Business of the Month F & M Halal Outlet received a cheque and two plaques. From left are Deputy Governor V. Inez Archibald, Musa Mohammed from F & M Halal Outlet, Premier Dr the Hon D. Orlando Smith, Director of the Trade and Consumer Affairs Department Mrs Karia J. Christopher and acting Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Premier Brodrick Penn. Photo: VINO

“Every single month for the next ten months we will be choosing someone and at the end of the year we will have Business of the Year along with the Innovative Business of the Year,” said Director of the Trade and Consumer Affairs Department Mrs Karia J. Christopher. Photo: VINO

Speaking after receiving his award, Mr Musa Mohammed owner of F & M Halal Outlet explained the process of preparing foods the 'Halal' way. Photo: VINO

Some of the guests at the cocktail reception on Tuesday night March 3, 2015 at Maria's by the Sea. Photo: VINO

Persons at the cocktail reception. Photo: VINO

The launching took place on Tuesday evening March 3, 2015 at Maria’s by the Sea. As the business copping the Business of the Month Award, F & M Halal Outlet will be receiving free advertising courtesy of the Government of the Virgin Islands.

This business, which had been the recipient of a loan through the National Business Bureau, has been in operation for the past 14 years. It won on outstanding customer service, provision of unique products and diligent community involvement.

Speaking after receiving the award, owner of F & M’s Halal Outlet Musa Mohammed thanked everyone for supporting his business and explained what the concept of Halal. “What Halal is, Halal is a way of preparing food for people who are spiritually inclined. All our foods are prepared that way and we do a variety of foods…chicken, turkey, duck, Cornish hens, we do rams and also rabbits,” said Mohammed.

Also shortlisted were Jenesis Studios, an art museum and gallery owned by Reuben Vanterpool and Reel Paradise Charters, a fishing and excursion business owned by Dean Titley. As a result of their being nominated, both of these businesses will receive free advertising throughout the month of March.

“Every single month for the next ten months we will be choosing someone and at the end of the year we will have Business of the Year along with the Innovative Business of the Year,” said Director of the Trade and Consumer Affairs Department Mrs Karia J. Christopher.

Christopher said the department’s strategy also includes fueling the entrepreneurial spirit and that this was an exciting time as the department prepares the Territory for local investments, according to a GIS statement.

“The British Virgin Islands continues to showcase extraordinary growth and productivity in a competitive economy. The shortlisted businesses for this month’s competition were no exception to the rule. I am proud to be a part of such a prestigious initiative encouraging competitiveness amongst our economy,” she said.

“It has been proven over and over again that successful businesses in the Territory are a clear sign of a strong and vibrant economy. We will continue to do our part in supporting our local businesses,” she said.

“Ladies and gentlemen, as the new Director with a new Direction I am proud of my team and of our refocused agenda. Come and experience the difference and observe our transformation,” she said.