In conversation with Raghavendra & Ramachandra

Fresh from the Bazaar Every Few Days

My name is Raghavendra. I have been working at this shop for twenty-five years now, though the business itself is about forty-six years old.

Over these twenty-five years, I've witnessed significant changes in how people shop. Business has definitely decreased as more people have moved to online shopping. However, I believe our quality is superior to what you find online because we personally go to the bazaar and RMC every few days to purchase fresh goods. We haven't tied up with any online sites because we prefer to serve customers who come to our counter directly, offering them quality products at better rates.

The Older Generation Values Seeing with Their Own Eyes

My name is Ramachandra. I have been running this shop for thirty-five years now, along with Raghavendra.

Our loyal customers still come regularly. They appreciate that certain selected items we carry are simply not available online, or if they are, the quality isn't satisfactory. The older generation particularly values being able to see and examine products with their own eyes before purchasing. They don't rely on online shopping like the younger generation, who order everything from their phones.

Online Tempts You to Buy What You Don't Need

I've noticed that when you visit our physical shop, you tend to buy only what you actually need. Online rates might be five to ten rupees lower, but customers often get tempted to purchase additional items they don't need, which becomes wasteful. The new generation does come to our shop, especially when they realize the true value of what we offer. Often, elders from their households recommend us to them. Sometimes, younger customers check prices online and are surprised to find lower rates there. In our shop, we maintain consistent pricing regardless of quantity. We give our customers exactly what they want, and they take only the quantity they require.

Trust Between Us and Our Customers

Malleshwaram itself hasn't changed much since the earlier days, and I find it quite nice. We have customers who travel from outside Malleshwaram specifically to buy particular items from us. The area has plenty of shops for clothes and other merchandise, but since we deal with edible items, people are especially careful about quality. There is a trust between us and our customers, though, which has helped maintain the business. They rely on the quality of our products, and we stick to the promises we make to ensure that the customer makes a thoughtful purchase.