Grand Opening of Food Lover’s Market Vergelegen Plein

26 September 2024 marked the grand opening of the new Food Lover’s Market Vergelegen Plein, an an impressive addition to South Africa’s largest privately-owned retail business. The R40 million investment promises to provide Somerset West and the surrounding Helderberg communities with an unparalleled one-stop shopping experience, spanning 2000 square metres of retail space.

A Premier Shopping Experience

From the moment customers step into the Food Lover’s Market Vergelegen Plein, they are greeted with a theatre-of-food-style store that transforms everyday shopping into a delightful sensory experience. The store features wider aisles for easier navigation, digital screens to keep customers informed, and animatronics to entertain shoppers of all ages. Departments are designed as dedicated food destinations, ensuring that every visit is both enjoyable and efficient.

Meet The Team

The store is managed by Faizel Saban, an experienced retailer with 23 years in the industry, including eight years as a store manager. Saban leads a dedicated team of 118 members, many of whom hail from the surrounding areas.

"With a new store comes a new team, and we love adding more smiling faces to the Food Lover’s family. We are passionate about delivering an exceptional shopping experience and look forward to welcoming shoppers to our new store."

Faizel Saban

Unveiling the Departments

The Bakery Section

One of the standout features of the new store is its expansive in-house bakery. Known for its scratch bakery approach, Food Lover’s Market prides itself on the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread and treats. The Vergelegen Plein bakery will offer a range of innovative products, including:

Sprouted Grain Sourdough Farmloaf
Sprouted Grain Sourdough Bagels
Sprouted Grain and Quinoa Fruit Baguette
Sourdough Focaccia Square
Gourmet Filled Croissants
Mini Apple and Pecan Plaits
Savoury Quiche made with fresh cream
Gourmet Topped Ring Doughnuts
Florentines

Other Key Departments

Fruit & Veg Department: An abundant selection of fresh produce.

Gourmet Butchery: A premium meat counter staffed by a team of 15 skilled butchers, offering the feel of a traditional butcher shop.

Cheese and Deli Counter: A variety of delicious cheeses and deli items.

Biltong Bar: Offering a range of affordable biltong

Hot Foods Section: Featuring prepared foods such as Crispy Chicken, Bubs Fish & Chips, and Pie O’My.

Grab & Go: Offering convenient prepared food options, including sushi

Seattle Coffee: Serving South Africa’s favourite coffee

Blossoms and Bloom: A premium flower offering

Spice Bar: A wide variety of “pay and weigh” spices

Special Departments

The store also includes the Fresh Society department, where customers can get fresh smoothies, juices, salad bowls, and fruit cups. It also has the Health & Happiness health product section and the dried fruit and nut bar, catering to the health-conscious food lover.