Alex traders should brace themselves for a surge in business if they utilise initiatives and local market set-ups for their betterment.
This after the establishment of Pop Up Market Place, a roving initiative where sellers can display their wares. The initiative is set within open social spaces, and ambience is created through music and cuisine which attracts customers to their products.
The initiative was started last year by non-profit organisation Creative Minds and monthly exhibitions will be staged on a flexible basis at various local venues to diversify the customer base, introduce the concept to all forms of businesses, and attract attendance of businesses from other areas.
Sakhile Shabangu of Creative Minds said to manage the growth of the initiative well, they started with smaller products including ceramics, beadwork, clothing, shoes, belts and jewellery. “We will think about bigger products like fridges, stoves and others later,” he said.
The next market staging will be in March on a date and at a venue still to be announced.
The 50 core pioneer exhibitors are expected to attend and hopefully more shoppers after intense marketing had been done. “We encourage more local entrepreneurs to register for this opportunity on our database so they can be kept informed of the changing venues, and to receive information on any developments of interest to their businesses.”
Also, he said they hoped to attract established businesses which have an interest in mentoring emerging businesses with better marketing, product packaging, pricing and business skills. “This we expect to be done in a mutually beneficial way.” He alluded to the Greater Alexandra Chamber of Commence as a key partner to which they look for advice and support.
Details: Sakhile Shabangu; 071 972 9042, Levy Ledwaba; 078 598 6026.
