Mathai supermarket in Murang’a reopens a year after it was destroyed by inferno
Mathai supermarket in Murang’a town that was destroyed by fire a year ago has resumed its operations.
Mathai Supermarket opened its doors to customers on Friday after it was rehabilitated and restocked.
The supermarket in October last year was reduced to ashes by a mysterious inferno which up to now it’s not known what caused the night fire.
The director of the company Victor Maina Ngunjiri said the fire led to destruction of property worth more than Sh. 200 million.
He said during the tragedy the supermarket owed millions of shillings saying some of them opted to extend payment period, something which has helped the company rehabilitate the outlet.
“We thank all our supporters and companies which have offered their support to see us resume to business. Some banks also came to our aid and offered credit services to ensure we have resumed operations.” Said Maina.
With reopening the supermarket, Murang’a residents will have three outlets after other two branches which belong to Magunas Company.
Maina said the company will try to lower prices of basing commodities considering many residents have been struggling to access some important goods due to the impact of coronavirus.
“we have reopened when the economic situation is quite challenging due to the impact posed by Covid-19 and as a retail outlet we will try to provide reasonable prices especially to basic commodities like food.” He further said.
The director said with the opening of the branch, the supermarket will provide employment to about 80 people saying they are still doing extension which will require more workers.
“We have opened one building as construction is going on with the second building and once is complete, we will offer more employment to local residents,” he added.
He continued “we appeal to local residents who for many years supported us before we were hit by the tragedy to continue with their support as we promise to provide better services.”
A local resident, Lucy Mbuthia said the presence of the supermarket will boost economic activities in the town.
Lucy noted suppliers will have opportunities to trade with the supermarket as well as a number of employment opportunities will be created.
“The other supermarkets are located far from where I stay and now I will enjoy the presence of the reopened outlet near my residential area,” she added.
