Retail Group closes
Residents of Bela-Bela are very upset with the recent closing down of two favorite family stores: West Pack and Petzone in Bela Mall.
According to information from Matuson & Associates the directors of the West Pack Lifestyle (PTY) LTD, the group adopted a resolution in which the company voluntarily commenced business rescue proceedings. Patrons were shocked when they received very short notice of the closing of the two stores in Bela-Bela.
After an enquiry to director of the West Pack Lifestyle group, Jose Da Silva has confirmed that the company was financially distressed and that the business rescue plan will be managed by Business Management Consultant Company, Matuson & Associates from Johannesburg.
While this process is underway, the community of Bela-Bela, has not only lost two popular shopping destinations, but 12 former employees are now unsure of what the future holds for them.
According to Rowena Kemp, the former manager of the Bela-Bela stores, the West Pack and Petzone staff were like family.
She said that over the last three years since she was appointed as manager, the staff grew very close to each other. They shared their highs and lows. “I knew their families, I shared their pregnancies, and even held their babies.”
The staff also had a special relationship with the customers, and regular patrons had their favorite amongst the staff that they preferred to be served by. Although the current situation prohibits Kemp from commenting on company issues, she did mention that she was saddened by this sudden development. She grew to love Bela-Bela and the loyal patrons.
She said she could not help but feel emotional when she remembered the store being stocked and after a busy week by Friday she was staring at almost empty shelves.
In reply to queries from Die Pos, Nadia Rincon-Pereira of West Pack Lifestyle said that consumer behavior dictated a shift in how the group viewed their position towards evolving market conditions.
With a growing preference for online shopping, West Pack had to adjust its focus. The group has decided to downsize to render a better overall customer experience.
“This strategic move will enable the company to offer a more curated selection of products, ensuring customers have access to what they need more efficiently. This step has invariably led to the closing down of shops in certain areas, and allows West Pack to focus more on their most profitable assets,” she said.
“West Pack Lifestyle sees this downsizing as a positive step towards a more sustainable and customer-centric future. The company will continue to monitor market trends and customer feedback, making necessary adjustments to ensure it remains a leader in the retail sector,” Kemp said.
No comments were received on the Bela-Bela stores specifically, or what will happen to the 12 employees.
Kemp has indicated that she has found other employment, and will be leaving Bela-Bela to pursue her new career, she will however remain connected to the community of Bela-Bela through an NPO called SUNKA that will assist underprivileged pet owners.
