Vendors dismiss claims of unfavourable selling conditions
Francis Natadra, a vendor at the Navutu Flea Market in Lautoka dismissed claims by former vendors regarding unfavourable selling conditions.
Ms Natadra said past vendors, who had left the market, were in competition and not considerate of the fact that they were not required to pay any stall fees to sell at the market.
“We don’t complain, as long as we are happy, selling our stuff and making money. The owner has given his land for free, and it is a one in a million chance that someone would want to help poor people,” she said.
“The other businesses like Paddy’s, Ram Sami eggs, Ali’s and even Naidu’s come and sell here sometimes on Saturdays and we don’t have any issues with them.”
She said the PAC Investments Limited managing director and property owner, Rajnesh Prasad assisted the vendors and created a one stop shop for people in the community.
“Raj (owner of the land) got his boys to clean and grade this land and we started selling here. I live nearby so before I would go to town and pay $9 to $10 for my fare, but now I can do my shopping here,” she said. Mr Prasad said the Flea Market was open to all and those who wished to leave could do so.
“We have a set of rules and people should abide by it, but otherwise negotiations are underway for a bouncy castle and hopefully it will be here soon. There are more plans which will unfold in the near future,” he said
Polly Ting, a food vendor, said security guards were also hired to supervise the area.
“We were selling at Shirley Park before, but had to relocate because of some issues with the Lautoka City Council. However, we know that it was because other business houses didn’t want us selling there,” he claimed.