Shoprite opens stores for local producers

Nigerian producers will again have the opportunity to sell their fruit and vegetables directly to Shoprite customers with effect from next Saturday, Shoprite has disclosed.

This is part of the retailer’s Meet the Farmer initiative.

• Nigeria slips into recession as economy contracts again
• Recession: SERAP asks Buhari to cut cost of governance

Already, a large percentage of the fresh fruit and vegetables sold in Shoprite Nigeria’s 25 stores is sourced locally and by hosting these events the retailer gives the farmers the experience of selling in a formal retail setting.

Shoprite Adeniran in Lagos has been designated to host a fresh produce supplier from next week.

Nwaorisa Chinedu Prosper, owner of AMET Farm Ventures, who has been supplying Shoprite for five years hailed the initiative.

“I am very surprised that the majority of the produce available at Shoprite is locally sourced.

I’m also grateful for the opportunity to market my business directly to customers. This is good for smaller farmers as it could lead to people from their community buying directly from them in order to save some money.”

Chinyere Abade, spokesperson for CSS Global Integrated Farms, another participant, recommended that growers participate in initiatives like these because of the invaluable feedback from shoppers.

“The customers tell you what’s good about your produce and what’s not, so you have a very clear idea where improvements are needed to attract even more customers.”