Ever heard of a business built on passion, persistence, and a whole lot of delicious barbecue? Let us introduce you to Richard Mark and his sensational Port Moresby food venture, Abus na Kumu. It’s a true local success story, but with a unique PNG flavor!
Richard, a man of many talents (think rugby star turned sprinting champion and now BBQ king!), started Abus na Kumu a few years back with nothing but a dream and a roadside stall. Can you imagine the smell? The sizzling meats, the fresh, local “kumu” (greens) – it quickly became a Port Moresby favorite. Forget your fancy five-star restaurants; here was authentic, mouth-watering tucker, served with a smile and a good yarn.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Like any good underdog story, Richard and his team faced their fair share of hurdles. Accessing markets, fending off the bigger players – it took grit, determination, and a whole lot of late nights perfecting those secret marinades. But their commitment to fresh, high-quality produce and supporting local farmers shone through.
Now, Abus na Kumu is more than just a household name for catering; it’s a full-blown sensation. They’re serving up over a hundred customers a day with their legendary BBQ feasts. And get this – they’re not just cooking the food; they’re even fabricating their own scrapers, ovens, and smokers! Talk about self-sufficient!
“It’s not about competing with another brand,” he said back then. “It’s about staying in your lane and growing what you started.”
Believe in your dreams
The biggest news? Richard’s about to turn a new page, literally! Abus na Kumu is set to open its very first bar and grill restaurant in Waigani, at the Palms Estate. That’s right, from roadside sizzles to a proper sit-down spot! It’s a massive leap and one that’s been years in the making, with a bit of help from Business Link Pacific and BSP Financial Group.
Richard’s philosophy is simple: “People empowering people.” He’s all about teamwork, community support, and collaborating with other small businesses. He’s even got a charity arm, “Friends of Abus na Kumu,” quietly working to inspire self-reliance in the community.
So, next time you’re in Port Moresby, keep an eye out for Abus na Kumu. Whether it’s at their new restaurant or at a catered event, you’re guaranteed a feed that’s packed with flavor, passion, and the inspiring spirit of a true PNG entrepreneur. Richard Mark isn’t just building a food business; he’s building a legacy, one delicious BBQ at a time.
