By K. NANCOO-RUSSELL
Freeport News Reporter
Despite the economic slump, one proprietor is showing his confidence in the market with a multi-million dollar investment in a new food store which he hopes will offer residents a larger selection of grocery items.
Sawyer's Fresh Market, located on Oak Street in Freeport, will open its doors to the public on Friday morning at 8 a.m.
The company's president, Sandy Sawyer, explained that the 10,000 square foot building currently housing the new supermarket was originally allocated for warehouse space for Sawyer's Food Supply, which he also owns.
However, once he decided to turn it into a retail outlet, he was able to have the construction work completed in record time.
The store, he added, is one of the most energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly businesses on the island.
The materials used in the construction, including the lighting - all have low environmental impact. Customers will also be encouraged to bring reusable shopping bags with them to cut down on plastic bags.
Sawyer said that the store will carry a limited assortment of brands, with only a national brand name and a 'value' option being offered on most items.
Although the value brands that will be carried are new to Grand Bahama, Sawyer said they are widely accepted in the United States and the quality is comparable to similar brand name items.
Consumers can save up to 40 percent, however, if they chose the generic brands.
"We're not going to bring it in if people don't like it.
We're not going to force anything down people's throats. It's something that we feel people will like but with the guarantee you have nothing to lose by trying it."
Sawyer, who has been in the wholesale distribution business for the past 10 years, and also owns a meat store in Eight Mile Rock, said that he decided to go into retail when he observed that there was an under-served market in Freeport.
"I've been shopping in the stores and a lot of times you can't find the product, or it's overpriced, or it does not look good and I decided people deserve better... They deserve a new option - a better option."
Sawyer said that he has placed much emphasis on the perishable items his store will carry since he believes consumers definitely need more choices in that department.
"That is where there is a real need... We'll have everything that people buy on a regular basis and we're going to always have fresh stock."
Another aspect Sawyer was proud to share was the competitive prices that he plans to offer.
"When they see the prices and the fact that we will always be in stock, people are going to love the experience. They're going to be pleasantly surprised and they're going to watch their grocery bill go down."
Although some may say that Sawyer's venture is a risky one considering the economic climate, the businessman expressed confidence in his latest project.
"Even though the economic times are dim on the island, this is a necessity - people have to eat and they're really disillusioned and dissatisfied with what is presently on the market and we want to make a difference," he said.
"We do see potential for growth, otherwise we wouldn't be doing this. This is a big investment, especially in Freeport where things are so rough."
The new store will be open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. -7 p.m. from Mondays to Thursdays, from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays.
