The 13th edition of the Caribbean Hotel Investment Conference and Operations Summit (CHICOS) took place from November 13 to 15, in Barbados, for the first time in the conference’s history.
Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, shared this information during his welcome to attendees on Wednesday evening at the Wyndham Grand Barbados, Sam Lord’s Castle, Union, St. Philip.
He noted that hosting CHICOS 2024 is a significant occasion for the island’s tourism product, as it seeks to diversify its offering and encourage investment into the sector.
“This occasion is a landmark, bringing together over 300 investors, thought leaders, decision-makers, operators and tourism officials from across the globe, all with the shared vision of fostering growth and innovation within the Caribbean tourism sector.
“The Caribbean, with its vibrant cultural heritage and breath-taking natural landscapes, offers vast potential for investment… Here in Barbados, we are poised for fresh and exciting tourism related developments, recognising the pivotal role of tourism in our nation’s economic progress,” Mr. Gooding Edghill stated.
He pointed out that Government has been “working diligently” to foster a conducive environment for investment that aligns with its vision of robust sectoral growth, while noting that the island’s investment package for the tourism sector is “highly competitive”.
“I encourage all of you to network and build meaningful connections as you explore the wealth of investment opportunities here in Barbados and across our neighbouring territories represented today. Through collaboration, let us create a bright and sustainable future for Caribbean tourism. We also invite you to experience the unique culture and warm hospitality that make our island truly exceptional,” the Tourism Minister urged.
Chief Executive Officer of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., Andrea Franklin, agreed with the Minister that hosting the event is a landmark occasion, noting that it allowed the island the opportunity to highlight all that it has to offer, including a thriving centre for business, conferences and innovation.
“With our strategic location, robust infrastructure and new facilities, including the impressive Wyndham Grand Barbados at Sam Lord’s Castle, we are well positioned to meet the growing demand for a high-quality MICE (Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) destination in the Caribbean,” Ms. Franklin said.
Chairman of CHICOS, Parris Jordan, expressed that he was “very happy” to be in Barbados and noted that not only was the conference being held in Barbados for the first time, but also at a Wyndham’s brand for the first time.
Mr. Jordan shared that over the next few days, participants will gain insight into the hospitality sector and opportunities for investment, not just in Barbados but the Caribbean overall, through panel discussions, presentations and networking segments.
The evening saw cultural presentations by Celebrations of Rhythms, and entertainers Nikita Herbert, Michael ‘Mikey’ Mercer and Anderson ‘Blood’ Armstrong. The premier hospitality conference in the region, CHICOS is expected this year to attract 350 regional and international investors and operators, as well as the region’s leading industry decision-makers. (PR/GIS)
