Several local producers and suppliers participated in a Provisioning Barbadian Products to the Global Cruise Industry Seminar at Hilton Barbados Resort, aimed at allowing them the opportunity to supply their products to the Royal Caribbean Group (RCG).
And, Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, speaking at the opening yesterday, noted that the Ministry, in conjunction with the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. and the Barbados Port Inc., was pleased to embark on this initiative.
He said it was intended to connect local businesses with RCG primary procurement executives to discuss the provisioning of products to their cruise liners.
Mr. Gooding-Edghill described the seminar as an important opportunity for local business. “On-time supplies of provisions whether food, beverages, or personal care items are crucial to the success of each cruise ship voyage since this constitutes an essential component of the customer experience.
“Based on this fact, the provisioning of local goods to major cruise ships is poised to bestow great benefits to partnering cruise lines and Barbadians, especially in relation to the aspect of sustainability. Local provisioning is, by all means, a significant reflection of good corporate social responsibility, and it tangibly and intangibly supports our island’s economy,” he said.
The Minister also explained what the provisioning of local products to the RCG could mean for Barbados.
“Sustained provision of Barbadian products has the potential to improve the livelihood of our citizens through resulting opportunities for job creation. Given the importance of the tourism sector in leading this country’s economic expansion, and in keeping with a mandate to increase revenues, it is therefore necessary that all facets of growth be explored.
“Provisioning is one key method of paramount importance as it can facilitate greater insight into intersectoral linkages between the local manufacturing and agriculture sectors and our international cruise partners,” Mr. Gooding-Edghill stated.
He encouraged attendees to grasp the opportunity to build and maintain the relationships formed so that they can ensure that Barbados’ products are proudly displayed on all of the Royal Caribbean Cruise Limited’s cruise ships.
Minister of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Security, Indar Weir, also agreed that the seminar was a great opportunity for local businesses, especially those in the agricultural sector.
Mr. Weir indicated that the provisioning offered by the agriculture sector will not only be in terms of bulk products but also value-added products, such as those produced at Export Barbados’ Food Science Centre.
He gave the assurance that all would be done to make the provisioning a reality. “Let us make it abundantly clear that we value the cruise ship partners, and we value your contribution to Barbados’ economic development, and therefore, we, in agriculture, would make sure that we tick the right boxes to make sure that you are satisfied,” he said.
RCG’s Regional Vice President Government Relations, Caribbean, Wendy McDonald, stated: “Barbados’ breathtaking Caribbean charm and hospitality have made it a preferred port of call, enjoyed by guests from all three of our brands. The valuable relationship we have fostered between Barbados and the Royal Caribbean Group is one we appreciate and are excited to continue.
“We are enthused by our partnership and the tremendous effort put into positioning Barbados as a port of call that our guests love, as we work together to create opportunities for economic growth in Barbados.”