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New KMW Plaza Opens in Grand Bahama

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#Freeport, GB, May 10, 2019 – Bahamas – Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator Kwasi Thompson says while doing business in Grand Bahama has its share of challenges, he’s moved by business owners who, despite the challenges, have continued to persevere.

During the ribbon cutting ceremony for the opening of the new KMW Plaza, on Thursday, May 9, 2019, Minister Thompson said the owners of the new plaza provide motivation and hope for all Bahamians in Grand Bahama.

“The work of these entrepreneurs, like Mr. Jones and Mr. McCartney are in alignment with the government’s commitment to small business development and entrepreneurial empowerment,” added Minister Thompson.  “And this is what we like to see, Bahamians owning their country and empowering other Bahamians to do the same.  We’ve set out to create an environment especially conducive to the creation and expansion of small and medium-sized businesses, which are essential to the communities.

“These are the kinds of businesses that should really be our focus, because they are the strength and the backbone of our economy.”

KMW Plaza houses several businesses such as Mulligans Meats and Spices, two beauty supply stores, a church, and a section of Terreve College.  Expansion of the Plaza has enabled other businesses to set up shop in the establishment.

Senator Thompson said that small business development is important for the island, and that’s why there has been the establishment of the Grand Bahama Small Business Development Centre this year as part of a national initiative, in which there will be millions of dollars available for small business startups.

Minister Thompson said that the expansion of KMW Plaza provides motivation for all those small entrepreneurs who believe that they can make a difference in Grand Bahama.  “It is truly pleasing to see Grand Bahamians pouring into the economy that they want to see thrive,” said Minister Thompson.  “It’s always an exciting and proud moment, to not only witness, but to share in local businesses achieving major milestones. This plaza is certainly a testament to the growing confidence with the owners having injected some $600,000 into the economy, through this renovation and expansion project over the past several years.

“I wish to extend commendation to you who originally started the operation of KMW Batteries and Tires in 2004 and later purchased this facility as a dilapidated building, making steady progress in the renovation work.  “You have certainly come a long way and for that applaud you.”

Minister Thompson pointed out that in addition to the expansion carried out by KMW Battery and Tires, the government has also seen an increase in investor confidence among both foreign and Bahamian investors.  He cited the start up or expansion of businesses like Pirate’s Cove, Goombay Land Skating Ring, FOWLCO Logistics, Sawyer’s Super market, Home Fabrics, the expansion of Omni Financial, expansion of Pharma Chem, Elnet Maritime, Pelican Bay and other projects coming on stream.

“We would like to see more such businesses in Grand Bahama expanding their business, which continues to be proof of their confidence and hope for the Grand Bahamian economy,” said Minister Thompson.

By Andrew Coakley

Release: BIS

Header: Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator Kwasi Thompson (second right), who was the guest speaker at the official opening of the new KMW Plaza, looks on as Joetha Jones cuts the ribbon to the new Plaza, following a ceremony on Thursday, May 9, 2019.  Also looking on are Michael Jones (centre), manager of KMW Plaza; Member of Parliament for Pineridge, Frederick McAlpine (third right) and Mr. McCartney, one of the owners of the Plaza.  

Insert: Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator Kwasi Thompson (right), along with Member of Parliament for Pineridge, Frederick McAlpine (left) stand in front of the KMW-sponsored student art competition ‘first place winner’ painting, in the hallway of the new Plaza.  Michael Jones, KMW manager, is second left, with Mrs. Joetha Jones.  

(BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)

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Monument Beverage Co. Caribbean Wines & Spirits Uniquely Bahamian Newest Product

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NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Wines & Spirits (CWS), The Bahamas’ premier wines and spirits distributor is proud to announce the launch of Monument Beverage Co., its newest 100% locally produced ready-to-drink alcoholic cocktail.

Monument, “Made to Celebrate”, perfectly encapsulates everything the brand represents. Created and distributed by CWS, Monument is inspired by culture, crafted with excellence and bursting with innovation.

This unique beverage celebrates island living with three bold flavors, Ginger Lime, Peach Passion and Melon Fizz. All of which can be enjoyed at an ABV of five-point-two percent.

The brand’s creativity really shines through each can’s packaging. Bold colored stripes, cherished native flora and fauna and of course, national monuments can all be found on each can.

The beverage’s two year plus development is a testament to CWS’ dedication to quality and innovation. Countless hours of tastings, reformulations, focus groups and package design reviews all paid off with the creation of Monument.

Karla Wells-Lisgaris, Chief Commercial Officer of Caribbean Wines & Spirits and Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, shared what this authentically Bahamian made product launch means for the company.

“When we were conceptualizing Monument, we wanted to create a product that not only tasted like The Bahamas but would be an ode to the nation as well. With those two thoughts in mind, I, along with a team of experts, created three incredible flavors we believe really connect with and celebrate the essence of island living,” she said.

“Additionally, being that Monument is the first product to be 100% manufactured by Caribbean Wines & Spirits, we really wanted to ensure that both the flavors and packaging honored our rich heritage. On each of the cans, you can find various monuments such as the Nassau Public Library in New Providence, the Garden of the Grove in Grand Bahama and the Hatchet Bay Silos in Eleuthera; all of which pay homage to our diverse Bahamian heritage.” Wells-Lisgaris concluded.”

The historic monuments found throughout our islands are more than places we pass every day; they are reminders of who we are, where we’ve come from and the stories that connect us as Bahamians.

Monument is perfectly formulated with quality ingredients, and each can celebrates a collection of these cultural icons from across The Bahamas.

Whether chilling solo beachside, gathered around a family table or backyard a grill with friends, make Monument your sip of choice.  Monument is made to celebrate, visit  www.cwsbahamas.com today for more details.

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Lady Kayla Crowned Goombay Punch Cup Sailing Champion of 2025/2026

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L–R: Joss Knowles, Kianno Hutchinson, Jazmin Darling, Assistant Marketing Manager at Caribbean Bottling Company and Dallas Knowles receiving a donation on behalf of the Exuma Sailing Club at the Long Island Regatta awards ceremony.

NASSAU, Bahamas —– Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to crown Lady Kayla of Exuma as this year’s annual Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup winner.

CBC created the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup to further the advancement of sailing and Bahamian culture through monetary and social support. The competition judges the skipper’s performance across three regattas, The Best of the Best, the National Family Island and Long Island Regattas.

The winning sloop led by Kianno Hutchinson and Joss Knowles showcased their skillmanship in the E-Class category across each round of competition. In addition to winning the trophy, the skippers were awarded a $5,000 donation, an $8,000 stipend to the junior sailing club of their island and a limited-edition Lady Kayla Bahamas Goombay Punch commemorative can, which will be released soon.

Jonathan Thronebury, Marketing Director of CBC shared the significance behind The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup.

“The Bahamas Goombay Punch is more than a beloved local brand; it’s a vibrant part of our cultural fabric. Just like sailing, our national sport, it carries a rich legacy that spans generations. Recognizing this shared history, we’re proud to support initiatives that celebrate and advance Bahamian culture,” he said.

Hutchinson and Knowles shared what this win meant for them.

“I felt super proud when I realized we won. I am grateful and thankful to God, for good coaches and Joss. It was really an honor winning the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup,” Hutchinson expressed.

“I am very honored to have been able to compete in the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup, I think it is a great concept and idea for a competition and really adds a new motive throughout the regattas. The whole championship was super competitive, and every single race was a fight. Alvington McKenzie was extremely competitive and had us until the Long Island regatta, which made it a very fun and tough competition. Very excited to have been the winner of a super close championship,” Knowles revealed.

Lady Kayla’s owner, Dallas Knowles, shared the team’s winning strategy.

“In sailing consistency is key and our guys in Lady Kayla are some of the best in the business at staying near the top.  In the end, that was enough to secure their first Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup win. We are so proud of Joss and Kianno for what they have done in Lady Kayla.  Thank you to Caribbean Bottling Company for such an amazing and forward-thinking initiative,” Knowles shared.

The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup is proud to continue its impact on sailing and community building through clean and fair competition.

For more updates on the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup and Caribbean Bottling Company visit the website www.cbcbahamas.com today.

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Caribbean Bottling Supports the 27th Basketball Smiles Week  

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NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to once again support Basketball Smiles for their 27th year.

Upholding its corporate pillar of community outreach, CBC proudly donated $2,000, over 75 cases of Dasani, Powerade and Sprite, reusable Powerade water bottles and numerous marketing materials.

The annual sporting summer camp offers free basketball and life skills training to Junior and High School students.

Basketball Smiles’ mission of developing leadership qualities while fostering children’s academic achievement and self-esteem aligns perfectly with CBC’s commitment to supporting and empowering youth.

Jazmin Darling, Assistant Marketing Manager for Caribbean Bottling Company shared why the company continues to support this program each year.

“At CBC, we believe investing in our youth is one of the greatest ways to strengthen our communities. We’re proud to support Basketball Smiles each year because it goes beyond the game. This program champions healthy lifestyles, positive values and brighter futures. It’s a privilege to play a role in helping these young athletes reach their full potential each year,” she shared.

Sam Nicholls, Basketball Smiles Camp President and Founder expressed.

“Caribbean Bottling Company is an incredible partner. We are truly grateful for their generous support, which will go a long way in making a positive impact on the lives of our campers,” Nicholls expressed.

CBC is always ready to lend its support toward initiatives and programs that uplift young Bahamians. The impact Basketball Smiles makes on the community is undeniable and is why CBC remains a historic sponsor.

For more information on sponsorship, events and new products, visit www.cbcbahamas.com today.

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