STC Stops Supplying Bread to La Digue as Local Bakeries Step Up
VICTORIA, Seychelles, The Seychelles Trading Company (STC) is no longer supplying bread to La Digue, due to an increased supply of bread from other bakeries on the island. The company confirmed to the local press that the decision to cease supplies is primarily due to the fact that a number of other bakeries are now producing sufficient bread for the La Digue residents, and are able to meet customer demand. The move brings to a close a temporary arrangement that STC ran for several months.
STC stepped in to supply bread to the island following a shortage, arising out of the closure of the Glorious Bakery, due to licensing issues, among other hurdles. The company said it appreciated the opportunity to have been able to provide fresh bread to the community and was grateful for the relationships it has built with its customers. STC also seized the opportunity to apologise for any inconvenience the decision may cause, and thanked customers for their support over the period it was supplying the island.
Meanwhile, Glorious Bakery owner Stephane Banane explained that the company is still awaiting an outcome from the relevant authorities on its licensing situation. Mr Banane added that despite having initially expressed discontent with the Seychelles Licensing Authority decision to reject its renewal application in January, the company has since engaged in discussions with SLA chief executive Ronny Antat. He said the bakery remains willing to work with the authorities to resolve the issues that led to the closure of its outlet.
Supervisor at the company now inoperative outlet, Ahmed Nibourette, noted that La Digue consumers are still hopeful that the branch will be given the go-ahead to recommence operations. The community has welcomed the wider choice now available on the island but has also expressed concern about the loss of a long-standing local business. Residents said they hope the discussions between Glorious Bakery and SLA will lead to a positive outcome in the near future.
STC has indicated that it will continue to monitor the situation on La Digue and is ready to step back in if the supply situation changes. For now, the island is served by a number of smaller bakeries that have increased their production to meet local demand. The company reiterated its commitment to supporting food security across the inner islands, while respecting the role of the smaller operators that have grown their share of the market in recent months.
