Bryanston Market to undergo new developments

Bryanston Organic and Natural Market is rebranding itself after 43 years of its existence and traders at the market have expressed their concerns. The launch of the rebranded market will be in October.

Glenda Moore, chief operating officer (COO) of the market, said that the retail sector over the past few years has compelled Bryanston Organic and Natural Market to scrutinise its business model with the aim of assuring its future viability. “For 43 years we have been a leading light in all things organic and natural, but now it is time for us to transform and position a more compact market within the growing movement towards conscious living,” she said.

To determine and define this future vision, the market has embarked on a collaborative and consultative process with its traders and a team of change management specialists.

“This process has unfolded over the past two years, and at every stage, our traders have been involved,” Moore continued.

However, the market did explain that they would have to reduce the number of traders to ensure that this new vision comes to life. This is what worries some of the traders like Innocent Manjengena of Innocent Stone Sculptures, “We are aware of the rebranding and we have filled out forms to motivate our stay in the market,” he said.

“On 14 June we will be told who stays and who goes. I am worried that some of us will no longer sell,” continued Manjengana, who has been a trader at the market since 2011.

Khulisani Mpofu of Ceramic Birds and Sculptures admitted that the market could do with some revamping but he also did admit that he fears he will no longer be able to fend for himself. “I have been at the market for four years and it’s very painful to learn that I might no longer sell here.”

Moore did mention that it is still an ongoing process, “One of the suggestions to retain as many traders as possible is for traders of similar products to work together in a co-operative system that will allow their products to remain in the market without their regular attendance,” she concluded.

Related article:

https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/226333/bryanston-organic-and-natural-market-soldiers-on-after-43-years/