St. Lucia Business Focus 96 by AMS St. Lucia

FLOW

No. 96

BF MAR/APR 2018

CONTENTS FEATURE

30. Sandals A Caribbean Success Story 32. Gordon "Butch" Stewart Takes The Giant Step And Brings Sandals To Saint Lucia 34. The Future Looks Bright For Sandals And Saint Lucia With New Investments 36. A Winning Combination Of Resorts And Destination 38. Regency La Toc 40. Halcyon Beach Resort 41. Grande St. Lucian 42. Loyalty And Travel 44. La Source On Track For 2018 46. Sandals And Greg Norman To Deliver New Championship Golf Course In Saint Lucia 48. Winston Anderson - Managing Director Sandals Resorts Saint Lucia 49. Chris Elliot - General Manager Sandals Halcyon Beach 50. Michael James - General Manager Sandals Regency La Toc 51. Investing In Our People 52. Captain Neil - Ultimate Team Member Of The Year 53. Long Serving Team Members 56. Sandals Corporate University (SCU) 58. Hospitality Training Programme (HTP) 60. A Positive Economic Impact Across All Sectors 62. Creating Linkages In Saint Lucia 64. Committed To Environment Protection & Sustainable Development 66. Caribbean Public Health Agency Recognises Sandals For Water Conservation 68. Sandals Foundation 4. Editor’s Note 6. Business Briefs

Governance Guru

Environmental Focus

Leaders Corner

Economy & Trade

8. Painful Marriages: Why Most Mergers Miscarry

10. Boss Hunting: Are You Ready?

Money Matters

12. CDB Announces US$800M for Caribbean Disaster Recovery 14. ResLife Assumes Control of CLICO Portfolio in Barbados 14. US$700,000 for Integrating Water, Land and Ecosystems in Soufriere 15. CDB Funds National Service Policy

Business Tech

18. J.E Bergasse snags the Xerox President’s Club Award 20. Taiwan Commits US$3.28 Million Towards Free Islandwide Wi-Fi 20. C&W Business Attains Cisco Cloud And Managed Services Partner Master Certification 21. OECS and ARIN Extend Cooperation to Strengthen Caribbean Information and Communication Technology 22. WhatsApp inches closer to revenue plan with accounts for businesses 23. Women in Leadership within the Public Sector in Saint Lucia 24. IBS Inc - When It Comes To ICT Solutions, IBS Inc Is Simply The Best 70. Alternative Security Services (St. Lucia Ltd.) 72. The Real Estate Market Is on The Rise

Must Reads

74. The Sharing Economy

Saint Lucia Business Awards

76. Saint Lucians Business Awards 2018 78. Laborie Co-operative Credit Union Ltd - The Leader From The South 82. Automotive Art Winner of the Award for Marketing Excellence

86. Climate Change Legislation High On The Agenda

87. New Agricultural Marketing Entity Announced for 2018 88. Saint Lucia to Benefit from US$146 Million Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism 7-Country Initiative Project Targets Sustainability of Flying Fish 89. Hero CPL Injects Us$100 89. Million In Region’s Economy 90. TEPA Launches New ‘Taste of Saint Lucia’ Export Label 91. Government Awards Contract for Strengthening Management of Saint Lucia’s Road Assets

In The Know

92. Top Three Ways To Remove A Difficult Board Member 93. Massy Stores Help Launch “Our Boys Matter Campaign” at the Boys Training Centre 94. What role does your HR team play? 95. Corporate Social Consciousness, What Every Company Should Know!

Youth In Focus

96. Job Fair Expo 2nd Edition Set for August

Tourism In Focus

98. Saint Lucia Makes a Pitch at 2018 CHTA Caribbean Travel Marketplace 99. Cruise Industry Gets A Mega-Boost 99. Castries Market Set For Major Facelift 100. Complications of Diabetes: Hypoglycaemia

Health In Focus

101. Owen King EU Hospital Commissions New Dialysis Machines 102. It’s Not Always ‘Gas’ 104. Major Moves 106. Advertisers Index 107. New Company Registrations BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

BUSINESS FOCUS

Standard Bearers and a Commitment to Excellence! In life and the world of business, we are generally rewarded for exceptional efforts and outstanding achievements. The commercial sector is comprised of local and overseas investors who operate small, medium and large enterprises where competition for growth and success is friendly yet fierce. The St Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture is one of the oldest private sector organisations in operation and is recognised as the voice of the private sector with a significant and varied database of members. Some ten years ago, the Chamber launched its annual Chamber Business Awards which was committed to celebrating excellence. Winning an Award at this event generates a very positive impact for the recipient both personally and professionally. The 2018 Business Awards were hosted in late January with a number of companies being honoured with awards. Business Focus

Lokesh Singh Editor / Managing Director

is pleased to be able to share these success stories in this issue and also wish to congratulate the winners and encourage all businesses to strive for excellence. We wish the Chamber continued success with this great initiative and trust that they will make the relevant adjustments to re-engineer this project to ensure that it remains attractive and viable for the long term. Sandals Resorts celebrates its 25th Anniversary of business operations in St Lucia. This Jamaica based resort group led by the legendary Gordon 'Butch' Stewart created a model based on excellence and have grown to become the largest and most successful Caribbean Hospitality Brand winning annual awards in all categories and setting the standard as an industry leader in all sectors. Their success in Jamaica encouraged them to invest across the Caribbean and Sandals was welcomed to St Lucia through the purchase of the Cunard La Toc Hotel in 1993. Since then Sandals has continued to expand and invest in St Lucia currently operating three properties with an ultra luxurious fourth property soon to be built along with the development of a Greg Norman Signature Golf Course at the recently acquired St Lucia Golf and Country Club at Cap Estate. Their economic and social impact on the island has been unmatched and we wish to compliment them as perhaps our most influential investor with a conscience. The islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s partnership with Sandals has established tourism as our most important industry influencing employment and development across the island and promoting and positioning St Lucia as one of the most sought after destinations for tourism and touristic investment.

BUSINESSFOCUS Business Focus magazine is published every two months by Advertising & Marketing Services Limited (AMS), Saint Lucia. Publisher/ Managing Director: Lokesh Singh - lokesh@amsstlucia.com Editorial Assistant: Kezia Preville

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note

Graphic Designer: Tannel George | Carlisle Searles Advertising Sales: Cennette Flavien - cennetteamsslu@gmail.com Cleopatra Jules - cleopatraamsslu@gmail.com Webmaster: Advertising & Marketing Services Photography: Sandals Resorts | Ashley Anzie | CDB | OECS General Security Services | CARICOM | FLOW Digicel | CHTA | Contributors: Lokesh Singh | Dr. Chris Bart | Olivier Bottois Dr. Elliot S. Schreiber | Kezia Preville | Lyndell Halliday Trudy O. Glasgow | Goretti Paul | Dr. Takira Glasgow Dr. Celia McConnell | Sandals Resorts | Trinidad Guardian | Jamaica Observer | CMC | CDB | Nation News | CARICOM | OECS Editorial, Advertising, Design & Production: Advertising & Marketing Services P.O. Box 2003, Castries, Saint Lucia Tel: (758) 453-1149; Fax: (758) 453-1290 email: ams@candw.lc www.amsstlucia.com, www.stluciafocus.com Business Focus welcomes contributions from professionals or writers in specialized fields or areas of interest. Reproduction of any material contained herein without written approval, constitutes a violation of copyright. Business Focus reserves the right to determine the content of the publication.

Their commitment to excellence continues to be exemplary and their vision and proven capacity to continue to raise the bar with innovative creations and service delivery augurs well for their partnership with St Lucia and the wider region. Happy Reading!

On The Cover Gordon 'Butch' Stewart and Adam Stewart at Sandals Grande St. Lucian Resort BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

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BUSINESS BRIEFS BUSINESS FOCUS

St Lucia Government Announces 2018 National Awards

despite the 8-month closure of the Pointe Seraphine Berth 1. Commenting on the figures, Minister of Tourism Information and Broadcasting Dominic Fedee, said: “The tourism industry continues to be an incredibly important and vital part of the Saint Lucian economy. We are happy with the levels of growth witnessed and as we continue our marketing efforts, we as well look to maximizing the impact of tourism on our economy”.

Dr Remy is a long serving Optometrist and businessman who has distinguished himself through his professional efforts in the field of medicine with particular focus on Eye Care. In addition he has been involved in supporting a wide range of community initiatives and also served as St Lucia’s Acting Governor General.

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority worked assiduously with the CTO and trade partners to overcome the indirect challenges faced by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, ensuring all markets that the destination was safe and available for travel. At the close of 2017, The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) in Travel Trends Report for 2018, the most important document issued in the UK travel industry selected Saint Lucia as one of the top 12 destinations for 2018.

InterCaribbean Airways announces Dominica to Tortola, BVI & Saint Lucia Services

The 2017 tourism performance saw Saint Lucia breaking all records with total visitor arrivals climbing to an all-time high of 1,105,541. The island also recorded the highest growth in 2017 among the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) member countries, registering an 11% increase. 2017 was characterized by sustained growth in the industry, with stayover arrivals at 386,127 and the cruise sector recording a 14% increase, reaching 669,217, an additional 81,264 visitors BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

Travelers can now make two-stop connections via interCaribbean flights to Kingston,Jamaica and Nassau,Bahamas. Even allowing for two stops this is still one of the fastest travel times to get to these destinations in the Caribbean.

Caribbean Airlines Launches Scheduled Flights to Cuba

Business Focus coffers our congratulations to Dr Emsco Remy and all other Awardees.

Saint Lucia Tourism Arrivals Register Record Breaking Increase For 2017

Caribbean Airline. The airline is pleased to announce new nonstop scheduled services from Dominica to St Lucia and Tortola, with 1 stop easy connections via Tortola to St Thomas, St Croix, Sint Maarten, San Juan, Providenciales (Turks & Caicos Islands) and Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic).

Flights to and from Dominica are scheduled to begin on March 22 with 3 weekly flights.

On the occasion of St Lucia’s 39th Independence Anniversary, The Government of St Lucia announced a list of forty four (44) persons who were identified to be recipients of National Awards. Heading the list was Dr Emsco Remy who was awarded for distinguished service in the field of Medicine and Community Service and the late American Airlines Executive Peter Dolara for his services in the field of Tourism. Both were presented with the St Lucia Cross (SLC).

Business Briefs BUSINESS BRIEFS

interCaribbean Airways celebrating 26 years of continuous services, continues to expand its schedule to new points throughout the Caribbean connecting more of the Caribbean than any other

Caribbean Airlines made its inaugural flight BW 476 to Cuba in January 2018 landing at the Jose Marti Airport to applause from passengers and welcoming showers of water sprayed on either side of the plane. Aboard the BW476 flight into Cuba were: Trinidad & Tobago’s Trade and Industry Minister Paula Gopee-Scoon, Chairman and CEO of CAL, CEO of ExporTT, media and travel agents and passengers who booked their flight for the inaugural trip. Minister Gopee-Scoon said the flight landed "with the confidence that we have the product quality and the tested relationships to ensure success on this new intra-regional route." She said the potential for complementarity in the area of tourism was recognised by the signing at the CARICOM-Cuba Summit in December 2017 of a Memorandum of Understanding on multi-destination tourism between CARICOM countries and Cuba. In this regard, she said, the Summit identified air and sea transportation as an area requiring priority attention.

BUSINESS BRIEFS "Caribbean Airlines accepts its mandate to connect the Caribbean to itself and the world. In so doing, the airline opens the way for others to find opportunity for trade, education, health services, leisure, cultural and scientific exchanges and, in general, the building of a regional community. That is a responsibility that Caribbean Airlines does not take lightly," she said. CAL will operate a twice-weekly service from Trinidad & Tobago to Cuba with connections to and from Barbados, Guyana and Grenada among other islands. Just after midday, the flight left Cuba with 110 Cubans bound for Guyana.

bartenders employed from a wide selection of Hotels and Restaurants in Saint Lucia that are members and actively involved with the Association. The SLHTA has invited Chefs Robert Skeete of Caribbean Pirates Restaurant, Richardson Skinner of Coco Resorts, Billy Boyle of Capella and Rene Cahane of Windjammer to support preparations for the 2018 CHTA Taste of the Caribbean Competition.

Another component of the project is the value added aspect with the production of cassava mash which is used to make cassava blended bread. The bread is currently being produced by at least four bakeries on island.

Next Generation Hospitality Professionals Intern At Sandals Resorts In Saint Lucia

St Lucia Adopts Climate-Smart Cassava Cultivation with FAO Support

Saint Lucia Names 2018 National Culinary Team

The Saint Lucia National Culinary Team is a grouping of the island’s best cooks, chefs and bartenders selected through competition hosted by the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association Inc (SLHTA) and Saint Lucia Distillers respectively. The winning cooks, chefs and bartenders are selected to represent the island at the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) sponsored “Taste of the Caribbean” 5 day event held annually at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Miami Florida. The event is attended by most Caribbean islands and the competition includes a team dinner competition, individual competitions and a street party where the public is invited to sample cuisine from at least 13 different islands in the Caribbean. The event is proudly sponsored by the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association’s Tourism Enhancement Fund, and many corporate sponsors who have remained committed to the team’s development over the years. The team is made up of chefs and

The Ministry of Health and Wellness in St Lucia has collaborated with the Ministry of Agriculture on a Roots and Tubers project funded by the Food and Agricultural Organization. The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) is spearheading a project which will not only increase the cultivation of cassava throughout the region but also encourages the production of cassava blended bread as a healthier alternative to the traditional white bread. Cassava is extensively cultivated as an annual crop for its edible, starchy, tuberous root which is a major source of carbohydrates. National Coordinator for the project, Marnus Cherry said among the benefits of this project is a projected increase in sweet cassava production island wide. “It’s a crop that is drought resistant, so you can call it a climate smart crop and cassava has been one of the root crops most researched by researchers and other scientists. It also has a better finished product as compared to sweet potato and other root and tuber crops,” Cherry said.

The high standards set by Sandals Resorts International continues to be a major attraction for hospitality institutions world over, and this week the World’s Best All Inclusive Resort Chain welcomed a diverse group of over 30 young hospitality professionals to begin a six month practical training program across the three Sandals Resorts in Saint Lucia. The internship program, exposes university students from countries like Switzerland, The Netherlands, Mexico, Trinidad & Tobago, Bali and Hong Kong to the world famous Sandals Service Standards and operations. The individuals, studying various management disciplines, will be spread across several departments, including Maintenance and Engineering, Weddings, Food & Beverage, Resort Sales, Concierge and Butler Service and Culinary Arts. Regional Group Manager for Human Resources and Training at Sandals Resorts International in the Eastern Caribbean, Ryan Matthew, says Sandals Resorts across the Caribbean are welcoming similar groups of interns at the respective properties. He said the internship helps to produce exceptional hospitality professionals poised to take the industry in a millennial direction. BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

Governance Guru BUSINESS FOCUS

Painful Marriages: Why Most Mergers Miscarry Painful Marriages: Why Most Mergers Miscarry (and What Your Board Can Do To Make Them Work!) By: Dr. Chris Bart, & Dr. Elliot S. Schreiber Dr. Chris Bart : FCPA, F.CIoD Chairman, The Caribbean Governance Training Institute & Chairman, Caribbean Institute of Directors Dr. Elliot S. Schreiber: Chairman, Caribbean Institute of Directors Boards of Directors face many difficult challenges, but no more so than when it comes to the task of helping their CEOs grow their business. While “organic” do-it-all-yourself growth is always an option, sometimes the best way to grow is through acquiring another business and merging the two of them together. The merger and acquisition – or M&A - strategy has been around for decades. However, not to be too blunt, most business mergers simply don’t merge very well. Research from the Harvard Business School found that, even after waiting five years, as many as 86% of M&A’s failed to achieve their defined up-front “expectations of success”. Even with huge companies that should have the executive and legal oversight to avoid pitfalls, the number of acquisitions that have led to huge write-downs has increased in recent years. For example, Microsoft had to write down virtually the entire cost of Dr. Chris Bart, FCPA, F.CIoD is a recognized global governance authority and Co-Founder of the Caribbean Governance Training Institute. The Institute is the first to offer throughout the Caribbean an intensive 3 day governance program leading to the prestigious and internationally recognized Chartered Director (C.Dir.) designation. For more information visit CGTI’s website: http:// www.caribbeangovernancetraininginstitute.com/ or phone Lisa at 758 451 2500 BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

its aQuantive acquisition. And, Caterpillar tossed off nearly $600 million related to one of its acquisitions a few years ago. Yet Ironically, despite their proven disastrous track record, M&As continue to be sold as a way to increase a firm’s market valuation. So why do Boards continue to eagerly approve them? We think It’s all about “the jazz” of acquisitions. Accordingly, with the track-record noted by the Harvard studies in organizations of all sizes, it’s clear that boards need to more forcefully insist that their CEOs improve on their ‘due diligence’ before taking the M&A leap. Clearly, due diligence is about much more than simply auditing the books and reviewing the outstanding sales orders. That’s the easy stuff. The primary reason for the failure of mergers is cultural clashes that undermine the combined entity’s ability to execute on the desired strategy for the new organization. In other words, it is the cultural fit of the two partners that is usually paramount in deciding the outcomes of the merger. Conflicting and un-aligned organizational and administrative arrangements that go either unrecognized and/or unaddressed represent the death knell for almost every merger plan.

Dr. Elliot S. Schreiber

Before the M&A Occurs We are not suggesting that M&As are never a good thing. They can be. However, M&As are like marriages. But marrying to get away from one’s own problems rarely works in life or business.

Therefore, before deciding to march down the aisle with a stranger, Boards need to ask their CEOs to look beyond the numbers and into the heart of a potential partner organization. We therefore propose the following steps to help boards and their CEOs gain a better more informed understanding of the organization with which they intend to merge, an understanding that goes beyond the information typically reviewed as part of due diligence. 1. Compare the Mission Statements of the two companies. This is a critical step in ensuring alignment between the two organizations. Assuming the mission statement of the company being acquired has been competently articulated and implemented well, the mission statement should provide a strong indication as to the philosophical similarities – and differences - between the two organizations. 2. Review key administrative arrangements for cultural fit. Mission statement similarities are important, but it is just as important to assess the degree to which the organizational systems and processes of the prospective company are aligned with its mission. Therefore, o a strategy execution audit to determine the extent of direct connection between the phrases used in the target’s mission statement and its management systems. Then compare the results with an assessment of your own organization’s mission-systems alignment. If your audit indicates that there are inherent gaps between the mission and values statements of the two companies and/or the way that they are reflected throughout each organization’s administrative systems, trouble is sure to brew and boil over. While it doesn’t necessarily mean that a merger or acquisition should be avoided, it clearly should set off alarm bells. The greater the differences, the more work and time will be involved in harmonizing them. Meaningful cultural change does not happen quickly. If the attraction still exists for the business move, be sure to adjust the execution plan to reflect the extra effort and expenses that will be required to create one cohesive business entity. After the M&A Occurs Once the merger or acquisition is legally completed, the next step is to capture and build the synergies required to create the competitive advantage and economies of scale that everyone hoped would arrive by virtue of the two companies joining forces. Many teams will want to jump directly to “execution”. And execution is truly important, but it is useless in the face of a bad or absent strategy. The best place to start this journey is once again with the mission statement. 1. Build the “new” mission statement. The new mission statement must articulate why an organization exists and if it’s a true merger/partnership. Too many acquisitions have been said to be “mergers of equals” to placate employees or investors. Be honest up front. There should be some “purpose statement" explaining the reasonfor-being of the new entity. It should be a joint product of both the Board and management (to show unity at the top) and it should be extensively communicated. Otherwise, there will be mixed signals as each partner misunderstands what the new endpoint is all about. The new mission is especially pivotal for explaining the new organization to the employees of both companies so that they can all rally round the new mission and get aligned in terms of their behaviours and actions. 2. Align the organizational structure, objectives and administrative arrangements 90% of all organization failures are attributed to bad

execution. Accordingly, after clearly articulating the new mission statement, the next step is for Management to begin adjusting all organizational arrangements to ensure that there is a direct connection between the phrases used in the M&As new mission statement and the key metrics and behavioural elements of the management systems. This includes such items as the compensation systems (including bonuses), hiring/training systems and performance measurement systems. Boards need to see that this is happening because without this alignment and consistency among the M&A’s administrative arrangements and its strategy, execution gaps will eventually emerge that will undermine the M&A’s viability. 3. Build Engagement Being extremely clear about organizational goals and showing all employees how their work contributes to the new organization’s success – especially its mission - is critical to employee engagement. Everyone wants to feel important and to feel that what they do matters. Those feelings are not always easy to obtain, especially for persons performing those boring, routine and repetitive front line jobs. But it is the responsibility of the ‘nearest leader’ (i.e., the immediate supervisor) to help those individuals see the ‘higher purpose’ in their work and that an organization is measured through the eyes of the customer, on every single activity regardless how big or small. Everyone, therefore, is depending upon them to do their job with excellence or else the whole organization could fail. This needs to be explicitly stated and reinforced. Again, Boards need assurance that Management is diligentily working hard to create such engagement. Looking beyond the numbers and implementing the required administrative and cultural changes with the mission statement as the foundation of all decisions and communications greatly improves the likelihood of success for mergers and acquisitions. The Way Forward In conclusion, the way to build better organizations is by having better informed boards of directors. Boards therefore should view their potential M&A activities as a pre-emptive call to protecting their organizations from the many pitfalls and landmines which sink such strategic attempts Yet many boards either fail to consider this thereby leaving their firms and themselves vulnerable. So here’s the big, uncomfortable question for Caribbean directors: to what extent does your board have the assurance it needs regarding the new 21st century due diligence required both before and after an M&A deal? If you think that there is room for improvement in the way your board carries out this important governance function, you might want to consider sending them to one of the corporate governance training programs currently available in the region – like the extraordinarily unique and internationally recognized 3 day Chartered Director Program (“C. Dir.”) currently being offered exclusively by The Caribbean Governance Training Institute. Over 500 Caribbean directors have attended this program to date (including all the Governors of the ECCB and the entire Government of Saint Lucia!) By attending programs like this one, your organization’s stakeholders would then know that their interests are being represented not just by individuals with successful track records in business, but also by men and women who have the governance qualifications - and the certification necessary for effective board leadership and oversight of their organization’s strategic activities. After all, it’s not education which is expensive, but rather ignorance. ¤

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

Volume 9

BUSINESS FOCUS

Boss Hunting: Are You Ready?

LEADERS'

CORNER

Boss Hunting: Are You Ready?

By: Olivier Bottois Finding a good job in a strong economy should not be a real challenge, especially if you have recognized education credentials in your industry and years of experience with a reputable organization, as well as transferable skills and references. Finding a good boss who will make a positive difference in your life and be your next credible reference for the next decade may be a different story. Have you been boss hunting or simply job hunting? Securing solid future income is not limited to your next job and will remain a goal for decades until you retire, if you ever retire... Unless you end up successfully owning your own business and financially secure, you will need another job and years of experience at a good company. Winning business awards or nominations, will not suffice to guarantee future employment and job growth - but your next boss may help! Think of Hollywood celebrities who command astronomical salaries at a time their movies win the Oscars. How many of them end up years later with limited opportunities after the sequels did not work? Who would have thought Demi Moore would be barely marketable in 2018? If you asked anyone including her, twenty years ago, she probably would have laughed.... As a leader, don’t get too comfortable and think everything lasts forever...don’t choose the wrong script or wrong director (boss) too many times or at all... You need to protect your reputation and future marketability by choosing to work for the right boss, a boss that will be instrumental helping you achieve your goals and secure future roles. Your next boss is your next “Director”. While you love the script and the cast of the movie, the director and producers may be more important to your future career than the actual movie title or immediate earnings. Choosing the wrong role under the wrong leadership may change a career path that was otherwise promising. You need to ask yourself questions like: “How is your personality? Your future boss’s personality? How is the chemistry?” Of course company culture has to be a fit as well. Make sure to date before you get married! You felt successful for years or even decades at great companies reporting to great bosses who were respected leaders and mentors, recognizing you as a star... and then you changed jobs BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

and suddenly you are no longer so good according to your new boss? Is there anything wrong with you or could it be your boss? Your new boss may not have worked in your industry or in a leadership role outside their current business. This is a familiar trait in family businesses. Did you check who you will be working for? Did you choose to enter a new long term relationship with someone who will positively impact your career? Did you just love the beautiful building you toured on “Job Fair Day” and decided to take the job? (by the way you don’t own the impressive building!). Did you ask your future boss pertinent questions? Did you have the opportunity to ask past and current employees to share their work experience under current leadership? In the US a web site called Glassdoor (www.Glassdoor.com) allows existing and past employees to rate employers' confidentially. They allow them to share their exit interview with everyone the same way they share their vacation experience on Trip Advisor. While comments can be subjective it is clear that companies and bosses can be named as red flags or superb leaders. The site encourages you to apply after you check out your potential employer. Choosing your boss is critical and will directly impact your future marketability, as your resume won’t suffice. Reputable companies and length of employment may be great on your resume but not the ultimate factor in you getting hired... Who you know and “references” is what matters ultimately. This also applies to consultants who will rely on referrals to get future contracts so their business is sustainable. Who you work for and how they speak of you possibly for decades will determine what job you get in the future. So you are “as good as your last banquet” as we say in the hospitality industry. While your resume and employment may be verified, references are the key to close the deal. In some countries you may need a work permit after accepting a job offer, and your prestigious resume is not a requirement but your references are for at least the past ten years. Like best roles in Hollywood the best jobs are not posted online or even posted at all as they are already filled via recommendations from people your new boss trusts... your “box office” results will impact your future roles and commanding income. So... will you pick your next Boss? Feel free to engage with our leadership community on Linkedin (Olivier JP Bottois). ¤ Olivier Bottois is a third generation hotelier with broad hospitality experience in France, England, Germany, Canada, USA and The Caribbean. He is a Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts alumni who led Leading Hotels of The World, Relais & Chateaux, Small Luxury Hotels and Preferred Hotels properties as General Manager, Managing Director and HOA President. After the successful repositioning of Ladera Resort in St Lucia (2011-2016) as Vice President of Operations & Marketing, Bottois joined Marriott "Autograph Collection" in the US, before returning to the Caribbean recently. Olivier is based in Saint Lucia and the US, currently working on repositioning hotel projects and asset value enhancement for indépendant owners in the West Indies. Follow Olivier on Linkedin: Olivier JP Bottois

Fast Cash

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

MONEY MATTERS

CDB Announces US$800M for Caribbean Disaster Recovery

CDB announces US$800M for Caribbean disaster recovery President of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Dr Warren Smith announced that up to US$800 million is available to help its members recover from the impact of the 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season. The funding, which the Bank is providing over the next five years, complements its ongoing work to build resilience in the Caribbean Region, the CDB said in a press statement. “Disaster risk management and resilience building took centrestage again in CDB’s strategic responses to the challenges facing our BMCs (Borrowing Member Countries),” Smith was quoted as saying while outlining the Bank’s 2017 performance during his Annual News Conference on February 7, 2018. “To incentivise BMCs to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, CDB must be able to also offer grant and other attractively priced financial resources. But the challenges our Region faces are bigger than what CDB can handle on its own. We have, therefore, been drawing on a combination of our own resources as well as funds intermediated through CDB by other development partners to meet this challenge,” he added. In 2017, the Bank mobilised concessionary resources from development partners to support more resilient infrastructure projects throughout the Region. Among them was the Second Climate Action Line of Credit from the European Investment Bank totaling US$144 million, including US$24 million for emergency post-disaster rehabilitation. Last year, CDB also announced a new US$70 million fund, through which the Government of Mexico is providing grants to boost regional infrastructure in the Bank’s BMCs. BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

In 2018, the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund, a GBP300 million programme launched two years ago, will be expanded to include an additional GBP28 million to assist in the recovery efforts in Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica, the President said. Smith, noting that globally the Caribbean is the second-most vulnerable to climate change in the world, said he is optimistic about the Region’s ability to build back better and stronger. “The Caribbean has had a long history of bouncing back from natural disasters and other external shocks. So, in the events of 2017, we see immense opportunity for the BMCs to come back stronger and more resilient,” said Smith. Against the backdrop of increasing intensity and frequency of natural disasters, and greater vulnerability of its BMCs, the President also said that CDB is working actively to strengthen its own operations. The Bank achieved a rating upgrade to AA+ from Standard & Poor’s, and an AA+ capital market rating from Fitch Ratings in 2017, and now has a unified rating across the three major rating agencies, including Moody’s Investors Service (Aa1). Smith also highlighted the Bank’s improved performance in 2017. CDB recorded strong growth in both approvals and disbursements. It approved capital loans and technical assistance interventions totaling US$364 million, up 18 percent over 2016. In addition, in 2017, the Bank disbursed USD233 million – an increase of 13 percent, compared with the previous year. ¤

FOR ALL YOUR CATERING NEEDS! Goddard Catering

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WEDDINGS CONFERENCES BANQUETS OFFICE PARTIES SOCIAL GATHERINGS COCKTAIL PARTIES OTHER EVENTS

After successfully operating as the official Caterer for Cricket World Cup 2007, Goddard Catering Group saw the need to raise the bar on catering services throughout the region. This led to the birth of GCG Events in October of 2008. GCG Events is an affiliated company of Goddard Catering Group and a member of the Goddard Enterprises Group of Companies. Our vision is to become the premier catering company in the region by providing culinary experiences that consistently meet and exceed customer expectations. To achieve this GCG Events has invested in a state of the art facility, an internationally trained team of event experts, and ingredients that meet our exacting standards. From conception to completion, our experienced team will help you turn your dream event into a reality. GCG Events is committed to make each and every event, “Simply Outstanding” At GCG Events we are dedicated to making you the perfect host. We strive to make every catered event, distinguished, blissful and stress-free. Our high standards, supreme service and exceptional quality will make your event a flawless, unforgettable experience. GCG Events is delighted to assist brides, grooms and their families with the menu planning for that significant day of their dreams. From grand and lavish to intimate and informal, we can make your special day something you and your guests will always remember. Your employees and guests will surely appreciate your catering choice whilst consuming each delightful bite of their lunch, canapé or breakfast. Choose one of our menus or allow our chef to create a personalized menu for you that matches your vision and theme. Our team will make sure everything runs smoothly to ensure you and your guests have an unforgettable time.

Hewanorra Int’l Airport | P.O. Box 363 Vieux Fort, St. Lucia, W.I. +1.758.459.6400 Ext: 6429 | +1.758.728.9400 uvf.gcg-events@goddardcatering.com BusinessFocus Jan/Feb www.gcg-events.com | 13

MONEY MATTERS

US$700,000 for Integrating Water, Land and Ecosystems in Soufriere

US$700,000 for Integrating Water, Land & Ecosystems in Soufriere

US$700,000 for Integrating Water, Land and Ecosystems in Soufriere IWEco signals the development and execution of a plan to protect, preserve and re-establish healthier conditions in the forest, land and seas. The programme hopes to apply a ridge to reef approach aimed at addressing the many challenges of sustainable water, land and biodiversity management and conservation within the Soufriere watershed.

A multi-agency consortium descended onto Soufriere earlier in the year to attend the Integrating, Water, Land and Ecosystems Management (IWEco) Inception Workshop. The attendees represented various community-based organizations, statutory and regional bodies, including the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Forests and Lands Resources Division within the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Physical Planning, Natural Resources and Cooperatives - lead on the project. The group met in the community of Fond St. Jacques in Soufriere, a key area of interest for the initiative due to the devastating damage caused during the passing of Hurricane Tomas in 2010.

ResLife Assumes Control of Clico Portfolio in Barbados

ResLife Assumes Control of CLICO Portfolio in Barbados

The project is funded in two parts with the GEF providing US$729,685 towards the rehabilitation project, and an in-kind sum of US$1,475,761 being contributed by the Government of Saint Lucia. Others agencies who will be actively involved in the life of the initiative include the GEF Small Grants Programme – UNDP, and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA). Although the lead is within the ministry, these agencies will be providing key technical and hands on support to help ensure the successful fruition of the endeavour with the United Nations Environment Fund implementing. The project seeks to address the deteriorating conditions from the forest to the sea through these specific initiatives: 1. Reforestation and rehabilitation of lands along critical reaches in the upper Fond St. Jacques / Migny area. 2. Alternative sustainable and viable livelihoods for selected stakeholder groups. 3. Capacity building. 4. Public awareness and documentation of best practices. ¤ to the transfer of the Barbados-based life insurance portfolio previously held by CLICO to ResLife have been completed”. With the transfer now complete, ResLife said personnel at its Worthing, Christ Church office were “working diligently to verify the assets and liabilities being transferred”. “The company will also be migrating the policyholder data onto its systems, thereby ensuring that staff have the information to provide the best possible service to policyholders. This process is expected to take three to four weeks to complete,” the company stated. ResLife also said policyholders would be informed via direct contact and through media notices about their policy details and when they could meet with company representatives. It also urged policyholders to continue making premium payments using SurePay, standing orders, direct debits and salary deductions. “Arrangements have been made to ensure that these payments will continue to be credited to their policies.

Barbadian policyholders have finally seen the back of CLICO and their representative body, Barbados Investors and Policyholders Alliance (BIPA), has eagerly welcomed the news that Resolution Life Assurance Company Ltd (ResLife) now controls the Barbados-based life insurance portfolio previously held by CLICO International Life Insurance Limited. ResLife announced recently that six months after it got the green light from the Supreme Court, “the legal aspects pertaining BusinessFocus

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“Once ResLife is fully operational, policyholders will be able to update their payment instructions and payment methods at the company’s offices,” the company said. Whilst the Barbados policyholders issues may have been resolved, it is not yet clear of the effect on the policyholders of the Eastern Caribbean as CLICO continues to operate offices and service clients through the guidance and oversight of the accounting firm of PKF as the judicial managers. ¤

CDB funds National Service Policy Bank of Saint Lucia CDB Funds National Service Policy

Funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), a National Service Policy which was passed in cabinet last year, will be enacted in the near future. The policy is meant to provide a much-needed framework for the growth and development of the services sector in Saint Lucia. Led by the Saint Lucia Coalition of Service Industries, with oversight by the Ministry of Commerce and Trade, the Policy is set to foster positive change and development in various sectors. The main areas of focus are: 1. Health and Wellness 2. Creative Industries 3. ICT 4. Professional Service Sector As the team welcomed the new executive of the Saint Lucia Coalition of Service Industries led by the newly elected President Vern Emmanuel, the current Director Yvonne Agard lauded the passage of the policy in cabinet and reinforced the need in the current economic climate. For Ms. Agard, such a milestone is the result of collaborations and planning which will see implementation of the Policy in a positive way to provide Saint Lucian businesses with the many benefits. For the Ministry of Commerce, the initiative comes at an opportune time. According to the Minister for Commerce Industry and Investment Bradley Felix, “I am very happy to report that since we have passed that National Service Policy, the traction that we have been receiving, the feedback has been extremely positive,’ Felix said. “And again, I want to highlight the amount of work that has been done by the St Lucia Coalition of Service Industries in assisting the Ministry in where we are today.” As plans develop, updated information will be provided by the steering committee. ¤ BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

BUSINESS FOCUS MONEY MATTERS

SMFC - 50 Years of Serving St. Lucia

50 years of serving St. Lucia St. Lucia Mortgage Finance Company Limited SMFC is a private liability company registered under the Companies Act. It is a credit institution authorized under the Banking Act to carry on the business of banking in Saint Lucia. The Company was established in 1968 by the Commonwealth Development Corporation (CDC) at the invitation of the Government of Saint Lucia. One of the objectives was to support the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s housing thrust by providing end finance so that persons of moderate incomes may acquire their dwelling houses. By mid 1977 the company was the principal source of funding for the housing estates at Sans Souci, the Morne, Ravine Chabot, La Pansee, Sunbuilt, Entrepot, La Ressource-(Vieux Fort )and also for individual construction throughout the island. The year 1979 marked the beginning of a process that would eventually lead to SMFC becoming a fully national financial institution when the Government of Saint Lucia purchased 49% of the shareholdings from CDC.

By 1989 the liquidity crisis had abated and interest rates were on the decline, expectations were high and SMFC rose to the challenge partnering in March 1989 with the National Insurance Board (NIB) to establish a low budget facility at the special rate of 6%. The relationship between the two entities was a very lucrative one with the NIB providing a source of funding without the foreign exchange risks and SMFC providing a secure avenue for the NIB to invest in housing.

CORE VALUE STATEMENT Superior, personalized service Contributing to a Meaningful, nourishing experience That is Flexible, adaptable, accommodating And backed by Caring, nurturing, supportive Staff

STRATEGIC VISION To be the leading Mortgage Lending institution in St. Lucia providing financing opportunities for St. Lucians by applying the tools of synergy, excellence and quality service to meet the changing needs of our customers.

MISSION STATEMENT

SMFC provides opportunities for all in the process of conducting business ensuring that, Shareholders receive maximum returns on investments Customers are treated courteously and with integrity Sta members are trained to develop their full potential . The wider community is embraced in a culture of teamwork and cooperation. The relationship was formalized in 1992 when the NIB increased its share capital and was allotted 24% of the GOSL shares. 1997 marked the exit of the CDC as a shareholder in SMFC, their remaining shares were acquired by the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) thus NIC became the majority shareholder (75%) with the remaining shares (25%) being held by the Government of Saint Lucia. SMFC currently operates under an agreement with the

Government of Saint Lucia to provide loans for the purchase, construction or extension of dwelling houses and the purchase of developed plots of land approved for housing. In addition the Company offers “Home Equity” loans whereby houses can be re-mortgaged to provide funds for special purposes including refinancing and debt consolidation. SMFC’s commitment has stood the test of time and it continues to be the first and last resort for many aspiring St. Lucians. We are proud to have served St. Lucians for the last 50 years and will continue to show the way home.

SMFC

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

BUSINESS TECH

As the sole and exclusive provider for Xerox in Saint Lucia, J.E.Bergasse has proudly accepted another President’s Club Award for Overall Performance. The company received the accolade during the Xerox’s 2018 Partner Kick-Off event held in Cancun, Mexico earlier in the year. Other partners in receipt of similar recognition came from South and Central America, the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas totalling six partners. J.E. Bergasse was also officially awarded its accreditation in ‘Channel Managed Print Services’ (CMPS) at the kickoff event, a solution which brings seamless integration into a customer’s IT infrastructures.

J.E Bergasse snags the Xerox President’s Club Award

CMPS proactively identifies and solves potential printing problems that are costly, and supports the customer’s business processes by improving workflows, productivity and security while saving on overall cost. In the company’s history with Xerox, it has been recognized for Outstanding Performance consistently and in a variety of areas including overall performance, customer satisfaction, service superiority and after-sales support.

J.E. Bergasse snags Xerox President’s Club Award J. E. Bergasse & Company Ltd., a household name in Saint Lucia, has been providing over a century of service offering various products and services with the latest being technology. The family owned business was founded in 1906 by Joseph Edgar Bergasse, after whom the business was named. The company prides itself on providing top notch service and world class products, creating long lasting partnerships. The Xerox’s Presidents Club winners besides being recognized for superior performance across the product line, they are committed to working in alignment with the Xerox’s vision; to be a leading provider of innovative print technologies and intelligent work solutions to help people communicate and work better. BusinessFocus

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Managing Director of J. E. Bergasse Anthony Bergasse lauded the achievements of the company and signalled a move to continue maintaining the partnership. According to Mr. Bergasse, “On the heels of launching 29 new Xerox ConnectKeyenabled multifunction models into the Saint Lucian market in 2017, it’s an honour to be recognized with this prestigious award. Awards like these can only be achieved with the full support of our entire professional team at JEB and our loyal customers.

We’ve been a Xerox business partner for more than 40 years and with today’s economic environment, I can say that Xerox products and business solutions provide the broadest array of alternatives for customer’s document management and technology investment spend”. ¤ Photo: Joel Mendoza, Country Manager, Xerox Distributor Group, Tenesha Hutchinson, Sales Manager - Equipment & Solutions, J.E. Bergasse & Co. Ltd., Anthony Bergasse, Managing Director, J.E. Bergasse & Co. Ltd., Ran Gil, General Manager, Xerox Distributor Group

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BUSINESS TECH

Taiwan Commits US$3.28 Million Towards Free Islandwide Wi-Fi main goal is to ensure there is wireless coverage in all towns and villages in Saint Lucia, for the benefit of the citizens and visitors alike.

Taiwan Commits US$3.28 Million Towards Free Islandwide Wi-Fi

Around the world, Wi-Fi is taking over with many businesses providing free services to attract more customers, and thereby enhancing the benefits to them. Here in Saint Lucia access to wireless internet will soon become a nationwide phenomenon thanks in part, to the Taiwanese government. The free Wi-Fi project already in the second phase, includes the installation of the GINET backbone and Wi-Fi access points providing service in parks and other public places across the island. The initiative’s

This free service will see a marked increase in internet usage and will assist with business and enterprise in an innovative way. According to Taiwanese Ambassador Shen, “Through our joint efforts in this meaningful program, it will continue to enhance the safety environment and bring benefits to the communities.” The free service will create community hubs and nurture community development. In our advanced technological age, access to free public Wi-Fi can bridge the gap between the urban and rural communities. Additionally, users would be encouraged to use the free service to enhance their educational, professional and social lives. The total project will cost US$4 million with Taiwan contributing US$3.28 million and the balance of US$720,000 to be raised by the government of Saint Lucia to make the initiative a reality. As part of the contribution, the Taiwanese have pledged to provide training in the installation and maintenance of the network. As the country sets to join the Wi-fi revolution, a wide cross section of the citizenry will soon reap countless benefits by connecting on the go. The free service will increase productivity, provide access to persons who are unable to afford the service and assist in cases of emergency. ¤ CMSP Master Certification for the Caribbean and Latin America. Attaining this globally recognized certification further underlines our expertise and capacity to provide Cloud based Managed Services to our customers in the region. As the only provider in the Caribbean with this certification, it also demonstrates our position as one of Cisco’s “go-to” partners for providing cloudbased services.”

Attains Cisco AndCloud And C&W BusinessCloud Attains Cisco Managed Services Partner Master Certification Managed Services Partner Master Certification C&W is the first provider operating in the region to achieve the distinction of Cisco Cloud and Managed Services Partner (CMSP) Master certification for the Caribbean and Latin American region. The company joins the elite group of Cisco® partners worldwide forging a new future stamped in innovative excellence. To attain the CMSP Master designation, C&W Business went through a rigorous vetting process by Cisco which included showing a network operation center capable of servicing multiple ‘referenceable’ customers as well as passing an independent third-party audit of capabilities. The company demonstrated that it had established service ITIL processes, practices, and had tools in place to support Cisco advanced technologies at all phases of the lifecycle — prepare, plan, design, implement, operate, and optimize. According to Shuja Khan, Chief Commercial Officer, C&W Communications, “We are truly delighted to have earned this BusinessFocus

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Cisco powered product offers are best-in-class, flexible, and scalable cloud and managed services that are designed to help customers to increase their scope, improve their customer experience and capitalize on emerging opportunities. This designation, Cloud and Managed Services Partner Master is for partners who sell and deliver Cisco powered products enabled by a world-class network operation centre responsible for delivering, monitoring and pro-active management and maintenance services. The customer benefits from superior levels of service, security, and 24-hour support from Cisco partners who undergo rigorous certification and a third-party audit of their solutions. As such, the distinction with the presentation of the award exemplifies the work the company has put into this achievement and why it is deserving of such recognition. Additionally, following several years of significant investment, C&W Business has become the region’s premier hosted solutions and ITaaS provider, with world-class Tier III/IV facilities located in Bogota, Panama, Miami, Cayman, and Curacao, all inter-connected via our unmatched subsea fibre network (50,000 km and growing) reaching over 40 markets. C&W Business is globally recognized by Gartner which has named C&W Business to its coveted “Magic Quadrant” for the last 3 years and Ovum ranks C&W #4 globally for our Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) solutions. ¤

OECS and ARIN Extend Cooperation to Strengthen Caribbean Information and Communication Technology "This will enhance the technical capacity of those responsible for supporting the computer networks that are so vital to our economies and societies” said Dr. Jules. Bevil Wooding, the Caribbean Outreach Liaison for ARIN said ARIN has a long history of supporting the Caribbean.

OECS and ARIN Extend Cooperation to Strengthen Caribbean Information and Communication Technology

“ARIN has supported the region in areas that include Internet number policy development, IPv6 adoption, technical capacity building and public education on the development opportunities that a robust and resilient Internet offers the region. “We fully expect our work in the Eastern Caribbean to be strengthened by this agreement and applaud the OECS Commission for their unwavering commitment to enhancing ICT development in the region” said Mr. Wooding. OECS and ARIN agreed to:

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN) have agreed to extend their collaboration to improve the resilience of the Internet and strengthen related technical capacity in the OECS. Speaking at the end of two days of talks between the organizations at the headquarters of the OECS Commission in Castries, Saint Lucia, representatives from both organizations expressed confidence that the deepening relationship would benefit Internet users and Internet-enabled development in OECS Member States. This agreement will allow us to converge our efforts to ensure the OECS can draw upon the expertise and services of ARIN. This is significant as it helps to ensure that we develop the type of resilient computer networks that underpin today’s interconnected, digitally-enabled economy and society said Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS Commission. “ARIN has a track record as collaborative partner to the Caribbean, and as the body responsible for Internet number resources for our region, we can expect this cooperation to benefit end users through expanded and more efficient Internet services, whether they be IT developers or a household of Internet users. “We are looking forward to collaborating more closely with ARIN as an international body to develop strategies and practical initiatives to promote the interest and advancement of OECS Member States.

• identify and actively engage with key national Internet stakeholders including network operators, Internet policy makers and justice sector officers; • create appropriate communication interfaces to support enhanced collaboration and information-sharing, including the identification of thematic areas of common interest in Internet development; • collaborate towards overcoming the barriers and challenges to realising intra-regional cooperation and alignment of national programs with OECS-wide initiatives for Internet development; • share knowledge, experience and best practices on Internet strengthening initiatives, and support national Internet strategies; • closely liaise with existing OECS groups and forums and recognising initiatives already launched in other regions of the world, work towards strengthening the OECS position as the regional Internet pioneer; The agreement is expected to actively contribute to capacitybuilding initiatives, research and national strategies. ARIN and the OECS will together engage in the process of identifying potential synergies and identifying specific areas for collaboration. ARIN has also committed to sharing technical insights in support of the strategic direction of OECS Commission’s initiatives and programmes related to Internet numbering, network autonomy and IPv6 deployment. The collaboration kicks off with a series of free ARIN In The Caribbean training workshops targeting network operators and computer engineers in the OECS. Workshops are initially scheduled for Grenada, Saint Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Dominic over the next three months. The events will address building autonomous networks, IPv6 deployment, and accessing Internet number resources. Symposia for OECS law enforcement officials on Cybersecurity and for policy-makers on Internet Governance, are also being planned. ¤ BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

BUSINESS TECH

WhatsApp inches closer to WhatsApp Inches Closer To Revenue Plan With Accounts For with Businesses revenue plan accounts for businesses

RBC Caribbean ‘Going Digital’ in 2018

WhatsApp inches closer to revenue plan with accounts for businesses

Messaging application WhatsApp said recently that it would begin allowing business accounts for the first time, a step that brings the free service closer to a plan that would make money for its corporate parent, Facebook Inc. Some businesses already use WhatsApp, with 1.3 billion users, to answer inquiries from customers. Business accounts will allow them to set up automatic greetings, see statistics about their messaging and set up a profile page with hours of operation and other information, WhatsApp said. The accounts are aimed at businesses that receive a high volume of WhatsApp messages and need help keeping up, WhatsApp Chief Operating Officer Matt Idema said. “What we saw was a need for businesses to have more efficient tools,” Idema said in an interview. Idema, who was a Facebook executive before he joined WhatsApp last year, said WhatsApp intends to charge businesses in some form in the future, but he said it was too soon to discuss when that would happen or what the future business services would look like. Facebook bought WhatsApp, a pun on the phrase “What’s up?”, in 2014 for $19 billion, attracted by the size of its user base. WhatsApp used to charge a $1 annual subscription fee but dropped it in 2016, leaving the service without a source of revenue. Options for future revenue are narrow because WhatsApp CEO Jan Koum and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg have ruled out advertising on WhatsApp, a factor that adds to the service’s popularity. ¤

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

According to a media release in Trinidad the bank said: “Starting in February, clients who visit RBC stores (formerly branches) will be encouraged to use RBC’s mobile app, other digital solutions and our ATMs for all their basic transactions, including deposits, fund transfers, bill payments, credit card payments and wire transfers. Clients will save time and money when they choose to ‘go digital.” Commenting on the move, Rob Johnston, Head of RBC Caribbean Banking said: “The data and trends tell us our clients are already accessing many of their services from their phones and personal computer devices. Today’s announcement says RBC is committed to helping clients make their banking one of them. The benefit of the app or online tools is that they are available 24/7, wherever you are. Clients don’t need to visit us at an RBC store, they have RBC in their pocket all the time.” The release said ‘going digital’ had the added “benefit” of shorter lines and faster service inside the stores when clients are looking for advice and solutions for their complex financial needs. RBC Bank also said that client convenience is only half the story while security is the other half. “Everyday banking transactions are increasingly the target of criminals who are intent on fraud and money-laundering,” said Darryl White, Managing Director, RBC Royal Bank Trinidad and Tobago. “By shifting these transactions to digital and mobile channels, we can effectively monitor access and activity, which improves our ability to safeguard our clients and their accounts.” This process is being rolled out initially in Trinidad & Tobago and will subsequently be activated across the entire region. ¤

Women in Leadership within the Public Sector in Saint Lucia “Saint Lucia is ranked the third (3rd) in the world as a nation likely to have a woman being your boss” (Adapted from the Star Newspaper, November 4th, 2017 and espoused by the High Commissioner to Canada) The position of leadership of women is not only reflected in the home but also at the workplace where many hold diverse roles in the public sector. Women within their own rights posses qualities beyond their household, however many of today’s careeroriented women still face challenges within many organizations to break the glass ceiling. Women demonstrate great levels of resilience and have utilized their skills that they posses to become transformational leaders, resulting in them having found rewarding leadership opportunities within both the private and public sector.

in comparison to males. A similar disparity was also reflected with a greater number of female directors (10) who headed different departments within the public sector than males (5). Data also illustrated that women assumed leadership roles as chief officers within their respective department (10) and females (7). Women are in fact advancing into areas that were once occupied by men. Collectively, out of one hundred and nine (109) leadership posts, sixty-seven (67) are female and forty-two (42) males. Outstandingly, women dominate the health care profession which may be attributed to the nurturing role attributed to women. Majority of the offices are notably headed by women; chief medical officer, principal nursing officer, and persons responsible for various health facilities on the island are women. This is a very telling situation as it relates to the division of labour in St. Lucia.

Amidst the much debated issues of gender parity and gender equality such phenomena is not represented in the political arena in Saint Lucia. It is argued that we have not seen change in this situation because there is a greater need for gender sensitivity and awareness in parliament as well as in policies and structures which differently impact men and women.

Despite the challenges faced by women having to fulfill both naturing and nurturing roles, many have enhanced and used these roles to mobilize themselves in leadership positions within the public and private sector. Women have and continue to empower themselves and others; as they guide, encourage and mentor their colleagues while fulfilling their mandate at work, which advances both job efficiency and satisfaction amongst employees.

Women have historically faced economic, social and institutional barriers to participating in politics, but both men and women are capable of succeeding. This is exemplified in the data revealed which illustrated that there are more female holders in leading positions in the public sector as of January 2018. It was noted that there was an equal proportion of male and female permanent secretaries (6) each in the public sector. However, such data changed as there are more female deputy permanent secretaries

By the Department of Gender Relations, Ministry of Education, Innovation, Gender Relations and Sustainable Development. ¤ Department of Gender Relations Walcott Building Jeremie Street Castries Tel: (758) 453-0557 Email: gender.relations@govt.lc

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Mar/Apr

10 Year Anniversary IBS Inc - When It Comes To ICT Solutions, IBS Inc Is D’ Simply Bois OrangeThe Best Gros Islet, Saint Lucia Tel: (758) -450-4427 Fax: (758) 458-2759 Email:info@ibsstlucia.com Web: ibsstlucia.com

“When it comes to ICT Solutions, IBS Inc is simply the best” Although this company was formally established on April 1, 2008, when it comes to Technical and Technological solutions, these guys don’t fool around!

these men possess impressive resumes. Their involvement in significant ICT projects here in St. Lucia is well noted and is common knowledge in tech-circles.

The product of two avid telecoms giants Pinkley Francis and Richard Julien, Innovative Business Solutions (IBS) Inc. was established with the intention of transforming St. Lucia’s technological landscape. Both

From a mobile office in Richard’s van and only a two-man team comprising Richard and his sole technician, IBS Inc has fared well over the last decade. The company now occupies and owns prime real-estate in Bois D’ Orange, Gros-Islet and employs about 30 full-time technical and administrative personnel, all St. Lucians. Throughout the years, the company’s portfolio of products, services and clientele has steadily grown. They’ve forged successful business partnerships with industry leaders such as AVAYA, Honeywell, Buckeye, Ruckus, Cisco and AVG, to name a few. Their range of products and services include but aren’t limited to; PABX, CCTV, Fire Detection and Suppression Systems, Security Systems. They also provide ICT Support, Structured Cabling, VOIP, VPNs, Fiber Optics, Cyber Security and many other Telecoms solutions.

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With its clientele ranging from residential to governmental, IBS Inc currently boasts a 30% market share and as the company strives to remain at the forefront in the industry, it is well positioned to increase this number. When it comes to ICT Solutions, IBS Inc is simply the best and a force to be reckoned with! Their well trained, certified and competent team has the technical capacity to execute any project big or small they deliver it all! The original o erings also were: 1.Infrastructure – This includes cabling and the physical installation of anything necessary to make a technology solution work. This began with the running of copper cables for data and voice services at Sandals Resorts but has since evolved into so much more. Offering certification testing on cable installs as well as Fibre optic cable installation and splicing. These services have even been rendered to both major telecoms providers here on island, a true testament of the company’s technical capacity.

2.PBX o ce telephone systems - These were initially offered to small businesses and really highlighted the strengths of managing director, Richard Julien, who for much of his time at C&W was an Engineer working in the PBX department. This tradition skill, knowledge and competence has been embraced by the staff and has allowed for the installation of many PBX solutions throughout the length and breadth of the island and beyond. These systems range from very basic installs having 3 telephones to complex multi-site installs which provide telephony to thousands.

IBS personnel for wise decision making and successful installs.

3.Information Technology Services - This began with simply providing support for a few small customers and has since become one of the business’ Core Services with many firms and businesses across the island and beyond outsourcing their IT Support to IBS.

Building on this Physical Security Portfolio, IBS expanded to offer life safety solutions. Under this portfolio technology solutions are offered which aid in securing assets and property through fire detection systems and alarms as well as fire suppression systems which are designed to put out fires in server or equipment rooms, and kitchens. IBS is also a supplier for the Buckeye IBS Inc brand of Fire Extinguishers.

IBS has significantly increased its presence in the IT Market by providing network solutions such as wired and wireless networking. These solutions have encompassed the design, sale and commissioning of routers, firewalls, network switches and wireless access points. These products and services have been provided not only to small businesses but also many established firms and corporations, many of which having their own IT departments but depend on the expertise of

Around 2012, IBS decided to enter the physical security market by offering CCTV systems, Intrusion or Burglar Alarms and Access Control Systems. Not willing to simply replicate what had been done by many of their predecessors, the decision was made to partner with Honeywell, the global leader in Security, Fire, and Video Surveillance systems. This partnership has set IBS apart from its competitors, by not always providing the cheapest solution but always the most functional by using cutting edge technology.

Our Esteemed Achievements IBS has become the only AVAYA service partner from the English-Speaking Caribbean in the CALA region, entering and competing quite successfully in a market largely dominated by Companies from large Latin American Countries. As a Service Partner IBS is also a Certified Installer and is contracted by AVAYA to do implementations as well as support throughout the Caribbean region. These installs have included many large projects including:

Marriott Haiti CARICOM & CSME Secretariats in Guyana & Barbados Digicel Trinidad & Tobago Marriott Aruba – PBX with 3000+ Extensions serving 3 properties Government of Saint Lucia Digicel Saint Lucia,La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino Aruba Guyana 911 – Contact Center BVI Electricity Company In 2013 IBS was contracted by Telesur, the government owned telecommunications company in Suriname, South America to provide Technical Assistance for the period of six months. During this time IBS provided on site training on the Avaya IP Office and SCOPIA platforms, as well as on-site and remote support for many of their installs including Suriname National Army, Fernandes & SOL. In 2016 IBS directors Richard Julien & Pinkley Francis travelled to Cartagena, Colombia to attend the annual Honeywell Partner Conference, there they received the Award for Enterprise Business Partner of the Year 2015. The Infrastructure & Security Departments have successfully delivered on many large Projects, cabling multi-story office buildings and multibuilding complexes including: Treasury Department at the Dyana Centre, Peter and Company Distribution, Digicel Caribbean Limited, Sandals Resorts and Sugar Beach A Viceroy Resort

` BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

BUSINESS FOCUS

Bois Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Orange Gros Islet, Saint Lucia Tel: (758) -450-4427 Fax: (758) 458-2759 Email:info@ibsstlucia.com Web: ibsstlucia.com

IBS Inc

10 Year Anniversary SMALL BUSINESS & ENTERPRISE I.T SOLUTIONS OUR TECHNOLOGY OFFERINGS KEEP GROWING BUT WE HAVE THREE (3) MAIN AREAS OF FOCUS 1. Infrastructure â&#x20AC;&#x201C; This would speak to cabling and the physical installation of anything necessary to make a technology solution work. 2. ICT (Information Communications Technology) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; This would speak to computers, networks and communication systems. 3. Physical Security & Life Safety â&#x20AC;&#x201C; This would speak to technology solutions which aid in securing assets and property as well as early detection and prevention systems for fires.

Products Infrastructure Structured Cabling $BU F t $BU t $BCMF 57 Fiber Optics - Fusion Splicing ICT Outsourced IT Support Point of Sales Systems Design & Implementation - LAN (Switches) t 8"/ 3PVUFST 71/ t 8JSFMFTT /FUXPSLJOH 8*'*

t 5FMFQIPOF 4ZTUFNT t 7JEFP $POGFSFODJOH 4ZTUFNT t 4FSWFST Telecommunications Consulting

IBS has chosen a number of strategic alliances with manufacturers, developers and solution providers. These partnerships were formed to be able to provide the highest quality products and services at competitive prices. Names such as Honeywell, AVAYA & RUCKUS are well recognized as offering market leading solutions which are implemented all over the world and as such can be trusted.

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Our staff are well trained and certified in their areas of expertise. We value our people, their integrity, their skills and their professionalism â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they create our reputation and ensure the success of the company.

Fire Alarm Systems

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Talent and Imagination from Cover to Cover “we develop and maintain our Clients’ Business Marketing Needs”

* Advertising * Web Designing & Hosting * Publications * Branding Development * Event Management Advertising & Marketing Services

2017

of the Saint

Lucia Hotel

An Official Publication & Tourism Associ ation and Saint

Lucia Tourist

Board

www.amsstlucia.com • lokesh@amsstlucia.com

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Sagicor

A serious illness is arduous enough without the worries of financial hardship. At Sagicor, our Group Life and Health Products are designed to keep you protected and healthy! We are also committed to providing reliable and excellent service should you become ill. Our CariCARE® Enterprise and CariCARE® Advantage Programmes offer you choice and flexibility. These can be customized to a workforce of any size and offer the convenience of instant claims settlements. Discover how Sagicor can help you strengthen your business from within.

Sentinel Security Co. Ltd State of the Art Security Solution

Sunny Acres (Behind Friendship Inn), Castries, St. Lucia Tel: 452-4242 / 453-2660 / 451-7180 Fax: 453-2635 | Email sentinelxpress@hotmail.com

Sentinel Security Co. Ltd We offer Residential & Commercial Burglary & Fire Arm Installation Central Monitor Station 24 Hour Response Service Access Control Biometrics Intercom Systems CCTV Installation Remote Camera Surveillance Vehicle Tracking Systems Aviation Security ID Service Proud to provide Aviation Security Screening at St. Lucia’s Airports BusinessFocus

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SPECIAL FEATURE

SAINT LUCIA 1 9 939 3 - 2018 2018

Celebrating 25 Years of Service Partnership and Excellence

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Sandals A Caribbean Success Story

Sandals Chairman & Gordon "Butch" Stewart (R) an & CEO irm Cha uty Adam Stewart Dep

Butler Service at Sandals Regency - Millionaire Suite

A CARIBBEAN Title here SUCCESS STORY Boasting 23 of the most exclusive luxury-included resorts in the world, Sandals Resorts International (SRI) is a globally recognised, award-winning hospitality company that has been voted World’s Best at the World Travel Awards – the academy awards of the travel industry - for 23 consecutive years. It’s Founder and Chairman, The Hon. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart O.J., C.D., Hon. LLD, stands out as one of the 21st century’s foremost business pioneers who has reinvented the world’s hospitality industry, creating a hugely successful brand that employs over 15,000 team members, and is a fundamental pillar upon which many Caribbean economies are built. The Sandals chain is part of a family-owned group of companies that also comprise Appliance Traders Ltd, ATL Auto, The Jamaica Observer, and over two dozen other diverse businesses that form Jamaica’s largest private sector group, the country’s biggest foreign exchange earner and largest non-government employer. The success of Mr. Stewart’s Sandals/ATL Group is testament to a lifetime of hard work, diligence, BusinessFocus

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innovation and compassion, founded upon a simple but powerful philosophy of giving the customer more than he or she expects; a doctrine that today underpins the world-famous service given by all Sandals staff: and for which the brand is so well known and loved. As Sir Richard Branson once commented, “Butch took a risk by venturing into tourism, an industry he knew nothing about. Yet he had a vision, remained steadfast to his ideals, and blazed a trail, building one of the travel industry’s most globally recognized brands.” By steadfastly adhering to the “We can do it better” principle of pleasing his guests, Mr. Stewart has fostered a company free to imagine and free to consistently raise the bar. This has earned him the title of “King of All-Inclusives,” changing the face of the all-inclusive format and establishing Sandals Resorts as the most successful brand in the category – boasting year-round occupancy levels of more than 85 percent, an unequaled repeat guest factor of 40 percent and demand that has led to unprecedented expansion including the creation of additional concepts such as Beaches Resorts, now the industry standard for excellence in family beach vacations.

Today, Sandals Resorts International operates nine resorts and three private villas in Jamaica, three resorts in Saint Lucia, three in The Bahamas, one in Antigua, one in Grenada, one in Barbados and one in The Turks & Caicos Islands – and is poised for continued growth. The company’s award-winning success is built on a relentless pursuit of excellence, innovation and expansion that has seen the introduction of neverbefore-seen features like fine dining restaurants, butler service, infinity-sky pools, the Caribbean’s largest swim-up bar pools, luxury weddings, and more. The romantic model worked so well that it has led to the world famous tagline that “At Sandals, love is all you need.” Mr. Stewart’s love for Jamaica is matched only by his love for the Caribbean region as a whole and wherever Sandals plants its flag the Chairman ensures that the communities and countries benefit from linkages that support manufacturers, taxi-drivers, farmers, local craftsmen, local tour operators and others. The view that a rising tide lifts all boats is one that Sandals believes in and invests in. Today the Sandals Chairman is joined by his son Adam Stewart C.D., who, as Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer has been working alongside his father over the past decade to keep the company on a trajectory of exhilarating growth, encompassing new resorts in new island destinations coupled with the introduction of industry-changing innovation and developments. Serving as Chairman of Jamaica’s National Linkages Committee, Adam Stewart continues to look for and create new partnerships within the countries where Sandals operates.

private sector employer in several of the destinations where it operates. The resort chain also leaves a massive economic footprint, directly injecting millions of dollars into those economies in salaries, utility payments, local purchases and other taxes. Many of these islands also benefit from a multi-million dollar marketing effort that sees a Sandals ad running on mainstream TV in North America every 30 seconds. A key element of its success has been the partnerships Sandals seeks to forge with all stakeholders, and in Saint Lucia in particular the partnership with government, other hoteliers, the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association, the business sector, famers and other interest groups have all helped the company grow from strength to strength, where today it represents Sandals largest investment outside of Jamaica. Saint Lucia will be part of an unprecedented expansion of the group over the next three to four years, which will see the construction of a fourth Sandals resort on the island; Sandals Saint Lucia La Source. A new 18-hole Championship Golf Course designed by Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman is also on the cards for the Sandals Golf and Country Club at Cap Estate. Further afield a Beaches family resort is to be built in Barbados which follows on from the opening of Sandals Royal Barbados in December 2017, and will be the company’s third resort in Barbados. At the same time discussions continue with the Government of Trinidad and Tobago to build a Sandals and Beaches resorts in Tobago. ¤

A philanthropist at heart, Adam also initiated and serves as the President of the Sandals Foundation, a non-profit organisation aimed at fulfilling the promise of the Caribbean community by improving lives and preserving the natural surroundings, through investments in sustainable regional projects in education, community and the environment. The C.E.O. has also reinforced the company’s commitment to training and improving the lives of its team members by introducing the Sandals Corporate University, and has diversified the product offerings of the group with the establishment of new subsidiaries like Island Routes Adventures. With tourism being the mainstay of many Caribbean economies, Sandals plays a vital role as the largest earner of foreign exchange as well as the largest BusinessFocus

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Gordon "Butch" Stewart Takes The Giant Step And Brings Sandals To Saint Lucia

Gordon "Butch" Stewart

TAKES THE GIANT STEP AND BRINGS SANDALS TO SAINT LUCIA

It was a chance encounter in 1992 between the then Director of Tourism for Saint Lucia Allen Chastanet and the Chairman of Sandals Resorts International Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, that planted the seed for the Sandals brand expansion into Saint Lucia. The move also fitted perfectly with the then Prime Minister Sir. John Compton’s vision to diversify the island’s economic landscape, shifting from agriculture to tourism. Chastanet’s initial recommendation was for the Sandals Chairman to look at La Belle Helene at Beau Estate in Soufriere as a possible destination for his rapidly expanding brand, which was already the market leader in the all-inclusive niche. But it was the Cunard La Toc - already a wellknown EP hotel – that caught the Chairman’s attention and after acquiring it in November 1992 the property underwent several months of transformation, following which the birth of Sandals Regency LaToc Golf Resort and Spa was realized with first guests being welcomed on April 16, 1993 with 271 keys. It has since expanded to operating 331 keys today. Among those to share in what was officially the beginning of a change in the island’s economic BusinessFocus

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landscape, were Prime Minister Compton, Jamaican Prime Minister Sir Hugh Lawson Shearer along with a number of other local and regional dignitaries. General Manager Louis Grant and Hotel Manager Ian Reynolds were the two tasked with steering the ship. La Toc underwent considerable change during its 5-month renovation to include the majestic Pavilion Restaurant and Lobby area, revision of all pools from a depth of 6ft to 4ft, the creation of the island’s first swim-up pool bar and the largest pool in the entire Eastern Caribbean, overhaul of the watersports area, the construction of the resort’s popular waterfall, the construction of the amphitheater, gym and spa area and the introduction of the Arizona Restaurant, and a spectacular Kimono’s Restaurant, a first for the region. “It was seen as a true gem,” said one of the key personalities behind the La Toc transformation. “And it really helped to strengthen the Sandals Brand’s presence in Europe. The Chairman made an excellent call.” ¤

CPJ St Lucia Cul-De-Sac, Castries Tel: +1 (758) 458.7551 Fax: +1 (758) 451.5148 custsvc@slu.cpj.com www.cpj.com

CPJ ST.LUCIA LTD Congratulates Sandals St. Lucia on their 25th Anniversary

CPJ St. Lucia Ltd

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BUSINESS FOCUS

The Future Looks Bright For Sandals And Saint Lucia With New Investments

Over The Water Suite at Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort

THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR SANDALS AND SAINT LUCIA WITH NEW INVESTMENTS When Sandals first opened, the all-inclusive concept was only just starting to take root in the Caribbean, and uncertainty over what it would mean for other stakeholders led to mixed reaction from the Saint Lucia public. However, the team set about to win them over, and prove to them the significant benefits that would accrue through the linkages that would be created. Indeed, news of the purchase and development of this resort sent ripples through the European tourism community where Cunard had developed a reputation. However, it was the impact Sandals would have on the North American market that was the real game changer. While LaToc was still under construction, the Sandals brand was already considering expanding its footprint on the island and had initiated discussions to realize further investment here.

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This second investment would be realized through the purchase of the Halcyon Beach Club Saint Lucia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; now Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort, which is now the official home of the Sandals Regional Office in the Eastern Caribbean. That office was started under the direction of first Regional Manager Peter Westbrook. By then the company had invested millions in structural development and upgrades, created employment and was steadily positioning itself as the largest foreign direct capital earner in the island.

Sandals Halcyon was officially acquired on March 5, 1993 and underwent immediate renovation. All this while light renovations were still taking place over at La Toc. Halcyon officially opened in May 1994 with 169 keys. These properties were allowed to develop immensely over the years with considerable capital investment in both property and employees. Today, hundreds of individuals who started their professional hospitality journeys with Sandals in the 1990s remain with the company scattered across the resorts not only in Saint Lucia but across the Caribbean. It was not until May 2002 did the Sandals Chairman seek to acquire any other property in the island. This was the purchase of the now Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort. It was built by the Rochamel construction company and managed by the Hyatt Hotel group, but some controversy restricted the fruition of that undertaking and allowed for the Sandals brand acquisition. The Grande opened in September of 2002 with 292 keys but today sits as a 311-key coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only resort. Â¤

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A Winning Combination Of Properties And Destination

A WINNING COMBINATION OF RESORTS AND DESTINATION Sandals Resorts has for the past 25 years invested heavily into the global marketing of not only its brand and resorts, but also – and perhaps most importantly – the global marketing of the destinations within which it operates. Saint Lucia has undoubtedly been at the forefront of these marketing investments, benefiting from hundreds of media exposures daily in the United States alone. The island is also exposed to the European advertising market where its lush green and high-rising landscape has proven to be the center of attraction for nature lovers who want to marry their Caribbean experience with adventure. About marriage, Saint Lucia and Sandals have both risen to the top shelf of destination

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weddings with the three Sandals Resorts here recording some 2000 weddings annually. Saint Lucia has been neatly positioned as the Caribbean’s leading honeymoon destination and Sandals has created an avenue where both the wedding and honeymoon can be had in sequence and on the same island. So confident is the company in the growth of the destination wedding

market in Saint Lucia, it has gone ahead and invested considerably in the innovative overthe-water wedding chapel found only at two Sandals resorts throughout the group â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Grande Saint Lucian and Royal Caribbean in Jamaica. It has also invested in creating new and exciting ways for couples to further personalize their wedding experience allowing for more and increasingly flexible options that further authenticate each nuptial. Moreover, Sandals Resorts, through its affiliate Island Routes have gone further to create that seamless connection between resorts and destination by integrating local tours and tour operators into its operation.

With Island Routes, guests on Sandals Resorts are able to not only see the possibilities for local adventure, but they can equally book those adventures and experience the island via land, sea or air. Island Routes has worked with these tour operators to the extent where they are trained in global best practices in the areas of customer service, operating standards, insurance and more. Together, Sandals and Saint Lucia have magnificently combined resorts with destination. Â¤

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Regency La Toc

REGENCY LA TOC After its acquisition by Sandals in 1992 the Cunard La Toc, which was an EP hotel at the time, closed its doors on October 31 that same year to undergo months of intense renovations, or “sandalisation’ as the company calls it. By April 16, 1993 the new Sandals Regency La Toc welcomed its first guests in a ceremony that included then Prime Minister John Compton and the man who had first reached out to Butch Stewart to bring his resort to Saint Lucia, Director of Tourism Allen Chastanet. Louis Grant was the company’s first General Manager in Saint Lucia, with Ian Reynolds standing as its first Hotel Manager. By the time it re-opened, La Toc had undergone considerable changes during the 5-month renovation to include the majestic Pavilion Restaurant and lobby area, revision of all pools from a depth of 6 ft to a more accommodating 4 ft, the creation of the island’s first swim-up pool bar, overhaul of the watersports area, the construction of the resort’s popular waterfall, the full construction of the amphitheater, gym and spa area and the introduction of the then Arizona Restaurant –now called Neptune’s.

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The resort opened with 271 keys in 1993, but was purchased with considerably less. On February 5, 2000, it unveiled its now signature Bluff Wing adding a further 56 keys to the inventory. Again, in August 2007 four majestic Millionaire Suites, overlooking the north western coast of Saint Lucia with direct line of sight to Martinique were introduced. These remain among the most sought after suites in the Sandals Group. At present La Toc operates 331 keys and is well known as Saint Lucia’s most glamorous resort. It sits on a magnificent 210-acre estate set on a half-mile, crescentshaped beach, cradling exotic coral bluffs, lush hillsides and rolling fairways. Featuring a challenging executivestyle golf course, stunning oceanfront suites and the private enclave of the Sunset Bluff Village, this resort is recognized as the most sparkling jewel in the islands. It features Five-Star Diamond French cuisine and other international cuisines with access to 27 restaurants with the Stay at 1, Play at 3 exchange program that includes Sandals Halcyon Beach and the Sandal Grande Saint Lucian. Saint Lucia born Michael James now steers the ship as General Manager, holding that office since 2010. ¤

Golden Eggs Farms Management & staff wishes Sandals a happy

25th Anniversary

Golden Eggs farms Limited is a very We believe sales of eggs should be market successful company that is well established driven in order to respond to our in the agriculture industry. The company consumersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs. We strive to maintain was founded twenty-five (25) years ago in profitability and growth through efficient 1993 by Roger and Genevieve St. Clair, as a production and employee development in small egg farms and has now accelerated a safe and supportive work environment. Golden Eggs Farms into the largest in the OECS. Professionalism and integrity are We are committed to providing high quality maintained across all areas of our nutritious eggs and eggs-products at a operations. competitive rate to our consumers island wide. We endeavor to meet these by providing a product and service which are far beyond reproach.

Tel: 450-6753 / 285-9270 / 729-2366 Email: goldeneggs2@hotmail.com info@goldeneggsfarms.com

P.O. Box QAB 47 BusinessFocus Jan/Feb Mar/Apr | 39 La Guerre Babonneau, St. Lucia

BUSINESS FOCUS

Halcyon Beach Resort

HALCYON BEACH RESORT It has been described as a true Garden of Eden by a Tranquil Sea. If ever there was an all-inclusive resort that embraces the quintessential Caribbean, Sandals Halcyon Beach is surely it. It sits in the midst of a tropical utopia, where majestic palms line a pristine beach and verdant mountains rise from a turquoise sea, presenting a charming and intimate sanctuary that's the essence of its name... tranquil, peaceful and calm. Sandals Halcyon Beach is loved by guests as a place where your senses are elevated by caressing sea breezes, inviting ocean waters, and fragrant tropical blooms, and includes gourmet dining at six specialty restaurants, which the Stay at One, Play at Three concept expands to over 27 options. Sandals Halcyon Beach was acquired on March 5, 1993, even as the renovations were taking place at Sandals Regency La Toc. It opened in May of 1994 with 169 keys. Konrad Wagner was Halcyon’s first General Manager with Mark Joinville standing as Hotel Manager.

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Later Saint Lucian Lennox Dupal would take over the position as GM, going on to become one of the hotel’s longest serving heads. It was under Dupal’s tenure that the first major renovation took place in 2008 when 72 rooms on its southern end were totally revamped. Mr. Dupal actually began his career as Hotel Manager at Sandals Regency LaToc in 1996 before being transferred to the Group’s flagship resort - Sandals Montego Bay – in the same capacity. He would later work at both Negril properties and at least one other resort in Jamaica. He returned to Saint Lucia a seasoned General Manager and served until his retirement in 2016, when he handed over the baton to Christopher Elliott, who had served as his Hotel Manager before. Significant renovations have continued under Mr. Elliott and his Hotel Manager Martina Roth, which saw the refurbishing of the popular Kelly’s Restaurant and the all-new Beachfront Honeymoon Butler Suites with private deck and plunge pool. More upgrades are expected shortly. ¤

Grande Saint Lucian

GRANDE ST. LUCIAN Sandals won the tender to acquire the Grande property in May 2002 following its construction by the Rochamel Construction Company and management under the Hyatt Group. Immediately after its acquisition, the resort underwent intense redesign and construction to fit the Sandals couples-only model, and new guests were welcomed to the resort as early as September of that year, opening with 274 keys. Located on its own peninsula at Pigeon Island, the resort showcases awe-inspiring panoramic views including a sheltered mile-long beach extends an open invitation for days of endless water play. It opened under General Manager Konrad Wagner and Hotel Manager Cletus Pancham who set the stage for the energetic, youthfully inclined resort that is known today. 18 new Rondavol Suites were added in 2006, which increased the total room count then to 292. However the best was yet to come, and under current General Manager Winston Anderson,

an exciting list of inclusions never before seen in Saint Lucia have taken place and which have increased the room count to 311. In 2017 Mr. Anderson working alongside Head of the Projects team Mark Harding, oversaw the construction of nine revolutionary Over the Water Bungalows that have since transformed the Grande landscape. Only three Sandals Resorts in the group can boast this feature, otherwise only found in the Fiji islands. The resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Over-theWater Wedding Chapel is also a signature piece that was added in 2017. These days Mr. Anderson is supported by Saint Lucian born Filius Laurent as Hotel Manager. Sandals Grande Saint Lucian is now one of the most popular resorts in Saint Lucia, and is often described as the "closest vacation to a pictureperfect postcard." Its popularity as a hotel of choice allows The Grande to command an occupancy level of approximately 80 percent throughout the year. Â¤

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Loyalty And Travel

LOYALTY AND TRAVEL On-Resort Travel Advisors Sandals has had a powerful record of attracting returning guests; getting people to return to Saint Lucia and other Caribbean destinations over and over again. This has been the result of an impressive union between the Sandals Select Rewards Club Programme which was launched in December 2007, and the On Vacation Selling option called “Soon Come Back”. The two segments became a combined force within the Sandals hotels and morphed into what is now branded as the Loyalty and Travel division. The symbiosis between both departments has created a unique way of encouraging visitors to return to the various destinations, booking future trips even while on their current vacation. The Select Rewards Club attends to the existing returning guests, and all the benefits offered to this clientele; while the Travel segment works toward securing future vacations within the entire Sandals and Beaches brands of twentyfour properties. The Select Reward Club offerings were relaunched in November 2017 with improved BusinessFocus

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amenities and additional bonus offerings, including Bonus Sign-Up Points which are redeemable, and Free Vacations for our top tier achievers. Our Saint Lucia team is of course passionate about the re-sale of the island, and as such almost 25% of the brand’s re-sales and returnees are to its St Lucia based resorts. In some cases the Sandals’ VVIP clients have returned as many as twenty-five (25) times over the years which has led to the creation of true and lasting friendships with some of the group’s talented team members. The Loyalty lounges were upgraded to include highly qualified Consultants with in-depth training and exposure on all of our resorts, and the visual technological aides of smart, flatscreen connected televisions so the clients can see the actual offerings before making a decision to return. Loyalty and Travel is committed to doing its part to securing our future business to the mutual enjoyment of both our loyal guests and our beloved Saint Lucia, in line with our Company’s mandate. ¤

Donald Vaccaro Jr & Elizabeth Vaccaro

25 YEARS RETURNING

Donald and Elizabeth came to Sandals Regency for their honeymoon 25 years ago. Twenty five years later, they have returned to celebrate their 25th anniversary.

CIBC First Caribbean

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La Source On Track For 2018

LA SOURCE ON TRACK FOR 2018 In July 2017 Sandals Resorts shared plans for its newest resort in Saint Lucia – the all-suite Sandals LaSource Saint Lucia. Located along Pigeon Island Beach and adjacent to Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals LaSource Saint Lucia will be the fourth Sandals Resorts property in Saint Lucia, expanding Sandals’ exclusive exchange program to “Stay at One, Play at Four.” The resort, which breaks ground later this year, will introduce three new restaurant concepts to the brand, the American-inspired Tavern, Greek restaurant Éros and an authentic noodle shop and is the first Sandals Resorts property to have continuous winding river pools surrounding every room block and all with unobstructed access to the main pool. “We continue to be the innovation leader and the designs we reveal today are proof of that,” said Gordon “Butch” Stewart, Founder and Chairman of Sandals Resorts International. When Sandals LaSource debuts in Saint Lucia

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it will introduce the destination’s first roof top infinity edge sky pool and Jacuzzi, offering 360-degree views of the island’s beautiful north coast. The resort offers two additional pools, including a 9,000 square foot, curved glassfronted infinity edge pool featuring a signature Sandals Resorts swim-up pool bar, opening to a land-side bar and adjacent sunken fire pit lounge area. Other notable additions here include a brand new entertainment facility featuring a 4-lane bowling alley, games room, living room and bar. According to Stewart, Sandals Resorts has reimagined the way it delivers entertainment options to appeal to a new audience. “Although we’ll continue to stage elaborate productions, we’re realizing that more and more our guests appreciate entertainment options that are available on their schedule, impromptu and often with other guests and friends they may be travelling with,” said Stewart. “The immediate

popularity of our fire pits was the impetus of our creating places for guests to lounge and linger in settings that were comfortable and always available.” Sandals LaSource Saint Lucia will offer 380 suites including Sandals’ Skypool, Rondoval, and Swim-Up suites, other signature categories as well as the recently introduced and much acclaimed Over-the-Water Bungalows. In addition, the resort will feature ten restaurants including three new concepts, but guests will actually have the choice of 37 dining options through Sandals Resorts’ Stay at One, Play at Four exchange program. Other amenities include an expansive Red Lane Spa®, wedding lounge, beauty salon and well-appointed departure lounge with lockers and showers so guests may take full advantage of the resort up until the moment they must depart.

“Saint Lucia has been and continues to be an excellent destination for Sandals offering our guests beauty, tremendous facilities and attractions and truly friendly people. We are thrilled to continue our long tradition of investment here, adding even more reasons for holidaymakers to visit Saint Lucia,” said Stewart. ¤

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Sandals And Greg Norman To Deliver New Championship Golf Course In Saint Lucia

SANDALS AND GREG NORMAN TO DELIVER NEW CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE IN SAINT LUCIA The eyes of the world golfing fraternity have turned to the Caribbean and Saint Lucia in particular, after Sandals Resorts International and World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman confirmed plans to design a new 18-hole Championship golf course on the island. It will be the second partnership between two of the most powerful global brands, following the development of the golf course in Emerald Bay, Bahamas by the Greg Norman Company, a project that has already brought major benefits to that island. “They had a Web.com tournament there, and what did the Web.com tournament do, the PGA Tour did? It gave them massive exposure, and I was with a couple of PGA players recently who played that golf course and were totally over the moon about it, and they said we want to go back there, not just to play golf, but we want to go back there to experience what Sandals did in Emerald Bay. It’ll be no different here,’ said Norman.

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Mr. Norman, who won over 90 tournaments and spent more than six years in the number one position during his career, and who also holds the record of being voted into the Hall of Fame with a higher percentage than any other golfer in history, toured the Sandals Cap Estate Golf and Country club recently with his team, and was excited by what they saw. “What I’m very proud about is that what you have out here is a diamond in the rough, and I mean that with all sincerity.” The visit by Mr. Norman was in keeping with a promise made by Sandals Chairman the Hon. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart O.J., C.D., Hon. LL.D, to turn the facility into a world class one, shortly after Sandals acquired the 18-hole Cap Estate Golf Course in 2017. The Greg Norman Company is recognised as the leading designer of golf courses in the world, and wherever he stamps his name, the global golfing fraternity is sure to follow.

Sandals Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Adam Stewart said that the new championship golf course could be finished as soon as the next 12 to 14 months. “It’s going to be a game-changer for this destination and it’s going to be a gamechanger for our company.” Going beyond the enhanced golfing facilities, Sandals also plans to break ground on a fourth resort in Saint Lucia in 2018, Sandals La Source Saint Lucia, and the CEO confirmed that all was on track. “I must say that this (is a) 380-room masterpiece; we have never worked more assiduously and more focused on building the best resort that our hotel chain in 36 years has ever built. It’ll be all-suite. It will have butler-suites that will rival any room in any resort anywhere on planet earth. It’ll employ 900 more Saint Lucians permanently, and it will employ 1,200 Saint Lucians during the construction phase, it will complement everything we’ve done here, and of course we are going to put a lot of golfers in it and promote it as a golf destination. It will raise our annual economic footprint in Saint Lucia to over US$105 million of economic contribution.”

for what is has done, and continues to do to develop the economy of Saint Lucia, “Look at what they have done for our country. How many people have been trained, How many thousands of people have been given the opportunity for proper livelihoods. In my wildest imaginations, and I think that Sir John (Compton) and even the Labour Party would attest to the fact that Sandals has more than delivered in terms of the promises they’ve made to the people of this country.” ¤

It was welcome news for Saint Lucian Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, who attended the press conference along with Minister with Responsibility for Tourism Dominic Fedee. Both men agreed that this was phenomenal news for the future of tourism, especially since it comes on the heels of the island recording record growth in the sector for 2017. According to Prime Minister Chastanet, “I think that Saint Lucia’s best days are still ahead of it, and I think that there are some incredible things that are going to be taking place in Saint Lucia. We have to know that the world is moving at a very fast pace, and we have to remain competitive. We’ve got to strive to be number one; we’ve got to strive to be the best.” The Prime Minister also commended Sandals

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“I had fallen in love with Saint Lucia and the people; I was sold on the children’s home in Gros Islet. On Sunday afternoons I would load my vehicle with children and take them out for ice cream.”

Winston Anderson Managing Director Sandals Resorts Saint Lucia

Winston has been involved in the expansion of growth of all the Sandals resorts in Saint Lucia, having worked at them and seen them transform. But for all its success, Winston understands that Sandals is one partner in tourism, which is why the company works closely with all stakeholders including Government, other hotels, suppliers and the community. “The economies of the Caribbean are inextricably linked to tourism; the future depends on it. In order for these countries to grow and achieve, tourism is the best opportunity. It is in the interest of all to work to make the product better. Product development is critical. More and more other destinations will improve. We are in a value market with more choice. We must sustain product and quality.” Having worked with other types of hotels throughout the world, Winston understands the unique product offered by Sandals. “Sandals has added stability to the Saint Lucia tourism product. Thirty five to forty percent of occupancy is from return guests who have formed relationships with staff. Recognition and relationship building will create more loyalty. People are loyal to people.”

WINSTON ANDERSON

Winston has seen first-hand the transformation in people’s lives. “So much of it is because of the Chairman. He is the most humble human being that I have known. He spends time with people. Despite his success, he is down to earth; it is inside him; and that is what drives the Sandals culture. The Chairman will eat, sleep and breathe people. Sandals puts people first.”

Winston Anderson brings tremendous value to the tourism industry and to Saint Lucia, which he first experienced in 1992.

He gave one such example, “In 2016 a young man came to my office; he bypassed security and found his way into my office; he wanted a job he said, just a chance; so we started him in the grounds department; and later cleaning bins. One year later, he was still there, and after thanking me promised that not only will be remain at Sandals his goal is to eventually be a manager, using the opportunities offered through the Sandals University and training programmes.”

“I joined the team as F&B Manager at Sandals Ocho Rios in 1991. One year later I moved to Sandals Royal Caribbean where I was given a special project by Mr. Merrick Fray. I was going to Sandals La Toc for two weeks and the plane was leaving the very next day. I packed for a short trip. That was in November of 1992. I did not leave until September 1993.”

“Even as we at Sandals have identified strengths in training and marketing, certainly one of our ongoing challenges will be to integrate more into the communities where we operate, building the pride that comes from being a Sandals person. Our 25th year of operations in Saint Lucia provides more opportunity to do the necessary introspection.”

Even though the demands of the industry brought and took him away from Saint Lucia two more times, the island and his people had captured his heart. This is where he chose to plant his roots, and after leading Sandals Grande St. Lucian for many years as General Manager, Winston was recently promoted to Managing Director with responsibility for all Sandals properties on the island.

Winston Anderson is the holder of several professional certificates such as Bachelors’ Degrees in Hospitality Management and Behavioral Science, a Master’s Degree in Hospitality Management and a Doctorate in Management. He is a transformational leader who was also granted an Honorary Doctorate in Management and Leadership by Global University for his contribution to leadership, community and social work. ¤

MANAGING DIRECTOR SANDALS RESORTS SAINT LUCIA

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Chris Elliot General Manager Sandals Halcyon Beach

CHRIS ELLIOT GENERAL MANAGER SANDALS HALCYON BEACH Christopher Elliott came to Saint Lucia in 2006, and fell in love, in more ways than one. Today Chris is married to a Saint Lucian and is himself a citizen of the country he calls home. “I was recruited for Couples in Negril, Jamaica. In fact I had already accepted the position there when a conversation catapulted me in another direction altogether and I ended up coming to Sandals Regency Saint Lucia as the Operations Manager in 2006. I loved it. My plan was to stay for five years. Twelve years later I’m still with Sandals.” The hospitality sector has always been in Chris’ blood, going all the way back to his youth. “When I was a young teenager my grandparents owned three villas in Ocho Rios. I spent all of my school breaks there, always surrounded by visitors. Tourism is a natural fit for me.” Chris says his grounding comes from his grandparents. His soft skills come from his mother, and he credits his father for his business acumen.” Now the General Manager at Sandals Halcyon Beach, Chris is living his dream. “I have only always done tourism. Straight out of high school; summer jobs; my grandparents did a lot of travel and they influenced me. When the first Sandals opened in Jamaica In 1981, I was in high school. I had been observing them. It was bound to happen; it was just a matter of time.”

“I believe that Sandals has been misunderstood, underestimated even. We have leveraged the brand well and get enormous assistance for communities. The company has taken tremendous steps to develop the staff. I am proud that it is Caribbean owned and that senior managers are from the region. We have a stake in Saint Lucia and its people. Sandals will not close and pack up and leave. We have invested here.”

Today Chris brings a wealth of experience to his job, and has overseen significant enhancements to Halcyon over the recent years. He has great confidence in Saint Lucia as a tourism destination, and anticipates that the sector will only get stronger and more viable. Chris has no doubt of the importance Sandals has in the country realizing its dreams.

“Sandals has a strong multiplier effect as evidenced through relationships with contractors and suppliers and its capacity to provide fulltime and contract employment. I can’t see a Saint Lucia without Sandals. We understand the Caribbean.” “I am ready for a brand new hotel in the chain.” ¤

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Michael James - General Manager Sandals Regency La Toc

toward the hospitality sector. My house was the heartbeat of the celebration, whatever the event. My early insight comes from what was then the Saint Lucia Beach Hotel, where I did a frequent walk aboout with an uncle of mine.” Mr. James reflects on the value of the sector to his country. “Tourism is big business. Everyone wants a piece of the pie. Its tentacles reach out far greater in small states and its benefits can be felt by many as we see today. The muliplier effect combining cruise stays and the land based component is tremendous. Once it is managed properly there can be enormous benefit. Ironically, it was at the very hotel he now manages that he started his career in hospitality. His first job was as a Front Office & Reservations Manager at the then Cunard La Toc, an EP hotel, totally different from the all-inclusive brands that now exist. The competition included Cariblue, now The BodyHoliday LeSport and Couples, now Rendezvous Hotel.

MICHAEL JAMES GENERAL MANAGER SANDALS REGENCY LA TOC 2010 - PRESENT Michael James, the current General Manager of Sandals Regency La Toc is a true Saint Lucia success story. “I have been in the business all my life. I attended Ryerson University in the late 70s and graduated with a degree in Hospitality & Tourism. I was fortunate to have grown up in Saint Lucia and to have attended the renowned Saint Mary’s College, spending my days at Lastic Hill in Castries or at Deville Estate in Soufriere”. The normally reserved Michael James breaks into a smile and his eyes crinkle. “I have always gravitated

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It was always Michael’s ambition to be a General Manager, a goal he achieved just ten years after graduation. 25 years later the clock has come full circle… Michael is back at Regency La Toc, where he has been the General Manager since 2010, and which this year celebrates its 25th anniversary as the first Sandals property to open on the island. He brings to Saint Lucia a wealth of experience garnered overseas with other hotels such as The Holiday Inn, Hyatt and Wyndham. “But my dream was to work in a Caribbean Hotel.’ he reminices, “One conversation started the ball rolling, and soon enough, I was at Sandals Montego Bay and at Sandals Royal Bahamian”. In speaking to the Sandals investment in Saint Lucia, he says, “I think the Sandals’ contribution has been absolutely brilliant especially through the work of the Sandals Foundation. Further, the contribution to training of Saint Lucians for careers throughout the industry is unmatched.” In fact it is through the development of the islands human capital that he has found his biggest gratification, “It comes from seeing team members whom I have mentored grow and become better. And when they break into Senior Management, I feel a sense of pride”. ¤

INVESTING IN OUR PEOPLE Investing In Our People DELIVERING

WORLD CLASS SERVICE:

Since the arrival of Sandals in Saint Lucia 25 years ago, one thing remains constant – its indelible footprint on the development of the local human resource, many of whom recognize the role that Sandals has played in their lives, and have gone on to contribute to Saint Lucia successfully in different ways. Many of these people have expressed personal congratulations to the Sandals Team as the company marks its 25th anniversary of operation in Saint Lucia.

Sariah Best Joseph 1992/1997; My experience at Sandals was a defining point in my career and my leadership journey. Working with the company helped to shape my understanding of the industry and more importantly SERVICE as a value proposition and differentiator. I found it very easy to integrate this into my work, my thinking and my interactions with various stakeholders which has proven an asset in every single job thereafter. Sandals on my resume I believe gives me an edge.

good training for me.

A C Small 1992/1999; I worked at Sandals as Jn Assistant Manager. Sandals I loved, based on the way they trained me. My CV still speaks to my Sandals experience and believe it or not, I still maintain contact with some key people there. People still look up to me there. Sandals provided very Marc Joinville 1993-1999; Today he is the Managing director/ owner of Seafari St Lucia Ltd. He is also the Owner of Big Chef Steakhouse,Tapas on the Bay , Big Chef Bakehouse and rental properties. He captions his Sandals experience – “Sandals was totally responsible for

my professional and personal development hence the success in my business today”.

Marva Eugene 1993/2015; Executive Secretary and Spa Manager (5 years); It' been the training; and the attention to detail. This has left a lasting impression on me - The level of importance placed on the importance of the customer. It was about the constancy of freshness; and that we were giving service to people; never servitude. Presently the Owner of Ahava. Lennox Dupal 1996/2015; These were the early years for me when foreign companies did not trust locals to occupy senior management positions. Sandals changed that completely and allowed us to head their hotels. As a result they have become one of the more successful Caribbean hotels. Sandals gave us an opportunity. They gave us the authority and skills. They opened a gateway for a number of us West Indians to become General Managers and to succeed. Pat Timothy 1997/2005; As Executive Secretary at Sandals Regency I worked with four different General Managers. The ability to respond quickly to their individual styles enabled me to grow and further develop my professional skills in Administration. The main highlight of my tenure came from interacting with all levels of management and team members daily, an experience that brought new insights in terms of Human Interaction and the resulting effects which certainly impacted my life positively. ¤

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Captain Neil - Ultimate Team Member Of The Year

CAPTAIN NEIL

Ultimate Team Member of the Year There was extra cause for celebration among Sandals Saint Lucia team members at the end of 2017, after a playmaker from Sandals Grande outshined over 14,000 fellow employees from throughout the region to win the 2016 Ultimate Employee of the Year Award. This is the prize given to the best performing team member in the entire Sandals/ Appliance Traders Limited/ Jamaica Observer Group of companies. Jamer ‘Captain Neil’ Georges, playmaker at Sandals Grande, was part of a powerful three-member team vying for the top prize, which also included Davina Reynolds, an Elite Butler at Sandals Halcyon and Marcus Monrose, a Club Sandals agent at Sandals Regency La Toc. On arrival back in Saint Lucia, Captain Neil was moved to tears by the public outpouring of love from his Sandals family as he was whisked away in a yellow convertible at the head of a motorcade, complete with outriders, which took him from the George FL Charles Airport to the Sandals Grande.

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Neil believes in Team Saint Lucia, congratulating his fellow finalists, Marcus and Davina who, like him, are past students of the Entrepot Secondary School. Georges will enjoy an enviable prize package including a luxury-included, all-expenses paid trip for two to an overseas Sandals or Beaches property of his choice with an exclusive private jet roundtrip transfer to the destination, champagne service, luxury ground transfers, a host of VIP resort experiences, US$2,500.00 and an Ultimate Team Member trophy. ¤

Long Serving Team Members

LONG SERVING TEAM MEMBERS

Dorsea Lawson-Daniel Operations Manager January 1987

Pauline Reid Laundry Manager March 1990

Sylvanus Fulgence Assistant Bar Manager March 1990

Winston Anderson Managing Director October 1992

Bruno Eristhee Golf April 1993

Catherine Richard Rooms Manager April 1993

Ubald Ernest Senior Pool Attendant April 1993

Ferdinand Augustin Sous Chef April 1993

Avril Francis Landscaper April 1993

Celine Charlemagne Chief Steward April 1993

Salvator Pascal Supervisor April 1993

Andrew Felicien Golf Superintendent April 1993

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LONG SERVING TEAM MEMBERS

Henry Lazarus Landscaper April 1993

Director Industry Support

April 1993

Marie Charles Kitchen Supervisor April 1993

Danse Fanis Supervisor April 1993

Catherine Louis-Fernand Regional Administrator April 1993

Henry Sonson Landscaper April 1993

Anthony Pologne Mason April 1993

Paul Lennan Store Porter June 1993

Maty Attye Driver April 1993

Brendalina Vitalis Laundry Department April 1993

Albertha Joseph Cook July 1993

Roger Pierre-Louis Butler July 1993

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Ingrid Schelberger

LONG SERVING TEAM MEMBERS

Anselma Dosserie Club Sandals Agent September 1993

Cuthbert Pierre Watersports Attendant September1993

Emmanuel Mercier Room Technician November 1993

Joel Joseph Bar Supervisor November 1993

Vincent Prospere Servidyne Coordinator February 1994

Wayne Sealy Head Butcher April 1994

Christopher Maitre Driver May 1994

Prudentina Justin Restaurant Manager May 1994

Ingrid Monrose Spa Attendant June 1994

Yve Alphonse Supervisor August 1994

John Charles Bartender September1994

Sylvester Theodore Warehouse Porter November 1994 BusinessFocus

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Sandals Corporate University (Scu)

SANDALS CORPORATE C O R P O R AT E U N I V E R S I T Y

UNIVERSITY (SCU)

Near six years since the official launch of the Sandals Corporate University (SCU), Sandals Resorts International (SRI) has already invested over US$11 million in Human Resource Training and Development, with more than US$1 million going directly toward providing scholarships for team members across the region. The SCU was launched in March 2012 with the endorsement of several CARICOM Heads of Government and with a mandate to provide all team members across the region with opportunities to further their education through high school equivalency, professional certification and degree programmes as well as on-the-job training.

to the personal and professional successes of its team members. Investing in the training, development and education of human capital should therefore be a priority in every company. This is something that can never be taken lightly as this investment goes beyond an employee’s tenure. It is an investment for life! My dad, our Chairman Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart always remarks on the pride he feels when he travels the world and encounters a former Sandals team member who continues to do well by making his/her mark on tourism globally. That is the far reaching impact of the training we provide – an investment in people to allow them to achieve their full potential and take care of their families.”

Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at Sandals Adam Stewart expressed pride at the journey and impact of the SCU since its launch and stressed the importance of investing in human capital. He said “The success of every company, ours included, is inextricably linked

Since the SCU’s launch, some 5,000 team members across the region have enrolled for courses resulting in the issuing of over 9,400 certificates of completion to date. Through partnerships with several local, regional and international institutions, universities and

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colleges, including the New England Culinary Institute, the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute and the Hotel School of the Hague to name a few, the SCU has provided both line and managerial staff with the opportunity to pursue hundreds of academic programmes. Thanks to the work of the SCU, Sandals Resorts International has been the three-time winner of the Award for Excellence in Human Resource Development at the annual Saint Lucia Business Awards. Hundreds of team members of the company’s resorts in Saint Lucia have taken advantage of the opportunities for growth and advancement provided by the SCU, including scholarships. Among the SCU’s shining stars in Saint Lucia is Anselma Joseph-Dosserie from Sandals Halcyon’s Concierge department. Anselma started her Sandals journey as a waitress at Sandals Regency La Toc and since then has moved steadily up the ranks, racking up several awards such as Supervisor of the Month, Supervisor of the Year and Platinum (Runner-up) Team Member of the Year for 2015. Through the SCU she has been able to complete the START Front Desk Agent Certification with the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute, an opportunity for which she is extremely grateful. Anselma said, “I am very proud of my achievements and awards. Perhaps my greatest accomplishment has been my commitment to self-growth and development. With the advent of the SCU and what I have been able to do, I feel a real sense of accomplishment.”

to the development of individuals, families, communities and the industry at large. When we formally launched SCU it was with a commitment to continuously elevate the level of competency and proficiency of our team members and six years later we’re still delivering on that promise. We are excited about the years ahead and the amazing programmes we will be introducing.” ¤

Commenting on the company’s history of training and the plans for the next five years and beyond, Adam Stewart said, “We have always operated in a culture of training and development, with our main ethos being ‘to hire the attitude and train the skill’. From the informal sessions held in cottages at Sandals Montego Bay when our company started back in the 1980s to cross-training and hands-on learning, Sandals has always been aware of the importance of training BusinessFocus

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Hospitality Training Programme (HTP)

HOSPITALITY TRAINING PROGRAMME (HTP) Sandals Resorts International’s investment in training and development extends beyond its team members, and goes into the very communities in Saint Lucia. Sandals unique Hospitality Training Programme offers young persons in Saint Lucia the opportunity to receive hands on training in various aspects of hotel operations over a ten week period. Sandals conducts four such training programmes each year, after which the participants are given a Sandals certification of completion. At the end of 2017 Sandals graduated 200 men and women from this programme, which means since its inception, over 1,200 young Saint Lucians who would otherwise have had little or no work experience in the hospitality sector, now have something tangible to show when they apply for a job. Indeed several of these participants do in fact find employment with Sandals itself, either in Saint Lucia or at one of its 23 properties throughout the region. In 2017, 40 of the graduates were retained by the resort for full or part-time employment, while several others reported finding jobs in the cruise sector or other hotels. BusinessFocus

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Sandals also noted an increase in participants who already had various qualifications, including administration and marine tourism. According to Training and Development Manager for Sandals Regency La Toc Andre Cleghorn, this is a good sign for the sector. “There is an exciting future for the industry with the continued investment by Sandals here, and we are happy to not only build new resorts and expand existing ones, but also prepare ourselves and the rest of the island with a strong pool of human resources to complement the product.” Group Director for Training and Company Standards Dr. Phillip Brown, who visited Saint Lucia late last year, was especially proud of the work being done to train and re-train not only Sandals Team members, but the surrounding communities. “We continue to invest heavily in the development of the Caribbean’s human capital as the tourism industry grows across the islands. I believe it is this new generation that will continue what we have built, and it is up to us to arm them sufficiently for the task of sustainability that lies ahead,” Dr. Brown said. ¤

Bois D’ Orange Hwy, P.O. Box RB 2768, Castries Tel: 1(758) 453-1056 Fax: 1(758) 458-1068 email: fdlpcs@candw.lc web: fdlpestcontrol.com

Pest Control Solutions Success FDL in Pest Management and Food Safety Compliance – FDL Pest Control Solutions Part of the team! Sandals understands that effective pest control is not about spraying pesticides into the environment. It is about working hand in hand with a company that understands the relationships between public and environmental health, food safety and effective pest management. In the tourism industry the comfort and safety of guests are a top priority. Pests affect every area of operations (from bed bugs to mosquitoes). In a world where one image posted on social media can destroy a company’s ratings, it is imperative to take a proactive approach to pest management and compliance. FDL Pest Control Solutions continually assesses its contracted customers processes to ensure that processes are adhered to. Contracted Pest Management Services from FDL Pest Control Solutions will not only save the company money but will also

provide objective assessments to ensure compliance to national and industry standards. In smaller organizations where the job of pest control defaults to the maintenance team, FDL Pest Control Solutions can provide training and assessment support, as many maintenance technicians are not equipped to deal with issues that impact food safety and pest management. For several years FDL Pest Control Solutions has worked with companies in the Tourism industry to augment their current processes and provide training at all levels (managers to line staff), to ensure due diligence and compliance to due process. FDL Pest Control Solutions is proud to be part of Sandals’ success. Congratulations to The Sandals Group on 20 years of Exceptional Service to St. Lucia.

Ferrands Ice Cream

Trans Caribbean

Management & staff of FERRANDS wishes Sandals a happy 25th Anniversary

Management & Staff Wish Sandals a Happy 25th Anniversary CONTACT US ON 458-4161

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A Positive Economic Impact Across All Sectors

A POSITIVE ECONOMIC IMPACT ACROSS ALL SECTORS Over the past 25 years Sandals Resorts International’s position as an industry leader in Saint Lucia’s tourism sector is unquestioned. Apart from being a major foreign exchange earner and leading employer, Sandals economic contribution to the island’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is significant. The company’s influence on airlift is also unparalleled, as Sandals remains the biggest customer for some of the world’s leading legacy airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, Virgin Atlantic and British Airways. Nearly 73,000 persons visited Sandals Resorts in Saint Lucia over the past year. That increased airlift is made possible by an unmatched marketing campaign that touches nearly every corner of the globe. A Sandals ad is seen on a major network every 30 seconds, while the company enjoys some six billion media exposures a year. Eighty-two percent of the North American market knows who Sandals is. The company has invested in a highly trained and driven sales team worldwide that are on the road 365-days-a-year promoting locations in the Caribbean including Saint Lucia. BusinessFocus

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St. Lucia in particular has benefited from innovations unique to the Caribbean. This includes the over-the-water suites at the Grande, a wedding chapel in the sea, Romeo and Juliet villa suites, swim-up suites and the exclusive Millionaire Suites at La Toc. The Butler service offered at the resort is in line with the highest in the world as a result of Sandals partnership with the exclusive Guild of Professional English Butlers. The three properties (soon to be four) also offer five-star global gourmet® dining in a variety of options, something that differentiates Sandals from virtually all other all-inclusive hotels in its segment. Some 25 restaurants are available to guests led by top chefs from their various countries. Sandals St. Lucia offers French, Italian, Indian, Japanese, Mediterranean and Caribbean cuisine at gourmet restaurants such as Kimono’s, Bombay, Armando’s, Neptune’s, Soy, Toscanini’s and Bella Napoli to name just a few. Room upgrades and expansion activities within the last year alone at Sandals Regency La Toc, Sandals Halcyon Beach and the Sandals Grande

St. Lucian have resulted in millions of dollars being spent on island. The coming of Sandals La Source St. Lucia will take these luxury-inclusions to a whole new level, and promises never-before-seen offerings. Sandals has been pleased to partner with all stakeholders including government, other hotels, businesses, suppliers and the community in working toward fulfilling the hopes of Sir John Compton that tourism would be able to replace bananas as the island’s largest foreign exchange earner. Not only has Sandals in fact become a key foreign exchange earner for the island, through its local purchases, Sandals continues to offer powerful linkages in the economy. In 2017 the present triumvirate of La Toc, Halcyon, and the Sandals Grande St. Lucian left an economic footprint equating to approximately US$75 million, an increase of more than ten million dollars over the previous period. It was the single largest individual contribution to Saint Lucia’s overall GDP from a private entity. The economic impact of a fourth resort on the island will bolster this even more. To break it down, in 2017 Sandals in Saint Lucia contributed over US$24 million toward the public purse through duties, taxes, statutory payments to Government as well as payments to utilities such as LUCELEC, WASCO and the telephone companies.

new resort will also expand the famous ‘Stayat-one, play-at-three’ exchange programme to now include a fourth option, which will further enhance the guest experience. Guests and members of the public will also benefit from planned upgrades to the Sandals Golf and Country Club at Cap Estate. It’s been a prosperous and exciting relationship over the years, and Sandals has expressed its commitment to deepen and enhance its presence in Saint Lucia. 2018 is pregnant with promise and is likely to be a watershed year for that relationship. The buzz of excitement is already enveloping team members throughout the island and is expected to spread throughout Saint Lucia as the resort forges ahead with its plans for the future. ¤

Over that same period Sandals contributed over US$27 million to payroll, pension, medical and other benefits for its team members in Saint Lucia. In addition to this US$17 million was spent on local suppliers, US$4 million on tour operators, US$2 million on taxis and transfers and nearly US$1 million on entertainment. The number of job opportunities alone will rise to approximately 2,300 with the new resort and will increase Sandals’ room stock on the island from over 800 to over 1,100. This means tens-of-millions of dollars more that will be available to stakeholders in Saint Lucia as the demand for everything from services to products and agricultural items increase. The

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Creating Linkages In Saint Lucia

CREATING LINKAGES IN SAINT LUCIA Sandals Resorts International is always mindful of the importance of developing strong linkages across all sectors within the countries and communities where it operates. From local suppliers and manufacturers, to farmers, taxi drivers, craftsmen, tour operators and so many others, Sandals engages those in the communities around it ensuring that everyone benefits. In Saint Lucia the company has worked considerably with renowned organizations from across the sectors, but more outstandingly with those specific to the tourism and hospitality sector. Among those outstanding operations that have literally grown with the Sandals brand on the island, include Kervin Mitchell’s Finest Touring Limited - previously known as CJ’s Tours. Mithcell began his career in transportation with one taxi during the construction phase of Sandals Regency LaToc in 1992. Today he owns and operates over 50 vehicles, including luxury brands, and his company is able to provide employment for over 70 people. This is a transfer company depended

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heavily upon by companies like Sandals for not only the movement of its guests between airport and resorts, but also its team members. “I can tell you that I am very grateful to Sandals. It was when Sandals came that I understood the meaning of hard work… teaching me to understand the difference between building teams on and off the work site. My work ethic has grown considerably and Sandals is a big contributor to achieving my dream. I am forever thankful.” Kervin credits most of his success to the sound advice and guidance he got from Sandals stalwarts like Mr Calvin Malcolm, Mr Merrick Fray and Mr David Roper – stalwarts in the empire that is Sandals Resorts. Another story of considerable business growth is Bryan Deveaux’s – Adventure Tours, who speaks to what his relationship with Sandals has meant for both his business and his employees over the years.

According to Deveaux, “We started with two staff and have grown to 80 solely due to my relationship with Sandals. They created my success. The growth I have seen is phenomenal.” He speaks now to having started his operations with only mountain bike tours to now growing into a company that offers jeep tours; zip-lining; Martinique tours on the Flying Ray; Buggies and kayaking. I preserve my relationship with Sandals by looking after their guests. Sandals Resorts, through Island Routes, ensures that it engages tour and transportation operators like Bryan and Kervin from across the island. Together, they are all part of the linkages network that ensure that local entrepreneurs can capitalize of the economic benefits derived from the thousands of coming to Saint Lucia.

Sandals being where it offers opportunities for growth. “One thing I always believe is that in life nothing happens before it time, and honestly, looking back now, I can't see anything that we would have differently when it comes to our relationship with Sandals. On the island Sandals has provided a number of taxi drivers with a stable source of monthly income. For me that says a lot about the benefit which Sandals has provided to Express Touring, to our drivers and the island overall.” ¤ Fishing and all-inclusive fun go together like Sandals and Captain Mike's!

This relationship has allowed Bryan to transition from Palm Services to Wave Riders Ltd, to Island Buggies and finally, today, to Adventure Tours. On a somewhat more domestic level, we found Christian Charlemagne who started his career with Express Touring Service some 25 years ago as the Vice President around the same time that Sandals came to Saint Lucia. After a few years, he became President. Express operates from the Sandals Regency and has recorded an annual upward growth that has benefitted all operators. Charlemagne reflects on the impact Sandals has had on providing opportunities for local independent drivers over the years. “One thing that stands out for us is that being with Sandals there is never an off-season. There is always a regular flow of work so that's something that all of us at Express Touring are grateful for,” he said, citing a noteworthy factor of the relationship with

Celebrating 25 years of fishing and fun with Sandals Resorts and Captain Mike's!

Tel: (758 452 7044 Cell: (758) 716-3440 Email: captainmikescharterst@gmail.com BusinessFocus

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Committed To Environment Protection & Sustainable Development

COMMITTED TO ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION & SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Sandals Leads the Way With Most EarthCheck Master-Certified Resorts Sandals Resorts has from the beginning been at the forefront of environmental awareness and proper conservation practices. Those efforts were recognised recently by EarthCheck, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group for travel and tourism. Sandals Resorts in Saint Lucia joined several of its sister resorts that achieved Master and Platinum Certification levels from EarthCheck. The company is now the only hotel chain in the world to have six resorts currently holding Master Certification from EarthCheck. An additional six resorts hold Platinum Certification, three certified Gold and three hold Silver Certification. Achieving EarthCheck Master Certification is confirmation that the resorts have consistently

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measured and benchmarked their annual environmental performance against their peers over a 15-year period and have had their systems and data independently examined and verified by a third-party auditor. To achieve Platinum Certification, properties must maintain this standard for 10 years. Among the Master and Platinum Certified Resorts are Sandals Regency La Toc in Saint Lucia. Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort and Grande Saint Lucian both hold Platinum Certification, with the former standing on 14-years of successful audits. Sandals has long held environmental sustainability as part of its core vision and mission, and has implemented numerous environmental programmes to better streamline and manage its operations. Among the most outstanding are energy conservation initiatives and waste and water management programmes,

Happy 25 Anniversary Sandals

all of which fall under the remit of the company’s Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) Division. Each resort has a dedicated EHS Manager charged with implementing and managing sustainable programmes and ensuring the resort adheres to internationally-accepted operating standards. EarthCheck’s Founder and CEO, Stewart Moore, lauded Sandals’ efforts and achievements, hailing the company as a standout sustainability hero in the Caribbean and the Americas. “Sandals has confirmed its position as a true worldwide leader in responsible tourism, and a genuine source of inspiration to the international tourism community,” Moore said. "The group and its passionate staff play an integral role in motivating their guests and community to make a difference, from embedding programs into local schools to celebrating novel ways to reuse trash.” Deputy Chairman and CEO of Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart, expressed pride at the company’s latest achievements, noting, “We take environmental preservation very seriously at Sandals and these certifications are testament to this. To be consistently audited and examined by an independent body and continuously maintain and exceed standards is no easy feat but we are driven by our commitment to the environment and we leave no stone unturned when it comes to implementing and maintaining sustainable programmes and practices.”

Agostini Insurance Brokers (St. Lucia) Limited AIB is an independent insurance service firm, providing professional Insurance Broking and Risk Management Services to a wide section of Corporate, Commercial and Industrial clients, alongside private individuals. • Property • Pecuniary Losses • Liability • Marine Aviation and Transport • Motor Vehicles • Personal Accident • Ordinary Long-term, including Group, Life and Health Insurance and Pensions. Agostini Insurance Brokers is a fully-fledged insurance brokerage offering general insurance, employee benefits and risk management services. We have the technical capability to tailor insurance programmes to suit your needs. Let's change things, with a fresh new approach to insurance services. Specialist people, expert knowledge and a professional service is what sets us apart.

J E Bergasse Building | 1st Floor | Vide Bouteille | Castries Tel : (758) 456-6580, 456-6588, 456-6585 Fax: (758) 456-6581 Email : aib@agostini-stlucia.com / www.agostini.com

The company also invests millions in training programmes to ensure all team members are aware of the importance of environmental preservation and are fully versed in the role they play in achieving this. ¤ BusinessFocus

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Caribbean Public Health Agency Recognises Sandals For Water Conservation

CARIBBEAN PUBLIC HEALTH AGENCY RECOGNISES SANDALS FOR WATER CONSERVATION Only recently Sandals was recognised by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), for the strides it has made in conservation and repurposing of waste water. As part of its efforts to observe World Water Day in March 2017, CARPHA focused on companies and organisations that play a critical role in helping to conserve the planet’s limited fresh water supply, and singled out Sandals Resorts for its investment in plant and equipment to recycle waste water for reuse, ensuring that it does not find its way back into natural water systems without first being treated. The Public Health Agency warned that fresh water is a limited resource which accounts for only a small fraction of the total volume of water which covers the planet. However CARPHA says with the right approach, waste water can be reused with many benefits, and one organisation leading the way with this is Sandals Resorts International. The repurposed water is used entirely for irrigation at Sandals, helping to keep fresh and BusinessFocus

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bright the resort’s amazing array of trees, flowers and other shrubs, for which the company is also world famous. It also means that valuable potable water is not used in this manner. Apart from the obvious cost savings, the programme minimizes the environmental impact of Sandals’ operations and contributes to the preservation of the natural environment and human health. Sandals Resorts employ a full programme which includes the linen re-use programme. This is critical for water conservation and has the added benefits of conserving electricity and detergent. Guests are encouraged to reuse their linen as much as possible during their stay to reduce their footprint on island. Preventative Maintenance is ongoing at all resorts to increase efficiencies and reduce overall cost for water consumption. The company’s conservation policy speaks to awareness, continuous training and ongoing monitoring to increase best practice. ¤

SOL EC Ltd

Allied Services

Happy 25 thAnniversary Sandals Vide Boutielle, P.O. Box GM609 Castries, St. Lucia, LC02 501 Tel: 758 452-5456 | 451-9607 | Fax: 453-6156

HVAC Equipment, Renewabale Energy, Appliances, Plumbing, Electrical, Electronics, Lighting & Parts BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

Sandals Foundation

SANDALS FOUNDATION

Caring For Our Community There is a powerful conviction that permeates the people who make up Sandals Resorts International; from the very top starting with the Chairman, the CEO and all Executive Managers, to every single team member working at the resort level. That is the belief that Sandals must play its part in improving the lives of those residing in the communities around us. That has been at the core of Sandals’ Corporate Social Responsibility and Philanthropic work for over 36 years, and so powerful is that sense of responsibility, that Sandals Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Adam Stewart formalized the organisation’s outreach activities with the launch of the Sandals Foundation in 2009. In the years that followed, the Sandals Foundation, under the guidance of Director Heidi Clarke, has invested millions of dollars to initiate and sustain thousands of projects that focus on improving education, the environment and the community. The people of Saint Lucia have and continue to benefit from many of these projects, and today powerful links exist with key educational institutions from nursery to tertiary level. Three schools that have benefitted BusinessFocus

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directly from the Sandals Adopt-a-School Programme have been Gros Islet Infant School, the Balata Government School and the Marchand Combined School. These institutions have and continue to benefit from programmes like general refurbishment and upgrades and the installation of computer labs. In 2013 EC$47,000 was directed toward modernization of the school curricula and delivery facilities, including books, under the ‘In Time Education Project’. In 2014, a further EC$20,000 was invested to complement the programme at the Dame Pearlette Primary School. The brand went further to introduce its Sandals Foundation Care for Kids Scholarship Programme endorsed by then Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Robert Lewis. The initiative is still underway and caters to young children entering high school with an EC$30,000 annual purse. That same year saw the beginning of another longstanding partnership – Hands Across the Seas - a United States-based group that works with educators and U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers to raise literacy levels among children. This initial union resulted in some 2,000 students benefitting from an EC$45,000 undertaking that sought to improve reading and

comprehension. An additional EC$43,000 was invested in 2014 for the continuation of this programme. The support continues annually with new schools and libraries.

time interactive conferences and medical consultation regarding patient files. This facility continues to improve outcomes for children affected by cancers and serious blood disorders in the Caribbean.

Recognizing the need to reenergize its computer literacy programme, the Foundation undertook a retrofitting exercise in various infant and primary schools across the island, reaching 350 students between the Marchand Combined School and the Anglican Infant School in 2014.

2015 marked a year of new undertakings that include the outstanding Great Shape Dental Outreach Programme, which came to the island in the summer of that year reaching over 500 men, women and children from the north and south of the island. It comprised a team of almost 50 practicing dentists, student doctors and other volunteers from Jamaica and the United States. The success of this inaugural year resulted in the programme’s continuation into 2016 and 2017 with steadily increasing numbers of both volunteers and beneficiaries. Last year the project delivered over US$415,000 in total investment value and completed 3,283 procedures for 947 patients and provided oral health instruction to 309 persons.

Also, that year, the Lion Fish pandemic came in to sharp focus across the Caribbean and the Sandals Foundation responded by hosting and funding a training session for 20 industry leaders and affiliates to raise awareness of how this predator could be controlled. This was the beginning of a series of training programmes that was rolled out across the island in the years to follow. Continuing with environmental awareness and protection the Sandals Foundation injected more than EC$106,000 or US$40,000 in a two-year partnership (2016-2018) with Fauna and Flora International (FFI) in a bid to develop effective conservation practices on the island. The partnership allows for the protection and preservation of the endangered Lansan (or incense) tree, unique to Saint Lucia and the Windward Islands. Some 60 percent of Saint Lucians are said to use Lansan for spiritual, recreational and economical purposes. Taking care of our island’s women and children has been a key focus of the Foundation’s undertakings and in 2014 it began a partnership with the Saint Lucia Crisis Center providing support for its daily afterschool programme. This was formalised under an official programme dubbed the After-School Care and Extended Support (ACES) Programme. The Foundation also worked toward helping address unemployment challenges facing the island’s youth through partnership with The School of Business Entrepreneurship (TSOBE) for which almost EC$200,000 has been invested to provide free business development and management training to youth from challenging communities. Twenty laptops were donated to TSOBE in 2017 to further assist in the effective delivery of these programmes. On the subject on health, the Sandals Foundation recommitted to its partnership with the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) by contributing CDN$200,000 to the SickKids-Caribbean Initiative (SCI) in 2014 to help in the renovation of a telemedicine facility at Victoria Hospital in St. Lucia, which will be used for real

The Tiger Tennis Sports Programme was also introduced that year. This is a sporting initiative that emphasizes youth empowerment through education, discipline, and dedication to sportsmanship on and off the courts. This programme helped promote interest in what’s seen as a non-traditional sport – Tennis – to hundreds of Saint Lucian youth, and because of its success, the Sandals Foundation followed up by working with NBA star Dwayne Wade’s Foundation to invest US$43,000 toward the complete renovation of the Kenneth Wriggler Multi-Purpose Facility in the heart of Castries in 2017. 2017 also saw the launch of an exciting initiative targeting preservation of corals and coral reefs, and the Sandals Foundation joined hands with CLEAR Caribbean in a US$47,000 undertaking within the Soufriere Marine Managed Area to establish two coral nurseries. The aim is to restore lost coral coverage as well as provide a habitat for marine life within this affected area. In 2002 the Sandals Cricket Academy was born and continued for 14 years through to 2016 preparing outstanding Saint Lucian cricketers like Johnson Charles and the young Kimani Melius. In 2014 the Sandals Resorts/Sandals Foundation Cricket Academy graduated some 350 St. Lucian under-15 cricketers from this programme, all having been exposed to coaching by some of the leading names in West Indies Cricket. Legends including Darren Sammy, Brian Lara, Gordon Greenidge, Desmond Haynes, Jeffrey Dujon, Curtly Ambrose, Sir Garfield Sobers, Augustine Logie and Sir Wes Hall among others. That programme will now take a new form in the Sandals U19 Cricket Cup set for its inaugural bowl off in 2018. ¤

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

ALTERNATIVE SECURITY SERVICES (ST. LUCIA) LTD

Excellence, Integrity And Service. Alternative Security Services (St. Lucia Ltd.)

Alternative Security Services (St. Lucia Ltd.)

ALTERNATIVE SECURITY SERVICES (ST. LUCIA) LTD A subsidiary of Amalgamated Security Services Ltd (ASSL), a privately-owned security and risk management service, founded in 1983, based in Trinidad & Tobago and serving the Caribbean region. We employ over 200 professional and highly-qualified staff, who are committed to the highest standards of excellence, integrity and delivery of service. At Alternative Security Services Ltd., we work with clients to customise the perfect service for their needs, guided by the highest standards and specifications, integrating proven techniques with innovative technology and solutions.

Our Mission

• To engender a feeling of peace, tranquility and wellbeing, through a wide range of services to our clients, employees and the community, by our highly motivated and committed Management Team, and an expertly trained staff.

Our Goals • To completely satisfy our quality-conscious clients. • To develop and improve the personal skills of all employees. • To provide our clients with top quality service at reasonable cost. • To provide our employees with wages and benefits that meet or exceed industry standards. • To foster a feeling of peace, tranquility and wellbeing in our community.

Our Services

• Guard Services: Baton, Canine & Firearm ASSL offers expertise in quality services for home, business and property, maintaining the highest standards in the field, continuous communications and a 24-hour Command & Control Centre. • Cash Services: Collection, Delivery & Cash-In-Transit (CIT) ASSL offers reliable, competent, well-trained crews, seamless communications and state-of-the-art vehicles for movement of cash and valuables. • Mobile Response: Alarm Services & Panic Buttons ASSL provides 24/7 coverage for alarm services, with response from base as well as specific outlying locations.

Our Location • Massade Industrial Estate, Gros Islet, Saint Lucia BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

The Manag e & Staff of A ment lternative Security S ervices Ltd extends co ngratulatio ns to Sandals St. Lucia on their th

25 Anni versary

Mr. Errol Alexander - General Manager, Daria Poyotte - Accountant and Marvin Cherubin - Operations Manager

ALTERNATIVE SECURITY SERVICES (ST. LUCIA) LTD

Tel: 1-758-450-9171 Cell: 1-758-724-9417 1-758-285-6907 www.asslstlucia.com elaxander@assl.com

The Real Estate Market Is on The Rise

Belle Vue Properties Inc

The Real Estate Market Is on the Rise By Heather Floissac

Why Investing Now Is The Best Time! Property investment has not been an easy feat. The challenge of finding the right spot has been exacerbated by the growing needs of the consumer who are better informed than before, and a lot more fastidious when making such a life altering decision. Compared to last year where prices dropped by 30-40% at times, the market has started off with a bang, attracting not only local but foreign investors too, continuing on the downward trend to the behest of buyers. In the luxury market, high end properties like Villa Ashiana in Marigot Bay was set at US$2.495 million and have been reduced to US$1.95 million. First time buyers, families and BusinessFocus

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even expats seeking to relocate, have found Saint Lucia to be a perfect choice as they now can make more sound investments. Great weather, access to amenities and fantastic deals on prime locations which were not available in recent years, have now opened up to the delight of eager buyers. Why the sudden rise in sales Besides the drop-in prices, most critics would attest the changing tides in the real estate market to the imbalance of buyers to sellers. Moreover, as the market demographic has shown a sharp decline in millennial buyers who spend more on travel, as compared to baby boomers who have interestingly cornered the market

to capitalise on the increase in the value of property compared to the actual price tag, truly making it a defining factor in securing some amazing deals. Banks are also lending more and providing lower interest rates making a purchase affordable. This stimulation in the local market has been welcomed by the government allowing for the stable conditions to attract some big investments. Across the pond, instability in the USA and the uncertainty of Brexit have signalled a change in the way countries like Saint Lucia markets itself. The Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) is one of the creative ways in which the government aims to continue to inspire investments to develop the economy. As Saint Lucia recognizes dual citizenship, the applicant does not need to relinquish his own country rights and will have access to visa free travel to 98 countries. Property Developers like the GP Group who are not solely dependent on CIP to kick start its development, have already broken ground and received the official consent of the Fairmont Hotel to partner with them. What signs should we look for to detect growth in real estate industry? • A major boom in the cruise industry as other islands a ected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria are still in recovery. • CARICOM nationals have relocated to safer islands like Saint Lucia after property loss last year. • Huge increase in hotel developments have improved the value of surrounding areas. • Government’s focus on the development of the south with projects on the horizon including Fairmont Hotel, Range Development’s Marriott Resort and the DSH project in Vieux Fort. As real estate professionals, we often receive requests for homes within the US$300k-$500k range accounting for the middle-income bracket. It is notable that although there has been a decrease in prices and a surge in purchases, this price range for modern built homes only exist in the form of apartments or condos in the north. For the southern region, developments like Emerald Vista offer 3-bedroom villas at an attractive starting rate of US$275k newly built or Palmiste Cove for US$166,666. With luxury on demand, grabbing a deal like these while the market is still in decline, is the best move.

Heather Floissac, Managing Director of Belle Vue Properties Ltd is a veteran Realtor with over two decades experience working in the Real Estate industry locally and regionally. Through her network of international affiliates, her company has been able to make far-reaching connections. Belle Vue Properties offers quality and professional services to a wide cross section. Contact the team on heather@bellevuepropertiesstlucia.com or visit www.belleheleneproperties.com for more information. BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

MUST READS BUSINESS FOCUS

Volume 26

The Sharing Economy The Sharing Economy

By Lyndell Halliday BSc., MBA, CPA,CMA

In the last issue of MustReads, we discussed a book on four modern dominant technology colossi -Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Google. In more recent times, we have seen the emergence of an entirely new type of corporation that uses technology to enable peer to peer sharing of goods and services. This type of firm has spurred the growth of an entirely new industry - the sharing economy.

The Upstarts: How Uber, Airbnb, and the Killer Companies of the New Silicon Valley Are Changing the World (Little, Brown and Company, January 2017) by Brad Stone

Brad Stone is a renowned Silicon Valley journalist and New York Times bestseller. He is best known for his 2013 book: The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon (2013).

The Upstarts is a chronicle of the mercurial rise of two multibillion dollar companies - Uber and Airbnb - and their disruption of two powerful industries – taxis and hospitality. Stone interviewed dozens of former and current executives as well as key employees at both companies and at rival startups such as Lyft and Didi Chuxing. Chapters in the book generally alternate between discussion of Uber and Airbnb and their lesser known rivals. The result is a well-researched, intimate and detailed portrayal of the two major companies and the rise of the sharing economy. In spite of being granted access, Stone is by no means universally flattering of the companies or their founders. There are some jaw dropping revelations about Uber founder Travis Kalanick and to a lesser extent, Airbnb founder Brian Chesky. BusinessFocus

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Airbnb was founded in 2008 and today is valued at US$31 billion. It is the world’s largest hotel company in spite of the fact that it neither owns nor operates any hotels. Uber was founded in 2009 and is today valued at over US$48 billion – it owns no taxis. Stone explores how these two companies have been able to revolutionize two large established industries in the span of a decade. Entrepreneurial genius, brutal willpower, and sheer luck have at various times all played a role in the rise of these companies. In Stone’s account, the rise of the sharing economy is a messy affair. Heated policy debates have accompanied the dawn of this new industry. It is apparent that neither Kalanick nor Chesky are angels. Neither of them has had any qualms about challenging existing laws and pushing ethical boundaries in the pursuit of what they deemed to be best for the consumer. Both company CEOs have fought battles in the courts and against regulators across the world. Are Uber drivers employees? Or are they independent contractors as Uber claims? Should Airbnb hosts face similar regulations as the hotels they compete with? Should Airbnb be legally bound to collect accommodation taxes? Government officials and regulators are grappling with these and other complex issues. While established interest groups continue to fight the new entrants all over the world, consumers by and large are clamouring for the convenience and price savings offered by the new entrants. The result so far is that the upstarts appear to be winning the war – even if they have lost the occasional battle. For example, Uber recently had its license to operate in London suspended. One of the key strengths of this book is its discussion of the raging policy debates and regulatory battles. In the Caribbean some of these same policy debates are also occurring. Hotel associations in many Caribbean Islands are calling for Airbnb to be restricted, regulated and taxed. Close to home, Uber has made a significant impact in Trinidad, but has so far been unable to secure government approval to operate in Barbados due to concerns about the fate of the local taxi industry, amidst the rise of a homegrown hailing app called Beepcab. The Upstart is a page turner, a highly captivating account of the rise of two very young fast paced companies and the genesis of an exciting new industry. Note however, that the pace of change at these companies is such that in some ways this book is already dated. For example, one of the major developments at Uber occurred after the publication of this book – the ousting of Uber CEO Travis Kalanick amidst sexual harassment allegations and the cultivation of a misogynist culture at his company. I heartily recommend The Upstarts to anyone interested in business, both in and outside the technology industry. ¤ Lyndell Halliday is an avid Must Read reader, lifelong learner and The Power ofbusiness Candour award winning

executive who has served in a range of leadership roles across the Caribbean. He is currently employed as the General Manager of Automotive Art (St Lucia) Ltd. Mr. Halliday has also lectured for several years in a range of courses at the Master of Business Administration level.

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Mar/Apr

BUSINESS FOCUS

Saint Lucians Business Awards

Saint Lucians Business Awards 2018 Celebrating Excellence

The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce successfully hosted its 9th annual Business Awards at the Conference Room of the newly built Royalton Saint Lucia Resort and Spa at Cap Estate. The Event was coordinated by the Chamber and Landmark Events and was presented live on television and online by Choice TV and broadcast live on radio on the Wave. The Chamber’s mandate is to promote entrepreneurship, innovation and giving back to one’s community. The annual hosting of this event was designed to recognise the successful efforts of companies and individuals from St Lucia’s private and public sector for their outstanding contributions during the past year and to serve as inspiration for the next generation. The Chamber was well supported by the private and public sector with the Event being presented in a three dimensional concept being a Red Carpet Welcome, the Awards Presentation and the After Party. The Red Carpet Welcome was hosted in the Foyer of the Royalton’s Conference Center and featured a fully stocked bar of fine wines and spirits and specialty cocktails sponsored by the Peter & Company Distribution. A dazzling representation of all sectors of St Lucian society graced the event displaying the essence of fashion, beauty and elegance to include the new Governor General, the Prime Minister, Ministers of Government, Captains of Business and Industry and excited Staff Members, well wishers and friends. This allowed for great interaction and networking and a great photo opportunity to capture the fashion and social interaction as guests mixed and mingled before being ushered into the Banquet Hall for the formal presentation of the Awards. The Banquet Hall was setup reflecting the stature and grandeur of the evening and new location with special guests and corporate tables being ushered in and given priority positions close to and BusinessFocus

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with a clear vision of the stage. After the usual formalities and introductions by the co-hosting brother and sister team of MCs for the evening, the official programme commenced with all eyes focused on the stage waiting patiently and silently rooting for their favoured winners of the night to be announced. The Chamber many weeks before had announced the hosting of the Chamber Awards and invited submissions from the local business community and the public sector for the various categories of awards based on set criteria and a review by the panel of judges. After reviewing close to sixty submissions from the local business community the short listed nominees for the twelve (12) award categories were announced with the individual award category

winners scheduled to be announced on the big night. The following Awards Categories were named: • Service Exporter of the Year Award • Goods Exporter of the Year Award • Prime Minister's Award For Innovation • Award for Service Excellence • Idea Of The Year Award • Green Award • Entrepreneur of The Year Award • Award for Excellence In Human Resource Development • Award for Corporate Social Responsibility • Award for Marketing Excellence • Award for Corporate Leadership • Young Entrepreneur Award The evening proceedings were deemed captivating and quite entertaining for most of the attendees with twelve awards meted out for excellence and service in the various categories. The biggest winners on the night were Anse Chastanet/Jade Mountain snagging four major awards on the night and including being declared overall Business of the Year. Luxury resorts Anse Chastanet/ Jade Mountain • Business of the Year • Prime Minister’s Award • WLBL Green Award • Award for Service Excellence The Soufriere based properties struck it big at the 9th edition of the awards, snagging four illustrious awards on the night. Known internationally as award-winning resorts, the property management team prided its achievements on the collective efforts of the entire team who work tenaciously to provide a product which they all can be proud of. The Green Award demonstrates the numerous environmental projects undertaken to promote a sustainable and responsible approach to development. The Prime Minister’s Award for Innovation exemplifies the hard work attributed to the innovative measures implemented in the agricultural sector, and the Award for Service Excellence, truly is a testament to the high standards upheld by both resorts. Lastly, the elusive Business of the Year Award highlights the strides the properties have continued to make throughout the year, to showcase why it is deserving of such recognition on a national platform.

Award for Excellence in Human Resource Development Massy Stores SLU

Massy Stores Saint Lucia Ltd. was the proud recipient of the Excellence in Human Resource Development at the awards ceremony. The company which is now into its second year under its rebranded name but existed well over a decade under the CFL brand, was humbled by the recognition on the night. As the largest supermarket chain on island with twelve locations and over 1200 employees, the company has engaged in many activities to help generate the level of support which speaks to its mission for the internal and external customer. On receiving the award on behalf of the company, Divisional Head of Human Resources Mrs. Nickler Velinor-Paul exclaimed how grateful the company was to be nominated and now the awardee, and thanked the amazing achievements of the team which has led to this moment, For the team, the Associates are just as important as the customers, so numerous initiatives including training, health and wellness campaigns and other such programmes are commonplace at the establishment.

Invest Saint Lucia Young Entrepreneur - Saint Lucia Travel & Tours

Randy Lafontaine won the Invest Saint Lucia Young Entrepreneur Award for his creation, Saint Lucia Travel and Tours. The company which was established in 2016 provides tours and transport services for persons within the tourism sector. The concept was the brainchild of the company’s CEO, carving out a niche market for the services on offer. The company has been able to form creative partnerships and forge a reputable brand identity using its online platforms as a key feature in its business operations. No stranger to the limelight, Mr. Lafontaine had earned himself the distinction of Most Outstanding Youth of the Year at the National Youth Awards in 2017 and OECS 30 under 30. As natural progression, it was only fitting that the witty young adult would grab the national attention in the business world once again, to secure this accolade at the Business Awards. BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

Laborie Co-operative Credit Union Ltd - The Leader From The South

The Leader From The South Winners of the awards for Corporate Leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility

The Laborie Co-operative Credit Union (LCCU) prides itself on being better than a bank. LCCU provides financial and other services aimed at improving both the quality of life and standard of living of its members. BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

Boasting a legacy which spans over four decades, the Credit Union has become a household name as a result of the success it has achieved in servicing the needs of its members and their communities. Founded in

August 1976, LCCU served the community of Laborie. In 1999 a branch was opened in Augier which served the area and its immediate environs. From 2008 the Credit Union operates a branch in Vieux Fort obviating the need for the branch in Augier. The Credit Union uses membership education as an important tool in helping members achieve financial wellness. In this regard LCCU has skillfully crafted concepts of personal financial planning into the services on offer. The Credit Union continues to achieve financial success and this has allowed it to fund community based initiatives. Those social and environmental initiatives create value for the community but may not necessarily result in direct financial benefits for the Credit Union.

Recently LCCU has embarked on a climate smart agricultural project. This intervention is aimed at generating sustainable livelihoods in agriculture for the people of the south of the island. This bold new project known as SABLE (Sustainable Agri-business for Laborie and Environs) will focus on concepts of demand-management to create value for the fishers and farmers of the south. Laborie Credit Union continues to be a source of pride for many. The latest accolades received at the St Lucia Business Awards 2018 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; award for Corporate Leadership and award for Corporate Social Responsibility did augment that pride. Laborie Credit Union is the epitome of what can be achieved when people pool their resources.

2016 Laborie Co-operative Credit Union Ltd Tel: (758) 459-6900 | Fax: (758) 455-9289 Email: info@mylaboriecu.com

Web: www.mylaboriecu.com Facebook: facebook.com/laboriecooperativecreditunionltd BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

Awards for Corporate Leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility - Laborie Co-operative Credit Union

The Laborie Co-operative Credit Union is a true corporate and market leader, spearheading numerous initiatives aimed at developing the community. As an organization, it has a penchant for education, agricultural development, environmental care and other such key areas which affect the communities it represents. The organization has grown in numbers and continue to work within the grassroots to alleviate the issues which affects its members.

Idea of the Year - Easy Click Solutions

Easy Click Solutions has singlehandedly revolutionised the way in which textbooks are purchased and protected. Offering an online service which includes delivery, the company is providing hassle free textbooks at the click of a button. A family run enterprise, Easy Click Solutions aspires to develop its product and services offers to compete with traditional brick and mortar stores and other online stores nationally with an eye for outside regional business in the future.

Service Exporter of the Year First Citizens Investment Services

The First Citizens Investment services is known as the largest investment entity in the region. Offering a variety of services including brokerage, advisory and portfolio management services, the company’s capabilities span a broad spectrum resulting in the designation of market leader. Attaining the award of Service Exporter speaks to the years of service provided to its customers, and a deserving accolade for such a vast and far reaching enterprise.

Award for Marketing Excellence - Automotive Art

The Caribbean’s largest auto-care retailer took to the stage in commanding fashion to accept the Award for Marketing Excellence. The coveted Award placed Automotive Art alongside industry giants who had won in previous years, speaking to the calculated measures utilized to provide award-worthy marketing excellence. The company’s captivating online and offline campaigns coupled with its enhanced customer-oriented approach have largely assisted the company in achieving its marketing goals. Its smart collaborations and dynamic promotions, also play pivotal roles in the company’s market placement and its ability to develop and execute its strategic goals. Celebrations continued into the night as the winners celebrated and shared their pride and joy with their associates and peers with a sumptuous spread of fine food and a continuous flow of popular beverages and the sweet sounds of locally infused samples kept the energized crowd partying into the late hours of the night. The event was sponsored by industry partners including Office of the Prime Minister, Mediazone, Landmark Events, Invest Saint Lucia. The Wave, FLOW, Royalton Saint Lucia Resort and Spa, Saint Lucia Electricity Services Limited, Anse Chastanet/Jade Mountain, Sandals Resorts International, Windward & Leeward Brewery Ltd, Tropical Shipping Saint Lucia Ltd, M&C Group of Companies, Massy Stores Saint Lucia, Peter & Co. Distribution, RBC Royal Bank, Bay Gardens Resorts, First Citizens Investment Services Ltd, Cool Breeze Jeep/Car Rental. Carasco & Son, SLASPA, Saint Lucia Distillers, Baron Foods, Mercedes-Benz, Sagicor, Scotiabank Saint Lucia. Our Team at AMS and Business Focus Magazine offer our congratulations to all of the Winners at this year’s Business Awards. ¤

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

EasyClickBooks.com EasyClickBooks.com, winner of the 2017 Saint Lucia Business Awards “Idea of The Year”. Created and operated by Husband and Wife team, Vernon Jean and Chantal Kadoo-Jean who created this website to make it easier for parents to obtain all needed textbooks on a hassle free web based platform. Hundreds of parents last year (2017) from all Across Saint Lucia had their books Pre-ordered, Covered and Delivered to them, using EasyClickBooks.com convenient platform. This year we are introducing several other features such as School Uniforms, Order Notifications, Refined Mobile App, Credit Card payments in EC$, Stationary & Accessories. We look forward to you joining the over fifteen hundred parents who have already registered for Free and will be getting their textbooks this year Hassle Free. EasyClickBooks.com – Get Your Textbooks Early. Ordered! Covered! Delivered!

Get All Your Textbooks Early. Ordered! Covered! Delivered! Early Booklist Access from February so you can easily budget and Pre-Order. Flexible payments Pay Little by little between February and August. Pay by Card or by cash. With affordable prices ($5 Lower on Average). All Textbooks Available in one place (Computer or Phone), ordered in minutes. Conveniently Accessible. Additional Services — Book Covering, Photo Quality Book EasyClickBooks Labeling, & Island Wide Home Delivery Online Support — Live Chat for assistance while on the website.

Free!!! : P.O.Box GR 5182, Gros-Islet LC01 203, St. Lucia : 758-724-9405 : info@easyclickbooks.com

CXC, Common Entrance and Minimum Standards Study Resources Get Free E-books and Driving Resources available on the website

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

BUSINESS FOCUS

Winner of the Award for Marketing Excellence

Automotive Art Winner of the Award for Marketing Excellence

over 20 years, the company currently has two retail stores: at Vide Boutielle Castries and New Dock Road in Vieux Fort. In addition, the company also has a significant distribution/ commercial sales operation. Customer service excellence has been pivotal to the company’s success. Due to its commitment to provide a superior customer service experience, Automotive Art Saint Lucia Ltd. has cultivated service excellence at all levels of the organization. This has resulted in a passionately loyal and growing customer base. Being a service oriented company, Automotive Art invests heavily in training and development for its team members. The level of training ranges from on the job guidance to training seminars and courses that have taken place locally, regionally and internationally. Automotive Art (St Lucia) Ltd. emerged winner of the Award for Marketing Excellence at the recently held 2018 St Lucia Business Awards. According to the St Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, the Award for Marketing Excellence goes to “the organization that demonstrates a well-researched and thought out marketing initiative reflecting the highest level of creativity, innovation and effectiveness.” General Manager, Lyndell Halliday who proudly accepted the prestigious prize on behalf of Automotive Art described the company’s approach to marketing. “We see the essence of marketing as creating value for customers. When you are able to do that successfully, then growth is a natural outcome. We are committed to providing the highest quality of service and products to our customers. By listening closely to what customers have to say, we have been able to refine our product offering based on the needs of our growing clientele. And this has resulted in a growing market share in each of the company’s core market segments.” Automotive Art is the Caribbean's largest Auto-Care retailer of car enhancement products and services. With its corporate headquarters in Barbados, it currently trades in over 24 countries, inclusive of 15 Automotive Art franchise stores in nine countries throughout the Caribbean. Operating in St Lucia for BusinessFocus

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This investment has been critical to the company’s phenomenal growth in recent years. As a testament to its focus on being a people centered organization, Automotive Art has been the recipient of the Saint Lucia Employers Federation’s, Employer of the year Award in the Small and Medium Enterprises category for the last two years. Automotive Art’s roots lie in the automotive refinishes market. It is the leading supplier of automotive paint and auto-body supplies on the island. In addition, Automotive Art is also on the forefront of providing technical expertise and training to automotive body shops throughout the island. Over the years, the company’s portfolio of products have grown to include detailing products, chemical additives, tyres, batteries, accessories and audio products. Key areas of growth in recent years have been in lubricants, truck tyres and automotive batteries. Indeed, Automotive Art’s Maximo Maintenance Free batteries have become so ubiquitous that customers now frequently ask for the brand by name. Mr. Halliday expressed optimism about future of the company. “I daresay we have the most loyal clientele in St Lucia. And we want to thank them for their support over the years and to assure them that our singled minded focus to provide our customers with unparalleled service and exceptional products for an outstanding value will continue unabated.” ¤

Automotive Art

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Lifetime Achievement - Mr. Irvin Norville Mr. Irvin Norville was in high spirits on the night for good reason. For a man who spent the better part of his life building his business, he has touched many lives through his acute sense of business and drive. A family man and astute businessman, Mr. Norville was flushed by the overwhelming support and recognition at the ceremony, receiving a standing ovation at the Saint Lucia Business Awards. Supported by his wife Mrs. Prudentia Norville and daughter Gemyma Norville-Jules who spoke on his behalf, the man of the hour beamed as he was officially inducted into the Hall of Fame for Lifetime Achievement – a distinction for those who know him well, would be one he would shy away from if given the choice, as he does not like the spotlight. Mr. Norville’s determination and drive came from his strong family ties and his stubbornness which willed him to try different things to succeed. A born Salesman, he started his career selling insurance after studying accounts and bookkeeping in the UK, and then moved onto consumer goods when an opportunity which was too good to be true presented itself with the then small Dilly’s Supermarket. Through hard work and dedication, he was able to change the small operations into a formidable landmark providing more than wholesale and retail but jobs for many (some of whom have been with him from day one). If asked what he holds dearest to him, the Lifetime Achiever would quip ‘his family’. The pillars who anchor him and make every day a blessing. In reviewing his legacy, Mr. Norville although proud of where he has come from and what he has been able to achieve, he would advise any young entrepreneur to persevere and keep going for their goals as nothing worth achieving ever comes easy. He highlights the importance of education and having a spiritual balance which grounds you. For Mr. Norville, who would often be seen near the Castries Market next to the taxi stand (just round the corner from his supermarket), this humble but wise BusinessFocus

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businessman had a philanthropic nature. Often supporting the financial needs of many, specifically children whom he truly believed was the future. he would ensure not only were school supplies and uniforms purchased, but there was also something left over for transportation and meals. Mr. Norville also had an overwhelming love for culture and would be present at every La Maguerite, La Rose or La Wenn event, adorning an instrument in his younger days, a true son of the soil. He is a firm believer in making the right connections and advised that aligning one’s self with the right people, trustworthy people who can teach you new things and you can teach them in return, is the best practice for budding entrepreneurs who want success. He warned of the false prophets offering a quick fix and highlighted the need to always keep a keen eye out for new opportunities and do the work to build a strong foundation. ¤

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Location: Fond Cacao, Soufriere Telephone : 459 -7831/459-7729 BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

BUSINESS FOCUSFOCUS ENVIRONMENTAL

Climate Change Legislation High On The Agenda

Climate change legislation high on the agenda Climate change is high on the agenda in an initiative spearheaded under the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Global Climate Change Alliance Project, iLAND Resilience – Promoting a Climate for Change, funded by the European Union (EU) and CANARI as a co-financer through its EU-funded project on Powering Innovations in Civil Society and Enterprises for Sustainability in the Caribbean (PISCES). The overall aim of the iLAND Resilience project is to support the implementation of the OECS St. George’s Declaration of Principles for Environmental Sustainability, namely the protection and sustained productivity of the OECS countries’ natural resources. To this end, a national workshop facilitated by the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute (CANARI) in collaboration with the Department of Sustainable Development (DSD), Ministry of Education, Innovation, Gender Relations and Sustainable Development marked the start of a healthy dialogue on Climate Change and its effects. Among the participants were practitioners, policy makers and civil society groups in Saint Lucia. The main focus was extracting the input of government and civil society to design a new and functional legislative framework on Environmental Management and Climate Change. Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Ms. Debra Charlery, demarcated the critical environmental and climate challenges facing Saint Lucia and other Caribbean islands with natural disasters like hurricanes posing incredulous setbacks in the wake of their devastation to infrastructure and the islands. The collaboration between the Ministry, CANARI and the subsequent support of the OECS Commission to channel the expertise into the development of new legislation which will BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

ultimately operationalise key policies in Saint Lucia is quite welcoming. Key components of the policy change are the National Environmental Policy and National Climate Change Adaptation Policy which both ensure sustainable and resilient development. A strong emphasis was placed on the synergies among the participating bodies so duplications in mandates would be avoided, so the focus is meted on addressing any grey areas due to emerging issues at national, regional and international levels and not correcting errors in the actual process. During the workshops, stakeholders had the opportunity to work together with purpose. Chief among the functions of the micro groupings was the identification of the optimal needs and key priorities for legislation that would enable effective and efficient coordination, implementation and resource mobilisation to address the Environment and Climate Change when necessary. As a result, two pieces of legislation were the focus of discussion based on preliminary discussions. The proposed environmental management legislation addresses critical issues, including conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, coastal zone management, pollution control and environmental monitoring and information systems. The proposed Climate Change legislation aims to build resilience and undertake innovative measures for adaptation and mitigation and the resulting loss and damage that occurs when adaptation and mitigation efforts are inadequate. As the workshop came to a close, CANARI and DSD have agreed to continue working on the development of the legislation over the next year with the identified key stakeholders in Saint Lucia to enable effective uptake and implementation there-after. ¤

ECONOMY & TRADE

New Agricultural Marketing Entity Announced for 2018

New Agricultural Marketing Entity Announced for 2018 Agriculture, once the main industry responsible for the vitality of the St Lucian economy, has taken a back seat in the past years due to the booming tourism industry among other factors. Often thought of as the life line of the people, the sector has been marred by infestations, natural disasters and mismanagement. A major area of concern for government is reducing the country’s food import bill. According to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Physical Planning, Natural Resources and Cooperatives, Hon. Ezekiel Joseph, he is optimistic that the local agricultural sector will see some muchneeded development and positive change, especially with the implementation of a marketing entity to drive the process at some levels. On review of the performance of the local agricultural sector for 2017 it was noted that there were many accomplishments including the increased levels of production and direct employment in the

sector which resulted in an improvement in economic and social wellbeing. The Minister added, “There is need to increase exports to our traditional markets, and to explore potential new market opportunities therefore, in 2018, we shall see the operationalization of a new marketing entity with the focus on providing critical support needed to increase production of targeted crops; and more importantly, provide the marketing intelligence, infrastructure, and arrangements for the sale of these crops locally, regionally and internationally. The new entity will also provide insurance, a pension scheme, and incentives to all farmers and fisher folk who wish to become shareholders of this entity.” Major roads utilised by farmers will be rehabilitated in the financial year, with an aim to improve the accessibility to farm lands and markets. With support from the Taiwanese, Mexican, Cuban and Moroccan governments and IICA, FAO, CARDI and the EU, the agricultural sector is set to receive a major boost. The sub-sectors comprising of the banana, fisheries and other notable sectors, will receive development in key areas and including the introduction of new technology to help increase productivity and efficiency, through the partnerships. An announcement on the fully established marketing entity will be made public soon. ¤

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

ECONOMY & TRADE

St cia to enefit ro S Mi ion Cari ean egiona is eries Mechanism 7-Country Initiative Project Targets Sustainability of Flying Fish

St Lucia to Benefit from US$146 Million Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism 7-Country Initiative Project Targets Sustainability of Flying Fish The Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) is accountable for promotion and facilitation of the use of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fisheries and other aquatic resources, ensuring economic and social benefits materialise. The main objectives include the efficient management and sustainable development of marine resources, promotion and establishment of co-operative arrangements and the provision of technical support where possible for its members. As part of its mandate, the CRFM has embarked on a series of subprojects which include seven Caribbean countries, under its sustainable management initiative for the flying fish fishery. As an advisory agency to CARICOM, six sub-projects were initiated in 2017 with the aim to implement the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF) for the management of the four-wing flying-fish in the Eastern Caribbean. It was noted that this specific species was of grave economic and cultural significance to these countries. Funding agencies for this initiative are the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Global Environment Facility (GEF) titled, Catalyzing Implementation of the Strategic Action Programme for the Sustainable Management of Shared Living Marine Resources in the Caribbean and North Brazil Shelf Large Marine Ecosystems (the CLME+ Project). The CLIME+ Project was catalysed by US$12.5 million grant provided by the GEF and matched by government, multilateral and other funding agencies to total US$146 million. CRFM Executive Director Mr Milton Haughton expressed the importance of the initiative and highlighted as the Caribbean BusinessFocus

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islands are using a common marine resource and space, it is essential to manage these interests with all parties in mind. For the agency, the development of a framework for the flying-fish fishery could be easily scaled up and applied to other fisheries within the region. The main countries which make up the participating bodies for the specific sub-project in this instance are Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Martinique and Guadeloupe. The intent is to determine the long-term sustainability of the flying-fish, strengthen governance of the living marine resources by addressing habitat degradation and pollution and to manage the regimes for various fishery types like the coral reefs, continental shelf and pelagic fisheries. This series of sub-projects will culminate mid-2019, with a sub-regional data policy to be developed to provide guidelines on how countries and Overseas territories participating in the flying fish fishery will collect and share data. Moreover, new recommendations will be developed on vessel licensing and a census will be conducted on the existing vessels which fish for flying fish. To execute the plans, Blue Earth Consultants a division of the Eastern Research Group in collaboration with some local and international partners have been contracted. The main contractors will work closely with the key stakeholders in the six locations, in a participatory manner to lead the consultative process and gain feedback as the project develops. The remaining three sub-projects will be spearheaded by The Caribbean Natural Resources Institute (CANARI) in Trinidad and Tobago and Nexus Coastal Resource Management (Nexus) in Halifax, Canada. Â¤

injects US$100 million in region’s economy terms of media exposure was a whopping US$22,890,940 and saw an increase of 12% compared to the previous year as it relates to its global audience.

Hero CPL Injects Us$100 Million In Region’s Economy Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T20 Cricket Tournament, now set for its sixth year of operation, has been dubbed the biggest and best party cricket tournament in the region. The action-packed matches taking place in various Caribbean islands with mixed-groupings from Saint Lucia Stars, Guyana Amazon Warriors, Trinbago Knight Riders, St. Kitts Patriots, Barbados Tridents and the Jamaica Tallawahs. The Hero (CPL) has proudly announced that the 2017 tournament has made an incredible US$95,122,465 impact across six nations in the Caribbean and in the USA where matches were played. Taking place between August 4th – September 9th last year, the tournament accounted for almost US$100k in total economic impact through organiser spend, visitor spend and media value, as calculated for Hero CPL by world-renowned researchers, SMG Insight. The total value for the seven tournament locations in

Hero CPL directly worked with 2,710 local personnel across the seven countries where the tournament took place and occupied a staggering 33,503 hotel rooms during the 2017 event, with a visitor spend increasing by 161% from the previous year. The organiser also increased its investment in the tournament over the past three years by 84% signalling its commitment to the tournament and the region as a whole. According to the Hero CPL Chief Executive Officer, Damien O’Donohoe, “This is a really strong set of economic impact results for the region and we are delighted with how we continue to grow as a tournament. We are hugely proud of how much the Hero CPL puts back into the countries that we visit and we are very grateful to the governments and fans that help us make that happen. While 2017 has been fantastic we are firmly committed to increasing our economic impact in 2018.” The Hero CPL and Cricket West Indies (CWI) have reached an agreement on a window for the 2018 edition of the tournament earmarking August 8 – September 16 2018 as the tournament period so all players will be available to play to the delight of the fans. Opening matches have been set for Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana. ¤

EC Global

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

ECONOMY & TRADE

TEPA Launches New ‘Taste of Saint Lucia’ Export Label

of the products carrying the mark, noting that the bar must be set high for branded products in particular, to consistently satisfy and surpass consumer expectations. “Hence, the packaging of the product carrying this label and national trademark must be of an equally high standard”. Ms. Andrena Simon, TEPA’s Senior Client Manager – Marketing & Promotions reported that having a cohesive brand and brand management plan involved extensive and intensive stakeholder engagement as the process requires consensus on the guidelines, standards, governance structure and business model for the export label. TEPA also engaged the piloting companies in a review of their packaging to improve marketing material and label designs for coherence with the TOSL Label.

Launches New ‘Taste of Saint Lucia’ Export Label Six Saint Lucian Products Approved to Pilot the New ‘National Export Brand’ With the focus on commanding visibility and increased market share for Saint Lucian products in potential and growing markets, the Trade Export Promotion Agency (TEPA) has completed the Taste of Saint Lucia (TOSL) branding strategy and label. On Thursday February 1st, TEPA unveiled the new export label to representatives of trade promotions and business support organisations at Point Seraphine Duty Free Shopping Complex.

On hand to endorse the new brand were the Saint Lucia Coalition of Service Industries (SLCSI) and the Saint Lucia Manufacturers Association (SMA). Ms. Tricia Leo of the SLCSI said that her organisation’s confidence in the new brand is as a result of the inclusiveness of the process and a robust and thorough qualitative and quantitative analysis of everything that is intrinsically Saint Lucian. Executive Director of SMA Mrs. Paula James expressed her confidence that the export label will give manufacturers the drive to maintain their quality and standards as they strive to exploit new opportunities in the export market. Echoing earlier sentiments by PS Preville that “Saint Lucian consumers and producers take ownership and a sense of personal responsibility to promote and thereby accelerate its recognition at home and abroad”, CEO Jacqueline Emmanuel Flood also remarked that the success of the brand will be the hard work, authenticity and excellence that epitomizes exactly what we are selling to the world – just “A Taste of Saint Lucia”. Massy Supermarkets has signed on to support TEPA in building visibility and awareness of the TOSL label in the domestic market. As part of the TOSL educational campaign, members of the general public will notice white neck tags and labels branded “Taste Of Saint Lucia” placed on select products at all Massy Supermarkets. These white neck tags and labels will also be displayed on approved products being exported to the international markets, and guarantees that the product is 100% locally made with high quality ingredients and to export standards. ¤

The TOSL trademark is a commercial label to be carried by approved Saint Lucian products and services. An initial six product lines have been selected based on eligibility criteria for piloting the export label -Natmed (Insect Repellent), Alirose (Coconut Oil), Rainforest (Sweet Potato Granola), Belle Ruches Apiary (Natural Wild Flower Honey), Saint Lucia Distillers (1931, Chairman’s Reserve, Bounty and Admiral Rodney Rums) and Cacoa Sainte Lucie (Chocolate). TEPA’s Director Mrs. Jacqueline Emmanuel Flood cited the rationale for an umbrella label as “resource constraints as producers in small economies, and the costly nature of building brands in global markets.” She said “an umbrella export label takes away the need for each exporter to try to get established and gain recognition in major international markets, alongside more resourced, multinational producers”. In his remarks Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister office with responsibility for Commerce, Mr. Titus Preville highlighted the importance of the standard and quality BusinessFocus

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Jacqueline Emmanuel Flood CEO of TEPA

Government Awards Contract for Strengthening Management of Saint Luciaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road Assets

Government Awards Contract for Strengthening Management of Saint Luciaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road Assets and methods for preventative maintenance and planning those maintenance works instead of reacting to damages retroactively. The contract for the four year consultancy project (2018-2021) was awarded to Sirway Limited of Finland who have since commenced work in Saint Lucia from January 18, 2018. They will be responsible for the establishment of a computer-based GIS road management information subsystem, including road data base, data entry facilities, data access and reporting facilities, administrative procedures for updating, maintenance and operation of the subsystem and staff training among others. Permanent Secretary in the Department of Infrastructure Mr. Ivor Daniel says the Road Maintenance Management System and Road Assets Management System will provide a platform for infrastructural policy development and long-term finance planning for infrastructural projects. The Ministry of Infrastructure, Ports, Energy and Labour is developing a Road Maintenance Management System and Road Assets Management System in an effort to improve the island`s aging road assets and save state resources. The system is a collection of software tools which provide policy makers with an inventory of the country`s infrastructural assets and a comprehensive snapshot to guide investments in upgrades and routine maintenance. It will also provide scientific analysis

He added that the initiative will place Saint Lucia`s service delivery in managing public assets on par with more advanced jurisdictions. The Road Maintenance Management System and Road Assets Management System will cover approximately 1,000km of roads and 100 major bridges and culverts around the island. It is also in keeping with Government`s policy to promote greater efficiency in the Public Service and the commitment to improve island-wide connectivity and infrastructure resilience. Â¤

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Mar/Apr

IN THE KNOW

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a s o e ove

i fic t oard Me

laws of the organisation which would spell out the number of meetings that the member is required to attend, the repercussions for not attending will be clear and concise. Once this board member has violated this rule, he or she will be automatically removed from the board. 3. Removal due to improper behaviour: Whether expressly written in the board guidelines or sheer common sense, a board member who is conducting him or herself without dignity will be removed from the board. For example, if a board member is flirting with members of the organisation, or uses his or her position to get favours from others in the organisation - this board member is acting inappropriately and should be removed from the board.

Top three ways to remove a difficult board member By Trudy O. Glasgow It is a privilege to be selected to serve on any board or committee. It means that your particular skill set has been recognised as being able to make a valuable contribution to the organisation. Having a board that respects each other's opinions, is proactive and supportive, and works as a unit is vital to the survival of the board and by extension the organisation. Having one or more board member who does not share the same enthusiam and dedication, is overly critical and demeaning, will eventually undermine the board's objectives and demoralise this group of people who have come together to make a difference. Therefore, this board member must be removed. The writer has served/ is serving on several boards and committees over the years, and has compiled three reasons to remove a board member who has become belligerent. Here are my top three ways to remove a perverse board member. 1. Ask him or her to leave: The Chairperson and perhaps one or two other board members should invite the obstructive member to a meeting to discuss the problem. Explain in clear terms what the issues are, and the reason the relationship ought to come to an end. Listen to the board member's reasons for his or her behaviour. If the reasons are inconsequential, give this board member the opportunity to tender his or her resignation. He or she can cite personal and professional commitments, so he or she can leave immediately without any hassle. 2. The Chairperson writes the board member and terminating his or her membership based on his or her absence from meetings: Ordinarily, this member has a sparse attendance record at board and committee meetings. Citing the byeBusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

Every board member is carefully vetted prior to joining the board to ensure he or she will be an invaluable asset to the organisation. This would include scruntising their behaviour in both their personal and professional capacities. Once they have been found to be fit and proper candidates, they are invited to serve on the board. Ideally, each board member should go through a period of mentorship with a more experienced member of the board so he or she can ask any questions in terms of his or her duties and responsibilities. Each board member should also have a comprehensive understanding of what is required of him or her; and know that his or her behaviour while in that position will inevitably be a reflection of the values of the organisation. Â¤

Ms. Trudy O. Glasgow, B.A (History), LL.B (Hons.), B.V.C, LL.M, P.C.H.E, is a practising attorney at the law firm of Trudy O. Glasgow & Associates and a court-appointed mediator and writer in Saint Lucia (and has also taught law at University level in the UK). Ms. Glasgow is the current Vice President of the Bar Association of Saint Lucia and sits on various boards including Co-Chair and founding member of 100 women who care, Saint Lucia chapter; Chairperson of the National Research and Development Foundation (NRDF); former Board member of Legal Aid Board and Secretary Elect of the Rotary Club of Gros Islet. She wrote a weekly legal column, Simply law, in The Voice newspaper for eight years (July 2007 - September 2015) and resumed in The Mirror Newspaper (February 2016 to present) published a book which is a selection of her articles with some new material. This article is for general use only, for advice specifically for your case, please see your lawyer. Share your thoughts and comments: you are invited to email me at trudyoglasgow@lawyer.com

Massy Stores Help Launch “Our Boys Matter Campaign” at the Boys Training Centre

Massy Stores help launch “Our Boys Matter Campaign” at the Boys Training Centre “Our Boys Matter” Pilot Programme was kicked off in high gear after a successful launch last month. As a direct response to the numerous issues facing at risk youth including poor parental guidance, demotivation and peer pressure, the social stigmas which proliferate the antisocial behaviour demonstrated by these boys have been placed under a microscope to help address and eradicate the results of such behaviour. This programme saw collaborations of private and public-sector entities in Massy Stores Saint Lucia, alongside Saint Lucia Social Development Fund to bring this pilot initiative to life. The programme’s main aim is to provide Productivity Enhancement Training which would include self-management/ awareness, conflict resolution, communication, and job search skills, as well as mentorship to help set the participants on a path to growth and away from life threatening behaviours. Other notable key stakeholders include the National Skills Development Centre (NSDC) and the Minister of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment who were well represented at the event launch and form part of the steering committee formulated to document the progress of the initiative with an aim to expand into the wider community on a grand scale. This PILOT PROGRAMME at the Boys Training Centre will be 15 weeks long. Once completed, it will help to inform a wider National Programme for Boys at risk (vulnerable boys from secondary schools). As the sole sponsor of this pilot initiative, Massy Stores hopes that this process is successful in bringing in transformational change for the boys in the programme, and keep the spotlight on the issues which plague the youth so other entities can support this as

a worthy endeavour of our attention and resources. It is notable that three Massy Stores certified male mentors (Montgomery Forde, Bertram Best and Omare Moses) along with other Massy staff were on hand for the launch of the initiative and provide support for the boys. Managing Director of Massy Stores Saint Lucia Mr. Martin Dorville lauded the initiative in Saint Lucia stating how notable that it mirrors the Massy Trinidad funded “Boys to Men Programme: Rites of Passage” project which has been in existence in that country since 2005. He added, “We are proud to be associated with this endeavour as we recognise that there are no quick fixes to the challenges facing young men in our society. The business of youth development and young men in particular, requires dedication, commitment, resources and sincerity on the part of corporate citizens like ourselves.” For the key stakeholders, this programme is long overdue with mentorship forming a critical component for youth at risk as it is a coping mechanism and help build trust and mutual respect. On receiving the requisite support highlighted in the programme’s syllabus, the custodians are seeking to develop the psycho-social needs of these vulnerable youth, enrich their lives in a positive way and create model citizens ready to enter society. For more information about Our Boys Matter, contact Ms. Anya Edwin on aedwin@slusdf.net. ¤

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

IN THE KNOW

What role does your HR team play?

What role does your HR team play? By Goretti Paul

The human resource (HR) management function is integral to the success or failure of any organization because, let’s face it, people are what really drive business. So why is it that so many companies fail to appreciate the value of investing in their HR management resources? The role of HR is to provide strategic support to the leadership team to maximize the successful achievement of the company’s strategic goals through their people. This means HR should have a seat at the leadership table, influencing the organizational architecture and culture, not only for today or next year, but for the future sustainability of the business.

changes that are inevitable. Research has shown that companies that invest in the effective management of their people are more successful than the ones that do not. The role of HR management is critical and if used effectively, can have a significant impact on the success of your business. It is time to rethink your approach to HR and make the changes that are necessary to drive your business towards greater profitability. ¤

Goretti J Paul is a Saint Lucian Human Resource Management professional whose fourteen years’ experience spans Human Resource Management at the local and regional executive levels. She has held various roles in HR including HR Executive, HR Administrator, Vice President HR Saint Lucia and Head of HR Southern Caribbean with responsibility for four independent business units.

It is therefore necessary that your HR team is involved in the discussions related to strategy, finance, marketing etc. HR should be leading discussions about what skills and competencies are necessary to build bench strength, what behaviours should be fostered within the company to create a high performance culture, what strategies should be used to ensure the right talent is recruited, what recognition and reward strategies should be implemented to foster employee engagement and what approach should be used to ensure continued employee development and effective performance management. These are all key areas that directly influence productivity and employer brand, so it is necessary that companies devote adequate financial and other resources to their effective management.

In 2014, Ms. Paul founded Saint Lucia’s first full service human resource management solutions company – HRWise Inc., and currently serves as the Managing Director.

Are you still treating your HR team as a personnel department? Or perhaps you have no resources dedicated to HR. If so, you are doing a grave injustice to your business. Today, we have multiple tools that automate the administrative aspects of HR management. This is a deliberate change necessitated by the need to make time available for more strategic activities that add greater value to the achievement of your overarching goals. The role of HR has evolved and the workforce dynamics continue to evolve rapidly, so companies need to adapt and position themselves for the future

Ms. Paul holds an Executive Diploma in Human Resource Management from the University of the West Indies and a Masters in Human Resource Management from the Australian Institute of Business. She currently serves as a Director on the Board of the Saint Lucia Employers’ Federation and is the Communications Officer on the Interim Steering Committee of the St. Lucia Human Resource Management Association. Ms Paul can be contacted at goretti.paul@hrwiseinc.com

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

Corporate Social Consciousness, What Every Company Should Know!

CORPORATE SOCIAL CONSCIOUSNESS, WHAT EVERY COMPANY SHOULD KNOW! By Kezia Preville • • • •

Develops sustainable business opportunities Reduces the regulatory burdens Interests great media attention and PR Connects with socially minded companies

If these resonant with you, then you are taking the first steps to developing a brand with a heart. As there are so many types of initiatives, getting involved is easy. In some instances, larger firms have a social group made up of various employees (usually directed by the marketing and or communications department and sometimes human resource department), who design company specific projects which can be branded and become part of the company’s image. On the other hand, a small donation (with human resources being much sought after) can help support a cause no matter the size of your company.

Society is built on specific philosophies inbred into its psyche. The social conduct which is deemed as suitable is often inherited and learned throughout one’s. Truthfully, social norms exist for just about everything specifically the correct public behaviour at school, in the streets and at work, and as we move from one phase to the next, our belief systems evolve. Consumerism is at an all-time high with internet savvy consumers seeking out firms who reflect their own social norms and project a social awareness within the community. Although altruism usually comes at a price, smart firms are striking a balance between profit and projecting a social awareness to warm the hearts of its customers (and safeguard the bottom-line). Nevertheless, to make that positive and real connection, companies now more than ever are implementing a set of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals as part of its strategic plans, with actionable points attached. How does the market see your company? We often hear of firms who give back to the community making a conspicuous effort to associate with projects which protect, uplift and promote socially accepted behaviours. Beyond the obvious benefits to the recipient, corporate social responsibility can have a tremendous impact on a company in both the short and long term as it: • Positively impacts the community • Projects being an employer of choice • Provides brand awareness • Promotes a positive brand reputation • Enhances customer loyalty • Increases sales • Attracts good human resources • Encourages professional and personal development • Delivers operational savings • Offers scope for organisational growth

Some popular CSR initiatives surround the following social issues: • Youth Development: specifically, but not limited to, at risk, poor or neglected kids seeking support as they develop and fully understand the social construct of our society. • Education: both youth and adult literacy programmes. Although universal education is the goal, some students miss the opportunity of an education due to their economic status. • Health and Wellness: as a growing number of patients have been recorded for diseases like diabetes, the plight of an overweight and lethargic citizenry has been on the agenda. • Sports: sometimes tied into youth initiatives, sports development and awareness have for a long time created avenues for the most talented and sometimes underprivileged to have a chance of success abroad. • Environment: the “Go Green” campaign has traversed many industries. As climate change threatens us all, a collective approach has been taken causing many firms to play their part in some way. ¤ Kezia Preville is a Business Development and Marketing Specialist with over 10 years’ experience in various industries. For more information on Business Development, Marketing, PR and Event Management, contact her at AdVizze Consulting Inc on kezia@ advizze.co or visit www. advizze.co BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

YOUTH IN FOCUS

Job Fair Expo 2nd Edition Set for August

2nd edition set for August Borne out of the need to create a spotlight on the increasing number of unemployed youths with a focus on the males, the Job Fair Expo was created. The team of volunteers took their campaign throughout the nation working with media partners the Wave and Choice TV to develop the public awareness aspects of the initiative. With an overarching desire to supplement the other public and private sector programmes already in place, the Job Fair Expo as the name suggests, is an exposition of jobs and job-related components. Attendees at the first edition which took place early last year at the Johnson’s Centre where attendees were exposed to over various businesses and got the opportunity to participate in: • Mock interview sessions • CV Review Clinics • Emotional Counselling • Career Guidance • Online Application Support • Internship Placement • Job Interviews This year the Job Fair Expo ’18 will take place at the Financial Centre at Pointe Seraphine on August 4th 2018, under the theme “Get involved today!” and will include workshops and talks on the event day, delivered by public and private sector individuals. The change in date and venue was to facilitate more participation from various companies and allow candidates coming from out of the city, to have an easier commute. The event has drawn the attention of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training programme (TVET) spearheaded by the Ministry of Education and aimed at professional development. Persons are able to receive regionally and internationally recognised qualifications through TVET. This new partner is welcomed as the event will now give the attendees a closer look at the public sector and highlight educational options in unique areas. It must be noted that a point of great interest for the eager attendees in the previous year, was the opportunity to speak BusinessFocus

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to real Human Resource Managers representing key industries in and public and private sector and ask pertinent questions to encourage employability. Special attention was also given to the entrepreneurial aspects as representatives who were on the other side of the table before, now got the opportunity to relay their experience alongside the legal, financial and management companies which provided a snapshot of the true journey to being your own boss. Students learned how the young entrepreneurs were able to navigate the harsh markets and make a name for themselves. For many candidates, there were just not enough jobs they were qualified for and some left with more hope but no employment – as they need realise they would need to work on themselves to become more employable and seek out other industries which may be more open to someone with their requisite skills. As the event gears up to launch, the new list of exhibitors and sponsors will be released soon with a full programme for the free event. A call is out to HR Managers, Marketers and Business Owners to participate in this event as they could truly be meeting their next employee on August 4th 2018, as was the case for some firms last year. It must be noted that JFE’17 welcomed quite a few supporters that we hope to see again this year including; First Caribbean International Bank, Massy Stores, the Landings Resort & Spa, Beyond Limit Construction, Doodle Interactive, Evergreen Passenger Transportation, Butch Prints, Tropical Discoveries, Digicel, HR Wise, Mediazone, The Wave, Secure St Lucia, Excel Signs and AdVizze Consulting Inc as sponsors. Also, we received support from the SLHTA, the St Lucia Chamber of Commerce, CHTTi, Cox & Company, the Association of Chartered Accountants, NRDF and a mix of entrepreneurs, startups and experts in areas including music, life coaching, brand development, small business management, mentorship, graphic design, engineering and music industry including veteran musician Boo Hinkson, Engineer Jonathan Preville, Lawyer Lorriane Glace, Counsellor Lisa Ellis, Lash Specialist Andra Joseph, Author Kurmysha Harris and Interior Designer Davis Felix. At the Job Fair Expo, we have realized that most persons in attendance had significant issues designing a CV, presenting themselves in an interview setting and determining their career goals. The market research undertaken during the event last year will assist in the new design of the initiative this year. To participate, sponsor or volunteer for the upcoming event, follow us @AdVizze on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn or email info@ advizze.co. ¤

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Mar/Apr

BUSINESSIN FOCUS TOURISM FOCUS

Saint Lucia Makes a Pitch at 2018 CHTA Caribbean Travel Marketplace

Saint Lucia Makes a Pitch at 2018 CHTA Caribbean Travel Marketplace In continued efforts to promote the island and its tourism product, a Saint Lucia delegation consisting of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA) representatives and the Minister with responsibility for Tourism, Information and Broadcasting Honorable Dominic Fedee attended the 2018 Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace held in Puerto Rico, January 30 to February 1, 2018. Executive Chairperson of the SLTA Agnes Francis who attended the Caribbean’s largest annual marketing event expressed her pleasure with the reception with which the destination was received. She stated: “we had more requests for meetings than we had time to fulfil, with tour operators, travel agents, airlines, MICE and media buyers all excited about the destination’s tourism direction and outlook.” The CHTA Caribbean Market Place provides the opportunity for tourism suppliers to meet face-to-face with wholesalers from around the world, who sell Caribbean vacations. The SLTA used the opportunity to gain valuable market insights and strengthen industry relationships. Many of the attending tour operators, indicated that Saint Lucia ended 2017 positively and is pacing ahead for 2018 with some projecting the destination as being as much as 40% ahead. The tour operators were also interested in joint marketing efforts, and promotions for the upcoming summer travel. SLTA Marketing Director-USA stated that “This is great news for the destination. We are hoping to keep the momentum going and BusinessFocus

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increase sales for 2018 especially with regards to summer travel." The SLTA is currently considering several proposals for joint marketing, reservation training and hosted dinners within the coming months as part of its marketing and promotions with its tour operators and airlines partners. The Saint Lucia contingent also conducted a press conference entitled ‘Update Saint Lucia’. Several media houses were in attendance including Jax Fax, Travel Magazine, USA Today, Huffington Post, Travel Weekly, Caribbean News digital, Travel Times, Jetset Magazine, Travelmole, Amazon Prime Studios, Fox, Recommend, Tropic Travel Zachstoval.com, Caribbean Today, Travel Agent Central, and SuccessfulMeetings.com. Executive Chairperson Agnes Francis provided an update on the destination's marketing direction and rebranding, while Minister Fedee discussed the destinations improvements and his administration’s commitment to the development of tourism and the country. The general hotel update was provided by the President of the SLHTA Sanovnik Destang with Rich Cortese Senior Vice President Caribbean Operations & Development for Aimbridge Hospitality representing the Harbor Club given an opportunity to introduce the newest property on the island to the media. Other hotels also provided updates and offer prizes to the media in attendance. ¤

Cruise industry gets a Castries market set for major facelift mega-boost Cruise Industry Gets A Mega-Boost Castries Market Set For Major Facelift

The cruise sector has been quite critical within the tourism industry in Saint Lucia. As a sought-after destination, cruise lines have added the island on its itinerary, with some making the island their home porting destination. In a history making ceremony, Port Castries welcomed its first mega cruise vessel in 2018. The Anthem of the Seas operated by Royal Caribbean Cruises and carrying an impressive 4,200 passengers, berthed at the newly extended Berth#1 at Pointe Seraphine. To boost the sector even further, while regaining its competitiveness in the process, officials are hoping this extension will provide a muchneeded boost to the economy by attracting more mega vessels to its cruise itinerary and as a result, add to the visitor arrivals. The Anthem of the Seas vessel is the largest of its kind to sail into Port Castries’ striking 164 feet berth, constructed by Dutch company Ballast Needham to the tune of US$18.8 million. To accommodate for the size of the mega vessels and allow for safe and secure berthing, a high capacity foam-filled fender was added, three new mooring dolphins were constructed and 76 piles were driven deep into the seabed, fortified by sea concrete. The Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) accounts that this massive investment is the largest made in 20 years, financed by the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) and was proudly completed within budget and on time. The cruise sector is an essential facet of the tourism industry, driving the economy which has been in decline. The government has already started exploring similar upgrades in the south of the island with talks surrounding the development of a new cruise ship terminal in Vieux Fort to complement the extension at the Castries Harbour. Plans for the Vieux fort location includes the development of the port to accommodate genesis class cruise ships which accommodate over 6,500 persons per vessel, as these cannot be accommodated in Castries. This bold move will open up the country’s cruise sector capabilities even more and boost the economy in the process. As the country seeks innovative ways to attract new visitors, the rehabilitation of the old infrastructure and development of new facilities will set the island apart from neighbouring islands, attracting more visitors.

The Castries Market is the largest shopping area in Castries comprising an impressive open-air shopping space, a large indoor vendors’ shopping centre constructed in the 19th century with upgrades over the years and an adjoining Vendor’s Arcade built in 1996 as a place for hand crafted merchandise. The Castries Market has received many accolades including a spot on the National Geographic as the one of the top ten markets around the world. Since its opening in 1894, the market has not undergone any major rehabilitation until now. As part of the government’s overall redevelopment plan for the City of Castries, the world renowned market will be rehabilitated to upgrade the services, create a safer and more appealing shopping experience and attract more visitors. The government of Saint Lucia has pledged a US$15 million investment into the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States Competitive Tourism Project which will undertake the entire city development. One of the most integral components of the project is the beautification and improvements to the façade of the Castries market, with a number of other initiatives to be undertaken to maximize the success of the works. Chief among these initiatives is the provision of training for vendors in the areas of merchandizing, sales strategy, customer service and marketing, in an effort to enhance the quality of service for all. In response to the rehabilitation plans, the Prime Minister Hon. Allen Chastanet, articulated that the Castries market forms part of the plan to develop the City, and that improvements to the decades-old facility are long overdue. According to the Prime Minister, “Mr. Popo and his team at the Department of Planning have done an incredible job at coming up with an architectural plan for that facility. The idea is for this to be the showpiece of Saint Lucian products. So we want people to be able to go and smell, taste, listen and feel everything that is Saint Lucian”. ¤

As the new extension of port facilities at Pointe Seraphine is now operational, more mega ships will soon be visiting Port Castries. ¤ BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

HEALTH & WELLNESS BUSINESS FOCUS

Complications of Diabetes: Hypoglycaemia

By Dr. Takira Glasgow “The patient with diabetes who knows more lives longer” Elliott kidney disease, retinopathy and blindness, erectile P. Joslin dysfunction, depression, dementia and stroke. This list is not exhaustive. • Acute neuropathy and other adverse outcomes as mentioned Diabetes refers to a group of metabolic disorders characterised below by hyperglycaemia (high blood glucose). One (1) in every four (4) adults in CARICOM countries has diabetes; type 2 diabetes is more prevalent than type 1 diabetes in St Lucia. Diabetes (type 2) Blood glucose levels should be lowered gradually to avoid can be considered a lifestyle and inherited disease, complications hypoglycaemia but also iatrogenic conditions. In rare cases, rapid of which can affect every major organ system of the body. The correction of blood glucose can result in treatment-induced disease increases mortality at least two fold. neuropathy “insulin neuritis”. This is an acute neuropathy associated with severe nerve-related pain and or symptoms of In general, we all should eat healthy meals, and remain physically autonomic neuropathy. The condition is treated symptomatically active. We aim for good health, rather than a particular body mass and usually alleviates with time. The same cannot be said of index, but weight loss is key to reducing insulin resistance. When cardiovascular events, diabetes-related eye disease and mortality insulin resistance is reduced, hyperglycaemia decreases and the rates which are higher after intensive correction of long-standing untreated diabetes. Thus, rapid reductions in high blood glucose complications of diabetes decrease. after long-standing hyperglycaemia may be associated with poor Insulin, introduced in 1922, saved the life of fourteen year old outcomes; early diagnosis and management is preferable. Leonard Thompson in Toronto, eleven year old Elisabeth Hughes Gossett in Washington and then men and women throughout Variability in blood glucose levels throughout the day (glycaemic the world with type 1 diabetes. The transformative change in variability) may also be associated with poor outcomes. A certain life expectancy and quality of life among this population, which amount of variability is expected but this is increased in persons was at the time admittedly smaller, resulted in all four scientists with diabetes and becomes defined as pathological when involved sharing credit in the historically renowned Nobel Prize in cardiovascular risk increases. Low blood glucose may occur at an Physiology or Medicine in 1923. These scientists: Banting, Best, increased frequency with glycaemic variability. Macleod and Collip, sold their patents to the University of Toronto for $1, allowing lifesaving insulin to be available worldwide. Blood glucose fluctuations can be detected by blood glucose testing at seven useful points in the day – paired readings with Insulin should be administered carefully because an excessive meals and at night (or using a continuous glucose monitor). dose can result in hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose). Precipitous Average blood glucose targets are individualised but the A1C adjustments in insulin doses should therefore be avoided. In most is less helpful when blood glucose fluctuates too widely and cases, basal and rapid-acting insulin can be increased by two to may even appear normal. If you take medications for diabetes, four units at a time. Physicians who follow this protocol rely on please take your medications as prescribed or communicate your clients to admit to any non-adherence or poor health literacy or concerns with your diabetes physician. numeracy. Hypoglycaemia may cause: • Changes in cognition Later control of blood glucose is not as beneficial as early control, • Ischaemic brain damage but the second best time to make healthful changes is now. ¤ • Increased cardiovascular risk • Oxidative stress (linked to cancer, atherosclerosis, heart attack) Dr. Takira Glasgow was the first • Irregular heart rhythm Diabetes Physician in Saint Lucia. • A decrease in confidence in and adherence to, insulin. She graduated from Mc Gill University with her first degree In addition, mixing of hypoglycaemics is not recommended, such and the University of the West as a combination of insulin and a sulphonylurea such as Daonil Indies with her medical degree. or Diamicron. Studies indicate an increase in mortality with this She completed her Masters in combination. Complications of Diabetes: Hypoglycaemia Diabetes with distinction in the UK. After working at Queen Elizabeth The benefits of intensive blood glucose control early after Hospital, Barbados and Victoria diagnosis are greater than intensive control after years of elevated Hospital, her private office located blood glucose. This is not counter-intuitive; still here are some at Tapion was opened in 2012 where reasons why: • Early control of blood glucose allows for better control in the she has been managing clients with diabetes almost exclusively years that follow, as well as fewer complications referred to as since then. Her memberships include the American Association “metabolic memory”. of Clinical Endocrinology and the Caribbean Endocrine Society. • Hyperglycaemia may be fatal for persons who have mostly Her publications and articles have appeared in the Journal of Type 1 diabetes due to ketoacidosis. Biomedical Science and Engineering, Business Focus and the • Chronic hyperglycaemia may be fatal to persons with Type 2 Bar Association’s publication “The Brief”. She has appeared on diabetes if a hyperosmolar state develops. local radio and television programmes including “Your Diabetes • Weight loss, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, (skin) infections Health” and “Health Notes”. and other symptoms such as polyuria reduce quality of life. • Complications are more likely to occur with later intervention: Email: tglasgow@doctor.com Website http://www.drglasgow. peripheral neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy including com gastroparesis, peripheral arterial disease and amputations, BusinessFocus

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Owen King EU Hospital Commissions New Dialysis Machines

Owen King EU Hospital commissions new dialysis machines Heath care concerns have left many worried about the future. With an unfinished Saint Jude’s Hospital and inefficient Victoria Hospital overshadowed by numerous complaints from patients and staff alike, the Owen King EU Hospital is coming at a time the health care system in Saint Lucia has endured significant scrutiny. The new dialysis unit at the Owen King EU Hospital received its first patients earlier this year in a move which signifies the phenomenal step towards the full transition of the services at Victoria Hospital to the Owen King. The much-needed machines will replace the renal services now offered at the Victoria Hospital. The newly established unit contains eleven new dialysis machines to accommodate the growing demands for such lifesaving services. A dialysis machine mixes and monitors unwanted waste products from the blood while getting your electrolytes and minerals to the correct levels. This crucial service accommodates an extensive list of patients with varying cases from acute to chronic, some lifethreatening cases. Saint Lucia has experienced a marked increase in the number of cases with many needing constant care or will die without it.

As the country celebrates this huge milestone, the government promises more support for the health sector, with better provision and access to healthcare moving towards a national health insurance programme. The more vulnerable and lower income bracket citizens will soon have access to affordable care. This introduction will set the health care system into the modern times and provide the type of care the government knows the country needs but severely lacks. Although emphasis is now being placed on care and supportive systems for those affected by various conditions, much like renal failure, the key players are also prioritizing preventative measures like sensitization of the causes of these diseases to curb their proliferation. ¤

According to Minister of Health Senator Mary Isaac, “We have a long list of people waiting for dialysis and that is why we quickly got this unit going. It takes off a lot of pressure on the services that we offer currently at VH.” Although the current machines will be used in the short term, plans to decommission and replace with new machines have already been drafted. New plans are also underway to gradually open the OK-EU Hospital as the government works assiduously to appoint a Board of Directors which will oversee the full commissioning of the entire hospital. BusinessFocus

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

It’s Not Always ‘Gas’

IT’S NOT ALWAYS ‘GAS’ By Dr. Celia McConnell

Growing up I’ve always heard my mom and others diagnose chest pain as gas and somehow they always had a remedy for it. As a medical doctor, I’ve also been faced with the pre-diagnosis of gas even in the face of a fatal condition such as a heart attack. From what I’ve heard, ‘gas’ can be responsible for pain in almost any part of the body because ‘it travels doc’. Gas however is usually found in the digestive tract (from mouth to anus) and the respiratory tract (from nasal cavity to lungs). Therefore it may be eliminated from the body through exhaling, burping and flatulence. Gas escaping otherwise from these tracts may be as a result of more serious conditions such as perforation of a stomach ulcer or a punctured lung. In event of a serious condition, the patient would be extremely ill and more than likely head to the emergency room. Another serious condition that’s often misdiagnosed as gas is a heart attack. While chest pain may be due to many conditions such as infection, anxiety, musculoskeletal disorders or gas, it’s important to make the diagnosis early as almost half of patients with a heart attack have a fatal outcome. Here are a few tips to consider when assessing your ‘gas’ symptoms: 1. Gas pain can cause sharp, sometimes very intense abdominal pain and may be associated with bloating, burping or excessive flatulence. 2. Make a note of foods recently consumed and be familiar with foods that tend to cause gas such as carbonated drinks, pasta, potatoes, corn, beans, cabbage, broccoli and apples. 3. Note if there are other symptoms such as shortness of breath, sweating and arm or jaw pain since these aren’t associated with gas. BusinessFocus

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4. Evaluate your lifestyle for heart problems. Your risk for heart attack increases if you’re overweight, inactive, diabetic, have high cholesterol or blood pressure or if you smoke. The risk also increases with age- after 45 for men and after 55 for women. 5. Know the physical symptoms of a heart attack. Squeezing, tightening or pressure in the middle of the chest may occur. Pain may radiate to the arms, shoulder or jaw. Call for help if you develop sudden dizziness, shortness of breath, drenching sweats or nausea. 6. Diabetics sometimes do not have the typical symptoms of a heart attack so have a high index of suspicion when assessing you/your relative for ‘gas’. 7. When in doubt, always seek professional help. ¤ Dr. Celia McConnell is a General Practitioner of sixteen years. She graduated from the University of Guyana in 2001 with her MBBS and in 2013 she earned her Postgraduate Diploma in Diabetes (Distinction) from the Cardiff University. Dr. McConnell has spent over a decade working in the emergency rooms at Victoria and Tapion Hospitals and is a certified American Heart Association instructor in Advanced Cariac Life Support. Dr. McConnell currently operates her GP practice in the Fitz St. Rose Medical Centre on Micoud St, Castries where she sees patients of all ages and gender. She has a keen interest in diabetic patients as they are so vulnerable to developing many complications. She’s a member of the Saint Lucia Medical and Dental Association, Secretary of the Saint Lucia Heart, Lung and Blood Foundation and Vice President of the Saint Lucia Arthritis and Lupus Association.

EVENTS 2017/8 LOCAL AND REGIONAL ENTERTAINMENT, TRADE SHOWS AND CONFERENCES

19TH ANNUAL SALISES CONFERENCE APRIL 25-27, 2018 – HOLIDAY INN RESORT MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA In celebrating the UWI’s 70th Anniversary, the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social & Economic Studies (SALISES) UWI Mona, will be hosting its 19th Annual Conference at the Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay, Jamaica from April 25-27, 2018 under theme: Sustainable Futures for the Caribbean For more information view: http://salisesconferences.com/

CARIBBEAN HOTEL AND RESORT SUMMIT CHRIS 2018 JW MARRIOTT MARqUIS MIAMI MIAMI, FLORIDA. USA MAY 16 -18 2018 The Caribbean Hotel & Resort Investment Summit (CHRIS) is the Caribbean’s most noteworthy hotel investment conference. Join us in convenient Miami for informative sessions and unbeatable networking opportunities. With over a decade of experience in bringing the hotel/tourism investment community together in the Caribbean, the host of CHRIS has created a conference which is innovative, timely, and focused. To register: http://http://chrisconference.com/registration/

CARILEC CEO S AnD FInAnCE COnFEREnCE HILTON HOTEL, BARBADOS – MAY 20 - 23, 2018 The CARILEC Chief Executive Officers & Leadership Conference is the only Conference in the Caribbean where all Utility CEO’s & Leaders gather to discuss opportunities, challenges, cuttingedge methodologies and best practices that will empower participants to better serve the countries in which we conduct business.

BMEX BARBADOS MANUFACTURERS’ EXHIBITION LLOYD ERSkINE SANDIFORD CENTRE, BARBADOS – JUNE 2 - 5, 2018 BMEX’s main focus is to provide opportunities for local manufacturers to display and promote their products, while increasing business and consumer awareness locally, throughout the Caribbean and internationally.

TIC 2018 TRADE AND INVESTMENT CONVENTION – JULY 5 - 8, 2018, CENTER OF EXCELLENCE, 17A MACOYA ROAD, TUNAPUNA, TRINIDAD, W.I Our mandate is simple: to foster intra and extra regional trade for regional businesses. But we go much further - TIC takes place at the crossroads of the Americas, in Trinidad and Tobago, the region’s financial capital and the largest economy in the Caribbean, with strong links to Central and South American companies and businesses from around the globe! So when you take part in TIC, you’ll do business with more than 35 countries!

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Major Moves

MAJOR MOVES

Saint Lucia Bankers Association A new executive has been appointed to lead the affairs of the Saint Lucia Bankers Association for the term.

Wendy Delmar

Ms. Wendy Delmar, Branch Manager for Scotiabank’s Castries branch is the new President, while CIBC FirstCaribbean’s Country Manager, Mrs. Ladesa JamesWilliams holds the office of Vice President.

RBC Royal Bank Country Manager Mrs. Sandra Fontenelle serves as Secretary while the office of Treasurer is held by the Bank of Saint Sandra Fontenelle Lucia, represented by Mr. Baldwin Taylor. Responsibility for the Association’s public relations is now under the oversight of 1st National Bank’s Managing Director Jonathan Johannes. Over the threeyear term ahead, advocacy, education, value to members, visibility and operational efficiency will constitute the main pillars of the association’s work program. According Baldwin Taylor to Ms. Delmar, the BA’s ability to deliver value to members and to be effective in its public education programs “is dependent on the effectiveness of our own collaboration and alignment with key strategic partners such as the Chamber of Commerce, Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Caribbean Association of Indigenous Banks, the insurance and legal sectors”.

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Rod Hanna as Trade Sales Manager in Canada. Hanna will work closely with the trade as part of a leading, national strategy to increase travel agent engagement, to reach Canadians seeking unique and exotic island experiences. Hanna has over ten years experience in the industry, most recently working with the Sunwing Travel Group where he held the position of Marketing Coordinator, before being promoted to Business Development Manager. Prior to that, Hanna held positions at Sell Off Vacations and Loyalty One, working closely with clients to book all their travel needs.

Rojer Inglis has been appointed as LIAT’s Chief Financial Officer effective 8 January 2018. Inglis replaces Julie Reifer-Jones who assumed the office of Chief Executive Officer in 2017. Prior to joining LIAT, Inglis was the CFO of National Health Insurance Plan, Turks and Caicos and has held positions at WASA St. Lucia and Cable & Wireless Barbados Ltd. Inglis is a Chartered Certified Accountant with membership in the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). He brings a wealth of experience having worked for over 30 years in senior financial and leadership positions. Inglis stated that he is looking forward to his role in helping the company as it

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works towards financial stability and sustainability. Chief Executive Officer Julie ReiferJones said: “We are looking forward to working with Mr. Inglis at LIAT as he brings a wealth and variety of financial experience to the company especially at this time when the airline industry is undergoing rapid changes”.

Racquel Moses has been appointed as Microsoft’s Country Manager for Trinidad & Tobago and Public Sector Lead for the Caribbean market and would be responsible for leading a team of professionals operating from the Microsoft office located in Trinidad. Microsoft said Moses was tasked with executing the company’s global digital transformation vision, as well as enhancing customer experience and improving public outcomes through an emphasis on people and sustainable solutions. Moses has over 16 years’ experience in various sectors including technology and is the holder of a Master’s in Management of Technology degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Prior to joining Microsoft, Moses held leadership positions at several organisations including the roles of President at InvesTT, Regional Vice President Enterprise Sales at LIME and Vice President of Managed and Outsourced Services for Fujitsu Caribbean.

MAJOR MOVES

John Joseph has replaced Stephen Mc Namara as Chairman of the St. Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC) Board of Directors. Joseph is a former LUCELEC Financial Controller and retired Managing Director of the Water and Sewerage Company Inc. The appointment took effect on January 1, 2018. Mr. Mc Namara retired from the Board on December 31, 2017, after serving for 12 years, the maximum term for a Director. He chaired his last meeting of the LUCELEC Board on December 8, 2017. The new Chairman represents minority shareholders and has been a LUCELEC Director since January 2016.

Frank Myers has been appointed to the LUCELEC Board with effect from January 1, 2018. He is a Director representing the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) which increased its shareholding in LUCELEC to 20%, entitling it to two Directors on the Board. This increased shareholding by the NIC has also reduced the number of Directors representing minority shareholders from three to two. The current make-up of LUCELEC shareholders is: EMERA (St Lucia) Limited – 20%; First Citizens Bank Ltd. – 20%; NIC – 20%; Castries Constituencies Council – 15.5%; Government of Saint Lucia – 10.05%; and individual/smaller (minority) shareholders – 14.45%.

Telecommunications company, Digicel, has announced the appointment of Alexander Matuschka Greiffenclau as Group CEO, effective February 2018. Greiffenclau will succeed Colm Delves who has stepped down from his executive role for personal and family reasons. Delves will however remain as a non-executive director of Digicel and will also provide advisory services to the Group. Greiffenclau joins the company from VEON, a leading global provider of telecommunications services, where he has served as Group Chief Performance Officer since mid-2015. He previously served as Chief Transformation Officer at Nokia Networks.

Dwayne Tulloch has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer for Digicel Antigua and Barbuda effective January 2018. He will also have oversight of Digicel’s Montserrat operations, where he will focus on helping to grow the GSM and Home Entertainment operations there. A Jamaican by birth, Tulloch brings over 12 years’ telecommunications experience to this role. He joined Digicel Jamaica as Service Delivery Manager in 2012, and one year later, he was promoted to Customer Care Director. During his four-year tenure as Customer Care Director, he transformed the way Digicel interacted with its customers by formalising customer engagement via social media platforms and with the introduction of Live Web Chat.

Digicel Group Chairman Denis O’Brien said given Greiffenclau’s telecommunications credentials and experience in dynamic and transforming sectors, “he’s a natural fit for our business.” Addison Stoddard has been appointed new CEO of Digicel Turks and Caicos Islands. Stoddard joined Digicel in 2003 as a Computer Systems Engineer in its St. Vincent and the Grenadines operations, followed by two years in the Jamaica operations as Systems Engineer before moving to Turks and Caicos as IP/ VAS Manager in 2006. He spent the next eight years honing his skills and being groomed for the role of Core Network Manager in 2015, and in 2016, he was appointed CTO for Digicel TCI, a role that would have prepared him well for this new leg of his journey with Digicel.

Brian Mullis has been appointed as Guyana’s new Director of Tourism. Mullis, an American national who lives in California, was selected from a list of seven applicants who had responded to local and international advertisements of the vacancy for the position. Mullis replaces Indranauth Haralsingh, who had been at the helm of the Authority for a number of years. Mullis is said to have years of tourism experience and is internationally recognised as a leader in sustainable tourism development. He is the founder of Sustainable Travel International with 26 years of experience directing non-profit and for-profit companies, working in protected areas, fundraising, and leading successful projects in 58 countries.

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

105

BUSINESS FOCUS

ADVERTISERS INDEX COMPANY

Advertising & Marketing Services

Advertisers Index

Page

27 & 97

Admac Ltd.

Agostini Insurance Brokers (St. Lucia) Limited

Allied Services

Alternative Security Services (St. Lucia Ltd.)

Automotive Art

Belle Vue Properties Inc

Captain Mike's

CIBC First Caribbean

Cool Breeze

CPJ St. Lucia Ltd

Dilly's Supermarket

EasyClickBooks

EC Global

EGS Freight Services

Fast Cash

FDL Pest Control Solutions

Ferrands Ice Cream

FLOW

1&2

Goddard Catering

Golden Eggs Farms

Grant Thornton

H & L Environmental Services

IBS Inc

Kleydun Consulting Services

Laborie Co-operative Credit Union Ltd

Lazarus Funeral Home

Sagicor

Sentinel Security Co. Ltd

SMFC

SOL EC Ltd

Sun General

Trans Caribbean

Tyrone's Wrecker Service

COVERS FLOW

IFC

Harris Paints

OBC

Automotive Art

IBC

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

106

NEW COMPANY REGISTRATIONS COMPANY

NATURE OF BUSINESS

DIRECTORS

Boss Vacations Inc

Holding and Managing services

Gervin Auguste

Branford Electrical Services

Eyewear / Online Shopping

Rufus Branford

Caribbean Spirts

Spa Treatment and Retail Company

Eike lauff

Connoisseur Improvement Services (SL) Inc.

Property Holding Company

Kevin O. Webster John Wendell Skeete

Cool Comfort Limited

Citizenship by Investment, Real Estate Investment, Property Holding & Development

Simon Albertie Yvette Justin- Albertie

Environmental Testing and Consultancy Services Ltd.

All areas of investments, consultancy, real estate and related services

Nickla Louisy

Gid Services Inc

Geotechnical Ground investigation and design

Dewayne Monrose

Grand Southern Limited

Property Development

Lau Siew Hong Richard Yoong Ka Hian

Henrietta Brookes

Rental and lease of Motor vehicles. Haulage of goods by land.

Marilyn Schultz Richard Mathius

Highlands Cove Inc.

Property Holding

Eldorana Pust

JRP Ltd

Property Holding

Shervon Pierre

Kairos Group Inc

Consultancy

Maundy Lewis

La Plasse Inc.

Small Business Marketing & Development

Garry Prosper

Majesty Palm Ltd

Holiday Lettings and Property Management.

Sheldon Archibald

Mount Para Villas Ltd

Guest Services

Malcolm A.J. Charles Selma Anita Khodra Charles

Onscreen Media Ltd

Digicel Advertising

Kervin Cornelius Samuel Donatian Dwight Lewis

Pin Trucking Services Inc.

Rental & Lease of Motor vehicles

Marilyn Schultz Richard Mathias

Rayneau Rentals Inc.

Sales and Rental of property Buildings and tools

Development Company

Rayneau Gajadhar Developments Ltd

Development Company

John Cenac Jennifer Cenac-Andrew Renee Cenac

Testing and analyzing of Genetic Material

Janelle Anderson -Henry Anderson Henry Irvin Loctar Stephen King

Regional Genetics Centre Ltd

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

107

BUSINESS FOCUS

NEW COMPANY REGISTRATIONS COMPANY

NATURE OF BUSINESS

DIRECTORS

Seasons Inc.

Retail Services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Christmas decorations, gifts, gift-wrapping services. Mother day gift cards, back to School text books, Text books covets, stationary. Internet Shopping Services

Sarah Flood-Beaubrun

Sherwin- Williams STL Limited

Semi Manufacturing and sale of customized paints and related products

Allen J. Mistysyn

The Market Place Marina Ltd.

Wholesale and Retail trade

Wadi Zakhour Ben Gillmor Charlotte Gillmor Norma Chreiki

Tours Safari Inc.

Tours Transfers and Taxi Service

Michael Gustave Carlyle Gustave William Brathwaite

Treasured Memories Inc.

Photography and Videography

Kurt Charles Egbert Sealy

Zone Productions Incorporated

Operation of riding stables and other horseback trial activities

Marilyn Schultz Matthew President

BusinessFocus

Mar/Apr

108