The international food franchise, Popeyes, opened a new restaurant in Parika on Saturday. This is the Popeyes’ fourth location in Guyana and the first in Region 3. The restaurant, which boasts a modern facility, is expected to employ 25 Guyanese.
The new Popeye restaurant in Parika – Image by: Marceano Narine
In declaring the restaurant officially open, Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, noted that the launch was significant because it was occurring against the COVID-19 pandemic’s backdrop, 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 staff was spared the effects of her positive result a month ago because she wore her masks and observed the safety protocols.
She 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,” 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 areas. 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 thanked the Guyana Restaurants Inc. for having faith in the Guyana economy and Guyanese.
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond assisting in the cutting of the ribbon to open the new restaurant – Image by: Marceano Narine
Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Restaurants 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.
[Extracted and Modified from DPI]
