The Tribune

CONSIDERED one of the single most significant transformations in Grand Bahama in the last six months, the new BTC Pioneers Way retail experience opened its doors with a new look, new products and new opportunities.

Friday's launch event was well attended by key individuals, including executive members of the Grand Bahama Port Authority and Minister of Public Works and MP for Lucaya, Neko Grant.

"We are grateful that this project by BTC to demolish and rebuild has resulted in the creation of various job opportunities on Grand Bahama," said Mr Grant.

"I am told that during the life of the project to recreate this area now occupied by the store, approximately one hundred Grand Bahamians in the construction industry were employed to complete necessary works. As Minister of Public Works, I have been impressed by the reports regarding the efficiency of the work schedule of this project to renovate this 2,000 square foot space."

Beyond employment for construction, the renovation project provided an opportunity for a local artist and graphics company to produce a life-size mural, a significant design element featured in the store.

Lamaro Smith and FDK Laminators and Graphic Design were commissioned to produce the 216-square foot mural of fishermen, entitled Bonefishing in the West.

More persons were hired to serve as event hosts, hostesses, caterers, performers, security and customer service representatives during the grand opening weekend.

BTC says its new retail strategies will result in the creation of more small business opportunities by allowing qualified entrepreneurs to operate outlets that sell their products.

"As you know BTC has said that as it moves around the archipelago updating outdated stores and upgrading the network, it will make many of those stores and many smaller retail outlets available to qualified entrepreneurs," said Geoff Houston, CEO of BTC.

The company has announced that it will open as many as 50 stores throughout the Bahamas, most of them to be owned and operated by local entrepreneurs.