A former liquor store in Warwick last weekend reopened as part of the pharmacy and retail company Phoenix Stores.

And Phoenix has kept the Hayward’s Liquor Store name, which was part of the White’s supermarket group that folded four years ago.

George Grundmuller, CEO of Phoenix, said the store had undergone massive renovations and been restocked with top-selling brands of wine, beer and spirits.

He added: “When the opportunity presented itself, we immediately jumped at the prospect of investing in this location.

“Our experience in retail and established relationships with vendors on and off island has allowed us to quickly transform the site and create a stronger and more capable retail operation offering the most sought-after brands in the market.

“In addition to creating employment opportunities for a fantastic team of locals, we’ve devoted considerable amounts of resources to ensure the safety of employees and consumers in the area and pride ourselves in presenting Bermuda’s newest discount liquor store with the best pricing on the island.”

Although the store reopened for business on Friday, an official opening will be held on Friday, with special deals available.

Steven Perry, general manager of the new store, said the workforce included full-time security and staff certified under the TIPS scheme, which is aimed at encouraging a responsible attitude to alcohol sales.

He added: “We have received a warm welcome from patrons thus far, are well aware of our accountability as good citizens of the community and look forward to meeting consumer expectations.” Phoenix Stores, established more than 100 years ago, runs six pharmacies across the island, as well as seven retail stores, including the Brown & Co department store on Front Street, and other retail operations in technology, photography and toys.