From London to Lowestoft for new Nisa retailer

An independent retailer with a decade of experience has swapped London for Lowestoft as he launches a new Nisa Local store this month.

Mimar Cantay sold his shop in the capital and invested in a former Spar in Oulton Broad which has undergone a full refurbishment and been fitted out to the latest Nisa Local Evolution format.

The unit, which had been empty since before the pandemic, has been brought back to life with a complete refit including new ceiling, flooring, lighting, and shelving and a Nisa Local fascia will complete the project.

Mimar, who operated his London store entirely independently, said: “Lowestoft is a busy tourism area and I felt I needed a name on my shop. I chose Nisa because of the Co-op link. I really like the Co-op products and I think the people living and visiting this area will too.”

Previously using a cash and carry to supply his business, Mimar said the need for a delivered service was important and access to such a wide range of products as that available through the Nisa distribution service was key to his decision.

“Everything I need I can get from Nisa. I don’t want to be going out to the cash and carry and with the support from the Nisa team I think the store will be very professional.”

Shoppers will be offered a full convenience range including an extensive 13 metre licensed section, a wide fresh selection of fruit and vegetables and freshly baked goods through Country Choice. Mimar will offer a wide Co-op own-brand range in both chilled and ambient and plans to work with local suppliers to get their products in store.

Other services available include coffee and slush machines, freshly cut sandwiches and a hot cabinet serving fresh pastries as well as a free cash machine, Paypoint and the lottery.

Located just metres away from Waveney and Oulton Broad Yacht Club, which draws the crowds during summer, the store will be the only one in the area and the local community is eager to see it open.

“We have a really good atmosphere here and there has been a lot of interest with people waiting for us to open,” said Mimar.

A nearby park and zoo is also expected to increase footfall, particularly during the holiday season.

“First and foremost I want to get the store open and then my aim is to make it a success and if all goes well, we will be able to move on to a second store.”