Harry Ahmed has done solid research before opening his store at the start of March, but a global pandemic is not something anyone would factor in at the time.
Ahmed is a happy man nevertheless, as sales figures at his Nisa Local in Greenock has exceeded expectations in the first three months since the launch.
“I always knew the store would be successful. I know the area and did my research, but it would have taken longer to succeed than it has – that’s down to coronavirus,” he commented.
When moving into a 1,500 sq.ft. purpose-built unit, Ahmed was eyeing around £14,000 in weekly sales. However, sales were 50 per cent higher after just two weeks, and on an upward curve ever since.
“It has been incredible. I got thrown right in at the deep end and it has been a challenge, but it’s been enjoyable and sales have been brilliant,” he said.
The store is in the heart of a large residential area, close to a high school. The services on offer include F’real milkshakes, Costa Coffee and Skwishee, along with a full fresh range in 10 metres of chilled space.
A Post Office counter will be installed once lockdown measures are relaxed and the store is set to roll out home deliveries in the coming weeks.
“I will be focusing on the Post Office, the delivery service and the introduction of desserts,” Ahmed said. “A combination of all three will help ensure we continue trading this strongly and if we concentrate on these three elements, I believe we can keep getting better.”
