$100K Bula VIP Lounge Opens in Laucala
The launch of another venture demonstrates the vigour of an enterprising young gentlemen: Faiyaz Koya
Friday 08 July 2022 | 20:30
Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport Faiyaz Koya(fourth from right), Director of Bula VIP Lounge Melvin Pratap(third from right), with the staff of Bula VIP Lounge after the opening ceremony at Challenge Plaza, Laucala Beach on July 7,2022. Photo: Laisa Lui
Bula VIP Lounge, a $100,000 restaurant and bar opened at Laucala Beach in Suva yesterday.
Owner, Melvin Pratap said: “I have always dreamt of opening a restaurant because I love food and cooking.”
His first business was at a kiosk at the bus station in Nausori selling fish and chips, the second was on the rooftop of Outrigger at Waimanu Road, the third restaurant is now located at the Challenge Plaza (formerly known as Vivraz Plaza) in Laucala Beach. He now employs a total of 30 people.
Related stories
Mr Pratap, is also the Director of Japanese Auto Trading.
“Food business does not go down at any point and I have been eyeing this location for some time now,” Mr Pratap said.
“The workers are former resort workers and they know their job well to provide the tastiest food and beverage at this location.”
The space was sold to Mr Pratap seven months ago, he then invested $100,000 for the renovation and refurbishment of the property.
Mr Pratap thanked all his workers and family for their support towards this investment.
Bula VIP Lounge was officially opened by Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, Faiyaz Koya.
“Over the last few weeks, we have seen a number of businesses opening around the country, simply indicating investor confidence, as our economy makes progress,” Mr Koya said.
“The launch of another venture demonstrates the vigour of an enterprising young gentleman."
“The location of your establishment in the bustling location of Laucala Beach is fitting and I am sure the Bula VIP Lounge will be an added establishment for the community of Laucala Beach to try out.
“With the newly established restaurant, a total of thirty Fijians are employed at the Bula VIP Lounge, the business aspiration means a source of employment for young Fijians who want to be part of our vibrant culinary industry.
“The indirect benefits the new establishment has on the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) who are supporting and supplying food and essential items to Melvin’s business – whether it is someone supplying eggs and even delivering trucks.
“These are supporting industries, the job creators which create ripple benefits to Fijian economy such as creating more opportunities to support livelihood,” he said.
Mr Koya said with the ministry donation to two young entrepreneurs simply sending a clear message to young entrepreneurs to continue turning to good use their talents, aspirations and formal education in seizing opportunities.
“The pandemic has taught us to adapt to new situations, so I commend Mr Pratap and the team at Bula VIP Lounge for creating an experience to be explored and enjoyed by everyone.”
The lounge opens from 10am to 10pm everyday except Tuesdays.
Feedback: laisa.kabulevu@fijisun.com.fj
