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Business Reporter
BULAWAYO-headquartered giant retail chain Choppies Zimbabwe has chipped in to finance catering services for the top executives during the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), which begins today. President Robert Mugabe, who is also ZITF patron, will be in Bulawayo on Friday to witness the official opening of the country’s trade showcase by his Togolese counterpart, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbe.

Head of Presidential and VIP hostess at the ZITF, Thokozile Nyoni, said Choppies has pledged to finance all catering services for the top leadership. “They (Choppies) have provided us with the brand new VIP lounge suites, catering sets, water, security and luncheon. We’re very grateful to Choppies because they’ve supported us so much in preparation for hosting top guests,” said Nyoni.

“Through their support we’ll be able to provide good services to our distinguished guests who will include the first families, diplomats, ministers and foreign investors.” Choppies Zimbabwe director Siqokoqela Mphoko also confirmed the donation.

Choppies is a subsidiary of the Botswana listed regional supermarket chain in which Vice President Mphoko’s family has shares. The 57th edition of the ZITF will see 401 direct exhibitors who include 34 foreign direct exhibitors participating.

Expectations are high that this year’s five-day event, which runs under the theme “Innovate-Integrate-Industrialise”, would enable local industries to clinch business deals as well as expand their market in the region and beyond.