The public was left dejected yesterday as the grand opening of giant retailer, Boxer Supermarket, failed.
For over two weeks, the store promoted opening specials, luring Mbabane residents and others to its new location at The New Mall. With the hope of being among the first to enjoy the low prices, hundreds of customers flocked to the supermarket, some arriving as early as 6am, only to be disappointed when the grand opening was called off.
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The supermarket was initially scheduled to open at 7am, then postponed to 10:30am, and eventually cancelled. The public was turned away, frustrated, and many expressed their disappointment on social media.
“Such can happen, however, they need to keep the public informed. If they want to build a loyal customer base, they need to respect our time and expectations,” said a Mbabane taxi man.
“I woke up early and was really looking forward to shopping at Boxer. I had planned to buy everything from groceries to household essentials, especially with the great deals they advertised,” lamented Thandiwe Mthethwa, a Mbabane resident.
“It’s disappointing to see so much excitement built up, only for it to come crashing down. I hope they can open soon and make it right,” said Vusi Dlamini.
A highly-placed source revealed that the delay was due to trading license issues from the Mbabane Municipal Council.
“Boxer Supermarket expected to be sorted by the municipality regarding the license and occupational certificate yesterday morning as they had submitted all the paperwork needed,” the source claimed.
Efforts to interview store managers proved futile. When contacted, Boxer Regional Manager Jeremiah Dlamini said he was in a meeting and had not responded at the time of compiling this report.
Compliance Issues Hinder Opening
Mbabane Municipal Council Information and Public Relations Officer Lucky Tsabedze confirmed the supermarket’s opening had been delayed due to compliance issues linked to the building’s developer, The New Mall.
Boxer Mbabane needed an occupation certificate and trading license before opening. Tsabedze explained that the certificate was granted to the building’s developer, not the tenant.
“This meant that Boxer could not legally begin trading until The New Mall fulfils all regulatory obligations,” he said.
The delay stems from outstanding conditions tied to the building approval process, including parking compliance, which remains unresolved.
The municipal council urged the public to note that communication regarding the revised opening date rests with The New Mall and Boxer Supermarket.
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