The Gauteng economic development department (GDED) in partnership with Pick n Pay will host an Entrepreneurship Open Day in Diepkloof, Soweto, Johannesburg.

This follows a recent public private partnership (PPP) initiative between the two which resulted in the birth of the first ever spaza-to-store conversion – Monageng Market, the department said in a statement.

The purpose of the open day was, among other things, to showcase to SMMEs what products Monageng could potentially source from local entrepreneurs and to relay what standards and quality would be expected. Potential candidates would be identified from the SMMEs for evaluation to supply the market.

“This pilot project forms part of the provincial government’s township economic revitalisation programme and is the latest example of Pick n Pay’s commitment to inclusive economic growth in South Africa,” the department said.

Many independent township traders were experiencing tough times as the economic crisis deepened and competition became more intense.

Through engagements with government, spaza owner cited problems such as better access to quality products at good prices, a reliable distribution system, good business management systems, access to markets and business advice, and mentorship as priority areas for them.

In an effort to offer support, the GDED in partnership with Pick n Pay then decided to host an entrepreneurship open day at Monageng Market, the department said.

– African News Agency (ANA)