The Bhatbhateni Superstore has launched 24-hour operations starting today at its Radheradhe location in Bhaktapur. Panu Paudel, Chief Operating Officer of Bhatbhateni, explained that this step was taken to provide more convenient shopping services to consumers. Government spokesperson Sasmita Pokhrel praised the initiative as a new practice promoting the nighttime economy. September 17, Kathmandu.
Nepal’s largest retail chain, Bhatbhateni Superstore, has begun operating around the clock starting today. The Bhaktapur-based Radheradhe branch initiated this new service from today. Speaking with OnlineKhabar, COO Panu Paudel stated that the service was introduced for consumer convenience and ease. Paudel added, ‘Although this concept is new in Nepal, it is a trend internationally.’
According to him, one superstore each in the three districts of the Kathmandu Valley—Bhaktapur, Kathmandu, and Lalitpur—will be open 24 hours. The service started in Bhaktapur today and will soon expand to the Krishna Galli store in Patan, Lalitpur, and the Tangal store in Kathmandu. Preparations are underway to begin 24-hour operations at the Tangal store from September 10. Paudel also mentioned that based on the first day’s experience, the effort needs further expansion. Since operations continue overnight, relevant local authorities have been notified to ensure security measures.
‘We have informed the concerned authorities, and there are no security issues,’ Paudel said. Government spokesperson and Minister for Education and Sports, Sasmita Pokhrel, also commended the effort during a report at the Bhatbhateni Superstore. She stated, ‘This was necessary for nighttime life in the Kathmandu Valley and is also economically positive.’ The government will provide necessary support for this initiative, she added.
Consumer Feedback – Many shoppers had difficulty finding time during the day, but now it’s easier. The new 24-hour service launched by Bhatbhateni has become popular among consumers. Most have expressed that they were unable to shop due to daytime work commitments but find nighttime shopping more convenient. A customer from Bauddha, who visited Bhatbhateni for shopping, said, ‘I couldn’t find time during the day because of work; now it has become easier.’ Customers also commented that improved security arrangements at night would enhance the experience further.
According to Bhatbhateni administration, only the first floor of the 24-hour stores will be open, offering grocery items. Paudel said, ‘After launching 24-hour operations in the three Kathmandu Valley stores, plans are underway to introduce similar services in Pokhara, which will further enhance consumer convenience.’
Operating 27 Stores Nationwide – Founded 42 years ago by businessman Min Bahadur Gurung, Bhatbhateni Superstore started from Kathmandu’s Tangal and has now expanded to 27 stores nationwide. It reportedly generates annual revenue of 3.2 billion rupees and employs over 22,000 people. During the protests on September 7-8, 2005 (2072 B.S.), many stores suffered arson, vandalism, and looting, causing significant financial losses for the company. However, Bhatbhateni reinvested without affecting any employee’s job and successfully reopened all stores.
