CDMM is a mobile and digitally enabled grocery service, delivering affordable, pre-packaged essential groceries directly to students living in residences.
CDMM (Connect Dots Mini Mart) will operate by selling products in affordable pre-packaged combos, which are designed to cover the core needs of students. These combos simplify purchasing and make budgeting easier for students who often rely on fixed allowances or NSFAS funding. Current Combo Structure:
Combo 1:
Food Essentials – Includes items like maize meal, rice, oil, tinned food, and instant noodles.
Combo 2:
Toiletries - Includes essentials such as toothpaste, soap, sanitary products, toilet paper, and deodorant.
Combo 3:
Cleaning Materials - Includes dishwashing liquid, bleach, cloths, toilet cleaner, and disinfectant.
Combo 4:
Snacks & Boosters – Includes cereal bars, tea, coffee, biscuits, and powdered drinks.
Each combo is affordably priced, depending on the contents and size, with free or low-cost delivery included. These combos are available for direct delivery and at pop-up stalls, and students can place orders through WhatsApp or designated student representatives.
Our Services
Pre-Packaged Grocery Bundles
Affordable food and hygiene packs tailored for student needs (e.g. “Starter Kit,” “Monthly Top-Up,” “Hygiene Essentials”) and arranged in combos ad arranged above.
Mobile & Direct Delivery
Groceries delivered straight to residences via WhatsApp and digital orders, with no or minimal delivery fee.
Pop-Up Mini Marts
Occasional stalls at student residences during peak months, run by student workers.
Student Employment & Experience
CDMM trains and employs students in roles such as stock management, delivery logistics, digital ordering, and customer service.
Our Who,What, Why & Where
What
Connect-Dots Mini Mart is a student-powered grocery service that delivers affordable, pre-packaged combos of food, toiletries, cleaning materials, and snacks straight to student residences. It removes delivery fees, simplifies budgeting, and also gives students real work experience in retail and logistics.
Why
Many university students in South Africa struggle to afford basic groceries and hygiene items. Rising living costs, limited financial aid, and expensive delivery options make it hard for students, especially those supported by NSFAS, to meet their daily needs. This not only affects their well-being, but also their academic performance and mental health. CDMM was created to respond to this challenge by offering a practical, affordable solution.
Who
CDMM is designed for university and college students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds or funded by NSFAS. It is currently based in Gqeberha, starting with students from Nelson Mandela University, with plans to expand to other campuses and communities.
Where
Primary: University students in Gqeberha (starting with NMU), especially NSFAS-funded or self-paying low-income students.
Secondary: Off-campus student housing residents in surrounding areas.
Demographics: Ages 18–26, limited income, high demand for convenience and affordability