04 Apr 2016

The introduction of market days by the Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) in conjunction with the South East District Council’s social and community development office is paying dividends for small businesses.

Speaking in an interview on Saturday, LEA market analyst in Ramotswa, Mr Khaolani Phineas said there has been a noticeable change in the growth of businesses they assist.

He said business owners have more confidence with running their business thus making more profits.

He also said this was because local entrepreneurs now have a platform to introduce their products to new customers and also to network with other business owner and share ideas.

Ms Goitseone Mooki of G.Mos Décor, a local business that makes artificial flowers and décor, said with every market day she attends, she registers new clientele.

Ms Mooki said market days have helped her build a reputation around the village, as many people did not know her as she operated the business from her homestead.

Her wish is that market days should be held monthly so that she and other business owner could continue increasing their client base.

On behalf of Leabo Holdings, a company that makes bathing soap, Mr Zibani Monyaku said market days have played a major role in helping build their brand.

Mr Monyaku said because of the market day, people were now aware of the origin of their product and where to find their soap.

He also said displaying their products at market days has been a learning experience.

He said they received vital feedback from customers on their products concerning advertising, marketing and distribution.

Another regular business owner at the market day, Ms Masego Benjamin of Leather Intellectual Enterprise said her sales rely a on market days.

Ms Benjamin said most of her business orders and sales of leather shoes, belts and bags were during the market day.

She said the day has had a positive impact on her business and she intends to continue being a part of market days. Ends