–Demico House to become more attractive and appealing
THE local beverage giant Banks DIH Limited is gearing up to embark on the establishment of a new $21 million Sports Bar at Stabroek Square, which will undoubtedly give downtown Georgetown a major boost in its image.
Banks DIH Chairman and Managing Director, Clifford Reis, made this announcement on Saturday while addressing the shareholders and guests present at the company’s 56th Annual General Meeting. According to Reis, this venture forms part of the company’s efforts to institute a transformation in quality and standards offered to customers, while simultaneously targeting the younger generation of patrons.
He explained that the Board of Directors took the decision to transform Demico House, located at Stabroek Square, into a more attractive and appealing establishment.
“It was an old bar… The outside of the building cannot be altered because it is one of the buildings earmarked by the National Trust, but the inside of the building will be transformed, and we expect it to be launched in time for Mashramani,”   Reis said.
The money earmarked for this venture also caters for refurbishing Demico House and Hotel, all in keeping with the company’s theme: “The Next Level”.

Quality Control
Reis pointed out that, in addition to achieving ISO 22000-225 compliance by the end of this year, the company also proposes to ensure Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 220 Certification.
This addresses the requirements for establishing, implementing and maintaining Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) to assist in controlling food safety hazards.
As to other measures of quality control the company intends to implement, he said, “The Food Safety System Certification (FSSC) will also be pursued in the soft drink production facilities.”

Improvement in Service
The Chairman noted that there are plans underway to improve not only the service, but the quality of products offered at Banks outlets. Testimony to this commitment is the fact that the ISO officers visit the establishments every day to ensure standards are met.
As to the impact of these efforts, Reis proudly announced that, in a little under a year, there has been no complaint lodged regarding the quality of food offered at outlets.
He also said the company has improved the formula used to make the brand’s fried chicken tastier and more attractive to compete on the market.
“What we are doing is we have bought new equipment fryers, blenders… The new blend has helped the company increase sales of fried chicken,” Reis added.
The Chairman maintained that Banks DIH will continue to focus on quality, new product innovation, packaging, and customer service satisfaction in all aspects of its operations