Makhan Singh and wife Manjit have run the Calvay Superstore in Barlanark for the last 35 years – and the last three decades have been so much more than just selling groceries.
From helping residents with funeral costs and banking to delivering food to pensioners who can’t get out, the shop has been a huge pillar of emotional and financial support to those living in the area.
Dozens of residents came to the shop tonight with placards to save the business from potential closure.
Residents gathered outside of Calvay Superstore tonight. (Image: Gordon Terris)
Resident Joanne Crichton, who works in a number of local schools, told the Glasgow Times that Makhan Singh and Manjit helped raise money for a bus, which is used by children with additional support needs.
She added: “Mak gave me £500 of his own money to go towards the bus, and put out a tin which raised over £1,000.
“The bus is now parked down the street.”
Joanne went on to say that when her mum and dad sadly passed away, Makhan and Manjit came to the funeral to pay their respects.
Meanwhile, resident George Young said he needs the shop to stay open.
His granddaughter, Joanna McIntyre said Makhan and Manjit help George with his shopping as well as his banking.
She added: “They are such trust worthy people.
“He comes in every day for his shopping, and they help him with anything that he needs.
“My auntie died recently and they even helped with funeral costs.
“This shop is so important to the community.”
Robert Dott agreed, saying: “This shop is part of the community. Everybody here knows Mandy and Mak, and they know they could turn to them for anything.
“Nobody wants to see them go.”
Makhan Singh and wife Manjit (Image: Gordon Terris)
The possible closure comes as the shop’s lease is up this month, Makhan said.
He went on to claim that he was recently informed by Calavay Housing Association that they were looking at other potential uses for the building.
CHA told us that a committee is meeting tonight to review and choose an option for the store.
Makhan and Manjit have put a bid in to keep the business.
Mak said: “Our shop is part of the local community.
“I have watched these children grow up, and we know everyone in the area.
“We have helped with local causes and have never struggled to pay our rent.
“I told the housing association that I would give them whatever they wanted to keep this space. This is our community, these are our people.”
Charlie McCafferty Bowman, Mak’s legal representative, said the decision to possibly close the store was shambolic.
He added: “This place provides vital financial and emotional support for everyone. It is so much more than just a shop.”
