The Parade at Southfields, Letchworth, has welcomed a brand-new Nisa convenience store, opening its doors just before Christmas.
Owned by local entrepreneur Monty Chandarana, the store represents a significant investment in the area, marking a complete transformation to create a vibrant community destination.
Chandarana, 36, is no stranger to serving the community. His family’s legacy began in 1987 when his parents opened The Grange Wine Store, which remains a pillar of the local area after its own refurbishment in 2020.
Expanding on this tradition, Monty continues to operate The Grange and Jackmans Wine Stores whilst also owning the Letchworth Laundrette and Southfields Salon on the same parade, demonstrating his dedication to enhancing local services.
“For decades, my family has been committed to serving the Letchworth community, and this new Nisa store is an extension of that commitment,” said Monty. “The Parade has always been the heart of this neighbourhood, and our goal with this renovation is to provide a top-quality shopping experience that meets the needs of local families, workers, and residents.”
The new Nisa store has undergone a complete renovation, featuring state-of-the-art refrigeration, shelving, and a fully reimagined layout. There’s a clear emphasis on sustainability in-store with energy efficient refrigeration and lighting throughout.
Designed to meet modern consumer demands, the store will offer an expanded range of groceries, fresh produce, and essentials, complemented by an in-store bakery and a dedicated food-to-go section. The food-to-go offering includes fresh coffee, pastries, and Rollover hot dogs - perfect for busy customers seeking quick, quality meals.
Chandarana’s decision to move into the convenience sector was driven by the opportunity to provide a much-needed service in the area.
“This is more than just a shop; it’s a community hub,” Monty explained. “We’re addressing gaps in the local market by offering fresh groceries, hot food, and a welcoming space where people can connect.”
Through its partnership with Nisa, the store will actively support the community via the Making a Difference Locally (MADL) charity. By selling Co-op own-brand products, a percentage of sales will be donated to MADL, funding initiatives and causes that benefit the local area.
“Giving back is central to what we do,” said Monty. “We want this store to be more than just a place to shop—we want it to be a force for good in Letchworth.”The store’s grand opening on Saturday proved to be an event to remember. Customers enjoyed special promotions, free giveaways, and exclusive offers to celebrate the launch.
Chandarana’s passion for serving Letchworth is rooted in his personal and professional history.
“This parade is like a little town within the town, with 8,000 to 10,000 people who all know and support each other. I grew up here, and now the children of my childhood friends are coming into our stores,” he said. “This Nisa store is our way of giving back and ensuring everyone has access to a high-quality, affordable shopping experience.”
With its modern facilities, thoughtful design, and commitment to community, the new Nisa store on The Parade is set to become a cornerstone of Southfields.
Tanwar Hussain
