Premier Paula Cox was on hand to cut the ribbon at the official opening of AS Cooper & Sons' new Reid Street level third floor on Friday.

Following an introduction by chairman of the AS Cooper Board, Kim White, Premier Cox applauded the company for its "innovation, intelligence and inventiveness" and for "building from strength to strength since the 1800s as one of Bermuda's signature stores".

Managing director Somers Cooper joined the Premier in the ribbon cutting ceremony followed by a tour of the new department. Fellow MP's Dame Jennifer Smith and Neletha Butterfield joined her at ceremony, in addition to Mayor of Hamilton Charles Gosling and Bermuda Chamber of Commerce president Stephen Todd.

AS Coopers reopened at the 26 Reid St. location showcasing ladies fashions and accessories, which had been moved up from the second floor. The second floor has been converted to a Missy Sportswear department and was relocated from its Harbourside store.