It is a soaring accolade when a business is dubbed ‘the most authentic Asian store in the North West.’ Penny Profits certainly lives up to its reputation.

From aata making machines to shisha paraphernalia, Penny Profits now sell the quaint munji.

Imran Jawaid and his father Abdul Baqi Jawaid work together in a fusion of old school business values amalgamated with modernity.

Imran said, “We have changed the corner shop stereotype.

“Dad has been running the business since 1981. His customers are very loyal. They have literally grown up with him. They even call him ‘Cha Cha’ (Uncle)!

“In fact, if he isn’t in the shop, many customers will wait for him to return before they make their purchase!”

Imran explains how they decided to diversify their products to include the authentic munji.

“The munji is a novelty. It is something we associate with back home.

“Since we have had the munji on display outside the shop, so many people have stopped as they pass by to sit on it. Children love it!

“People like to pose on the munji just to take a selfie!

“As the shop is situated by a set of traffic lights, people even roll their windows down to take a picture of it on their phones!

“They all know what a munji is, but they have never seen one in the North West.

“In fact, one customer bought the munji after his cousin sent him a photo of it via WhatsApp whilst he was waiting at the red lights!

“The advent of the munji to Penny Profits has added a really jovial ambience to the area!”

Abdul added, “The munji costs £120, and weighs 30 kilos a piece.

“People want to put them in their back gardens, especially for the summer as well as on a balcony, and even to sleep on indoors.

“It is a popular item for weddings, in particular for the bride and groom to sit on at the mehndi.

“Another little known fact is that the munji is great for people who suffer from back problems as the surface of the munji helps alleviate pain.”

Imran maintains that his father’s hard working and personable ethos is what has made the business a success over the last three decades.

“Dad works seven days a week.

“He began a small corner shop, which he then expanded into 2 premises.

“We barely get deliveries. Dad goes himself to source and buy the products.

“His mantra is that a business is not simply about making money. It is about creating a rapport with your customers and looking after them.

“I have never sold anything without giving a discount!”