FOR many South Africans, the July riots and looting will always be ingrained in our psyche as it was an experience unlike any other that threatened to debilitate our country and divide its people.

‘With so many businesses, organisations and communities affected, Tiger Wheel & Tyre Empangeni was not immune to the destruction.

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‘And, as we continue to survey the damage and estimate our financial losess, we can’t help but be grateful for the safety of our store team and customers,’ said Farishta Singh, Group Marketing Executive at TiAuto Investments.

Store owner and manager at Tiger Wheel & Tyre Empangeni, Comilla Naidoo said, ‘Not only was our stock completely looted and office computers and electronics stolen, but the interior and exterior of our premises were vandalised, with additional machinery and equipment damaged.

‘Sifting through the remnants of what was once a successful fitment centre, there remains a glimmer of hope and quiet optimism that this, too, shall pass and that we will rise again, more successful than ever,’ said Naidoo.

In the interim, customers are encouraged to approach Richards Bay Tiger Wheel & Tyre for assistance.

The company’s Empangeni employees were able to transfer to surrounding stores, and the Empangeni premises is expected to reopen towards the end of the month.

Updates will be posted across the brand’s social media channels and website. Other stores to open in Sanlam Centre are Pick n Pay, Pick n Pay clothing, various salons, Spice n Stuff, and Ecstasy.