Paris and Doris Shokkos opened the doors to their supermarket, Mona Lisa, in the heart of Dowerglen, Edenvale, in 1948.

In 1952, the couple uprooted their business to relocate to Sixth Avenue, Northmead.

Despite an array of product offerings, it soon became known as the place to get the most decadent Chelsey buns.

“I used to run into the store and head straight to the bakery to get my hands on the freshest batch,” said Justin Head, Shokkos’ grandson and owner of the Mona Lisa Centre and My China Variety Store.

“My maternal grandparents became increasingly invested in the Benoni community, continuously striving to contribute to its growth.”

As Northmead and surrounding suburbs continued to balloon, the need to expand prompted the construction of the Mona Lisa Centre, across the road from the existing shop, in 1998, which served as the family-run business’ new premises.

In 2008, the iconic supermarket baked its last icing-covered Chelsey buns, locking up shop for the last time.

“Mona Lisa’s closing was bittersweet. It was sad seeing such an integral part of our family’s history come to an end,” Justin said.

Already a key role player in the construction and maintenance industry, Justin knuckled down, renovating the 1 000m² commercial space.

His vision?
To create a store that offers a variety of reasonably priced products, akin to those found in Johannesburg and – contrary to popular belief – run and managed by Benonians.

In September 2011, My China Discount Store opened its doors. It was initially met with disdain from the community, which misconstrued the name as an invasion of faux products infiltrating the local market.

“The name was supposed to be a play on words of friends greeting each other; my china! However, it wasn’t widely accepted,” Justin quipped.

However, the store’s commitment to quality goods at good prices prevailed and, for the past 15 years, the store has enjoyed mass support.

Since its early days and with Justin’s mother Margie’s support and guidance, the store has grown to 33 200m², boasting a product range of 50 000 items, 300 of which are sourced locally.

Now known as My China Variety Store, it has embedded itself as a proudly local business and employs up to 130 staff members, who are dedicated to offering unbeatable service.

“During the 2020 Covid pandemic, I would come to the store to check and make sure everything was OK. Walking the deserted aisles, I came to the realisation that contained within these walls are just things,” said Justin.

“These ‘things’, items and products meant nothing without the people – my staff who pack, check, advise, sell and interact with our customers.”

Undergoing a mental shift, Justin re-evaluated his business model.

“We are committed to our ethos as well as offering great customer service. However, we are investing greatly in our staff through upskilling and empowerment, thus creating a positive working environment where they feel valued,” he said.

“We have witnessed staff grow not only professionally but personally, contributing greatly to the betterment of their and their family’s lives. It is humbling to see.”

Keeping his hand on the drawing board, always-evolving-Justin said the newest addition to the store is its Creative Corner.

Located in the dedicated arts and crafts department, the aim is to offer regular free crafting workshops.

“People want to express themselves creatively or just escape the pressures of life, but enrolling at dedicated art or craft schools does not always crack the budget’s nod.

“By purchasing their supplies in-store, customers can then participate in the workshops, gaining new skills, meeting kindred spirits and taking time out of the rat race,” he said with great excitement.

“The space will also be available for scholars and students to purchase materials needed for an assignment and complete the task within a safe space.”

Justin and his team further look forward to launching their online store soon.

Celebrate with a ‘China’

Grab the kids, load up the family and head over to the My China Variety Store overflow parking, on the Corner of Sixth Avenue and Second Street, on September 5 for a celebration of its 15th birthday.

There will be fun and entertainment for the kids, while the parents can kick back, enjoy a bite to eat and catch up with their Benoni chinas.

The day promises to be filled with thrills, spills and great excitement.

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