Mmamontle helps Batswana move local products

Spira Tlhankane | Friday November 2, 2018 14:40

 

Global producers sometimes overlook consumers’ authentic issues, but small-scale businesses that do not have enough budget to take up shelf space in stores are now getting a platform to sell their products thanks to Mmamontle Store at Molapo Crossing Mall in Gaborone.

The store located next to Stanbic Bank Piazza is hard to miss.  Passers-by always enquire and move on, but after taking a look at all the shops in the mall, they come back because Mmamontle sells only local products at a reasonable price.

The storeowner, Cynthia Mothelesi told Arts & Culture that the Mmamontle concept store is a platform that caters to two types of entrepreneurs.

“80% of the products are produced here in Botswana and 20% of the products are from the entrepreneur who has a 8-5(job), but also has a side hustle that they are not able to meet with the client because of work.”

The creative who also runs Happy Soul Adventures added that they rent out shelf space, manage and run the store on people’s behalf.

“Minimum space you can pay is P500 per month and if you wish to remove your products at the end of the month, you are more than welcome to do so because we don’t have any binding contract with you. The aim is to later on find markets outside of the country for our locally made products,” she highlighted. Mothelesi said most importantly she wants Batswana to come and support this store and help local entrepreneurs grow.

She said they value all feedback and it’s very crucial for their growth. “Remember, when you buy from a small business, an actual person does a little happy dance,” she added.

The self-confessed art lover also said Mmamontle is a store that she used to own and run by selling fashion accessories from outside of the continent. “Now instead of competing with the local entrepreneur, I decided to reposition it as a platform that will showcase and help grow the Botswana story. I’m all about celebrating and growing with my people and these types of collaborations are quite key because now we have a bigger voice,” she said.

Mothelesi added that the store is for locals and it was made possible for Batswana.  She asked people to come support and be a part of this amazing chapter embarked on as the youth of Botswana.  “Come buy gifts for your loved ones or for your clients, we have a wide product range.”