Cold nor rain could stop Benonians from flocking to Northmead’s My China Variety Store on September 5 in celebration of its 15th birthday.

Owned by Margi and Justin Head, the store, located at the Mona Lisa Centre in Sixth Avenue, serves as a continuation of the legacy of Margi’s parents, Paris and Doris Shokkos.

Established in Dowerglen, Edenvale, in 1948, the Shokkos family relocated the Mona Lisa Supermarket to Benoni in 1952.

Growing with the community’s needs, the Mona Lisa Centre was developed in 1988.

After closing the chapter on the supermarket’s success in 2008, My China Discount Store was born in 2011.

Within its expansive 3 200m² space, the outlet boasts a product range of 50 000 items from 300 local suppliers.

Browsing the aisles with their two-year-old twins, Nico and Marco, who led the charge directly to the toy section, Linda and Christo Kleynhans said that My China has become a family favourite.

“If you cannot find it here, I am confident it has not yet been manufactured,” said Linda.

“Whether you are looking for party decor, beauty essentials or simply value for money, this is the place to be.”

Gripping their parents’ hands to point to brightly coloured cars, the little ones were sure to let mom and dad know what might be making it onto their Christmas lists.

Bouncing out of the store with a well-thought-out gift for a friend, Zander du Randt (7) said that the store has the best of everything.

“This is my favourite shop,” he said with a bright smile.

Jovially inflating balloons and arranging them with the utmost care, My China staff members Dikeledi Nkosi, Khuselwa Tomsana and Precious Boshodiane wished the outlet a happy birthday.

“The store’s success can largely be attributed to a management team that leads with passion, compassion and care,” said Dikeledi.

“This is our home away from home and we look forward to being part of its continued success.”

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