Long-awaited US$24M Giftland Mall opens its doors!

Jul 03, 2015 News

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By Nicholas Peters

The long-awaited Giftland Mall at Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara “against all odds” opened its doors yesterday to the public.
The opening ceremony graced with the presence of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo (who is currently performing the duties of President), Minister of Business and Investment, Dominic Gaskin, other Ministers, the Mall’s Board of Directors, President of Caribbean Cinemas, Robert Carrady as well as selected members of Giftland’s customer base.
The more than 500 guests marvelled at the beauty of the US$24M project.
In his address, Minister Gaskin regarded the venture as an impressive vision by President and founder of the shopping centre, Roy Beepat and his wife Monica.
“This project can safely be described as a major investment in Guyana’s retail sector,” said Minister Gaskin. He described the new shopping complex as a “scientifically selected” blend of business, entertainment, cuisine and architectural magnificence.
According to Gaskin, it was clear to him from the mall’s inception that it would be an operation of international standard which the public deserves. He regarded the mall’s creation as a formidable work of entrepreneurial spirit.
The official opening, he said, comes at a time when the major investment is part of the country’s historical transition into a direction of new governance. This new direction, the Minster related, will place emphasis on fairness, openness and respect for the law.
“The link between good governance and the health of the economy is not one to be underestimated. Once Guyana demonstrates its commitment to good governance, Guyana will become an attractive venue for investments.” To this end, he added that his ministry has coined the mantra ‘Guyana means business’.
According to Gaskin, the introduction of the Giftland Mall highlights the importance private business plays in developing Guyana’s economy.
Meanwhile in his brief remarks to the gathering, Prime Minister Nagamootoo praised the multiplex for being a testament to Guyana’s incredible business capabilities as it will be creating thousands of jobs. He said that it proves that the country can match up to the rest of the world in terms of quality in service, commerce, entertainment and job provision.
“All roads in Guyana should lead to jobs,” said Nagamootoo.
After remarks from the various officials, the PM along with members of the Beepat family, cut the ceremonial ribbon, signalling the official opening of the Giftland Mall’s door.
As the attendees made their way through the spacious and fully air-conditioned shopping complex many took advantage of the opportunity to “window shop”. Available for the perusing eyes were four of Giftland’s stores. Among them were the Giftland Megastore, GL Giftronics, GL Sportsmaxx and its food court.
During his tour through the mall, Minister Gaskin appeared particularly engaged in the sports department’s accessories. Hosting some of the malls more eye-catching items, Sportsmaxx attracted its share of fitness enthusiasts.
However, it was clear from everyone’s initial reaction that the mall’s most impressive shopping department was the Giftland Megastore, with its collection of furniture, clothing, cosmetics, stationery and a plethora of other consumer goods. Despite the store’s apparent extravagance, customers were assured that the inexpensive pricing Giftland has been synonymous with will remain.

Last evening was the mall’s phase one opening, and over 120 concessions are slated to open as operations continue.
But while shopping clearly caught the eyes of some, many were also excited to experience the over 1300-seat, Caribbean Cinemas Multiplex.
The Puerto Rican theatre company has over 400 operations across the Caribbean region, including Trinidad and Tobago. However last night’s Guyana opening was the company’s first mainland operations in South America.
During his address, the President of Caribbean Cinemas pointed out that his company has found a viable market in Guyana, as the country has a long history in “going to the movies”.
For adults movie tickets will be priced at $1100, with children costing $800 while senior citizens will pay $900. For 3D movies, an additional $200 will be added to each respective price listing. Last night the attendees were able to experience the multiplex for free.
Screens showings Inside Out and Terminator: Genisys were filled to capacity with equally eager children and their parents, as well as a number of young adults. As the theatres filled with the smell of melted butter and popcorn, some people were even seen jumping from screen to screen, comparing each movie’s quality along the way.
While the night progressed and persons waited under terminals to be shuttled to their transportation, it was evident in the praising conversations that the mall satisfied its consumers. Persons regarded the facility as a much needed commodity in Guyana’s changing environment.
With more to come, last night’s sneak peek of the complex is testament of the elevated standard in which Mr. Beepat has been promising for Guyanese since he first thought of the Giftland Mall.

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