, PLEASE USE THIS DOCUMENT AS A GUIDE TO ANSWER YOUR ASSIGNMENT
Please note that the author of this document will not responsibility for any plagiarizing you
commit.
Question 1
1. As marketing consultant, you are required to identify an SME/SMME in your neighbourhood
and base Assignment 01 on that SME/SMME. Visit the chosen or identified SME/SMME and
discuss the following with its owner/manager: the implications of doing business in Africa; the
growth of the SME/SMME; opportunities presented by BRICS; client demography; migration;
population changes in Africa; African markets; and factors that affect business in Africa. After
the discussion with the owner of the chosen/identified SME/SMME, you must briefly summarise
of the following:
A) Background of the chosen/identified SME/SMME
The spaza shop I have chosen for this assignment is located in [your neighborhood], a vibrant
township known for its strong sense of community and bustling local economy. This spaza shop has
been a staple in the neighborhood for over a decade, providing essential goods and services to its
residents. Owned and managed by Mr. X, the shop operates from early morning until late at night,
ensuring that community members have access to necessary products at convenient times.
Mr. X, along with his family, runs the shop with a commitment to customer service and community
support. The shop offers a diverse range of products, including staple foods such as bread, milk, and
fresh produce, as well as non-perishable items like canned foods, snacks, and beverages.
Additionally, it stocks essential household items, including cleaning supplies, toiletries, and personal
care products. By maintaining a well-rounded inventory, the spaza shop meets the daily needs of its
customers, ensuring that they can find what they need without traveling far.
The spaza shop sources its products from local wholesalers and distributors, enabling it to maintain
competitive prices while supporting the local supply chain. Mr. X takes great care in managing
inventory levels, ensuring that popular items are always available while minimizing overstock. This
careful management helps maintain the shop's financial health and ensures customer satisfaction.
The shop's customer base is predominantly made up of local residents, including families, working
individuals, and elderly community members. The strong relationships Mr. X has built with his
customers are evident in the regular patronage and the trust they place in his business. This trust is
further reinforced by the shop's convenient location and its reputation for reliability and friendly
service.
In summary, this spaza shop is a vital part of its community, providing essential goods and fostering
a sense of local connection. Its well-managed operations, diverse product range, and strong customer
relationships make it an exemplary SME in the township. As I delve deeper into the implications of
doing business in Africa and other factors affecting this spaza shop, it becomes clear that its success
is deeply intertwined with the dynamics of the local community and broader economic trends.
