The Tribune

THE Bahamas Telecommunications Corporation (BTC) has invested $100,000 to renovate its store in Treasure Cay, Abaco, as part of the continued effort to redefine its retail footprint. The new location is one of four stores set to open between March 22 and March 31, 2012, and provides 50 per cent more space while transforming the former outdated administrative centre. The Abaco store is the latest in a string of rebuilds and re-openings, converting often outdated bill payment and service centres into interactive spaces with a variety of products and plans available for experiment and instant connection. BTC's retail transformation, which began with the Mall at Marathon opening in December, will see the company opening its next four stores in seven days - two in New Providence, one in George Town, Exuma, and the smallest one - about 800 square feet after expansion - in Treasure Cay. Another is on tap for Marsh Harbour, Abaco. Renovations also started this week in Eleuthera, where there will be four stores. Officials said they are finalising details on the first franchise, which is expected to be announced shortly. The largest of the new renovations is set for George and Bay Streets in Nassau, which is set for an official opening on March 30. Bob Gill, BTC's retail lead, who has served as project manager for the retail expansion, said: "It has taken tremendous coordination and cooperation, but although we started later than we originally planned, we are on schedule and within budget." BTC launched its 4G network when it opened the Mall at Marathon store following a $500,000 makeover that transformed office and administrative space into a vibrant, branded retail experience. That store has exceeded budgeted returns, and the company is investing another $750,000 in renovations of the four stores set to open between March 23 and March 30. Mr Gill added: "What makes this especially notable is that we have been able to meet our deadlines and keep our promises despite the challenges and surprises of specific sites, like finding all the uneven floor levels at Bay and George Street, and the other competing demands on engineering and technical crew. "In each location on each island we have been able to find skilled electricians, air-conditioning technicians, carpenters, tile layers, masons. Wherever we have been able to, we have employed local workmen and artisans, and the response has been more than satisfactory."