Pineapples are a treat any day: Lal
Nothing beats a slice of mouthwatering sweet, pineapple when in Rakiraki. Pineapple sellers, Brij Lal, says the difference of the Rakiraki fruit is that you can have it anytime regardless of the weather.
“Nothing beats the Rakiraki sweet pineapples,” Mr Lal said.
“It is sweet and nutritious, a good treat for you, your children, friends, colleagues anytime of the day,” he said.
Mr Lal has been a pineapple vendor for more than 30 years.
Originally from Rakiraki, he said, he can always rely on the business to keep him afloat.
He sells pineapples individually, in heaps and slices (pieces).
“I have been doing this for as long as I can remember,” he said.
“It’s the only thing keep me stable.
“This is sweet business with sweet returns. “I have been here for years. From adverse weather conditions to you name it.”
Mr Lal appreciates the facilities provided by the recently opened $6.3 million Rakiraki
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Market that was conceptualised, funded, and constructed as a joint project between the Fijian and Australian governments and UN Women.
“This is the most secure and comfortable I have been as a vendor in this new market,” he said.
“I am grateful to Government and council for making this possible.”
He doesn’t spend much on transportation as he lives close to Rakiraki town.
He said it was handy to have a market stall with good security and ample space.
“Before I had to take all my pineapples home and bring them back the next day to sell.
“Today when it’s the end of my day, I freely walk out because the new market is safe and we can store away our items without having to worry.”
Mr Lal hopes this COVID-19 pandemic will pass soon, hopefully, business will get back to normal for everyone.
“With the new market like this comes bigger responsibilities.
“I urge everyone who shares the facilities with us to please use them responsibly.”