The Tribune

THE BAHAMAS Telecommunications Company (BTC) plans to open 10 new retail franchise locations in New Providence and Grand Bahama over the next four months, it said yesterday, with another 20 set to be launched within an 18-month period.

BTC said total jobs created could be 200-plus, while another 200 construction and logistics job openings would be available during the build-out.

It added that this would inject some $3-$5 million in direct construction costs into the Bahamian economy, and another $1–$3million in ancillary services and supplies.

“This is the start of our promised expansion into franchising and opens up opportunities for Bahamian entrepreneurs, while helping us meet another business objective, that of bringing BTC products and services closer to as many neighborhoods and island communities as possible,” said Marlon Johnson, BTC’s senior vice-president of marketing and communications.

“Over the next four months, BTC will be opening up approximately 10 new franchise locations in New Providence and Grand Bahama, and over the next 18 months, we should have more than 20 independently-owned BTC franchise stores and kiosks if the current plans and pace are maintained.”

Mr Johnson added: “We currently have three Bahamian-owned BTC franchise stores open – the Grand Bahama store opened last year, and just recently Grand Cay and Soldier Road, with Prince Charles opening on June 1

“BTC is among a select few local companies to embrace a franchise model, and we did it because we believe that Bahamian ownership is the smarter way to grow our business. We like the idea of providing opportunities to create employers rather than employees, - a BTC franchise network talks to that.”  

Mr Johnson said that as part of the support system for franchise stores, some of BTC’s existing locations will close, but no staff redundancies are planned among full-time workers.

“No full time staff is affected by closures as we need them in other stores and  areas within BTC.” he added.

“Some part-time staff members will be displaced, but franchisees are eager to interview them to take advantage of their BTC product knowledge and experience. Many will be placed within the expanding franchise channel.”

“Awarding a franchise locally gives Bahamians a chance to become part of an established business model, one with a successful track record providing onsite sales, marketing and customer support.  It is a great opportunity for Bahamian entrepreneurs,” said Dwight Gibson, BTC’s manager for franchise sales and operations.