CHOMBA MUSIKA, Choma
BUDGET Stores Limited has opened its 20th outlet in the Southern Province capital, Choma, with a pledge to contribute to the economic growth of the fast-growing district.
Meanwhile, Government has urged the retail outlet to pay its workers in line with the minimum wage law.
Speaking during the official opening of the retail outlet on Monday, Budget Stores deputy general manager George Mulenga thanked Government for creating a conducive environment for the business community to conduct their trade.
Mr Mulenga said the opening of the outlet will also create business opportunities for local suppliers of goods.
“We’ve built our business to provide quality and affordable products…and 50 percent of what we have in the shop is locally sourced, so suppliers in Choma will benefit from the opening of this shop,” he said.
Mr Mulenga also announced that the retail outlet, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, has introduced a K700,000 Christmas promotion.
At the same function, Choma district commissioner Bernadette Hamweemba reminded Budget Stores Limited management to adhere to the law of minimum wage.
Ms Hamweemba said in a speech read on her behalf by district education board secretary Mutinta Mubanga that, “This investment will not only contribute to economic development but add beauty to the provincial capital…I urge the company to adhere to the labour laws, abide by the minimum wage as dictated in the country.”
She said the opening of the outlet is timely as it will create job opportunities and help eradicate poverty in the area.
Ms Hamweemba appreciated the company’s resolve to help create employment for the local people especially that the country is still grappling with poverty which can only be eradicated through increased business investment.