TONY Regan has more than happy to be the Royal on 99's symbolic first 'customer'.

The Garvie family held a free soft launch this weekend with the dual purpose of thanking the contractors for their hard work and testing their new staff ahead of the real opening this Friday night.

Mr Regan, who 'used' his $20 to buy a schooner of beer (all food and drink was free on the night), helped lay the carpet throughout the new building as part of Hall's Carpet Court.

Despite his contribution, he said it was minuscule in the scheme of things.

"I contributed the smallest part to this project that was really successful," Mr Regan said.

"It was really satisfying to see it all come together in the end."

More than 100 people turned up to the soft launch, and the Garvies made sure not to forget anyone who had helped them to finish the building.

Mr Regan said the family had made a significant mark on Roma with the completion of the project.

"I congratulate the Garvies on this," he said.

"I've known them for a long time and they've always supported local businesses."

At least 300 people are expected to be at the opening of the Royal on 99, more than 18 months since the old Royal Hotel burned down in November 2014.