Village Deep store launch brings jobs and hope to unemployed residents
Local residents are benefiting from job opportunities as Tile Cash & Carry prepares to open in Village Deep.
The new Tile Cash & Carry (TC&C) store, set to open at the end of the month, is already creating employment and career growth opportunities for local residents, many from townships affected by high unemployment.
Unemployment remains one of South Africa’s biggest challenges, particularly among the youth.
According to Statistics South Africa, the unemployment rate stood at 31.4% in the fourth quarter of 2025, with approximately 7.8 million people without jobs.
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While this reflects a slight improvement from earlier in the year, many communities continue to struggle due to limited economic opportunities.
The opening of TC&C at 114 Eloff Street, Village Deep, Johannesburg, on March 31 is expected to help address this challenge by providing jobs and skills development in the retail and construction sectors.
The business, led by partners Gary Katzen and Deon Katzen, brings years of experience in the flooring retail industry.
Their focus is on offering practical, affordable solutions to customers while supporting local economic participation.
“We understand that many households are working within tight budgets and want straightforward value they can trust,” said Gary Katzen.
The new warehouse will stock a wide range of tiles, laminate and vinyl flooring, catering to homeowners, contractors, landlords and small businesses.
The store is also investing in people. Local residents have been given opportunities to work in sales and customer service roles, helping them build careers in the industry.
One of the new employees, Karabo Molebatsi, a 52-year-old mother of three, said the opportunity has brought renewed purpose and stability to her life.
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“I have experience in construction, including plumbing, electrical work and tiling, as well as sales and administration. I was recommended for this position because of my experience,” she said.
Molebatsi will be working in sales, a field she is passionate about.
“One thing about sales is to be friendly to customers, to understand them and build relationships. That is how you keep customers coming back,” she explained.
After spending several months at home, she said returning to work is something she values deeply.
“In this economy, one salary is not enough for a household. Being able to work again means I can contribute to my family and support my children,” she said.
She added that she is excited about the new journey and the opportunity to work with a new team.
“I am very excited to meet new colleagues and grow in this position,” she said.
Another employee, Daniel Manamela (52), said the opportunity to join TC&C comes at an important time as employment remains difficult to secure.
“I have more than 20 years of experience in customer service, and I am looking forward to using that experience in this new role,” he said.
Manamela added that the store will also benefit the community.
“It will help people improve their homes and support local customers, especially those doing renovations,” he said.
The store’s launch not only signals business growth but also highlights the role of small and medium enterprises in creating jobs and uplifting communities.
Residents are encouraged to visit the store from opening day to explore its offerings and take advantage of opening promotions, including a chance to win a R1 500 shopping voucher.
To participate in the grand opening promotion
• Cut out this article from the newspaper
• Visit TILE CASH & CARRY at 114 Eloff Street, Village Deep, Johannesburg
• Hand in the editorial cut-out at the store to enter the draw
• Winner announced: April 30.
