A business family in Labasa continues to show great resilience and confidence in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic and impact of Tropical Cyclone Yasa.

These calamities failed to stop Vir Shen Sharma and his family from opening another supermarket in Labasa.

Mr Sharma and his youngest son, Shamal Sharma, opened their first supermarket at Volovi in 2018.

Yesterday, Mr Sharma and his eldest son, Vinal Sharma, opened Shopwell Supermarket at Naodamu.

The opening of the $100,000 investment was officiated by the Assistant Minister for Sugar, George Vegnathan.

“The opening of another business is a milestone achievement, showing great resilience of people and faith in Fiji’s economy,” Mr Vegnathan said.

“I have been told the family is planning to open its third business soon in Labasa.”

He congratulated Mr Sharma, who is originally from Korotari, Labasa, for choosing to expand his business in Labasa.

Mr Sharma said after working for Unique Apparel Garments for 15 years, he started his own wholesale distribution business with sweets and snacks.

“I still continue with this business and encourage my two sons to venture into a supermarket business,” the 52-year-old said.

“For eight years Vinal worked as a medical lab technician at CWM Hospital until last year in November. He resigned to manage Shopwell Supermarket as the director.”

Mr Sharma thanked his family and Westpac Fiji for helping him secure loans and other stakeholders for their timely support.

Vinal has employed four staff members.

The supermarket is open from Monday to Sunday, from 6am to 10pm.

Edited by Naisa Koroi 

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