Joe’s Farm Makes a Comeback
The first of many Joe’s Farm buildings is under construction at Ratu Mara Road, where a three-storey complex will be completed by December next year.
Thursday 17 October 2024 | 16:06
An artist’s impression of Joe’s Farm - Samabula building. Inset: Michael Joe at Joe’s Farm - Samabula construction site in Suva on October 16, 2024. Photo: Ronald Kumar
Michael Joe is back.
Since COVID-19, he has evolved from farmer and grocer to landlord and now property developer.
Yesterday, he hosted a ground breaking ceremony for a $6 million project that is going up in the capital.
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It comes after he closed his popular supermarket Joe’s Farm.
Officiating at the event in Samabula was Tui Suva, Sanaila Madanavosa, who heaped accolades on the enterprising nature of the development.
The first of many Joe’s Farm buildings is under construction at Ratu Mara Road, where a three-storey complex will be completed by December next year.
His testimony is steeped in reinventing the business wheel.
A serial entrepreneur, he is a man of many hats; from farmer, golfer, exporter and grocer to business consultant, investor and more.
Construction workers Lote Muakalau and Samuela Rotidara at Joe’s Farm - Samabula construction site in Suva on October 16, 2024. Photo: Ronald Kumar
“We set up a joint venture with Cibus New Zealand, to export locally grown produce from other farms around the country,” he said.
“We’re also working with the Government to set up contracts for farmers.”
The rewards of one of his many business initiatives will pay off this month when he exports coconuts and dalo from Rotuma.
“A truck will go around the island to collect both products for export in what is a first for Rotuma,” Mr Joe said.
“We have the first shipment coming from Rotuma for New Zealand.”
Mr Joe’s secret to success is simple: Fear the Lord.
Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj
