Association of Marsascala Shop Owners set up

At a meeting held earlier this month between various Marsascala outlet owners, it was decided to establish the Association of Marsascala Shop Owners. Marsascala mayor Charlot Mifsud and councillor Michael Mercieca attended the meeting.

The meeting was held on the initiative of Erremme Business Advisers following the recommendations in their report on Marsascala and the entertainment industry, drawn up last August.

The main aim of the association is to improve Marsascala as an entertainment area in the common interest of the association's members, Marsascala residents and persons who choose Marsascala for their entertainment.

To achieve this the association, in collaboration with the relevant authorities, will try to address the various difficulties identified in the study.

In his opening speech at the meeting, Reuben Buttigieg of Erremme Business Advisers highlighted the importance of unity between businesses in the area in order to face common problems.

The main issues identified in the study reinforced the widely held views that such an association was needed.

Mr Buttigieg said that authorities need to be given feasible proposals and not just complaints. Such proposals in certain cases would need to be supported by the necessary research and/or studies.

He pointed out that this association should in no way compete with the national associations such as MHRA and GRTU, which have a very important role to play, as well as responsibilities.

However, the issues addressed by such associations are normally of national, not local, interest.

The Association of Marsascala Outlets wanted to play a role similar to that of Paceville establishments. It needs also to work hand in hand with other associations.

The business persons at the meeting accepted the proposal made by Erremme Business Advisers and unanimously decided to ask businesses in Marsascala outside the entertainment industry to join the association.

Further information may be obtained by sending an e-mail to erremme@global.net.mt or by calling 7929-7389.