BMEX reinvented

Annual event rebranded with focus on global exposure for local manufacturers

By Marlon Madden

Barbados’ premier trade expo has been rebranded as officials seek to focus on getting more small manufacturers global exposure and creating space to meet the growing demand.

Executive Director of the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association (BMA) Shardae Boyce announced on Monday that this year’s BMA Trade and Innovation Expo (TIE) – formerly BMEX –, will be held from October 27 to 29 at the Wildey Gymnasium under the theme, Our Global Village.

This year’s event, which is expected to attract more than 250 exhibitors, will have a heavy focus on the fashion industry, with the highly anticipated fashion exposition taking place over two days – October 28 and 29, under the theme From the Canal to the Trident: A Fashion Extravaganza.

Alongside five local designers, this year’s event will include some from Panama and Guatemala.

Executive Director of the BMA Shardae Boyce said while the association has been able to build a strong foundation for manufacturers over the years through BMEX, it had to be a lot more intentional in its objectives.

“The Trade and Innovation Expo has a new and enhanced focus on the promotion of innovation and trade as we present our locally manufactured products to the world,” she said on Monday at a press conference to announce plans for the event.

“Now it is time to be more intentional in what we do through the Expo, especially in the context of an aggressively changing international landscape. We will build on the objectives of BMEX, but we will also go the extra mile to ensure our manufacturers are properly positioned to compete globally.”

Pointing out that a lot has changed in commerce since the event started in 1982, Boyce said it was necessary for “a new platform” to be created for manufacturers and innovators to showcase their products.

She said through the enhanced exposition, local manufacturers will be able to gain greater exposure to international buyers and access to a number of business support organisations.

“We have enhanced BMEX objectives to build brand awareness of locally manufactured goods. We are also going further by creating more opportunities and exposure for entrepreneurs. The Brands of Barbados campaign, which is focused on highlighting locally manufactured products is being re-energised through the expo in a more relatable and fun way,” explained Boyce.

“The Trade and Innovation Expo goes further than BMEX as it will celebrate cross-sectoral linkages in a big way. As we transition to TIE, the creative industries are our cherished partners.”

She said international buyers from the United Kingdom have already confirmed their attendance, adding that there will also be a delegation from Panama “to expose them to the product offering in Barbados”.

Boyce explained that this year’s expo will have several pavilions, focusing on a range of areas, including micro and small business manufacturing, innovation through education, sustainable manufacturing, and health, beauty and fashion.

“Last year, we had over 200 exhibitors and this year we have around 250 exhibitors,” she said while indicating that registration was still ongoing.

Fashion Coordination Committee member Tanika Walton said the fashion expo will continue to establish a platform for local fashion designers to showcase their collections and skills.

In addition to designers, it will bring together educators, students, models, potential buyers and fashion enthusiasts.

“We hope that the fashion extravaganza will bring to our industry and the public, greater exposure to what our regions have to offer and inspire a new excitement in the ways of how clothing and accessories can aid in us feeling powerful, fun and expressing ourselves,” said Walton.

Registration is ongoing and businesses can do so by visiting the BMA’s website. Individuals will also be able to sign up for a range of finance opportunities during the three-day expo, with Unicomer’s Ready Finance and the Barbados Trust Fund Loan Ltd.

marlonmadden@barbadostoday.bb