Food retailer on track to launch new concept stores in all 10 provinces.
Former Republican President Rupiah Banda officially opened the Zambeef Petauke Macro this week, the first of the company’s new concept stores in Eastern Province.
Mr Banda, who is himself an avid farmer, commended Zambeef and said that the company’s decision to choose Petauke as an investment destination reflected the favourable environment attributed to the values and culture of the people of Petauke.
Mr Banda said Zambia has vast natural resources to the benefit of small-scale farmers, particularly, when enhanced by the added value provided by companies like Zambeef.
“When I look at my country Zambia, I see a land that has been favoured in more ways than one. We are rich in natural resources such as land, which our traditional leaders are looking after, water, minerals, wildlife; and I see great people, the people of Zambia, our cultures and our values. That is why this (the opening of Petauke Macro) is happening today.”
The Fourth Republican President hoped that Zambeef would expand to other towns in Eastern Province.
Petauke district commissioner Velanasi Banda-Moyo expressed happiness that the Zambeef Macro, which was constructed in a short time, has added value to the face of Petauke.
“The construction of Petauke Macro is in line with President Edgar Lungu’s vision of ensuring there is infrastructure development across the country without leaving anyone behind,” she said.
“The construction of this Zambeef Macro outlet is a clear demonstration of how the public-private partnership model is supplementing government’s efforts of bringing quality service delivery closer to the people,” she added.
The district commissioner further said the Macro would promote food security at household level: “The construction and subsequent opening of the Macro will provide our residents access to good quality and hygienic food supplies at a very competitive and affordable price. This will enhance access to required nutrients and promote food security at household level.”
Zambeef board chairman Dr Jacob Mwanza said the company employs over 7,500 people and contributes up to 1% of the country’s GDP.
“All of you know that Zambeef is the largest integrated agribusiness in this country. We do primary production, processing, distribution, as well as retailing. Zambeef contributes to as much as one percent of the country’s GDP,” he said.
Dr Mwanza revealed that poultry farmers will be supplied with Novatek stockfeed and day-old chicks through the Macro.
Zambeef Chief Executive Officer Francis Grogan thanked consumers, the farming community, stakeholders and community for supporting the company over the years stating: “the best advertisement is a happy customer.”
Zambeef set out with a clear growth strategy in 2016 to expand its retail footprint across the country and bring products closer to customers and communities. The new macro outlet concept has allowed it to increase retail space, providing quality local products and services in an environment that is of international standards.
“We do not take the confidence placed in us as a company lightly and we are working continually behind the scenes to improve in all aspects. We continue to invest heavily in our backend and frontend operations with state-of-the-art infrastructure and processes that will help further improve operational efficiencies,” said Mr Grogan.
Traditional leaders present at the opening of the Macro included: Their Royal Highness, Chief Nyampande, Chief Mumbi, Senior Chief Kalindawalo, Chief Mumbi and Chieftainess Nyanje of the Nsenga people.
