Giovanna Debono, Minister for Gozo, officially inaugurated UPIM – Gozo which also happens to be the first UPIM department store in the Maltese islands. The opening of this renowned Italian brand was made possible through an exclusivity collaboration agreement signed by Michele Peresso Group with UPIM srl of Italy, which allows for the opening of four large UPIM establishments in Malta and Gozo.

The Michele Peresso Group will be investing €6 million in the next years, towards the opening of these new stores. It is expected that this will create over 55 new jobs with ten new employees having already been engaged for the running of UPIM – Gozo. Michele Peresso Group and Upim have specifically requested that all applicants for Upim Gozo will be residents of Gozo.

Upim needs no introduction to the thousands of Maltese who regularly travel or have travelled to Italy in the past years. In Italy it represents a household name and caters for different categories through its five departments, mainly upim women, upim men, upim kids, upim home and upim perfumery. This new department store is situated in the recently inaugurated mall ‘The Duke,’ in Republic Street Victoria.

During the official inauguration of UPIM in Gozo, the Minister for Gozo congratulated Upim srl, Michele Peresso Group and Island Developers Ltd for their new venture. The Minister highlighted the importance of such an investment by local and foreign private investors in Gozo, which signifies confidence in our country. This has more meaning within the context of the particularly challenging time that international economies are going through.

Minister Debono also remarked that the jobs being created in Gozo as well as the upholding of environmental friendly measures taken through this new venture, are in line with the Ministry for Gozo’s endeavours to create the right environment for sustainable development. This is also in line with Government’s vision for Gozo which aims to use Gozo’s potential of becoming a model for sustainable living, development and environment protection through the eco-Gozo concept.

Mr Emanuel Peresso, CEO of Michele Peresso Group, addressed those present for the occasion. Amongst other things, Mr Peresso emphasized the importance of investment effected by small and medium enterprises especially when considered within the present international economic scenario. He also commented upon the merits gained by each respective company through their collaboration.

Michele Peresso Group and Upim will grant free gifts with every purchase during the first inaugurating two weeks. In order to increase awareness to safeguard the environment, upim will be distributing free of charge re-usable shoppers ‘Environmental Friendly Bags’ with every purchase. This is also in line with Government’s policy as well as the eco-Gozo vision.

Upim will also introduce a Loyalty Card for all its distinguished customers form the first day of opening.

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