Managing Directors of Grills Restaurant & Bar Port Denarau, Vimal Bhagwan and Divesh Bhagwan,
Invited Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Bula Vinaka, and a very good evening to you all.
As the Minister responsible for Commerce and Tourism, it would be remiss of me if I didn’t acknowledge how wonderful it is to walk around Denarau and see it coming back to its former glory.
So ladies and gentlemen, it gives me great pleasure to join you this evening, to be part of the Bhagwan family’s achievement in officially launching “Grills Restaurant & Bar Port Denarau”.
Over the last few weeks, we have seen a number of businesses opening around the country, simply indicating investor confidence, as our economy recovers. And today, we are gathered to launch another venture, pinning the resilience of the business community within this township.
Vimal and Divesh, the location of your establishment in the lively locale of Port Denarau Marina is ideal – as a dynamic and exciting heart. I am sure Grills Restaurant & Bar Port Denarau will be added to the bucket-list of those seeking the culinary experiences you will offer.
I am told, eighteen Fijians will be employed at the Grills Restaurant & Bar, from different trades of life. So, Vimal and Divesh, your new business means a source of employment for young Fijians who want to be part of our vibrant tourism industry and that of the “gastronomy” aspect and experience offered by Port Denarau Marina.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Like many other businesses, built on an ambition, the love for food has enabled two brothers to open doors to their second store in Fiji – the first being the “Grills Restaurant and Bar” in Laucala Bay, Suva in November, 2020 despite the pandemic.
Today, the team under the leadership of Vimal and Divesh, are prepared for the tourism market, offering a healthy menu supported by 80 percent of local producers, purchased from Fijian owned companies – making them a perfect example of a food experience that connects you to Fijian flavors.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The pandemic has taught us to adapt to new situations. So I commend the Bhagwan brothers for venturing into this investment of $400,000, and to establish an impressive space, with future ambition to form Fiji’s first franchise.
The operation will contribute to the much needed boost within this locale, and will offer a fresh menu for patrons.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
We know that certain businesses were recognised to be more delicate than the others during the pandemic.
Whilst the pandemic remains challenging at intervals, business adaptability, compliance, and our high vaccination rates – to a very great extent, had a part in allowing us to safely open our international borders to visitors late last year and now support the removal of a minimum 3-night stay at a Care Fiji Commitment (CFC) Certified hotel, taking the next step in our economic recovery.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Coming back to today’s event, I once again commend the Bhagwan family, especially Vimal and Divesh and the team at “Grills Restaurant & Bar Port Denarau” for aspiring towards turning their love for food into a business with determination.
I wish you the very best in your business accomplishments and success.
Vinaka Vakalevu.