As the festive season approaches in Mauritius, small businesses are struggling to cope with water shortages. The Central Water Authority (CWA) has implemented a one-day-on, one-day-off water distribution system in many areas, including Eau-Coulée, to conserve available water resources. This has forced local coiffeur Stephan to find ways to maintain his business while meeting high demand. With his taps dry for half the week, Stephan and his team are relying on ingenuity to keep their salon running.
Stephan's salon has been preparing for the water shortages for months, using a strict water management system to minimize waste. The team uses water jugs for washing, a method that has become essential in the face of severe water scarcity. However, as the end-of-year rush approaches, Stephan is concerned that this method may not be enough to meet demand. With many clients seeking treatments, hair care, and styling services, Stephan is worried about the impact of water shortages on his business.
The situation is expected to worsen, with forecasts indicating a dry summer and little hope of significant rainfall in November. Stephan is preparing for an intensification of the crisis and is exploring emergency logistics to ensure that services that require the most water, such as hair coloring and root treatments, can continue. This may involve using alternative water sources or purchasing bottled water.
However, using bottled water or commercial water bottles is a costly option for Stephan's small business. To absorb the additional expense, Stephan plans to introduce temporary price increases for clients during the festive season. He estimates that clients may face an additional fee of Rs 50 to Rs 75 per wash and Rs 75 to Rs 100 for coloring services.
Despite the challenges, Stephan remains committed to providing excellent service to his clients. He understands that the festive season is a critical period for his business and is determined to find ways to maintain operations without compromising on quality. Stephan's clients rely on him to look their best for end-of-year celebrations, and he is keen to meet their expectations.
The water shortages in Mauritius are affecting many small businesses, and Stephan's situation is not unique. However, his resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity are a testament to the determination of local entrepreneurs. As the festive season gets underway, Stephan and his team will continue to work hard to ensure that their clients receive the best possible service.
With the new pricing structure in place, Stephan hopes that his clients will understand the need for the additional fees. He is confident that they will appreciate the extra effort he is putting into maintaining his business during a difficult time. As the situation continues to unfold, Stephan will continue to monitor the water shortages and adjust his strategy as needed to ensure the long-term viability of his salon.
Key points
- Stephan's salon will introduce temporary price increases to cope with water shortages.
