According to the Opposition legislator, the Board of Directors of the company made the decision last year since the eastern part of the island was “growing by leaps and bounds.”

Trendsetter

Addressing the groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, he said his company intends to be the trendsetter and expects other companies to invest more in the community.

“It will be a store that reflects the One Mart concept where you can come and get all that you need in one store. The first floor will be grocery and a cash and carry; the second floor will be appliances, household items and a true department store including basic clothing, electronics, cosmetics, perfumes, toys and all of your other needs. Then you would be able to take the elevator to the top and third floor where you will have a complete showroom of the One Mart quality and exquisite furniture and accessories that we are known for,” he remarked.

According to the prominent businessman, the prices at the Fat Hogs Bay location will be the same as the main store in Port Purcell.

“There will be no need for our good customers from the eastern side of the island to shop in Road Town; prices, products and services here will be the same as our store in Port Purcell. There will be over 30,000 square feet of shopping for our wonderful customers along with the biggest parking lot that you will see for a long time in the East End area,” he added.

While no figures were revealed, Vanterpool said the initiative is a ‘costly’ one.

He also said, his family is happy that they have returned to the eastern part of the island to conduct business.

He informed that his company had a few outlets in the community, before combining all into one location at Port Purcell.

Praises

Several government ministers who were present delivered brief remarks, including Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie (R1), who commended the Vanterpools for their investment.

Opposition Leader Hon Marlon A. Penn(R8) said the undertaking ‘represents hope’ while Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) described the project as a ‘bold step’.