Graaff-Reinet: Adapt and survive
PAK TECH
Azeem Akram, owner of tech store Pak Tech in GraaffReinet, said business operations are not like before, but business always has its ups and downs. Pak Tech is allowed to sell and repair cellphones during this time, but cannot sell other electronics. "I am also worried because we are struggling to get stock. It used to take a month and a half to get stock from China, and now the borders are closed." Despite the challenges his business faces, Akram recently supported the Graaff-Reinet community by handing out food parcels to the needy. "We budgeted for it, and it's a simple logic: the community helps us, so we help them. We must all support each other," he said.
HEALTHISKIN
Carlin Loots, owner of Healthiskin in Graaff-Reinet, said business owners must make the decision to adapt and survive. “After lockdown, we will all have to adjust how our businesses operate, because the demand for products and services will still be there, but people won’t be able to spend what they always did.” When lockdown struck, Loots had four months’ stock on hand, but couldn’t make sales or offer treatments because regulations prevented her from getting a permit as a sole proprietor. “I had sleepless nights, because I still had bills to pay,” she said. She was able to make arrangements with some suppliers to pay off products already shipped to her. She also got a permit through a supplier to state that the products came from them, and started to sell sanitisers and masks. “With Level 4 lockdown I could make other plans, like at-home tint kits and face masks, and we are now allowed to sell skin, makeup and hair products.” Loots has also since moved her at-home business to a space on Somerset Street, to keep her family safe, and does door-to-door deliveries. “Social media has been a big help to communicate with my customers during this time,” she added.
RIVERSIDE ENGEN
Marietjie Steenkamp, owner of Riverside Engen in Graaff-Reinet, said they are grateful that their doors could remain open for business, but April was a financial disaster. As lockdown restrictions are eased, the garage is getting busier, but Steenkamp said it is far from where it used to be. “Lockdown also requires good planning, because many suppliers don’t deliver and some have drastically changed their terms.” However, Steenkamp says they remain positive. “The good news is we can bake delicious pies daily again!”