Just under two months after establishing its presence here, Trinidadian supermarket chain Coss Cutters is preparing to open its second branch.
The new branch is located on Sheriff Street in the building that formerly housed Budget Supermarket.
Currently, preparations are underway for a grand opening, which is slated for August 30th.
The new establishment represents an investment of $200 million and Managing Director Amar Persaud told Stabroek News that it will offer customers an enhanced shopping experience and quality customer service.
“We don’t have to compete with anybody. We didn’t come here to be a competitor. They will have to compete with us. We are a brand and mission to provide a service and an environment for persons to shop freely…,” he said.
Persaud explained that with the opening of the second branch, the supermarket is looking to reach a larger customer base and will offer deals that will allow shoppers to save.
“Today we are putting on Coss Cutters price on our shelves… Prices and deals will be the same at both branches. All the items will be available at both supermarkets also,” he said.
Touching on the second opening in less than two months, Persaud said while they did not expect it to become a reality this fast, they were happy. “We were in negotiations to open here before we considered opening at Farm,” he pointed out. “We have noticed that by being able to buy products in a large quantity, the less we pay. So that cheaper price is trickled down to the customers,” he further said.
The supermarket is expected to boast a wide selection of products, sourced both locally and overseas and which will be available at wholesale and retail prices. Within a few months, a baked goods section and an on duty pharmacist will also be features of the supermarket.
In addition, Persaud stated that they are currently collaborating with the Ministry of Business to purchase fresh produce from local farmers to be packaged and retailed to customers. “We are stocking the supermarket with 35% to 40% of local produce. I have spoken with the Ministry of Business to embark on this. So local farmers can bring their produce here. I will buy it and do the packaging for resale,” he pointed out.
Coss Cutters has retained 90% of staff from Budget Supermarket and employed an additional 15 persons. As a result, a total of 35 persons are currently employed at the branch.
Persaud also said the company is aiming to expand the business with another branch later this year on the East Coast of Demerara and one at Parika in 2020.
