Makro Springfield retains positive outlook after re-build

THERE is a renewed sense of optimism for staff and management at Makro’s Springfield store, which officially re-opened its doors on December 13.

The store, which was looted, vandalised and set on fire during the unrest in the province last year, has seen an uptake in sales since its re-opening.

The store’s general manager and Glen Anil resident, Sue-Anne Jones, said the response from shoppers has brought about new hope.

“The last two months, in particular, has been fantastic. We’ve seen an uptake in the number of people visiting our store as well a greater percentage in our sales, which has been a massive boost. We would really like to say thank to our loyal customers. We have received an outpouring of support and assistance. This re-opening means as much to the community as it does to us. The outlook for 2022 is wholeheartedly positive,” she said.

Related Story: WATCH: Springfield Makro re-opens with joyful song and dance

Jones added that after the unrest, management forged a stronger bond with SAPS and their security provider and its on-site security also received an upgrade.

“That was our biggest win. We definitely have much stronger communication with Sydenham SAPS and Fidelity Security, our security provider. We re-fenced our property with heavy duty fencing, topped by electric fencing and have increased our security portfolio on site,” she said.

Jones added that during the store’s five-month closure, none of the 380 permanent staff lost their jobs.

“We were able to redeploy all of our staff and they really are our backbone. Job security was always one of our focuses throughout those five months and I’m proud to say that we didn’t lose a single job. Makro is a resilient company that truly believes in the spirit of collective efforts. That rainbow in our logo really tells you where we are right now: at the end of the rainbow. We have come a long way. We invite everyone to celebrate the great efforts of all who have been involved in the rebuild,” Jones said.

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