BHTA reports strong first-half performance

The Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) has reported a robust financial performance and significant developmental milestones for the first half of the year, despite slight dips in visitor occupancy.

Addressing stakeholders at its third quarterly members’ meeting at the Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary recently, association CEO Ryan Forde highlighted the sector’s ongoing expansion and unyielding resilience.

Although geopolitical tensions contributed to a three per cent decrease in occupancy compared to the same period last year, Forde noted that Average Daily Rate and Revenue Per Available Room both saw increases.

The local tourism landscape also welcomed major physical additions, including the Royalton Vessence Barbados, Blue Monkey Hotel & Beach Club, and the completed Marriott Collection of seven properties.

Defending the industry against criticism, Forde celebrated lobbying that secured vital concessions for standalone restaurants and the car rental sector. He said these measures will positively impact businesses of all sizes across the island, from large-scale operations to community rum shops.

“When individuals speak from a place of limited information and speak negatively about tourism and hospitality, we implore them to speak not from emotion but from evidence,” Forde stated.

Looking ahead, he said the BHTA plans to intensify its collaboration with government ministries to enhance national festivals and improve data collection.