Rum cake king to partner with local liquor store

(CNS): Local package liquor store JD Liquors of Batabano Plaza in West Bay will be getting a new look next month following a deal to partner with Tortuga Rum Company Limited and Robert Hamaty  — the man who is who put the rum in rum cake. Judy Deslandes, sole proprietor of of the small store has entered into a management agreement with the larger firm which has 16 retail outlets across Grand Cayman. The deal will allow Deslandes to increase the retail space and add new lines including fine wines, spirits and more international beers not previously carried at the store as well as improve security.

The store will also be fitted with modern systems and equipment, including a new 24-hour monitored CCTV, on both the interior and exterior of the store and onsite, physical security during opening hours, from 10am- 10pm, six days a week.

The new arrangement will take effect 1 June and a planned re-opening is scheduled for the middle of the month. “After 23 years of working six days a week, 12 hours a day it was time for me to slow down,” said Deslandes. “When I went looking for a partner, I wanted someone who shared my values – someone who worked hard for their success, someone with deep roots in the community and someone who would respect the residents and tourists in West Bay. I found that partner in Robby and Carlene Hamaty and I could not be happier.”

She said after spending half her life building the business it was satisfying to be able
to partner with people she trusted to carry on the work.

Robby Hamaty said that this was not a new relationship. “Ms. Judy has been one our good customers for 23 years,” the rum cake king stated. “Since 1992 we have had a successful duty free liquor store near the Turtle Farm and we are pleased to be expanding in the West Bay community. When the opportunity presented itself to work with Ms. Judy, I recognized immediately this was excellent location at one of the most of important cross roads for
residents and visitors alike.”

Deslandes added that the last two years were particularly tough ones and thank her niece Pilar Bush of AtWater Consulting Ltd. for helping her find a strategic partner during these difficult economic times.
“This is a good match for me, and I believe for the community,” she added.