The Tribune

The 17th independently-owned Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) franchise store has opened in Coconut Grove, owned by businessman Ian Antonio.

BTC’s franchise manager, Dwight Gibson, speaking at the opening, said: “Focusing on the franchise model has opened up opportunities for 17 Bahamian entrepreneurs thus far, and even more employees.

“We are proud to partner with experienced local business people such as Ian Antonio.

“We think these partnerships are sound business sense for all parties involved, and in the near future we hope to have as many as 40 independently-owned 
BTC franchise stores and kiosks.”

Mr Antonio added: “Following more than 10 years in the cellular electronics business, this was the logical next step to expand our company, C.T.I. Cellular & Electronics, and to increase our services to Coconut Grove.

“We thank BTC for giving us the opportunity to franchise; they have done an excellent job in preparing us for this.”

Mr Gibson added that the main benefit from the franchise business model was for customers.

“We launched franchise stores in communities 18 months ago because it brings BTC products and services into neighbourhoods,” he added.

“The convenience of paying your bill locally or shopping for a new phone is often preferable to going to the Mall or downtown.

Today we are particularly pleased to be here in the Coconut Grove community, as BTC has a long history with this neighbourhood.”

Cynthia ‘Mother’ Pratt, former Deputy Prime Minister and resident of the Coconut Grove, said the neighbourhood was excited about the new services.

“This is a community that welcomes BTC,” Mrs Pratt said.

“This store demonstrates that BTC is willing to come to the people, instead of the people having to come to BTC.

“The people who live here want and deserve quality, and this is the best.”