Create a buzz! Participants @ CCT Buy BVI Trade Expo urged
For Tuckett and the company he is associated with, Parts and Power, they are living testimony of the benefits that can be derived from participating in the Trade Expo. He told the audience how business has grown simply because of their participation.
“Over the years using the trade show we have managed to grow our business from right here. We have taken notes from customers, we have met people, we have called back, we developed the product (UPS) from right here. I think you guys, for every single customer that walks through the door, should record their names, get their email address and try to interest them in something that you have and make sure that you call back, that you follow up, but at the end of the show don’t depend on people to walk through the door, pick up the phone, text, call, let’s get the buzz let’s get the energy rolling,” said Tuckett.
Tuckett was supported in his challenge by chairperson for the opening ceremony Mr Troy Christopher when he said, “If you are in the business arena in 2015 you have to make a lot of noise, be everywhere, in at least five different spaces, that’s the recommendation that everyone is talking about in the industry. Be at many places as you can, make as much noise as you can. Getting attention for yourselves and your businesses is not as simple as it used to be…”
Aim for international markets
Premier and Minister of Finance Dr The Honourable D. Orlando Smith, who officially declared the trade expo open, took the challenge even further when he advised that locals explore the available possibilities that can grow their businesses to extend to the international market.
“The other part of producing locally is the question of investment so that you can grow businesses that can invest abroad and for this the department also is getting into those agencies like the Caribbean expo which would be able to help the department to be able to develop areas and expertise where you can be able to tap into if you want to find market overseas for your businesses.”
Buy local
Premier Smith also urged that persons residing in the Virgin Islands shop locally and support the businesses here even as he acknowledged that all the products needed may not be readily available here and persons may still need to travel and shop elsewhere. “It is important to support the local businesses if you want them to grow, if you want them to have the products that you need you have to support them,” Premier Smith said.
Return of the Buy BVI Trade Expo
The Premier and Minister of Finance highly commended the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA) for doing their best to have the trade show up and in full swing in 2015 since there was none in 2014.
This year the BVICCHA formed a strong partnership with CCT to bring the trade show to fruition.
Director of Trade and Consumers Affairs Mrs Karia J. Christopher said, “As the Director of Trade and Consumer Affairs Department we are excited at the prospect of promoting investments locally, regionally and internationally. I cannot think on a more creative atmosphere and wonderful opportunity to expose our own people to an environment of friendly competition, extraordinary displays and the creative genius of the entrepreneurs. I am in awe of the pride displayed in booth owners and beautifully coordinated exhibitions we see here today.”
Special Mention
While addressing the event she also had hats taken off to a few entrepreneurs. “While there are many such businesses that deserve accolades and commendation and we certainly salute them all, it would be remiss of me not to give special mention to five awesome business owners, who in our opinion, epitomises the brand of strength, youth and power!
“I am pleased to announce the Trade and Consumer Affairs Department’s full sponsorship here at the Expo of Mr KJ Headly and Mr Kletis Mathavious of T Shirt Genius, Ms Sandi Parillon of J Soriah, Ms Jereah Clarke of JD's Candies, Ms Tara Stoutt of JB's Kitchen and Mr and Mrs Dean McDowell of Afflair. Please know that this is one of many initiatives that the Trade and Consumers Department will be rolling out over the course of the year. We encourage you to listen out for more exciting campaigns and jump on board.”
And like others did, Mrs Christopher also urged the businessmen and women present to use the opportunity at the CCT Buy BVI Trade show to network, sell their products or services and of course define their niche market based on what they see, hear and experience.
“We are honoured to be a part of this wonderful revolution and look forward to hearing great things from you all.”
In excess of 50 businesses participated in the trade show this year and among them were a number of innovative ones with great prospects.
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