Young entrepreneur starts new business venture

Barbadian entrepreneur Tyrique Wilson, best known for launching the successful Carrington’s Rum Cream brand in 2020, has expanded his business portfolio with the opening of Outlet Auto Spas at the Sugar Cane Mall car park in Bridgetown.

The new vehicle valet and detailing business officially opened its doors on Saturday, marking the realisation of a long-held ambition for the young businessman.

Speaking during the grand opening, Wilson said the venture was years in the making.

“It’s our very first day opening after six weeks of preparation, getting all the equipment, getting all the bookings, getting the marketing out there, and finally we’re here,” he said.

Wilson explained that the idea of owning a car wash business had been with him since his secondary school days, but financial and logistical hurdles delayed those plans.

“Car wash businesses have always spoken to me. From the time I was in secondary school, I wanted to start a car wash, but the barriers to entry are a bit higher in terms of getting the canopy done, getting cement done and getting all the equipment,” he said. “I’m so happy that I’m finally able to do it now after years of wanting to do it and weeks of preparing to get it done.”

While Wilson successfully established Carrington’s Rum Cream, he admitted that launching Outlet Auto Spas proved to be a more complex undertaking.

“It was extremely difficult, I’m not going to lie,” he said. “Because it’s a car wash business and has a physical location, there are so many moving parts that you have to pay attention to, whether that be organising bookings, making sure you have the correct equipment or ensuring the water drains out properly.”

Among those attending the opening were Minister Gregory Nicholls and Senator Shane Archer.

Nicholls praised Wilson’s determination and entrepreneurial drive, describing the new business as another example of the potential of Barbados’ young people.

“I remember him as a law student in the faculty. He’s actually a brilliant legal mind,” Nicholls said, recalling that Wilson had previously assisted him with constitutional research.

“To see him here, opening his second business, is really a testament that young people have a lot of talent. Once we give them the opportunities, they will rise to the top and reach for the stars.”

Nicholls also commended Wilson’s decision to pursue entrepreneurship, noting that it was “not an easy decision” to put legal studies on hold, but one that has already yielded impressive results.

Meanwhile, Senator Archer said Wilson’s efforts show that young Barbadians are capable of pursuing positive lines of work.

“We have to highlight the positive things that young persons do. This week, two young men were shot, and it was blasted all over the media. I hope that in the same notion that this can also be shown and shared throughout Barbados because as we continue to tackle crime…to be here today [at a] business for a young Barbadian from Carrington Village just speaks to the notion that greatness can come from everywhere.”