BMEX, the Annual Trade Show put on by the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association (BMA), will be held from May 25th to 28th, 2012 at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre (LESC) under the theme ‘Our Products, Our Celebration’. This year’s BMEX has over 170 confirmed exhibitors, and will be open to the public from 10:00am to 10:00pm, Saturday May 26^th to Monday May 28^th.

Assistant Manager Small Business, Michael Lorde, commented: “Scotiabank is pleased to be partnering with the BMA to make this year’s BMEX a success. Our partnership is strategic because BMEX provides the medium for entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services to one of the widest audiences in Barbados, while we at Scotiabank make it possible to finance their businesses, whether at start-up or expansion. We assist with your cash flow needs, help you finance equipment purchases, or even payoff costly debt.”

Assistant General Manager Branch Banking, Jennifer Murray, who will also be speaking at the opening ceremony, commented: “We are inviting established and aspiring entrepreneurs to visit our booth during the exhibition to discuss your financing needs with our Small Business team. Our home financing experts will also be available to provide free mortgage check-ups… you’ll never know what’s possible until you ask.

Scotiabank’s Small Business Division offers products and services that are specifically designed for your business needs including overdraft protection, credit line facilities; credit cards, cash management, merchant services and term loans. Scotiabank also has a free online Business Plan Writer and Cash Flow Tool which will save you time and effort to set up the cash flow for your business; visit barbados.scotiabank.com/smallbusiness.

About Scotiabank

Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, both in Canada and abroad, through our global philanthropic Bright Future programme. Recognised as a leader internationally and in Canada for our charitable donations and philanthropic activities, Scotiabank has provided on average approximately $44 million annually to community causes around the world over the last five years.

For further information: Nicola Greaves (246) 431-3102 nicola.greaves@scotiabank.com

The Convention was signed this morning by Minister of International Business and International Transport, George Hutson, and Minister of State in the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Henry Bellingham, at Government Headquarters, in Bay Street, St. Michael.

Mr. Hutson stressed that the Convention addressed observations made in the Global Forum’s Phase 1 Peer Review Report of Barbados, which indicated that this country did not exchange information on international business entities with the UK because they were excluded from the existing Agreement which dated back to 1970.

“With the update of the exchange of information provisions, the international business entities are now covered by the Convention and Barbados can, therefore, exchange information on these entities,” the Minister said.

He added that the signing of the Agreement continued the strong and positive relationship for Barbados and the UK as it updated the exchange of information Article of the existing Convention to bring it in line with current international standards on transparency and exchange of information for tax purposes.

And, as Barbados moves onto Phase 2 of the Review scheduled for the first quarter of next year, the Minister pointed out the revised Convention would unquestionably enhance the investment framework between the two countries and contribute to the expedition of trade and investment activity.

“This is, therefore, an important step in deepening mutual co-operation in matters of international taxation and would further bolster relations between Barbados and the United Kingdom,” Mr. Hutson said.

He stressed that both governments had a responsibility to ensure that the Agreement worked to the benefit of the two countries.

During the signing, Mr. Bellingham stated that the Agreement sent a clear signal that Barbados and the UK were serious about increasing trade. But, he said, it would be a work in progress.

He added that the Agreement would also reduce the level of bureaucracy and burden on international businesses coming to Barbados, and those seeking to export to the UK.

“Businesses [engaged in trade] need taxation arrangements that are fit for purpose,” Mr. Bellingham said. He pointed out that Barbados and the UK had relatively low competitive taxes for companies and personal taxes.

“We believe in having the right conditions for enterprise and business, and the important framework is to have in place a tax system that is fit for purpose and that meets international standards, and gives businesses comfort. [In addition], both governments must be able to raise the tax that is due,” the UK Minister indicated.

Source: Barbados Government Information Service
For more information contact: julia.rawlins-bentham@barbados.gov.bb

Trompe l’oeil is French for “deceive the eye” – a mural painting technique involving extremely realistic imagery, creating a dramatic optical illusion of three dimensions. John Pugh is world famous for his extraordinary murals around the globe – some 250 huge murals which attract thousands of visitors, arrest attention and “deceive the eye”. The Speightstown mural, “Bridge of Tides”, was the inspiration of Pierre Spennard, proprietor of Mangoes by the Sea Restaurant.

Pierre adopted Barbados nearly 20 years ago, and has watched Speightstown’s decay, including the nearby government icon, Galene, the old Post Office house. After the trauma of his young sons drifting at sea for nine hours, the idea of a mural overlooking the sea, telling the story of Barbados, was born, to inspire us all to save and revitalise Speightstown.  Artist Don Small responded to a search for a local muralist, but saw the challenges of a mural on an unsuitable old wall, exposed to sun, sand and sea, and sure to fade rapidly. The famous monumental trompe l’oeil murals of John Pugh have been widely seen on the web, and he was invited to Barbados, met with Don and Pierre, and began the plan, putting Speightstown ahead of other requests.

John, Don and Pierre worked on the story line – from Amerindians to Independence and beyond, with Errol Barrow and the broken trident, within the dramatic Harrison’s Cave. Don made two visits to California to familiarise himself with John’s modern technology for massive outdoor murals. Work started in 2010, with Don working on the detail of the story line in California. The huge wall had to be prepared by treating the, exposed, rusting beams and power washing the very rough wall, so that spikes in the coral stone wouldn’t tear the specially manufactured acrylic weave mesh on which the mural is painted.  The microfiber mesh weave material comprised 4 panels 60 x 5 feet, saturated with white acrylic colourfast pigment, on which the mural was painted. The wall was covered with an acrylic gel and lacquer mix, and the panels carefully “rolled on” and stuck permanently to the wall – a difficult and complicated process that took a team of five, including the artists, five 12 hour days!

Don Small, Barbadian muralist, who worked on the mural, explaining the process

Then two months of steady painting, to bring out the richness of the art work and the dramatic three dimensional effect. It will be sealed with an acryloid polymer to prevent fading. Speightstown now has a magnificent, monumental mural, created by the “Picasso of mural painting” – John Pugh – working with a brilliant Bajan artist, Don Small, who, incidentally, will be having an exhibition of his paintings at the Gallery of Caribbean Art all next week.

The Speightstown Enhancement Fund Trust (SEFT) has been formed by Harold Hoyte, Peter Boos, Clyde Sobers and Henry Fraser, to promote and help finance this great work, and through the mural to catalyse stimulate and catalyse the revitalisation of historic Speightstown, Little Bristol and Spykes Bay – a neglected Treasure of Barbados. It is hoped that such a world class work of art on the beach front of the town will encourage owners, donors and friends of Speightstown, government and all stakeholders to partner in the rehabilitation of the town’s historic building and streetscape, and revitalise the town by linking all aspects of culture, the arts and entertainment to the rich history. Donors to the Fund can contact Peter Boos at pnboos@gmail.com

For the first time ever, Altman Real Estate’s magazine features a comprehensive collection of Barbados’ leading properties for sale and luxury holiday rentals. Highlights of the 120-page 2012 Altman Real Estate and Villa Rentals Guide include:

• A comprehensive market report on the villa accommodation sector from Property Consultancy Services (PCS), Altman Real Estate’s research arm
• Insights on Barbados’ recent UNESCO World Heritage inscription
• A guide to the best Barbados villas for beach fun, family, romance and sport
• A centre spread featuring limegrove lifestyle Centre, Barbados’ only luxury mixed-use development

Paul Altman, Managing Director of Altman Real Estate, noted the magazine’s market-leading collection of properties.

“The Altman Guide is a signature portfolio of homes in a range of categories-from beachfront to lifestyle communities to plantation estates,” he said. “We are especially pleased to include our collection of luxury homes for holiday rental, as villas are becoming the fastest growing accommodation sector on the island.”

He also mentioned that the magazine has been released just months after Altman Real Estate Group inked a deal to become an international associate of Savills.

The UK-based leader in global real estate has offices and associates throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East, and recently launched its Caribbean Desk, supporting Altman’s operations in Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia and The Grenadines, and other regional real estate companies.

The Altman Real Estate Group continues to enjoy success with Limegrove lifestyle Centre, which during the past quarter, has celebrated the inaugural openings of the Cartier Boutique, Louis Vuitton and Tag Heuer, the opening of Limegrove Cinemas, and the opening of three restaurants and bars.

“Limegrove continues to stand out in Barbados and the region not only as a place to shop the world’s finest brands-but also as a lifestyle destination for all to enjoy. We are encouraged by investors who continue to place confidence in Limegrove as a prime location for their premium designer labels,” said Altman.

About Altman Real Estate Group

For more than 30 years, The Altman Real Estate Group has developed a reputation for delivering first class service to its clients and business partners throughout the world who seek to invest in Caribbean real estate. The company currently has three offices in Barbados, one in Grenada and affiliations throughout the Caribbean. Its core lines of business include residential property sales and long-term rental, luxury holiday villa rentals, residential property management, and office and retail rentals. The Altman Real Estate Group also provides top-class consultation services through its subsidiary company, Property Consultancy Services. For more information, visit www.altmanbarbados.com

About Savills

Savills is a global real estate services provider listed on the London Stock Exchange. We have an international network of more than 200 offices and associates throughout the Americas, the UK, continental Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa and the Middle East, offering a broad range of specialist advisory, management and transactional services to clients all over the world.

The four-day show, one of the chief property and real estate sector trade events in China, attracted more than 145,000 visitors looking to invest funds from China, overseas. It included representatives from Australia, Bali, Greece, USA, UK, Mauritius, Cayman Islands and the Dominican Republic.

RLB was approached by the China Business Network to exhibit and present at the conference because of its track record in the Caribbean and the rising number of Chinese investors interested in the region.

The firm’s work as project monitor for the Import Export Bank of China on the Baha Mar resort in Nassau was held up as an example of the opportunities available.

Speaking at the opening ceremony carried live on Chinese television, RLB Chairman Martyn Bould said that Rider Levett Bucknall has spent the last two years working with the Export Import Bank of China as Project Monitor on the US$3.5 billion 3,000 room Baha Mar Resort in Bahamas.

“This development provides an excellent example of the cooperation between a Bahamian developer, a Chinese bank, a Chinese contractor, and Bahamian Government incentives, being combined to produce a landmark project in the Caribbean,” Bould continued.

Rider Levett Bucknall is a global construction cost consulting firm with more than 120 offices worldwide. Its Caribbean offices are located in Barbados, Bahamas, St. Lucia and Cayman Islands.

After much analysis of existing green business programmes by the BCCI green team the GBB programme was chosen for its localized standards and competitive pricing. The programme also includes the development of a Green Action Plan, Policy and Strategy specific to the business that is a unique feature of the programme that is often only available through other programmes with additional cost. These features were desired by the team and ultimately lead to the decision to choose the GBB programme for the job.

In June 2011 the GBB programme commenced at the BCCI with a major focus on energy conservation and setting up a recycling system for the office. For the energy conservation section of the programme an energy audit was conducted and a plan developed for the phase out of energy intensive lighting with efficient LED (light emitting diodes) lighting.  The implementation of LED lighting will reduce lighting energy costs to 1/8^th the cost of regular lighting, saving the BCCI on their monthly energy bills. In addition a recycling system was set up in order to recycle all plastic, glass, metals, paper and cardboard that comes out of the office. This system will help to divert a large amount of waste from the landfill. Recycling rates will be recorded in order to determine how much is being diverted on an annual basis.

During the programme a number of initiatives were implemented to educate staff and the community on ways to reduce their impact on the environment. During the Green Training staff members not only received formal training but also visited a number of recycling and waste management plants to begin to understand the way that waste is dealt with in Barbados and how it is processed. Tours were conducted at B’s Recycling as well as at Sustainable Barbados Recycling Centre.

Executive Director Lisa Gale BCCI planting a tree at the Garrison School with students and principle Mr. Matthew Farley

In addition to their employee education and training the BCCI also adopted the Garrison School as part of their greening and community outreach initiative. A soursop tree was donated to the school orchard and planted on Tuesday March 15^th by Mrs. Lisa Gale Executive Director of the BCCI, Green Officer and Administrative Assistant, Alicia Simmons, Principal of the Garrison School Mr. Matthew Farley and two students, Corporal Shaquille Matthews and Latisha Prescod. Principal Farley expressed gratitude for the contribution while the Chair of the Chamber’s Social and Community Committee Mrs. Ouida Murrell further explained that as part of the adoption, the BCCI would undertake five main outreach objectives within the school: Demonstrate and encourage “ready for work” qualities: How to communicate, eye contact, body language and approach; How to dress for success; Presentation Skills: How to effectively engage an audience; Attitude leading to Altitude and How to be an outstanding performer.

The Future Centre Trust would like to sincerely thank the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Barbados business community for supporting this local initiative. As more businesses invest in the programme collectively we can move more toward a Sustainable Small Island Developing State that promotes regenerative and creative economic development, a sustainable environment and equitable society. Mrs. Gale also wants to see BCCI’s members support the green economy by implementing environmental management systems within their business models “We said we would become the green business standard of the private sector, then we would encourage our members to follow suit.”

About Future Centre Trust

The Future Centre Trust is an environmental Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) and registered charity providing environmental education to the public of Barbados. Its mission is “To stimulate awareness and encourage responsible management of the vital relationship between people and nature leading to a sustainable future for all”. This is achieved through various programmes, activities and presentations to the community which are included and highlighted at www.futurecentretrust.org.

The contest, launched today with a regional marketing campaign What’s your bright IDEA?, is intended to promote innovative solutions to energy problems that have local or regional  benefits, provide jobs and  reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  Award winners will receive up to US$200,000,as well as technical and business development support to implement or scale up their ideas.

Individuals, enterprises and organizations based in the Caribbean are invited to submit proposals focusing on adoption, innovation, assimilation, development and transfer of technologies in renewable energy, energy efficiency, climate change mitigation and fossil fuel substitution by April 30, 2012.  Applications should be submitted electronically – details and guidance are available at www.iadb.org/ideas.  Grant winners will be announced July 15, 2012.

“The Caribbean has great potential for economically and environmentally sustainable enterprises in renewable energy and energy efficiency,”  said Simone Banister, Climate Change Adviser at DFID Caribbean. “Simple innovations could have a dramatic effect on energies supplies, prices and the way businesses and markets operate in the region.”

Energy in the Caribbean is currently produced almost exclusively from imported fossil fuels, Banister explained. “As a result, consumers are paying high prices for electricity, transport fuels and other forms of energy.  So far, the use of alternative sources of energy, particularly renewables, has been limited.  We’re hoping to help change that.”

“Local innovation and the adaptation of existing technologies to local circumstances are key to boosting the competitive supply of renewable energy services and tackling environmental concerns”said Arnaldo Vieira de Carvalho, Lead Energy Specialist at the IDB.

What is IDEAS?

IDEAS is an Energy Innovation Contest to support the development of innovative projects promoting renewable energies, and improving energy efficiency.. IDEAS was first launched in February 2009, with the support of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Government of Korea, non-governmental organization GVEP International and the German Technical Cooperation for Development (GIZ), and funded by the Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany (BMZ) and the Netherlands Directorate-General of Development Cooperation (DGIS). It received over 1,000 applications from 28 Latin America and Caribbean countries. A total of 26 winners were selected in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, and Saint Lucía.

A second phase of IDEAS was launched on September 15, 2011, in cooperation with the Mexican Secretariat of Energy with the support of the Sustainable Energy Fund (FSE), the IDB and the South Korean Government to promote innovation in sustainable energy. More than 700 applications were received from Latin America and the Caribbean, and 15 winners were selected from Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador and Mexico.  For more information: www.iadb.org/ideas.

About the Sponsors and Implementing Partners:

The UK Department of International Development (DFID) will contribute £75m in UKaid to the Caribbean between 2011-15, supporting enterprise development, governance and security and action on climate change.  DFID is providing a high proportion of the funding for this contest (equivalent to GBP £1.46 million).

The Global Village Energy Partnership (GVEP International) is a UK-based NGO that works with local businesses in developing countries to increase access to modern energy and to improve the quality of lives for thousands of people. DFID has chosen GVEP International as its implementing partner for IDEAS.

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is the largest source of financing for development for Latin America and the Caribbean. Through its Sustainable Energy and Climate Change Initiative (SECCI), the IDB supports renewable energy and energy efficiency, biofuel development, carbon finance, and adaptation to climate change.

The South Korean Government supports Latin America and the Caribbean’s efforts towards improving energy access, efficiency, and producing renewable energy, including through the “Knowledge Partnership Korea Fund for Technology and Innovation” (KPKF) at the IDB.

Along with the new name, COT has implemented a new tagline: ‘Innovative solutions sharply focused on client success’. This speaks to the company’s focus of helping its clients achieve their communication goals. With the most up-to-date machinery and a revolutionary mindset, COT’s aim is to be top of mind to businesses seeking assistance throughout their marketing campaigns by providing printed brochures, packaging design, point of sale production and signage, along with direct mail marketing.

Nigel Worme, CEO, commented on the rebrand saying,

“Our primary goal is to simplify the manner in which we do business with our customers. Therefore, from March 1^st 2012, our clients can expect of COT one estimate, one invoice and one statement for our entire range of products and services.”

Over the years, COT established itself as the leading printery on the island and one of the best in the region. From this foundation, Nigel Worme, second generation CEO and his team have created a company that provides its clients with not only print, but a number of other marketing communications solutions to satisfy their varying needs. These solutions include design, large format print and signage, packaging and labels along with marketing effectiveness tools.

“WHAT WE DO:  We harness the power of many forms of media and technologies and apply them to our client’s unique needs. HOW WE DO IT:  We leverage our in-house ability to provide integrated marketing solutions, tools and products that are highly innovative, measurably effective and sharply focused on our client’s success.”

For more information visit: www.cot.com.bb

“Since the original publication professionals across the real estate, legal and finance industries have come to recognise The Red Book as the definitive source for credible industry data,” said Managing Director of Terra Caribbean, Andrew Mallalieu. “Each year we focus on improving the content and presentation of information. This year we’ve added the Luxury Homes section which highlights properties at the highest end of the market,” he said.

The Red Book also features in depth articles from knowledgeable and experienced professionals in the real estate industry. This section of the guide, entitled “The Pink Pages” provides useful information on topics such as law, finance, insurance, sustainability and more, for those interested in expanding their knowledge and understanding of real estate.

Featured writers in The Pink Pages this year include commercial industry stalwart Richard Edghill of Edghill Associates who speaks about the changing real estate landscape in Barbados and respected attorney Michael Alleyne, partner at Barbadian law firm George Walton Payne & Co. who discusses compulsory acquisition of property.

Director of Brokerage and Advisory Services at Terra Caribbean, Hayden Hutton, provides a comparative analysis of the condominium market in Barbados while Managing Director Andrew Mallalieu opens The Pink Pages with an insightful update on the real estate market highlighting emerging trends.

Anyone who picks up The Red Book quickly gets a clear, well-informed overview of what’s happening in the Barbados real estate market. “The Red Book is a reflection of Terra Caribbean’s mission to provide the best information to assist in making informed decisions related to property in Barbados,” said Andrew.

The e-book version of The Red Book available at: http://bit.ly/xE3Dut

About Terra Caribbean

Terra Caribbean is a fully integrated real estate firm providing sales, long-term rental, property management and holiday rental services.

For more information visit www.terracaribbean.com

Last December on the occasion of the restaurant’s tenth anniversary, Scotiabank’s Corporate and Commercial division announced its intention to select a special limited edition piece of art that would, in time, grace the walls of the restaurant.

The result, Crimson Water Lilies, by photographic artist Stephen R. Smith, was presented last week to Daphne’s General Manager, Marco Pavone. Director Credit Relationships, Andy Dickson presented the opulent piece on behalf of Scotiabank.

Dickson said: “I am delighted, on behalf our Assistant General Manager, Corporate and Commercial Banking, Mac Anderson, to present this lasting token to Daphne’s. Scotiabank is hugely supportive of the tourism sector in Barbados, through times of boom and not so good times. Either way, our efforts have always been to ensure that our tourism clients are fully served and achieve success. I am therefore delighted to celebrate this occasion with Daphne’s Restaurant’s as we have enjoyed a wonderful relationship.”

Dickson added that Daphne’s name continued to be on the lips of discerning clients and that he also considered the gift a lasting tribute to Daphne’s contribution to the bank’s success.

Pavone was elated at the gesture. He said: “I happily accept this lovely token on behalf of Daphne’s team. It has been a wonderful tourism season for us thus far and a great pleasure to have Scotiabank as a part of our tenth year celebration.  We look forward to the continuation of our successful relationship.”

Scotiabank is one of North America’s premier financial institutions and Canada’s most international bank. With more than 75,000 employees, Scotiabank Group and its affiliates serve some 19 million customers in more than 55 countries around the world. Scotiabank offers a broad range of products and services including personal, corporate and commercial, and investment banking. With assets above $575 billion (as at October 31, 2011), Scotiabank trades on the Toronto (BNS) and New York Exchanges (BNS). For more information please visit www.scotiabank.com.

Mushroom installation at Trimart.

Since November the BEF’s Wi-Fi team has been deeply engaged in contacting companies interested in supporting the initiative and to this end, have secured the support of local internet service provider Winet, who have made a significant contribution to the project by facilitating five (5) so-called “mushroom” hotspots (having a kilometre  or greater radius) at the following locations: Lammings, St. Joseph, Fontabelle, St. Michael, Gun Hill and Newbury, St. George, Maxwell, Christ Church and White Hall, St. Michael. The Ansa McCal group added three mushrooms at Haggatt Hall, Mile and a Quarter and St. Martin’s. Verdun House in St John, a parish which previously has no Wifi accessible to the public also recently added a mushroom. Meanwhile Tapas on the popular South Coast Boardwalk has also added a mushroom. Several more locations are on the mushroom installation roster, including Priva in Holetown, various locations of the Preconco Group, Lanterns Mall, locations in Cattlewash and Bathsheba, the Supreme Courts of Justice and a number of constituency offices of both political parties.  In total there are now more than 115 free wifi points available for access by the public all around the island. Business Facilitation Champion and project leader Melanie Jones, commented that “support for the project has been overwhelming. A look at our Facebook page shows that the Barbadian public cannot get free internet access fast enough and visitors to the island are delighted to discover that free Wi-Fi is available on such a widespread basis. People know how critical free  internet connectivity is to their success. It is the new gateway to education, productivity, business development and communication in the global community.  Smart businesses and organisations recognise this and appreciate that their participation in the project is a highly visible and impactful demonstration of social responsibility”.   Ms. Jones went further to “ extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to the success of the project so far and  to invite and challenge anyone who has the means to offer free Wi-Fi  anywhere in Barbados to  collaborate with the BEF as it strives to deliver 100 percent access  to free Wi-Fi  around the island.”. Further information on the project can be found in the BEF’s Wi-Fi concept paper at http://www.barbadosentrepreneurshipfoundation.org/blog/2011/07/25/wifi-barbados-wi-not-concept-paper/  .

While in Barbados, Mr. Fenwick met with the DHL District Management team and toured the facility with a ‘meet and greet’ in each department. DHL Barbados, with 43 employees who are all Certified International Specialists(CIS), has a very strong local network supporting all industries with seven courier routes. DHL also maintains a local customs clearance operation and focuses on the international express courier service (exports and imports) of documents and packages. Dedicated to its service quality standards, DHL Barbados offers a full ‘money-back guaranteed time-definite morning’ product. This service guarantees delivery by 9:00, 10:30 and 12:00 in many cities in US, Europe and Latin America.  Barbados is connected on a daily basis to the vast DHL Express Global Network via a Boeing 727 aircraft, which has a capacity to airlift up to 20 tons per day in and out of the island. In addition to its next-day service to many of the Caribbean Islands, DHL Barbados offers a two- to three-day service to most of the 220 countries/territories covered by DHL.

The company is dedicated to quality service and has invested in improving staff service levels and expertise through its Certified International Specialist (CIS) program. Designed by DHL, the accreditation program is aimed at increasing employees’ knowledge of changing international business and enhancing customer satisfaction. All 100,000 company employees were training in 2011 and the program continues this year with more intensive training.

“Barbados is a key link in our network business, particularly in the Caribbean and Central America region. We have a very strong local network here – all of our people are locally based - supporting all industries,” said Fenwick. “Our team is ready and able to assist the Barbados community in growing its international trade by offering superb service at a competitive price to and from any country in the world.”

DHL Barbados experienced double-digit growth in 2011, during a challenging time in international markets. The team here is dedicated to its clients and receives all customer enquiries and bookings directly through a local call center based in Christ Church.

In operation here since 1988, the company is dedicated to its Barbadian market. Speaking about DHL’s presence in Barbados, Steve Garside, British Caribbean District Manager, notes that “DHL’s reliability, market experience and worldwide connections are critical components in helping to develop the Barbadian economy.  We have a responsibility to help all of our clients, no matter their size, achieve their shipping and logistical goals. We take that responsibility very seriously.”

In the Caribbean, DHL Express has launched a wide range of services focused on trade in Asia and Latin America, and offers their customers a high level of security and full transparency. All shipments inbound and outbound are tracked and traced from collection to final delivery. Customers can also track their shipments via www.dhl.com.

Mr. Fenwick has travelled the globe during the three decades of working with the company. His career with DHL commenced in the Middle Eastern countries of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Egypt, and then took him to the USA for two years as General Manager for DHL in New York.  After his time in the USA, Mr. Fenwick moved to Europe where he held P/L and Operations responsibilities in DHL’s Benelux Area and European businesses. Previously serving as the Senior Vice President for DHL Express South Asia and Indochina, Mr. Fenwick played a critical role in the profitable growth of these countries, directing the day-to-day operations as well as ensuring that investments made in these countries would guarantee they met DHL’s demanding global service and business standards.

He spoke recently at a Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket workshop during which several physical education teachers took a first step towards formal coaching accreditation under the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB).

The workshop was hosted at Sagicor High Performance Centre, UWI.

Browne said: “I believe this is a very important step taken by Scotiabank to ensure that coaches in primary schools embrace this type of training. From the BCA perspective, we will do all we need to facilitate what happens in Barbados cricket because I know about the days when West Indies won in cricket and they had to start with a foundation … I think it incumbent upon us to do all that we can.

“We must have capable coaches for whom it is not just a ‘bat and ball’ thing. I have said many times that cricket is 90% mental and we need coaches who will help encourage disciplined thinking, appreciate cricket’s nuances and, without stifling players’ natural ability, also teach them what is correct,” he stressed. “We need more coaches who can pass on that knowledge.”

According to Marcelle Greenidge, Scotiabank Manager Marketing, “The one-day workshop forms part of the support we are providing to primary schools as part of the 14^th year of Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket. In time, we anticipate that the majority of primary school coaches will complete similar workshops and today’s participants have already been enquiring about follow-up sessions. This enthusiasm is very encouraging as Scotiabank seeks to grow the sport.”

She reinforced coaches’ need to seek accreditation as a means of strengthening local cricket from the ground up, given its capacity to contribute valuable players to Barbados and West Indies teams of the future.

The workshop, which provided coaches with a theoretical and practical framework, was facilitated by WICB Level II coaches Adrian King and Robin Parris. Parris is also Territorial Development Officer for WICB in Barbados.

According to Paul Altman, Managing Director of the Group, the new relationship will see Altman, a leader in luxury Caribbean real estate, aligned with the largest publicly owned real estate company in the UK.

“Our association with Savills brings exciting changes to the fore for our Real Estate, Villa Rentals and Property Consultancy businesses. Having signed the agreement for Barbados, Canouan, Grenada and St. Lucia, we stand to improve our positioning within local and regional markets,” he said.

Altman also noted the formation of a Savills Caribbean, Central and South America Desk in its London office, headed by James Burdess—a Caribbean real estate expert with more than a decade of experience.

As an international associate of Savills, the Altman Real Estate Group participated in that company’s first-ever Caribbean Property Exhibition in London from November 2 to 3, 2011. The Exhibition attracted a cadre of property owners, vendors and stakeholders in the real estate industry from across the Caribbean and the United Kingdom.

Another such event is being planned for Barbados in April, with the aim of attracting an even more targeted group of buyers, sellers and other key people within the local real estate industry.

About Altman Real Estate Group

For more than 30 years, The Altman Real Estate Group has developed a reputation for delivering first-class service to its clients and business partners throughout the world who seek to invest in Caribbean real estate. The company currently has three offices in Barbados, an office in the neighbouring island of Grenada and affiliations throughout the Caribbean. Its core lines of business include residential property sales and long-term rental, luxury holiday villa rentals, residential property management, and office and retail rentals. The Altman Real Estate Group also provides top-class consultation services through its subsidiary company, Property Consultancy Services. For more information, visit www.altmanbarbados.com 

About Savills

Savills is a global real estate services provider listed on the London Stock Exchange. We have an international network of more than 200 offices and associates throughout the Americas, the UK, continental Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa and the Middle East, offering a broad range of specialist advisory, management and transactional services to clients all over the world.

REDjet launched its 8^th destination, St Maarten, only a week ago with the airline already seeing massive success on the route. Co-founder and Director Robbie Burns said “With the phenomenal response to St Maarten launch, we are quite confident that this new service between Barbados and Antigua will share in the same success.  We already operate between Antigua and Guyana and are have seen significant gains and anticipate the same of this exciting 9^th route”.

The new twice-weekly flights will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Wednesdays service will operate as RD160, departing Barbados at 8:15am and arriving into Antigua at 9:30am and RD161 from Antigua at 4:30pm, returning to Barbados at 5:45pm, perfect for the business traveller.  REDjet’s Saturday service will depart Barbados at 09:00am and arrive into Antigua at 10:15am with the return leg from Antigua at 17:15, returning to Barbados at 18:30, ideal for leisure travel.

REDjet will also offer passengers the option to travel with unlimited baggage, a first for any regional carrier.

REDjet’s CEO Ian Burns said, “We first began service to Antigua in November 2011 from Guyana and since then we’ve brought hundreds of families and friends together as it has proven to be one of our strongest routes.  We have bridged the gap between Guyana and Antigua and come June 6^th, look forward to doing the same with Barbados and Antigua.  Our unbeatable low fares and customer service are here to stay and we look forward to announcing and launching new routes in the very near future”.

REDjet’s fares in Antigua can be booked online via all of REDjet’s popular and, in Antigua, through the call centre at 1 (268) 734-2727 and at the V.C. Bird International Airport.

Further passengers can book online or via the call centre and pay for their tickets by cash within 24 hours at one of (7) E-Solutions bill payment locations nationwide.

Note:

REDjet is the Caribbean’s Only Low Fares Airline and offers fares that are, on average, 60% lower than those offered by other carriers on 8 routes currently in the Caribbean. The Low Fares Airline operates three (3) aircraft in the MD-80 series, enabling the airline to launch even more Low Fare routes across the region. REDjet is privately owned and has its first base located as the Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados. The Low Fares Airline has quickly become a popular airline for consumers offering excellent customer service and operating an all jet, all non-stop travel for consumers.

“The rebranding to Sun General is a first step in positioning the company as a leading choice for insurance throughout the Caribbean” said Bernie Weatherhead, Sun General’s Chairman. “In the coming months our customers throughout the region will see our new brand reflected in our stationery, signage and advertising. Additionally, technology will play an important role in delivering a customer experience that is second to none.

According to the Chairman, “The strength of the company based on its geographic spread, solid insurance practices and the large variety of policies offered were key reasons for this purchase decision. Underscoring this were synergies with our group of companies, especially from a Caribbean perspective, along with the experience and dedication of the existing management and their team.”

It was also announced the new Board of Directors would be made up of prominent business persons with a wealth of legal, financial and insurance experience from across the Caribbean. The Board is made up of Mr. Davis Browne (Barbados), Mr. Robert Carter (Barbados), Mr. Rey Royer (Barbados), Mr. Alfredo Weatherhead (Barbados), Mr. John Miller (Grenada) and the Hon. Peter Foster (St. Lucia). The Board’s mandate is to oversee and provide strong corporate governance to the management team.

Respected veteran insurance professional Davis Browne, who brings 32 years of industry experience to the company, has been named President of Sun General. He stated the importance of continuity for the loyal customers as a huge priority during the transition process. Mr. Browne reiterated Sun General’s commitment to offering existing and new policyholders the advantage of competitive rates, a solid insurance philosophy, superior customer service, cutting edge technology, strong underwriting standards and an enviable claims settlement record.

Mr. Browne remarked that although the general insurance industry is extremely competitive he is confident that the experience and knowledge of the Sun General team, combined with the stability and fresh, forward-looking approach of the new parent company, will benefit Caribbean consumers as well as the industry as a whole.

Sun General Insurance Inc. offers General Insurance coverage under home, motor, marine, travel, bonds, business and commercial lines. Service is offered to customers through a network of 10 offices in 7 islands across the Caribbean (Anguilla, Antigua, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The company has a solid reinsurance philosophy and is backed by ‘A’ rated reinsurance companies led by Munich Re and Swiss Re. The company boasts experience in catastrophe claims management after handling large events across the Caribbean.

Sandridge Ltd., a member of the Sun Group Inc., is a well-established Group of Companies with interests in 12 islands across the Caribbean, under the Chairmanship of Bernard Weatherhead. Originally established in 1982, the Sun Group encompasses operations in hotels, retail travel, land and sea adventures, duty free retail, vehicle rentals, ground transportation, destination management, villa rental and convenience shopping. With the opening of Sun General Insurance Inc. the company’s diverse portfolio is further strengthened with a comprehensive general insurance offering.

The International Women’s Day website, www.internationalwomensday.com is a global hub of women-focused information and resources aimed at recognizing and celebrating the challenges and achievements of women worldwide including a global directory of events taking place on International Women’s Day. As a sponsor, site visitors to the official UN site will also find profiles of Scotiabank women and learn about the Bank’s diversity and inclusion programs and policies.

“International Women’s Day is a great opportunity to recognize and support the challenges and successes of women worldwide,” said Sylvia Chrominska, Group Head of Global Human Resources and Communications for Scotiabank.  “We are proud to support the International Women’s Day website which offers a rich source of information on women’s issues, events and successes. With more than 75,000 employees located in more than 55 countries, supporting this flagship UN resource is a natural fit for Scotiabank.”

Across its operations, Scotiabank is also sponsoring a number of local events and workshops for women employees as part of the Bank’s commitment to being a leader in the advancement of women. In Barbados, Scotiabank women will attend a seminar by Pauline Bynoe Ed. D. Professor of Education entitled “Becoming a keener thinker and learner: Achieving productive perspectives and habits”.

In keeping with the Bank’s long history of supporting women and communities, Scotiabankers in Canada and internationally are launching local campaigns to meet the unique needs of women’s organizations in their localities. In Toronto, Scotiabankers are concluding the third annual Toiletries Drive which collects essential toiletries for women’s shelters. This year the collection is being donated to the Woodgreen Homeward Bound program. Barbados is also concluding its annual Toiletries Drive, and will be making its donation to the Save Foundation of Barbados. A monetary donation will also be made to the Barbados Cancer Society Breast Screening Program to mark International Women’s Day.

About Scotiabank

Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, both in Canada and abroad, through our global philanthropic Bright Future programme. Recognised as a leader internationally and in Canada for our charitable donations and philanthropic activities, Scotiabank has provided on average approximately $44 million annually to community causes around the world over the last five years.

An annual update is required for Green Business Barbados programme that includes a reassessment of the updated standards, an update of the Green Strategy, Action Plan and Policy and annual employee green training. This reassessment revaluates the measures that have been implemented throughout the years and guides future sustainable changes in operations, business and procurement practises.

In 2011 the BHC fully internalised green business in their operations management through the installation of efficient lighting and A/C system within the office as well as includingin their procurement policy that Energy Star Rated and energy efficient items be procured over others. The operations team also procured an energy audit that wassuccessful in breaking down the energy loads for the office that helped to make the decisions on where energy could be cut further.

The BHC also continues to excel in the Waste Reduction & Recycling component of the programme by reducing their waste output through several waste reduction measures. In addition the BHC has been benchmarking their recycling rates in order to determine how much they are recycling each year and have encouraged employees to bring their recycling from home by pooling the money as a donation to their favourite charity.

In the future the BHC has a goal to further reduce their energy consumption by 15% by 2015. This goal will be achieved through reduced travel, efficient buildings and renewable energy generation. The BHC has become a leader in Green Business in Barbados and has shown their dedication to becoming a sustainable organisation through continued support of the Green Business Barbados programme.

About Future Centre Trust

The Future Centre Trust is an environmental Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) and registered charity providing environmental education to the public of Barbados. Its mission is “To stimulate awareness and encourage responsible management of the vital relationship between people and nature leading to a sustainable future for all”. This is achieved through various programmes, activities and presentations to the community which are included and highlighted at www.futurecentretrust.org.

“Valley View is the most compelling offer on the market today,” he said. “It [Valley View] is an excellent location for this type of development – easy access South, North and into Warrens….you get your own parcel of land – no shared ownership or complicated title….the construction is fully funded by the developer and for as little as $37,000 your client can get on to the property ownership ladder,” he added.

Valley View features an attractive financing package where purchasers can borrow money to purchase a home without the need for a bridging loan. Potential homeowners can buy the land and then later pay for the house upon completion. Currently 14 of the 37 plantation-styled homes are already at roof level while four of the five Gillespie & Steel designs are “walk-thru” ready.

Valley View - Sage, Lot 116

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The Valley View community was created out of the need for Barbados to have well-designed, high quality homes within a development that is built out by the developer and not just developed and sold as lots. Each home takes into account homeowner requirements and is built to achieve a beautifully finished home at a competitive price within in an excellent location.

The development will be completed by yearend with first homeowners being given the opportunity to move in by June. This very short period to completion means that homeowners will be moving into a completed neighbourhood. Mallalieu noted this was a very strong factor in enhancing the value of the neighborhood.

“Often real estate agents try to sell houses while purchasers are actually looking to buy neigbourhoods, not houses. Purchasers are buying a home,” he said.

Valley View offers sweeping views of the island’s interior, South and South West Coast. Each home has a spacious open-plan design, a fully equipped kitchen, a detached two-car garage and finely landscaped gardens. Several homes also contain an unfinished basement for additional living or storage space.

About Terra Caribbean

Terra Caribbean is a fully integrated real estate firm providing sales, long-term rental, property management and holiday rental services.

For more information visit www.terracaribbean.com

Since the signing of the Agreement in 2008 there has just been marginal utilisation of the EPA particularly among service providers and as a result lost opportunities to Barbadian businesses to expand their operations into the traditional markets of Europe as well as the new emerging ones where there are tremendous opportunities for doing business. According to the BCSI Executive Director Ms. Lisa Cummins, this initiative by the BCSI is meant to “work directly with service providers and persons with an interest in service exporting to access the European market, expand the market base for Barbadian services, generate foreign exchange and of course create business opportunities for Barbadians. That is the thrust of this series and in time we will be looking at other markets where there are opportunities for Barbadian businesses to take advantage ofthe negotiations for trade agreements to expand their service sector businesses.”

“There is a certain amount of boldness that is required about these things. We just have to get out there and grasp these opportunities and we are going to be doing what we can to arm our service providers with all the possible tools necessary to take their businesses beyond our borders and to new levels and Europe is there, the terms for accessing the markets have been negotiated. It’s left to us to utilise those provisions but at times manageable and relevant information in a nontechnical
way is what service providers need to be able to pursue their interests”

On that basis these sessions are termed clinics to convey the impression of direct consultation and guidance. Moving away from the traditional workshop format these trade clinics will specifically allow service providers the opportunity to benefit from “one on one” interactive and informative trade and business expertise provided by the sector specialist. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet directly with experts in a range of areas to ask the kinds of questions that are specific to their business instead of having the usual workshop where generic type information is distributed that doesn’t directly answer the questions of service providers. Expertise will be provided to service providers in the areas of EPA support, market intelligence, legal support, access to funding opportunities and business support.

Executive Project Manager of GIZ, Mr. Robert Glass, stated that “to ensure a development friendly implementation of the EPA, the participation of private sector stakeholders is most important. For the services sector in Barbados, BCSI and its member association are key players in the process of public-private sector dialogue. The trade clinics are not only an instrument to inform the private sector operators about the provisions of the EPA and the opportunities arising, but also to identify potential barriers to trade and specify the needs and required action for successful and export oriented sector specific development. In addition, the clinical workshops are understood as a platform for business operations and their respective associations to lobby for a suitable policy and regulatory framework.”

Aside from the targeted service provider support the trade clinics will also provide an opportunity for business networking to occur. At the domestic level local service providers will be encouraged to recognise the importance of partnership and the “cluster approach” to expanding their business services into new markets.

The Tourism and Travel industry trade clinic in partnership with sector stakeholders the BHTA and BTA is the first sector to benefit and the session for providers in that sector is scheduled to take place on February 23, 2012 at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre. The other trade clinics will focus attention on the professional services sector, the cultural and creative industries and the linkages between services, agriculture and manufacturing will take place in March through April. (PR)