Words by Nicola Murray
For nearly five decades, Ashok Supermarket on Slade Road in Stockland Green has been more than a shop, it has been “the heart of this community”- as told by one longstanding customer.
As the established owners and operators Ashok and Rajinder Kumar retire this autumn, after 47 years of dedicated service, the neighbourhood reflects on the impact the beloved couple have had far beyond the checkout counter.
Since opening their independent supermarket and greengrocers, the Kumars have stood as cornerstones of the Stockland Green community, building relationships that stretch across families.
“My parents have seen generations come and go in the shop,” their daughter Rena reflected. “They have loved being a part of the community and seeing their customers have children and grandchildren… they find it very endearing that the children call them ‘Auntie’ and ‘Uncle’.”
Throughout their near 50 year tenure, the Kumars often donated both their time and resources to many causes over the years – the couple were highly active in the community, supporting local initiatives and offering both their time and resources wherever needed.
When Stockland Green needed support, as well as groceries, they always found a way to lend a helping hand – including preparing meals for local soup kitchens, donating to Macmillan Coffee Mornings at the local Methodist Church, supplying food and drinks for community events, and many more acts of support and charity.
Situated across the road from Stockland Green School, the couple supported teachers who went on strike by providing them with drinks on the picket line. During the Covid pandemic, the kept their shop operating for housebound customers who were reliant on regular grocery deliveries – providing a literal lifeline for those in isolation during the lockdowns.
Their active outreach work cemented them as a firm fixture in the local area, building them a family of friends as well as customers across the wider Stockland Green community. Former residents of Stockland Green would often come back to Slade Road, not just to shop but to visit Ashok and Rajinder.
After the announcement of their retirement, many friends and customers alike rallied round to wish the couple well – and to say how their absence will be felt in the community.
“They will be sorely missed,” told one long term customer ahead of the Kumar’s retirement celebration, “they’ve been the heart of this neighbourhood.”
Another expressed how they were “sad we will not be seeing your lovely smile” and how they’re “going to miss you guys.”
An official retirement party was held for Ashok and Rajinder Kumar in Stockland Green on Wednesday 1 October, where many in the community gathered to celebrate the retirement of the couple – and see them hand over the keys the next generation, who will be keeping Ashok Supermarket open for business on Slade Road.
Ashok and Rajinder received widespread well wishes from local residents, friends, and family members, which is a testament to their impact, and extended their sincere thanks to all explaining, “It’s been an honour to serve this community.”
Rajinder herself added, “It’s never just been a business. It’s been a way to serve, connect, and grow with the people around us.”
Ashok Supermarket is located at 517 Slade Road, Stockland Green.
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