Bhan Pratap is no stranger to the Nausori Market.
The 70-year-old has been selling mudcrabs, lobsters and prawns there for more than 10 years.
Despite his age Mr Prasad displays a warm personality that makes people feel comfortable and welcomed to the corridors of the Nausori market.
Through his warm gesture and friendliness, he is able to gain customers, he shared.
“I enjoy coming to the market as I get a chance to meet different people,” he said during our first encounter.
“Everybody knows each other at the market, and it is almost as if we are all one big caring family,” he said.
Mr Pratap lives in Vunimono near Nausori town, and travels to the market five days a week every Tuesdays to Saturdays.
The weekends are the best days when customers turn up in numbers to shop, he said.
This market business has enabled Mr Pratap and his family to take care of their finances and plays a major role as it is their main source of income.
“I buy from fishermen and those that sell fresh produce in the market. I’m just a middleman and this business has really helped me and my family a lot.”
One of the challenges he faces daily is the competition among other vendors.
Mr Pratap says he isn’t the only vendor and that is something he cannot control.
He acknowledges the fierce competition in the market, recognising that many vendors sell similar produce.
Focusing on differentiating himself through quality and service is crucial he says so he can successfully sell all his sea food every day.
“By ensuring that my produce are fresh and attractively displayed, I am able to draw a lot of customers.”
Additionally, Mr Pratap invests time in getting to know his regular customers, remembering their preferences and providing personalised recommendations.
“The competition among vendors is always a major challenge as we’re not the only ones selling a particular produce. This is beyond our control – obviously!”
Mr Pratap says despite his age, he still enjoys coming to the market every week as it keeps him busy.
He encourages vendors and small business owners to ensure what they sell is always fresh and worthwhile for buyers.
“Nowadays, some of the things we buy from the market and supermarket turns out to disappoint us as vendors are not selling quality goods to their customers.
“This is something that must be discouraged at any cost,” he said.
