Peni Namulo and Sailasa Kaitani are enjoying great success as roadside vendors selling green coconuts in Nadi. For the past 14 years, their business has not only been profitable but has also contributed positively to the health of many customers who frequent their stand.
Mr. Namulo, aged 37, shared that many of their patrons choose green coconut juice due to its health benefits, especially those suffering from non-communicable diseases or recently discharged from hospitals. He noted that customers often return with empty bottles, expressing gratitude for the health benefits they’ve experienced from consuming the coconut water, which they refer to as their “medicine.”
The demand for coconuts with minimal meat has been increasing, as most customers prefer the refreshing juice. Mr. Namulo mentioned that their clientele has diversified, now including not just tourists and Indo-Fijians but also a growing number of iTaukei customers.
The price of green coconuts ranges between $4 and $5 each, and there is a substantial demand from local hotels and resorts, which significantly boosts their sales. They often fulfill large orders, sometimes totaling 200 to 300 coconuts in a day, with a recent exceptional order reaching 1,000 coconuts.
This positive impact on their local community underscores the significance of small businesses in promoting health and wellness while boosting the economy. Mr. Namulo and Mr. Kaitani’s commitment to providing health benefits through their product highlights how small vendors can play a critical role in supporting the community.
In summary, the business of selling green coconuts transcends mere commerce for Namulo and Kaitani; it embodies a mission of promoting health and wellbeing among their customers while enjoying financial success. Their story reflects the power of small enterprises to make a significant community impact.
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