Tzaneen’s new Food Lover’s to uplift community
The new Food Lover’s Market in Tzaneen celebrates local, fresh produce, and community upliftment through new jobs.
TZANEEN – Food Lover’s Market will officially open its new 3 000m² store along the R71 road near McDonald’s, next Thursday, September 18.
The store, which has been in Tzaneen for the last 15 years, replaces the 1 800m² branch at Lifestyle Centre, and now employs 127 people, all drawn from the local community.
Store manager Dewald van Jaarsveld says this was a deliberate decision.
“We wanted to ensure that this store reflects the spirit of Tzaneen,” he explained. “By employing residents, we are not only creating jobs but also building a team that understands and serves this community with pride.”
Beyond employment, the store has partnered with Noah’s Ark Children’s Home, and every department at the new Food Lover’s Market will directly support this partnership.
“Noah’s Ark plays a vital role in giving vulnerable children a chance at a brighter future,” said Van Jaarsveld. “For us, it is important that our store doesn’t just serve customers but also uplifts the most vulnerable in our community.”
The store will also highlight Tzaneen’s strong agricultural ties. Among its suppliers is Chris Ras, a banana farmer who has supplied the retailer for years. By partnering with local growers, the store ensures that customers enjoy the freshest produce while keeping economic value within the region.
“Supporting farmers like Chris honours Tzaneen’s farming heritage and gives our shoppers quality they can trust,” Van Jaarsveld said.
While community involvement is at the core of the new store, shoppers will also notice the expanded facilities. The outlet includes 14 departments, ranging from fresh produce, butchery, bakery, and seafood to customer favourites like Familie Kombuis, Hot Chicken, and Bubs’ Fish & Chips. A dedicated Health & Happiness section will cater to wellness-focussed products.
In line with Food Lover’s Market’s sustainability goals, the store also features energy-efficient lighting, water-saving measures, and waste separation systems designed to reduce its environmental footprint.
“This store represents more than just growth for Food Lover’s Market,” van Jaarsveld concluded.
“It’s a promise to the people of Tzaneen: real food, real value, and real heart.”
