MORE YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS are showing interest in the Barbados Manufacturers’ Exhibition (BMEX) 2018.
During Wednesday’s media launch, coordinator of the exhibition, Ann Johnson, said there was an overwhelming response to this year’s expo which will run from May 18 to 21 at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre.
“We have had a good response so far this year from exhibitors. We have actually started a waiting list and we found that this year we have a lot of young entrepreneurs who are interested in BMEX. So from that aspect it has changed from last year,” she added.
Newly-elected president of the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association, Robert Noel, said he was pleased with this year’s interest and was expecting a greater turnout than last year.
“We had car racing and other events for sure happening, so it did tend to take some activity away, but this year we are hoping for a much better turnout, along with our young groups who want to come in and present what they have to show the world,” he said.
Noel said the theme for this year was Bajan Fa Real, and it provided an opportunity for business to showcase their products and the qualities that made them authentically Bajan.
“BMEX 2018 comes against the background of economic difficulty, and to some extent political uncertainty for our country. Despite these difficulties, the manufacturing sector continues to play an important part not just in our economy but in our Bajan society,” he said.
Meanwhile, Johnson said there was more to look forward to than in previous years, including a talent show which would take place on May 19.
In addition to the exhibitors and activity, the World Skills Competition will also be held during the BMEX weekend. (DB)