Traders at Hillfox Markets were informed via email that the markets would cease trading permanently on the 31 December 2018.
How unruly of the owner of those markets! First and foremost, giving tenants two weeks’ notice is unheard of and secondly, there seems to be absolutely no consideration for the plight of these traders, given the fact that almost every other trading place was closed over the festive season! (It was a norm with the management of the markets that should any trader wish to vacate the premises, a notice period of one calendar month was to been given. So, why did they not apply the very same principle by informing the traders a month in advance that the place would be closing down?) Surely, this sort of behaviour does speak volumes of the owners and/ or management of the markets? So much for encouraging local entrepreneurship!
What is the way forward for this ‘grand old lady’? Does one just stand by and watch her die, or does one make suggestions with regard to rescuing her?
My opinion is simple: Those markets have been there for a very long time and maybe – just maybe – the right person with some vision should step up now. I cannot see Mall Management running it as their avaricious greed would come to the fore. Furthermore, I cannot see Mall Management agreeing to allow a non-profit organisation taking over the place – and I really mean that! It all boils down to them being in the business of letting out space on earth at astronomical prices – GREED, GREED, AND MORE GREED! Mahatma Gandhi once said.
It is such a pity to see the place hit the rocks though. It is beautifully located and it was responsible for exposing many a great entity. I would like to place on record that my business up here in Johannesburg really did begin at those markets.To all those traders who have been left high and dry, my most sincere condolences, and remember that within a calamity lies an opportunity! Seek that opportunity!
