Bhan Pratap, a familiar face at the Nausori Market, has been selling mud crabs, lobsters, and prawns for over a decade. At 70 years old, Mr. Pratap’s friendly demeanor creates a welcoming atmosphere for customers who frequent the market. He expressed his enjoyment in meeting new people, stating, “Everybody knows each other at the market, and it is almost as if we are all one big caring family.”
Residing in Vunimono near Nausori town, Mr. Pratap makes the trip to the market five days a week, from Tuesday to Saturday. He noted that weekends are particularly busy with eager shoppers. This market venture has been instrumental in supporting his family’s financial needs, serving as their primary source of income. “I buy from fishermen and those selling fresh produce in the market. I’m just a middleman and this business has really helped me and my family a lot,” he explained.
However, Mr. Pratap faces daily challenges due to the competition with other vendors. He acknowledges the fierce rivalry, noting that many sellers offer similar products. To stand out, he emphasizes the importance of quality and customer service to ensure he sells all his seafood daily. “By ensuring that my produce is fresh and attractively displayed, I am able to draw a lot of customers,” he added.
Moreover, Mr. Pratap dedicates time to connect with his regular customers by remembering their preferences and offering personalized suggestions. He remarked, “The competition among vendors is always a major challenge as we’re not the only ones selling a particular product. This is beyond our control – obviously!”
Despite the difficulties posed by competition, Mr. Pratap enjoys his weekly market visits, which keep him engaged. He advises fellow vendors and small business owners to prioritize the freshness and quality of their products, stating, “Nowadays, some of the items we buy from the market and supermarkets can be disappointing because vendors aren’t selling quality goods to their customers. This is something that must be discouraged at any cost.”