The monthly Garden City Flea Market Day has given the opportunity for local entrepreneurs to push their businesses to new heights by promoting them at the event.
During the event today, fijivillage News managed to speak to a few entrepreneurs who shared their journey in the business industry.
Rolling Rock Hot Sauce co-founders Callan Wallace and his wife Rosie Wakeham shared how they developed their business during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Wallace says at the end of 2021, they launched their products, which include chilli chutneys, fermented sauces, and local smoked honey sweetened with dates for better health.
He says their loyal customers always show up, even when they don’t need to buy anything.
He emphasizes the importance of spicy food, saying it’s packed with Vitamin C and urges everyone to support their business.
50-year-old Jimilai Navika of Jim’s Lovo, from Nacamaki Village on Koro Island says his business focuses on maintaining the Pacific Island tradition of offering both quantity and quality.
He says their long-term goal is to open a restaurant.
When asked about the challenges faced while running the business, Navika says though business competition is high,the strong customer response keeps them going.
Sisters Sabrina and Sasha Acraman, who are the owners of Sasha Shazaiah Acraman Fiji say they turned to market stalls after closing their boutique and struggling with online sales.
The Acraman sisters say they sell silver jewelry, volcanic rocks, crystals, and vintage pieces, they note that the market has been a better avenue for their business.
They are encourage others to step out of their comfort zones and adds that while markets can be risky, the potential to prosper is always there.
They say Garden City Flea Market continues to provide a platform for local entrepreneurs like them to thrive.
