Greenock Nisa marks successful launch

Ahmed launched his Nisa Local in Greenock, 25 miles west of Glasgow. at the start of March – just before the outbreak of Covid-19 – moving into a 1,500sq ft brand new, purpose-built unit.

He said: “I always knew the store would be successful. I know the area and did my research, but it would have taken longer to succeed than it has – that’s down to coronavirus.”

Before opening weekly sales were predicted to be around £14,000, but after just two weeks sales were 50% higher than expected, and then Covid-19 took effect and sales rocketed further.

Ahmed said: “It has been incredible. I got thrown right in at the deep end and it has been a challenge, but it’s been enjoyable and sales have been brilliant.”

The store is in the heart of a large residential area, close to a high school, with added services including F’real milkshakes, Costa Coffee and Skwishee, along with a full fresh range in 10m of chilled space.

A post office counter is still to be installed once lockdown measures are relaxed and home deliveries will commence in the coming weeks – all part of the plan to continue growing the business.

Ahmed said: “I will be focusing on the post office, the delivery service, and the introduction of desserts. A combination of all three will help ensure we continue trading this strongly and if we concentrate on these three elements, I believe we can keep getting better.”