Retail leader, John Bull, officially opened its newest store in the Port Lucaya Marketplace (PLM) over the weekend, expressing confidence in Grand Bahama's economy despite current financial outlook.

On hand to commemorate the momentous event were government officials, John Bull representatives, members of the local business community and other well-wishers.

In his address during the official events, Ian Rolle, president, the Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) extended congratulations to John Bull owners.

"Congratulations for over 80 years of world renowned luxury, generosity to the community and service excellence," Rolle stated.

He described their relocation to expanded premises in the Port Lucaya Marketplace (PLM) as fitting.

"Our Marketplace is re-nowned for its fine dining, entertainment and of course shopping ... The John Bull name is synonymous with 'quality.' This is what our customers look for in merchants at the Marketplace.

"They come here to shop because they believe that they will find the finest quality of goods, the best variety and the most reasonable prices," Rolle added.

Commending John Bull as being a standard-bearer for sophisticated shopping in The Bahamas, Rolle thanked them for the evident demonstration of their trust in the ownership and management of PLM, which is a member of the Grand Bahama Port Authority's Group of Com-panies.

Also bringing remarks was the Hon. Neko Grant, Minister of Public Works and Transport and Member of Parliament for Lucaya. "It is indeed my pleasure to participate in this event that contributes to the further enhancement of product offering here at the Port Lucaya Marketplace," he said.

Alluding to the company's rich history, Minister Grant drew comparisons to earlier days and the present time. "It is interesting to note that its founders and current management have both confronted the challenges of an unfavourable economy with remarkable courage and an entrepreneurial spirit. At the time of John Bull's establishment in 1929, The Bahamas was experiencing the effects of the 'Great Depression.' Today, as the economy weathers the global downturn, John Bull has expanded its store here in Grand Bahama," Grant explained.

Despite the current situation, John Bull still saw fit to make a substantial investment by opening a new Freeport store, for which Minister Grant commended them. "We are grateful for your demonstration of confidence in the strength of our country's economy and the contribution it brings to the Grand Bahama community as a whole," he added.

The new John Bull store in the Port Lucaya Marketplace employs six Grand Bahamians and carries a wide variety of designer goods for Bahamians and visitors alike. The company's presence in Grand Bahama dates back over 40 years.