We chatted to Mark Anderson, owner of the newly-launched SPAR Gourmet in Ballito, about his journey in retail and what it’s like working alongside his sons Travis, Keegan and Tyrone.
What inspired you to purchase your first SPAR back in 1997?
I had reached a point in my corporate career where I felt unable to influence my own growth and future. I wanted to build something meaningful, where my efforts directly impacted the outcome. Most importantly, I wanted to create a legacy for my children and family, something long-standing, secure, and built with purpose.
What’s it like working with your family day-to-day?
We genuinely enjoy working together; it’s special to build something as a family. While challenges do arise, they make us stronger, and we always come out united on the other side.
What values are most important to you as a family and as business owners?
We believe in giving our absolute best in everything we do, striving for success with integrity and hard work. We embrace the idea of failing forward, always learning, improving, and moving ahead.
What are you most proud of about your journey so far?
Seeing the entire family work together has been one of my greatest achievements. I am proud that we’ve taken struggling stores and turned them into highly successful and recognised businesses. Winning national awards like Store of the Year and achieving Mr SPAR has been incredibly rewarding, but even more so is knowing that we have built long-term opportunity and future growth for the next generation.
What does the future hold for the Anderson family in business?
We are excited for continued growth, including the Park Square revamp planned for 2026 and new opportunities ahead with SPAR Gourmet. And hopefully, a few more family holidays along the way too.
Any advice for young entrepreneurs or families looking to work together?
Make sure everyone shares similar values and aspirations. Work hard, stay focused and success will follow. Focus on what you can influence, not what you can’t. And don’t chase money, chase excellence. The money follows purpose, passion and discipline.
