Esther Lauaki
IGA Pier Street, Altona is making the first steps out of the COVID-19 pandemic a safe and easy transition by lending more support to local families with children who are back at school.
Owner Hitesh Palta, who took over the store early this year, says the team at IGA Pier Street Altona has a strong focus on local shoppers, and will be donating a percentage of profits from sales made between June 3 and June 9 to local school, Altona College.
“Kids that visit in-store with their parents can snack on free fresh fruit while they shop,” Hitesh says.
With plenty of specials on produce, groceries, plants and nursery, IGA Pier Street Altona is fully stocked of all the necessities.
As the state restrictions in public areas slowly relax, Hitesh says customer safety still remains a priority.
Stricter safety measures tailored for COVID-19, including more frequent store cleaning, plexiglass at the registers, a social distancing-friendly layout and contactless shopping, makes IGA Pier Street, Altona an ideal choice for shoppers wanting to support local business.
“Many of the friendly faces that locals know and love are still working here, ready to help safely complete your shopping list during these unique times,” Hitesh says.
“If you haven’t already checked out our newly renovated supermarket, complete with café, liquor department and new plant section, come and say hi – socially distancing, of course!”
Hitesh says support for elderly residents was also a focus in the past few months with the introduction of a special discount for seniors card holders.
The business was the the first supermarket to introduce an elderly-only shopping hour in the early stages of the pandemic before many supermarkets followed suit.
“We worked tirelessly through the nights to ensure our supermarket was prepared for our early morning trade,” Hitesh says of recent months of trading through the pandemic.
“From well-stocked supplies to hygiene and cleanliness, we did what we could to try and make this experience positive.
“What really stood out to us was the sense of unity and community.
“Everyone was calm, patient and the gratitude you all offered was overwhelming.”
Altona IGA plus Liquor, 103/110 Pier Street, Altona. Opens 7am-7.30pm Monday-Friday, 8am-8pm Saturday and 9am-6pm Sunday. Inquiries: 9017 7855 or www.facebook.com/igapierstaltona/ or email igapierst@gmail.com.
