The doors of Niue’s largest supermarket swung open at 3 PM on February 20, marking a new era as the store officially came under the management of Fiji-based CJS supermarket. This change, which involved only a brief closure, is set to transform the retail experience for both the island’s 1,700 residents and visiting tourists.
In a reassuring development, all current employees, including the local manager, will retain their positions, ensuring that familiar faces remain in the store. Support from Fiji will be available as specialists periodically arrive to assist with procurement and auditing, which is anticipated to revamp the supermarket’s supply chain significantly.
Namrata Singh, CJS Executive Director, confirmed that while New Zealand will continue supplying goods as needed, shipments from Fiji will occur more frequently. This change is expected to alleviate the island’s longstanding issue of inconsistent shipping schedules.
Moreover, this new approach is likely to lead to reduced prices for locals. Singh highlighted that goods sourced from Fiji will have lower landing costs, allowing the supermarket to pass those savings directly to consumers. “We will do our best to reduce prices,” she remarked, highlighting the commitment to address the high cost of living affecting the community. Fresh produce will still mainly come from New Zealand, but CJS plans to continue collaborating with about ten local Niuean growers.
Although the acquisition involves the largest building on the island, no major renovations are on the horizon as the previous owners had already established the store to a high standard. Instead, the new management aims to enhance existing services such as the bakery, café, and liquor store by providing the necessary support to improve and expand these offerings.
Looking forward, the company is open to innovative ideas, including online ordering options for residents in outer villages and tourists, as well as pre-booking groceries for accommodations.
The long-term vision for the supermarket is centered around the community. When asked about their hopes for the business in five years, the response was enthusiastic: “That we have made shopping more affordable in Niue.” For a community often burdened by the challenges of remote living, this pledge brings a hopeful and positive outlook for the future.
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