The international food franchise, Popeyes, opened a new restaurant in Parika yesterday, according to the Department of Public Information (DPI).
This is the Popeyes fourth location in Guyana and their first in Region Three. The restaurant is expected to employ 25 persons.
The restaurant was officially declared open by Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, who noted that the launch 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,” Walrond observed.
She said Guyana is emerging as a buoyant economy and will continue to play a pivotal role within the regional economy, adding, “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.”
While pointing out that Parika provides direct access to several regions across Guyana, Walrond noted that Popeyes 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 assured that the government 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 Restaurants Inc for having faith in the Guyana economy and Guyanese.
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 declared.
The CEO informed that the company’s partnership with local suppliers remains very strong. He also assured that the restaurant would observe all safety guidelines instituted by the government in its fight against COVID-19.
The minister too, made a stirring appeal for all Guyanese to observe the safety guidelines to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). She disclosed that her staff was spared the effects of her positive result a month ago because she wore her mask and observed the safety protocols, the release added.