Mkhwanazi ensures stock availability through the use of advanced technology and strong supplier relationships.
“I have established a trustworthy relationship with my suppliers, allowing me flexible payment terms. This mutual trust ensures timely deliveries and consistent stock availability.”
This approach allows Mayanda Fresh to always supply customers with fresh produce.
Furthermore, Mkhwanazi’s state-of-the-art inventory management system accurately tracks all stock levels, providing real-time updates as he purchases and sells products.
He added that he has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers, stakeholders, and the community.
His supermarket also serves the residents of surrounding areas, as well as those who work in oThongathi.
“In order to attract and retain customers, I have strategically chosen to position my first store at the centre of the oThongathi central business district. This is a commercial area that is conveniently near residential neighbourhoods, and the location makes it easy for customers to access daily essentials.
He also leverages media relations to reach a wider audience, ensuring that more people are aware of what Mayanda Fresh has to offer.
The self-made entrepreneur said he did not receive funding from government but with the support of his family and community, he was able to establish his business.
“My business came across many challenges one of the biggest being managing the supply chain to ensure a consistent and timely delivery of fresh produce, and building, and maintaining strong relationships.”
Mkhwanazi has big growth plans.
"I plan to develop an e-commerce website to create an online business, allowing customers to shop from their homes and have their products delivered to their door,” he concluded.
Visit the Mayanda Fresh Instagram page @mayanda_fresh or follow them on Tik Tok @Mayanda Fresh.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
