The superstore, the second one along with the other in Purcell, was opened in Fat Hogs Bay in the East End/Long Look community.

Speaking at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Vanterpool said he wanted to present something world-class to the community.

“I am not bragging about it. I am only stating a fact. We gave the people of this community something that is first-class. We are very pleased to give the East End/ Long Look people what is in there tonight. We are in competition, and we are growing but I had to study this one very closely,” Vanterpool said.

“It’s a pleasure to understand a community and what the community wants of you. You give the community what they call for not what you think. That is what community service is about and we are going to give you here in East End/Long Look what you deserve,” he added.

Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development Shereen Flax-Charles said she was pleased to be at another reopening of a OneMart store. She said it speaks to opportunity, entrepreneurship, family and taking risks.

“It is so good to see what is happening here today. A ‘need’ needed to be met in the community and it has been met by OneMart coming into this community. I must say for me as well, it is going to be convenient when I am making my way towards Trellis Bay on many a day, that I could be able to shop before I take the ferry from Trellis Bay to Virgin Gorda. It is also convenient for us as Virgin Gordians and the entire population of Virgin Islands,” Flax-Charles said.

“I know Vanterpool is keen on working with farmers and fishers in the BVI and I can’t wait to see fresh local produce and seafood. And they do so where local products are displayed on the shelf,” she added.

Competition to drive down bad inflation

Eighth District Representative Marlon Penn said it was important for someone to take a chance on the community and Vanterpool has done that.

“They have taken a chance on us. They said they are going to take a chance on the East End/Long Look community and bring a quality storefront with quality goods and services and to bring competition especially when inflation is at an all-time high, and we need to have variation in options. One of the lessons as I was reflecting was the lesson on betting on yourself. Always bet on yourself,” Penn said.

Meanwhile, acting Premier Kye Rymer gave remarks on behalf of the Premier and Seventh District Representative, Dr Natalio Wheatley. He said the new OneMart location means persons in the east don’t have to endure the time or expense of travelling to Road Town where larger supermarkets are located.

Confidence in the economy

He said Vanterpool’s investments show he has confidence in the economy and the opportunity it presents for not only himself but the people in the area.

“It is reasonable to be encouraged. It means everything may not be as bad as it seems,” Rymer said.

Former Seventh District Representative Dr Kedrick Pickering also gave congratulatory remarks to his friend and former colleague.

“He has finally arrived and become a member of the East End/Long Look community. Congratulations and all the best, I know you will grow from strength to strength,” Dr Pickering said.