The Farmer Joe Supermarket franchise opened another shop at Saleimoa yesterday which attracted a crowd of customers on its first day of business.

A small ceremony was conducted to officiate the beginning of the services for members of the public, especially those in the nearby villages.

General Manager , AJ Crawley, said that the purpose of replacing the old store is to cater for more customers.

“We have always wanted to create more opportunities like employment, not only for Sale'imoa but for neighbouring villages as well.

“We also want to support the farmers hence why we have added a marketplace in the front for farmers to sell their produces and encourage them to grow more.

“With the newly opened retail it brings the total number to four stores in Upolu,” Mr. Crawley said.

The General Manager said they select specific locations, based on where they feel they can add value to the community, and bring on board local suppliers and help that area.

“This is significant to us because we have always had a site here and we concluded that there was a need of improvement and the drive for further development.

“We always tried to have that Farmer Joe settings feel to it, but along the way we always try to learn new trends, especially considering our customers’ feedbacks.

“There are a few changes like the in-store bakery which creates a fresh look and appeal and in terms of technology we have some through our refrigeration system to lift the standards for the customers’ experience,” he added.

Mr. Crawley was pleased together with management and staff at the big turnout on their first day.

“We are very happy and grateful for so many people that came in the store and purchased our products also for us to provide the services they need.

“It is a great feeling of relief that all the hard work has paid off and this is just the starting point for us.”