A Fresh Chapter in the Village Chandlers Supermarket Opens in Haenertsburg

The village trading store in the heart of Haenertsburg has long been a cherished part of the community - not just as a place to shop, but also as a part of the social fabric.  And now, with the fresh name above the door and a renewed sense of purpose, the next chapter begins as Ryan and Lana-May Chandler have taken over this historic space to give it new life as Chandlers Supermarket.  

Ryan and Lana-May Chandler bring with them not only entrepreneurial experience, but also a deep desire to become part of the fabric of this tightly-knit mountain community.  ‘We have been looking to get to Haenertsburg in some way, shape or form for about five years,’ Ryan explains. ‘When the opportunity of buying the trading store presented itself, the timing and finances, with the help of his two partners, Mike Fisher and Gary Chandler, came together nicely, so we decided to take the plunge.’

Their decision to settle here has been driven as much by the business opportunity as by heart. Having moved to Polokwane from Zimbabwe in 1981, Ryan joined his father’s business, Pietersburg Plumbing Supplies, in 1997 and went on to establish Chandlers Plumbing Depot in 2013. Lana-May brings a sharp financial mind to the table, having worked as a Credit Risk Analyst and Debt Collector in the building industry for over 15 years. 

Not even knowing the long history of the store, they recognised its value and potential. ‘We were inspired to take what was there and improve on the offering for townsfolk who want to have a comprehensive shopping experience closer to home,’ says Ryan.  Of course, it has not all been smooth sailing. ‘There has been the stark realisation that running a supermarket is way more difficult than we anticipated,’ Ryan admits, with refreshing honesty.  But the Chandlers, along with the long-standing staff, well known to locals, are up for the challenge.

Their enthusiasm and willingness to listen have already made a difference. They have taken community input to heart, tailoring their shelves and displays to reflect local needs. ‘With a bit of time, comes knowledge,’ says Ryan.  It is their aim to make pricing more competitive, as already can be seen on basic food-stuff and customers are enjoying the new range of plants, flowers, seedlings and soil foods, with garden tools, irrigation fittings, seeds and more on the way.  

And that’s just the start. A new oven and prover will be put to work in August, allowing Chandlers Supermarket to serve up fresh, homemade bread seven days a week filling the store with the smell of warm loaves, like an irresistible invitation.  

With his background in sales and operations, Ryan has implemented a stock re-order schedule to minimise gaps on the shelves, and improvements are happening every day. ‘Local support of any of the town’s businesses is crucial to the success of the town so we want to get it right,’ Ryan emphasises. The couple is also eager to support local initiatives and get involved with community-based projects.  ‘We want to offer our best and hopefully make a bunch of friends along the way,’ says Ryan.

For Ryan and Lana-May, the magic of Haenertsburg lies in its people. They love the village’s closeness, its caring spirit and the genuine warmth shown to newcomers.  ‘From Lana, Anita and myself… Thank you to everyone for welcoming us into your lives,’ says Ryan. ‘Your warm smiles, occasional hugs, many suggestions and ongoing support have meant the world to us and we appreciate you all!  A special mention and appreciation goes to our staff, without whom this would have proved near impossible.’ 

With heart, hard work and enthusiasm, Ryan, Lana-May and their team are quickly putting Chandlers Supermarket on the map.

Contact Chandlers Supermarket:  079 700 0003