WITH the establishment of Gafoor’s Shopping Complex, located at Nismes Public Road, West Bank Demerara four years ago, the architectural landscape of the community has been transformed and valuable service is being provided to residents in that corridor.

Manager of the Gafoor’s, Nismes branch, Alicia Singh, told the Pepperpot Magazine that their relationship with the people of Nismes and other communities along that side is a good one and they try to meet the needs of customers, even if they have to introduce newer products.

“My role here is to manage this store, ensure that goods are available for customers who want newer products, and we also try to introduce those to cater to the needs of the customers,” she said.

She related that even if a product is not available at the store they would import it if they have to, since the customers tell them what the market is like.

Singh said, “Some items Gafoor’s may stock and it might be a selling item in the area; some high-end items are not sellers here and we constantly try to meet the needs of customers.”

She pointed out though, that at Nismes most agricultural products are best sellers, since it is a farming community and with that in mind, they have recently introduced seeds and fertilisers in their store.

Singh stated that grass knives, cutlasses and files are also big sellers there and they also launched their household department, especially for housewives, prices which are pocket-friendly and they have a wide range of quality products.

The manager added that they chose that location because they were looking to expand their services and with a branch already at Parika, they got the land and decided to construct a store there.

She related that they aim to reach all ends of this country and they had their eyes on La Parfaite Harmonie, but that plan wasn’t realised.

Singh reported that since the business was established, they have been doing fairly well; they have developed good relations in all sectors and are making a difference in the lives of many, since they give back to society in many ways.

She explained that they refrain from highlighting their benevolent side, but they focus on children, education, the less fortunate, religious organisations and others.

Singh disclosed that concessions are standard for churches and religious bodies and they provide free delivery when a large purchase is made; and they would assist the communities along that stretch in whatever way possible.

“This is the village of teachers and they would approach us to ask for assistance and we deliver, because we believe in fostering education and the development of communities and people.
“Gafoor’s is providing a service to the community, in addition, build [sic] houses for [persons living with disabilities]; we send students to technical institutes annually; we host Christmas parties for children and provide bicycles [for] schoolchildren, among other things,” Singh said.