Local Entrepreneur Recognized: Meet the Retailer Winning Hearts and Awards

The story of Margaret Ehlers is a testament to dedication and community spirit, showing how passion for business can lead to meaningful accomplishments. Awarded the 2025 SPAR Eastern Cape Retail Award, Ehlers stands out not only for her hard work at her two SPAR stores in Eastern Cape, South Africa, but also for the warmth she brings to her community.

A Journey Built on Passion and Family

Ehlers' journey began when she and her husband, Flippie, made the bold move to rent a vacant property where they established the first self-service fruit and vegetable operation in Kirkwood. Over the years, their venture evolved alongside the arrival of SPAR. Initially perceived as rivals, the Ehlers eventually joined forces with the SPAR brand, transforming their business into a thriving supermarket. This partnership has proven to be the "best move" they ever made.

Building a Community Hub

Today, Ehlers' stores, SPAR Dagbreek in Kirkwood and SPAR Addo, are more than just places to shop; they have become community hubs. The Addo store, which was added to their portfolio in 2023, is rapidly matching Dagbreek’s success and is well-loved among both locals and visitors, making significant contributions to the local economy. Ehlers has seen a surge in customer traffic, especially from tourists, enhancing the vibrancy of the area.

Celebrating Success with Dedication

The recent SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees exemplifies Ehlers' commitment to customer satisfaction, as she worked tirelessly with her daughter and staff to ensure that the festival was a success. Their hard work during peak times, like citrus season, not only showcases their retail management skills but also reflects their dedication to providing for their community.

Margaret Ehlers' journey from a small fruit and veg operation to award-winning retailer encapsulates the essence of entrepreneurship driven by passion and community involvement. As she continues to build her legacy, Ehlers reminds us that with commitment and the right values, success is not only possible but can also benefit those around us.