The State Trading Organisation (STO) has opened a new wholesale centre in Malé aimed at improving access to affordable basic food items for businesses and the public.
The new facility, STO People’s Choice Wholesale Centre 2, is located opposite the former STO Home Improvement building near the North Harbour. STO says the outlet is part of broader efforts to strengthen food distribution and ensure essential goods are available at competitive prices.
The centre will offer 23 types of basic food items, along with other imported and local products sold under the People’s Choice brand. Its location close to the port is expected to improve loading efficiency for vessels supplying outer islands.
STO added that the outlet will also support wholesale purchases of local agricultural products, creating better market opportunities for farmers and helping expand domestic food production.
The centre will operate daily from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, except Sundays. STO says more expansion is planned, including an additional outlet in Hulhumalé.