The Rock Café and Sam’s Piano Bar on Virgin Gorda have captured the July Business of the Month title.

The announcement was made by the Department of Trade and Consumer Affairs in its continued efforts to promote and fuel the entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses in the Territory.

Virgin Gordian business owner Mr. Dwite Flax, along with his wife Mrs. Paola Moretti-Flax won the award with criteria based on outstanding customer service, provision of unique products, and diligent community involvement. This is the second sister-island winner hailing from The Valley, Virgin Gorda.

The Rock Café and Sam’s Piano Bar, a dual entity which has been in operation for twenty years, specialise in Italian cuisine and Caribbean dishes and provides entertainment on Virgin Gorda and to the Territory. The Rock Café and Sam’s Piano Bar also provide their guests with a distinctive outdoor dining experience with fine Italian Cuisine and Caribbean dishes.

Manager of the Rock Café and Sam’s Piano Bar, Ms. Sasha Flax stated, “Our friendly staff and dedicated team enhance the defined character and quality of this magical place where tourists and residents continuously enjoy the "fusion" of local warmth and European class. With the expansion of the business we have created over ten additional jobs to assist with the success of the entities.”

The Rock Café and Sam’s Piano Bar also note the importance of customer service throughout the Territory and have introduced a series of training sessions conducted by Ms. Flax on the hospitality and tourism industry.

Director of the Department of Trade and Consumer Affairs, Mrs. Karia Christopher said, “The Rock Café and Sam’s Piano Bar continues to strive in the competitive food and entertainment industry, even after operating for more than twenty years. Its ability to adapt to its surroundings and adjust its services to attract the majority demonstrates true commitment to its service and its customers. We are very proud to have them as our July Business of the Month and our second sister-island recipient.”

As part of their winnings, Mr. and Mrs. Flax will receive monetary funds to further promote their business and promotion by way of Government through the provision of free advertisements. Promotion includes a GIS interview with the business owners; sponsored commercials for the month via radio and television; a business profile on the Government’s website and the online media; a profile on BVICCHA’s website; one year’s free membership with BVICCHA; and a framed certificate.

For more information on The Rock Café and Sam’s Piano Bar, visit their website at www.therockcafebvi.com, or by telephone at: (284) 495-5482. Alternatively their email address is rockcafevg@gmail.com.

The Department of Trade and Consumer Affairs continues to support small businesses and encourages businesses in the Virgin Islands to supply, provide, and give back in order to become the next Business of the Month. Interested persons can log onto bvi.gov.vg for a nomination form.

Businesses can apply, or members of the public can nominate businesses or business persons by submitting a nomination form and an essay of at least 300 words stating why the nominee should be considered for the Business of the Month award.