Having successfully debuted his Avens Retail fascia at a new store on Rosslyn Street in Kirkcaldy earlier this year, Fife-based Zahid Mukhtar has relaunched his two existing sites under the Avens brand, having previously run them as Nisa Local outlets.
The stores, which are located in Ballingry and on Overton Road in Kirkcaldy, feature a broad array of Co-op own-brand products as part Avens Retail’s continued partnership with Nisa, whilst also having a strong focus on locally sourced products and regional partnerships. Partnering with over 95 suppliers, including award-winning butcher Tom Course and a local fresh fish provider, Avens has expanded its product selection to over 4,000 items, focusing on fresh produce, quality meats, and bakery options.
In addition, Avens has introduced a year-round free fruit programme for primary school children, following its success as a summer initiative.
The store openings featured ribbon-cutting ceremonies with MSP David Torrance and retired Scottish footballer Ally Mitchell, along with family-friendly activities, charity raffles, and giveaways for the first visitors.
Zahid said: “The launch of our new stores in Ballingry and Overton Road is an exciting milestone for Avens Retail and a testament to our commitment to the communities we serve. These vibrant openings are more than just ribbon-cutting ceremonies; they mark the beginning of a new chapter where we’re bringing a carefully curated selection of local products, trusted Co-op own-brand items, and unique community programmes to our customers. Partnering with Nisa allows us to deliver on quality and value while staying deeply rooted in local traditions and priorities.”
Michael Love, Key Account Manager at Nisa, said: “We’re thrilled to see the successful launch of Avens Retail’s new stores in Ballingry and Overton Road. This marks an exciting milestone in their journey, and we’re proud to continue supporting Avens in their mission to provide high-quality, locally sourced products to the community. Their commitment to local suppliers, alongside the trusted Co-op own-brand offerings, reflects the strong partnership between Nisa and independent retailers. These new stores are a testament to Avens’ dedication to serving their communities and reinforcing the importance of independent retail within the regions they operate.”