In recent times, concerns about the declining state of Mokokchung’s local economy, whether real or perceived, have been widespread. However, the outlook is changing, and there is cause for optimism as business investors from outside Mokokchung bring hope to the district.
Dr Mughavi, formerly an army officer and now a non-practicing doctor, known for bringing Vodafone to Nagaland, is poised to introduce a ‘Miniso‘ store in Mokokchung. Simultaneously, Viketouzo, entering the world of retail for the first time, is gearing up to launch a ‘Lee Cooper‘ store in Mokokchung town, possibly as early as this Thursday or Friday.
With these investments injecting new life into Mokokchung’s business scene, Mokokchung Times sought to understand their choice of investing in Mokokchung town. According to Dr Mughavi, places like Mokokchung and Zunheboto represent “future potential markets” despite existing risks. He firmly believes that in business, there are no rewards without risks.
Mughavi envisions the market expanding, especially given Mokokchung’s status as a ‘major town’ in Nagaland after Kohima and Dimapur. He considers Mokokchung the third destination but acknowledges the scarcity of risk-takers.
“I, as a Naga businessman, if I don’t take risks, who will?” he shared, expressing his hope that if it’s part of God’s plan, he will expand to Zunheboto and other districts. Presently, Miniso has stores in Chumoukedima and Dimapur, with Mokokchung poised to become the third outlet in Nagaland.
Meanwhile, Viketouzo revealed that he is opening the first Lee Cooper store in Mokokchung but has intentions to expand to Chumoukedima, Kohima, and Dimapur. However, due to intense competition in those markets, he is on a quest to secure the ideal property in the right location.
Atou also shared that Reliance Retail Limited has taken over both Lee Cooper and John Players. Therefore, it’s not a solo endeavor; he is collaborating with Reliance Retail Limited.
“We had discussions, and I conveyed to them that Mokokchung currently lacks branded stores. They responded positively, stating that if we can secure an appropriate property, they would certainly establish a store in Mokokchung. Once they agreed, I proceeded,” he explained.
Challenges
However, one challenge that investors in Mokokchung face is the relatively small population. Dr Mughavi acknowledged that his company initially hesitated to invest in Mokokchung due to the town’s population being less than one lakh.
“Nevertheless, I have convinced the company, and I am optimistic that they will agree, considering the success of two of my previous stores. I remain positive,” he stated.
He also admitted that even his friends in Mokokchung were initially taken aback by his decision. However, he reasoned, “Lately, our young Nagas have been discouraging outsiders from investing in Nagaland, and at the same time, if our Naga people are not taking risks, consequently, we are the sufferers. So, we should use such an environment as an opportunity and take risks. If we don’t take the initiative, who will?”
Meanwhile, Atou expressed similar concerns regarding Mokokchung’s smaller population. Nevertheless, he places his trust in the student community, including Nagaland University and commuters from the eastern parts of Nagaland who visit Mokokchung for shopping during festive seasons and other occasions.
Experience in Mokokchung
Regarding his experience with the ongoing process in Mokokchung, Atou praised his property-owner, M Supong Longkumer, the owner of Mascot, for his assistance, which made the process smooth.
With the store set to launch either on Thursday or Friday of this week, he said, “I am hoping I will get good staff and balanced sales because I have to compete with online. Nowadays online is dominating every space. So, I will monitor it for about a month and if the online is the competition, let’s compete with it,” he said.
As for Dr Mughavi, he revealed that Mokokchung had always been on his mind. However, he believes that he connected with the right people in Mokokchung through divine intervention. He expressed his gratitude to his friends in Mokokchung, whom he described as ‘God-fearing,’ a quality he considers essential. “They have been exceptionally cooperative. While our operations haven’t started yet, I am filled with positivity,” he added.
Discussing his business venture, he stated, “I am taking the risk and investing in Mokokchung. I may not see significant returns for the first 12-18 months, and I may suffer during that period. However, if God opens doors, that’s a different story. I am optimistic about the future.”
“Moreover, if a Naga can conduct business in another state of the country, and if non-Nagas can come and invest anywhere in Nagaland, why can’t we? I am very positive,” he concluded.