Vendors from a fresh market in Phuket Town met with the island’s governor on Tuesday, December 4, to appeal against the construction of a new shopping centre. The Phuket News reports that vendors from the Phuket City Municipality Fresh Market 2 are concerned that the new shopping venue poses a threat in the form of direct competition.
The mall would be located directly across from the market on Ong Sim Phai Rd in Phuket Town. Market vendors gathered at the Provincial Office to submit their petition to Governor Sophon Suwannarat, who accepted their appeal, along with the customary photo opportunity.
Rueangsak Saetan, a 45 year old fresh produce vendor, told the governor that under the current plans, vendors at the new shopping centre would be allowed to sell fresh produce, thereby competing with market vendors, and threatening their livelihoods. Rueangsak has urged the governor to investigate the plans and suspend construction of the building.
Sophon has responded by ordering various officials and concerned parties to come together and find a solution. The Phuket News points out that the fresh market is located across from a building that was once home to a Robinsons department store. That store operated for 20 years and also sold fresh produce.
SOURCE: The Phuket News
