Hi-Lo Supermarket & Wholesale, located at Beecham's Plaza, 76 Main Street in Ocho Rios, officially open its door for business recently.

The occasion began with the blessing of the store by Reverend Stanley Mathis. The Custos of St. Ann, Hon Radcliffe Walters declared the store officially opened. In his remarks, the Custos welcomed Hi-Lo Food Stores to St Ann, which he termed "the hospitality capital of the country."

The event was also marked by an outside broadcast by Irie FM. This generated lots of excitement which saw customers and suppliers getting involved in the spirit of the day.

Store Manager Judith Johnson was thrilled at the exciting response from the public, which was reflected in the brisk sales on the shop floor. She said that the new location represented a bigger and better business opportunity.

Albert Witter, Produce attendant, displaying his goods.

Previously known as SDA Wholesale, the business was relocated from 84 Main Street - where it was a much smaller operation - and renamed.

The interior décor of the new store evokes a tropical resort, with a contemporary wall mural sponsored by Wray & Nephew, indoor bus shelters and a thatched roof baggage counter. Several customers commented that they had not seen anything quite like the store in the parish and were "simply delighted." One customer commented, "Heaven has come to Ocho Rios!

Mr. M&M proved to be a hit with young customers.

Posted: December 2005