Bhan Pratap, a longstanding presence at the Nausori Market, is well-known for selling mudcrabs, lobsters, and prawns for over a decade. At 70 years old, Mr. Prasad’s warm and inviting demeanor creates a welcoming atmosphere for visitors to the market. He expressed his enjoyment in the social aspect of his work, stating, “I enjoy coming to the market as I get a chance to meet different people. Everybody knows each other at the market; it feels like one big caring family.”
Residing in Vunimono, near Nausori town, he travels to the market five days a week, from Tuesday to Saturday. Mr. Pratap noted that weekends are particularly busy, with a surge of customers making purchases. This market business has been essential, as it serves as the primary source of income for him and his family, allowing them to manage their finances effectively.
“I buy from fishermen and those selling fresh produce in the market. I’m just a middleman, and this business has really helped my family a lot,” he explained. Nonetheless, he faces daily challenges due to competition from other vendors. Acknowledging the existence of multiple vendors offering similar products, he understands that this is outside his control.
In response to the competitive atmosphere, Mr. Pratap emphasizes the importance of distinguishing himself through the quality of his seafood and customer service. “By ensuring that my products are fresh and attractively displayed, I am able to draw many customers,” he remarked. He also invests time in building relationships with regular customers, remembering their preferences and making personalized suggestions.
Despite the challenges posed by competition, Mr. Pratap continues to find joy in his work at the market, which keeps him engaged and active. He advises other vendors and small business owners to prioritize quality, stating, “Nowadays, some items from the market and supermarkets can disappoint us because vendors do not sell quality goods. This needs to be discouraged at any cost.”