Marico Thomas On Robberies, Safety & More
[Written by Don Burgess]
Marico Thomas, the owner of the popular Four Star and Food Hub chains, is grappling with a recent crime wave that has hit his restaurants twice within two weeks, which he describes as “an unprecedented situation.”
The crime in Bermuda, particularly in the capital city of Hamilton, has put local businesses on high alert. Mr Thomas, who also serves as the President of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce, expressed his concerns about this new trend of violence and theft.
“We’re witnessing a worrying escalation in criminal activities, from smash-and-grab incidents to more aggressive robberies,” Mr. Thomas told Bernews.
The entrepreneur has initiated a safety review of his businesses in response to these challenges.
“Our priority has always been the safety of our staff and customers. These incidents have prompted us to reevaluate our security measures and implement new strategies to prevent future occurrences,” Mr. Thomas explained.
The most recent robbery at Food Hub in Hamilton resulted in a cash loss of $150. The entrepreneur said the cash figure was so low because the staff was following the safety and security protocols, which had already been established. Despite this, the psychological impact on employees and customers is significant, with Mr Thomas emphasizing the importance of addressing their concerns.
“Anyone who comes to work for us, we need to treat them like family and protect them as such,” Mr. Thomas said. “It is one thing when someone comes in and is a bit of a brute, and it’s another thing when someone comes in and brandishes a thing that has the appearance of a real weapon.”
Four Star is accelerating the rollout of a gift card program to reduce the risk of theft further. Starting today [Monday, December 11], gift cards will be available for purchase as part of a broader strategy to minimize cash transactions, a move Mr. Thomas believes will deter potential robberies as there will be less cash on the premises of his restaurants.
Mr. Thomas also highlighted the need for a collective response from the business community and local authorities. “Collaboration is key. We’re in discussions with the police and other stakeholders to enhance overall security in our commercial areas,” he said.
Read More About
Category: All, Business, Crime, News
In high targeted areas or places that seem to be more at risk, install a buzzer/camera on the door (after dark) to deter ppl wearing a helmet and/or mask from entering the establishment. I know it’s not a cheap solution and not “bullet proof”, but I’d like to think that it would help to deter a criminal.
Just a thought, how about the BPS put feet on the ground and present a visible presence instead of looking at CCTV?
Does he not think about how this will be perceived by tourist and those who come across Bermuda for the first time? The article makes it sound like Bermuda is the wild Wild West when in actuality it is one of the safest places on earth. Yeah I get your businesses have been hit but think about things before you say them.
‘One of the safest places on earth ?’
OK , that was funny .