IN an expression of confidence in the economy, international food franchise, Popeyes, opened a new restaurant in Parika on Saturday. This is Popeyes’ fourth location in Guyana and the first in Region Three.
The restaurant, which boasts a modern facility, employs 25 Guyanese.
In declaring the restaurant officially open, Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond, noted that the launch was significant because it was occurring against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has devastated businesses and economies across the globe.
“This expansion is significant because it not only represents confidence in the Guyana economy, but is also an unequivocal demonstration to other businesses in Guyana, who may be weighing their investment options, and the message is that it is safe to invest,” Minister Walrond noted.
The minister made a stirring appeal for all Guyanese to observe the safety guidelines to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
She stressed that her staffers were spared the effects of her positive result a month ago because she wore her masks and observed the safety protocols.
The commerce minister said Guyana is emerging as a buoyant economy and will continue to play a pivotal role within the regional economy.
“Therefore, it is insightful that even as businesses navigate this pandemic, exploratory consideration should also be given to investment opportunities available immediately and those that will be available post-COVID-19,” she continued.
While pointing out that Parika provides direct access to several regions across Guyana, Minister Walrond noted that Popeye’s at Parika would fill the gap by providing more delicacies and facilities for people in the outlying regions.
The new restaurant, she added, will undoubtedly add value to Parika, which continues to establish itself as a critical business hub.
The minister commended the franchise for consistently providing a quality product and service in keeping with international standards, adding that all businesses should strive for consistency and quality assurance.
She said the President Ali administration will continue to do all that is necessary to facilitate an enabling environment that fosters business confidence and growth and will continue to work with the private sector to explore all possible areas of support during this challenging period.
She thanked the Guyana Resturants Inc. for having faith in the country’s economy and Guyanese.
Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Restuarants Inc., RL Singh, said the launch was part of the company’s commitment to making the unique fast food flavour available to as many communities as possible.
“To make this store a reality, a significant investment has been made, not only in terms of physical infrastructure but also in training of staff in order to comply with Popeye’s international standards,” he stressed.
The CEO said the company’s partnership with local suppliers remains very strong. He also assured that the restaurant would continue to observe all safety guidelines instituted by the government in its fight against COVID-19.
“We look at quality and international best practices and we keep standards high,” he said.
The CEO noted that he is renting the new building but the totality of the investments runs over US$1M.
Patrons lauded the investment, noting that Parika needs standards and businesses that serve communities with its locale.
