A SIGNIFICANT step has been made in "upgrading" Ramsey's retail experience.
That's the view of Isle of Man Enterprises plc which has opened an Iceland supermarket in the town.
The new store is part of a development programme by Isle of Man Enterprises plc which includes Shoprite, Shoprite Living and the Subway franchise.
Iceland, which is located in St Paul's Square, replaces the existing Shoprite unit.
Andrew Thomas, the chief executive of Isle of Man Enterprises plc, said: "We are looking to improve our customer's shopping experience in Ramsey by clearly segmenting the two stores that we operate.
"The Iceland brand is hugely popular in the UK as a convenience and value chain while Shoprite will stock more premium items while still providing customers with value for money as well.
"We believe that this is a significant step in upgrading Ramsey's retail experience and represents a major investment in the north of the Island by Isle of Man Enterprises."
Isle of Man Enterprises plc has had a trading relationship with Iceland since 1996 which includes access to the brand's range of frozen, grocery, chilled and fresh products.
The new store in Ramsey is the first part of a six figure regeneration programme planned for Ramsey by the company that it says will improve the retail experience for customers in the north of the Island.
Mr Thomas continued: "We are looking at a comprehensive retail redevelopment programme which, as we are a Manx domiciled company, will provide greater direct benefits to the Manx economy. It also shows that Manx retailers can compete effectively."
Chief Minister and Ramsey MHK Allan Bell officially opened the store. He said: "It is heartening to see an Isle of Man company making such a strong commitment to the north of the Island.
"This new store is an excellent representation of the partnership between the public and private sectors that is essential to drive regeneration in our towns and stimulate economic growth in the Isle of Man.It is a confident statement and shows that Manx retailers can compete effectively.
"As a local MHK I'm also delighted to see that all the St Paul's units are now occupied."
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Picture caption: The Iceland team - L to R: Carol Franchamps, John Slattery (store manager), Andy Tidd, Jennifer Oates, Richard Munro, Niall Blackburn, Judy Taggart and Conor Howard.
