Carnival Corp. hosts sourcing readiness forum in Jamaica
Suppliers of items, from produce and seasonings to rums and jewelry, attended a sourcing readiness forum hosted by Carnival Corp. & plc, in partnership with Jamaica’s Tourism Enhancement Fund.
October 4, 2024
The Kingston forum brought together a range of local suppliers, from small businesses and farmers to large consolidators and distributors who were identified by the Tourism Linkages Network of the Tourism Enhancement Fund. These entities offer products potentially attractive to Carnival Corp.
Frozen foods to candles
Their items ranged from frozen food and agricultural produce to distinctive Jamaican culinary products like sauces, seasonings, rums, chocolate, teas and coffee. Artisanal products such as woodcraft, handmade jewelry and candles were also presented.
Javonté Anyabwelé, VP strategic sourcing at Carnival Corp., delivered a presentation on the company’s sourcing requirements.
Products of special interest
'We are eager to explore the rich array of products Jamaica has to offer and are particularly interested in discovering uniquely and authentically Jamaican products that reflect the country’s value proposition as a cultural stalwart that will enhance our guests’ experience,' Anyabwelé said.
The event included an information session with Carey Wallace, executive director of the Tourism Enhancement Fund, serving as master of ceremonies. Adam Stewart, executive chairman of Sandals & Beaches Resorts and chairman of the Tourism Linkages Council, underscored the importance of linkages to enhance inclusivity in the tourism sector. Marie McKenzie, SVP government & destination affairs at Carnival Corp., outlined her company’s vision for the region.
Rightful place in the tourism supply chain
Jamaica Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett also addressed the gathering.
'Jamaica, with our share of the cruise business, has an important part to play in meeting the demand of what will become a US $17.3 billion opportunity by 2033,' Bartlett said. He went on to comment that Jamaicans must be at the heart of supply arrangements for the tourism business.
'I’m excited about the prospects for our manufacturers, our farmers and other suppliers taking their place in the supply chain of the tourism industry, and making prosperity not just a word, but a reality,' Bartlett said.
One-on-one meetings
The forum, a significant step in Carnival Corp.'s efforts to diversify its supply chain and support local and regional economies where it operates, included two days of one-on-one meetings between Anyabwelé and potential suppliers.
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