MP Sylvan Richards has cut the ribbon to officially launch the latest business at The Plaza.

Former Rubber Tree Market vendors Janet Perinchief and Delarie Outerbridge moved into the store, on Middle Road in Warwick, three months ago. The grand opening was on Saturday.

The women are among 10 vendors sharing space in the shop, which allows entrepreneurs to split the costs of rent, utilities and other overheads.

Mr Richards, Junior Minister for Home Affairs, praised the women as “tangible examples of micro-entrepreneurs who have honed their business skills through vending and grown their individual businesses to a point where the next logical step was having a physical retail store”.

“With the support and guidance of the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), their dream has become a reality and an inspiration for all whom aspire to become entrepreneurs,” he added.

Among the items for sale are baby and children’s wear, teen clothing, school uniforms, plus-size fashions, costume jewellery, cosmetics and menswear.

The Plaza is between Lindo’s and the Island Spice restaurant.

The BEDC aims to foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem in Bermuda and seeded markets such as Rubber Tree, Olde Towne and Hidden Treasures, offering funding for development.

Assistance included securing locations and facilities, acquiring infrastructure and equipment, promotion and marketing and developing business skills.

For more information, call 292-5570 or visit www.bedc.bm