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Create a buzz! Participants @ CCT Buy BVI Trade Expo urged

- Premier Smith urges ‘buy local’ in support of VI businesses
Back in action in 2015, the Buy BVI Trade Expo pulls over 50 businesses to participate with CCT being the main sponsor. Photo: VINO
The BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA) has secured a new partnership with CCT for the Buy BVI Trade Expo. Photo: VINO
The BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA) has secured a new partnership with CCT for the Buy BVI Trade Expo. Photo: VINO
Among those present at the opening ceremony was Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable D Orlando Smith who declared the Trade Expo officially opened yesterday March 21, 2015. Photo: VINO
Among those present at the opening ceremony was Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable D Orlando Smith who declared the Trade Expo officially opened yesterday March 21, 2015. Photo: VINO
'Take pictures of your booth, put them up on facebook, twitter, instagram or whatever, lets create a buzz, let’s get the energy rolling, let’s get people into the building,' said Mr Antoni Tuckett as he sought to motivate fellow entrepreneurs present at the Buy BVI Trade Expo which started yesterday March 21, 2015 at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex. Photo: VINO
'Take pictures of your booth, put them up on facebook, twitter, instagram or whatever, lets create a buzz, let’s get the energy rolling, let’s get people into the building,' said Mr Antoni Tuckett as he sought to motivate fellow entrepreneurs present at the Buy BVI Trade Expo which started yesterday March 21, 2015 at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex. Photo: VINO
Premier Smith visited all of the booths at the Trade Expo and here he chats with a Scotiabank representative. Photo: VINO
Premier Smith visited all of the booths at the Trade Expo and here he chats with a Scotiabank representative. Photo: VINO
“In order to be successful at any business, one must listen to their customers, be willing to take constructive criticism, adjust to various scenarios and most importantly love what you do. You are all encouraged to continue your trade with vigor, zest and passion the perfect ingredients to recognize increased revenue stream and the bonus of ultimate job satisfaction.” Mrs Karia J. Christopher tells Trade Expo participants. Photo: VINO
“In order to be successful at any business, one must listen to their customers, be willing to take constructive criticism, adjust to various scenarios and most importantly love what you do. You are all encouraged to continue your trade with vigor, zest and passion the perfect ingredients to recognize increased revenue stream and the bonus of ultimate job satisfaction.” Mrs Karia J. Christopher tells Trade Expo participants. Photo: VINO
Even heavy equipment were on display. Photo: VINO
Even heavy equipment were on display. Photo: VINO
Rite Kutz natural hair products on show by these beautiful women. Photo: VINO
Rite Kutz natural hair products on show by these beautiful women. Photo: VINO
Miss Essie and plants from her garden. Photo: VINO
Miss Essie and plants from her garden. Photo: VINO
One of the beautifully decorated booths at the Trade Expo. Photo: VINO
One of the beautifully decorated booths at the Trade Expo. Photo: VINO
Mr Antoni Tuckett giving the challenge to create a buzz at the Trade Expo. Photo: VINO
Mr Antoni Tuckett giving the challenge to create a buzz at the Trade Expo. Photo: VINO
One of the many exhibitors. Photo: VINO
One of the many exhibitors. Photo: VINO
Patrons getting their taste of the delicious treats and meals prepared from all natural products by JB's Kitchen. Photo: VINO
Patrons getting their taste of the delicious treats and meals prepared from all natural products by JB's Kitchen. Photo: VINO
Pulling a crowd was J Soriah's Hair Bows and Accessories. Photo: VINO
Pulling a crowd was J Soriah's Hair Bows and Accessories. Photo: VINO
T Shirt Genius. Photo: VINO
T Shirt Genius. Photo: VINO
Ms Kassandra K. Malone getting picks of some of Body Glam products. Photo: VINO
Ms Kassandra K. Malone getting picks of some of Body Glam products. Photo: VINO
In the spotlight was JTV one of the main promoters of the event. Photo:VINO
In the spotlight was JTV one of the main promoters of the event. Photo:VINO
'Education' the key to the success of any business. The booth by H. Lavity Stoutt Community College. Photo: VINO
'Education' the key to the success of any business. The booth by H. Lavity Stoutt Community College. Photo: VINO
Another business on the move. Photo: VINO
Another business on the move. Photo: VINO
Shopping was the order of the day for many persons who visited the Trade Expo on Saturday March 21, 2015. Photo: VINO
Shopping was the order of the day for many persons who visited the Trade Expo on Saturday March 21, 2015. Photo: VINO
In the true spirit of good business competition, Digicel was present at the CCT-sponsored event. Photo: VINO
In the true spirit of good business competition, Digicel was present at the CCT-sponsored event. Photo: VINO
Rite Way Food Markets was fully out promoting their many products. Photo: VINO
Rite Way Food Markets was fully out promoting their many products. Photo: VINO
Products that are available at Rite Way food Markets. Photo: VINO
Products that are available at Rite Way food Markets. Photo: VINO
Some products that were on show. Photo: VINO
Some products that were on show. Photo: VINO
A variety of breads produced locally. Photo: VINO
A variety of breads produced locally. Photo: VINO
Mr Alberto A. F. Hewlett giving patrons a sample of some of the beverages available in the Virgin Islands. Photo: VINO
Mr Alberto A. F. Hewlett giving patrons a sample of some of the beverages available in the Virgin Islands. Photo: VINO
Mrs Judy Georges in the arms of her husband Mr Kamau A. Georges and another business partner with her business that gives sweet therapy - Waffle Therapy. Photo: VINO
Mrs Judy Georges in the arms of her husband Mr Kamau A. Georges and another business partner with her business that gives sweet therapy - Waffle Therapy. Photo: VINO
If one has a tongue for a sweet treat there is no better recommendation than that of JB's Candies. Fudges that are delicious to the melt. Photo: VINO
If one has a tongue for a sweet treat there is no better recommendation than that of JB's Candies. Fudges that are delicious to the melt. Photo: VINO
Kulturally Ur's a group of besiness women who gives it in the best of the roots culture. Photo: VINO
Kulturally Ur's a group of besiness women who gives it in the best of the roots culture. Photo: VINO
Time to get in the know - this visitor to one of the booths gets his lesson on what's for the offering. Photo: VINO
Time to get in the know - this visitor to one of the booths gets his lesson on what's for the offering. Photo: VINO
Lets talk business or money here with Scotiabank. Photo: VINO
Lets talk business or money here with Scotiabank. Photo: VINO
First Lady Mrs Lorna G. Smith checking out the pieces at Trefle Inc. Photo: VINO
First Lady Mrs Lorna G. Smith checking out the pieces at Trefle Inc. Photo: VINO
Mr Troy Christopher getting his taste of Hezikiah Maddox's Manjack Ice-cream, Gelato and Ice. Photo: VINO
Mr Troy Christopher getting his taste of Hezikiah Maddox's Manjack Ice-cream, Gelato and Ice. Photo: VINO
Toys and more on show at Gift World. Photo: VINO
Toys and more on show at Gift World. Photo: VINO
Sports fishing charters on display by Ocean Surfari Charters. Photo: VINO
Sports fishing charters on display by Ocean Surfari Charters. Photo: VINO
The BVICCHA gets the show back in full swing and in a big way this year. Photo: VINO
The BVICCHA gets the show back in full swing and in a big way this year. Photo: VINO
Fitness in its full sense Photo: VINO
Fitness in its full sense Photo: VINO
Men can you beat this? Photo: VINO
Men can you beat this? Photo: VINO
Oh yes I can do this - Mr Matthew Daly shows Limitless fitness Ariana Forbes that he can. Photo: VINO
Oh yes I can do this - Mr Matthew Daly shows Limitless fitness Ariana Forbes that he can. Photo: VINO
Chairman of the BVICCHA Mr Louis Potter chats with one of the participants of the Trade Show. Photo: VINO
Chairman of the BVICCHA Mr Louis Potter chats with one of the participants of the Trade Show. Photo: VINO
Students of the Francis Lettsome Primary School entertain the Trade Expo with their Fungi Music. Photo: VINO
Students of the Francis Lettsome Primary School entertain the Trade Expo with their Fungi Music. Photo: VINO
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI – “Take pictures of your booth, put them up on facebook, twitter, instagram or whatever, lets create a buzz, let’s get the energy rolling, let’s get people into the building,” said Mr Antoni Tuckett as he sought to motivate fellow entrepreneurs present at the Buy BVI Trade Expo that started yesterday March 21, 2015 at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex.

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.

17 Responses to “Create a buzz! Participants @ CCT Buy BVI Trade Expo urged”

  • Real (22/03/2015, 12:11) Like (10) Dislike (22) Reply
    This event has become to political..so i stop attending
  • ndp (22/03/2015, 15:55) Like (13) Dislike (4) Reply
    The small man are on the move under this Government! PROGRESS!
    • @ ndp (22/03/2015, 20:15) Like (3) Dislike (14) Reply
      for god sake sctter from here with your NDP old, dull, boring crap NDP hates the little man and is trying to kill um
  • Vi for life (22/03/2015, 18:36) Like (23) Dislike (5) Reply
    My opinion the trade show is impressive I attend Trade shows overseas i applod the organizers great Job
    • Great Trade Show (22/03/2015, 21:20) Like (34) Dislike (0) Reply
      The best one ever. I was able to see and learn about the many new businesses around with awesome products and ideas. Go BVI!
  • vi (22/03/2015, 21:22) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
    This was one of the best Trade Shows I have attended. Good job Vino
  • bye (22/03/2015, 22:05) Like (2) Dislike (42) Reply
    The NDP has cripple the little man we will continue to shop in the USA RITEWAY is making a kill off poor people.
    • goerge w touch (22/03/2015, 23:32) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      under NDP is a conundrum for Westerners who believe in an open democracy with strong protections of civil liberties and political opposition.
  • great (23/03/2015, 08:43) Like (12) Dislike (0) Reply
    I think the chambers did a great job this year and the crowds should be commended for the huge turn out. This was a well put together show.
  • GOODTING (23/03/2015, 09:24) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    This was the best trade show I ever attended. CCT is fast becoming a leader in its field, I switched to CCT a few months ago and I must say the customer service is off the chain, whatever they are doing their competitors need to follow.. their people are very pleasant to deal with and knowledgeable staff. Well done CCT
    • Jonesy (23/03/2015, 21:54) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
      Yeh, you rite bout CCT, I notise they good at what they do, they does smile and meke you feel good when you go in they.
  • Lily Ann (23/03/2015, 10:53) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Great Job BVICCHA and partners .... my utmost highlight for the whole even was the SteelPan Orchestra ..... The sounds and Tunes were delightful to hear !!! I enjoyed every moment of it !!! Don't know who the group were .... but They were a joy to hear !!!
  • Dave (23/03/2015, 11:59) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    I think this was an awesome show. I will like to see more businesses taking part in it but the crowd came out in numbers. I love the heavy equipment and the varieties of new products showcased at the expo. I was proud to see the level of work that went into it. Thanks for the photos vino, you captured the moment
  • buy (23/03/2015, 13:32) Like (9) Dislike (0) Reply
    There are lots of hidden products in the bvi this was a great
  • Observer (23/03/2015, 14:32) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    J Soriah's Hair Bows and Accessories, Waffle Therapy, and JB's Kitchen need a spot at the new cruise pier. Their products are awesome.
  • carl (24/03/2015, 10:44) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    It was good to see so many new products right here in the VI. It was a great experience to ride in the big JCB outside of the show. I also loved the waffle house menu and the new ice cream shop. The BVI is on the move and this show was well done.


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