Managing director Jonathan Creasey said there was too much negativity surrounding the retail sector, insisting the high street remained an important hub for the community.
‘I strongly believe that there’s a sense of pride in the High Street, and certainly in Guernsey, a sense of community,’ he said.
‘And what better place to meet and socialise with friends and family and make memories than in a buzzing town centre?
‘Guernsey is quite special in that respect. I think there’s too much noise around how tough it is on the high street.
‘Some high streets throughout the UK are in a terrible state, and we all get tarred with the same brush. But there are a lot of high streets in the UK that are doing phenomenally well, it’s just not reported on.’
Mr Creasey said footfall in town had increased this year, with other developments also contributing to its future.
The company’s investment, previously reported at £12.5m., has transformed the former HSBC building at 13, High Street, into an extension of its department store, with the first phase opening in September last year.
General manager, Stephen Mewha said the latest stage, including the arrival of perfume brand Jo Malone London tomorrow, demonstrated continued optimism in the future of local retail.
‘I think it’s fantastic for the High Street. I think it gives a confidence for it,’ he said.
‘People in Guernsey like nothing better than coming in and shopping.
‘They love shopping local, and our job is to deliver the brands that they love.’
The accessories department will open next week, with further cosmetics installations planned for January, followed by the relocation of womenswear and menswear into their permanent spaces.
Its rooftop restaurant is expected to open next summer.
Mr Mewha confirmed that all staff for the new departments were being recruited locally, although the number of additional jobs was not yet confirmed.
The local Jo Malone crew have spent the week training in Manchester ready for tomorrow’s launch.
Mr Creasey said the business remained passionate about providing employment opportunities for islanders.
‘There are always plenty of jobs in retail that appeal to a whole variety of age groups, skill sets and demographics, which is part of the uniqueness of retail,’ he said.
‘It’s not quite 24/7, but it’s certainly 12 hours a day, seven days a week. So there’s shift work that can feed into people’s lifestyles.’
He said the redevelopment, first conceived in 2017, had faced delays from Covid and rising costs.
‘It’s been quite challenging, but we’re getting there. We’re getting in really good shape for Christmas.’