Six months ago, Mercearia da Martingança, located in the center of the village of the same name, changed hands. Vera Fernandes, 46 years old, from Marinha Grande but with family roots in Martingança, left her job at Sofima, in Maceira, to take over the management of the only establishment of its kind in the locality, ensuring the continuity of a proximity service particularly important for the aging population.
The decision to take over the grocery store came almost by chance, in a conversation where they realized the previous owner wanted to leave. Vera Fernandes admits that the transition from working as an employee to working for herself represented a significant risk and that she was somewhat afraid, but decided to take the risk. In a locality where there are residents with mobility difficulties, the grocery store allows them to ensure their daily shopping without needing to leave the village.
The establishment offers food products, hygiene products and other everyday items, as well as a tobacco machine. Fresh products arrive daily, with bread and fruit among the most sought-after items. Proximity to clients is one of the hallmarks of the business and Vera Fernandes emphasizes that the grocery store is a necessity of the locality itself.
The grocery store operates Monday to Friday, between 9 am and 1 pm and from 3 to 7 pm, and on Saturdays only during the morning, closing on Sundays and holidays. Six months after taking over, the balance is positive. "It's going well," summarizes Vera Fernandes.
