The construction of the new IBIS supermarket on Horn Island is progressing rapidly, with the steel framework now in place and a grand opening scheduled for mid-year 2020.
Not-for-profit remote store operator Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) this week unveiled an image of the store’s concept with an improved, modern look and design.
The new store, which began construction in December with ground clearance and slab pouring, will include:
increased trading area from 85m² to 390m²
increased storage capacity for chiller and freezer goods
expanded range of goods available to customers.
CEQ Chief Executive Officer Ian Copeland said the new supermarket is a major bonus for all Horn Island residents and visitors to the island.
“We’re delighted to build a new IBIS store on Horn Island to continue to provide the best possible service to the local community,” said Mr Copeland.
“The architects have done a fantastic job with a new build design which captures the essence of the Torres Strait with his colour, shape and structure.
“Our aim is for the staff and people of Horn Island to be proud of their new store, which will provide quality fruit and vegetables, and healthy food options. This is a community store for the community.”
The new Horn Island store follows last month’s grand opening of an IBIS-branded store in Napranum.
“These new stores show how we are reinvesting in infrastructure to increase capacity, employment, quality, range and affordability in communities, said Mr Copeland.
CEQ is a not-for-profit organisation responsible for providing goods and essential services to the Torres Strait, Northern Peninsula Area (NPA), and mainland Aboriginal remote communities through its 27 stores.
CEQ’s Corporate Office is based in Cairns, and manages Islanders Board of Industry and Service (IBIS) and Aboriginal Business, Industry and Service (ABIS) remote stores, as well as other stores including Col Jones and Mitre 10 on Thursday Island.
For more information, visit www.ceqld.org.au