Our History
The History of HHV Whitchurch
& Co. Ltd. - Since 1910
Established in 1910 by Herbert Harry Vivian Whitchurch,
hence the name H.H.V. Whitchurch & Co. Ltd., Whitchurch
has grown from being insurance and ships’ agents
into a multifaceted and dynamic company. We employ over
220 Dominicans and are proud of our service to our country.
The Chronicle, Friday, December 9, 2005
Whitchurch IGA Supercentre - from humble beginnings
to proud achievements
In 1910, Whitchurch operated a grocery shop called The
Paz on Drury Lane and also a hotel known as Hotel De Paz,
facing what is now the Carib Cinema. In 1961, fire destroyed
the entire block, including the business and other businesses
occupying the area. A few days later, the company purchased
fro L. Rose and Company the building which was then a
lime warehouse, and set up the office on top floor and
a shop downstairs.
In 1975, the company opened the Supercentre and had it
blessed by Father Charles on December 11 that same year.
From then on the company undertook some upgrading, and
in 1984, the top floor of the building was constructed
to accommodate a number of services including Shipping
and Insurance. In 1996, it carried out major upgrading,
renovating, updating and remodelling of the Supercentre.
Whitchurch Supermarket became the IGA Supercentre in 1996.
IGA (International Grocery's Alliance) had observed that
the Supermarket had achieved and maintained a high level
standard and welcomed Whitchurch Supermarket into its
worldwide network. The Company's relationship with IGA,
said Managing Director Gerry Aird, is a support arrangement.
The Company does not receive financial assistance, but
benefits by receiving good prices, and regular supplies
through their members.
The prestigious IGA Supercentre features Dominica's first
and only in-store Deli and Bakery which was opened on
December 12, 1996. This facility offers customers an extraordinary
variety of fresh wholesome local products as well as products
from the Caribbean and the world. Among the Deli's specials
are the famous chicken Drummettes and Potato Wedges and
fresh pizzas. In fact, the Deli has a wide variety of
delicious snacks, breads and cakes for everybody.
Store Manager Brent Evans told The Chronicle that
it is being heavily patronised especially for the lunch
periods during which it provides take-away meals. He also
said that the Deli has proven to be a wonderful facility
for more and more Dominicans. Ten persons are currently
employed on a shift system at the Deli which is opened
from 8 am to 7 pm Mondays to Thursdays, and 8 am to 8
pm Fridays and Saturdays.
On December 12th, 2005, Whitchurch IGA Supercentre celebrates
30 years in the business. Acclaimed for always buying
and selling local amongst its many imported products,
the Supercentre has become renowned for offering a wide
range of products at competitive prices as well as fresh
produce of good quality.
HHV Whitchurch Calendars
Each year HHV Whitchurch & Co Ltd produces a Calendar
with photographs or artwork depicting Dominica's history.
Drop
into one of our offices and pick up your Calendar.
