Stuart Downie and Leigh Courtnage laid down the reins as owners of the PicknPay Franschhoek stores in May 2018, after 21 busy years in the Franschhoek retail sector.
Their retail journey together started in 1996, when their paths crossed at the then Franschhoek Verbruikers Ko-operasie in the centre of the village, or the ‘Co-op’ as everybody knew it. They purchased the business and, in 1997, established the Village Supermarket. In 2003 they joined the Pick n Pay family. A Pick n Pay Liquor store was added to their business in 2009 and a Pick n Pay Daily store in 2010.
Stuart and Leigh say that “Although not without its challenges, we have been fortunate to have been able to serve and grow with this community. We have seen many people come and go as well as children growing up before our eyes. It has been a privilege.”
“To the staff that has served us well, we thank you. There are a handful of you that have been with us from the very beginning. Your loyalty has been incredible. We wish you well in your ongoing support of the brand,” they continue. “Thank you also to the community for continuously supporting us during our 21 years in business together.”
Stuart and Leigh are both staying in Franschhoek and are currently enjoying a bit of a break before they tackle their next challenges.
