Mathlin-Tulloch: IHB ‘a cornerstone of our island’s tourism industry’

During their silver jubilee celebrations at the Island Inn Hotel on Friday evening, Chairman of the Intimate Hotels of Barbados (IHB), Shireene Mathlin-Tulloch, emphasised their importance, describing them as “a group of hotels that has truly become a cornerstone of our island’s tourism industry, making significant contributions to the local economy, supporting local businesses, providing employment, and preserving our rich and unique culture and heritage.”

Mathlin-Tulloch said, “The landscape of tourism is evolving rapidly, and the small hotel sector faces unique challenges that larger chains may not.” However, she remained optimistic, stating, “In facing these challenges head-on, we must be determined to adapt, pivot, and support one another to ensure our sustainability.”

She encouraged succession planning, noting, “In order to survive, we must look at how we can pool resources and help each other. This requires full participation, involvement, communication, and commitment from our members.” 

She advised, “Encouraging younger people to take an interest in the hotel and wider tourism sector is not just desirable, it is necessary. We need to actively foster youth participation through internships and mentorship programmes with IHB properties and hands-on learning.”

Mathlin-Tulloch asserted, “By forming partnerships with educational institutions, government programmes, and industry leaders, we can create a robust pipeline of young talent ready to contribute in all areas, at all levels, to the future of tourism in Barbados.”

Sustainability was also at the forefront of her vision for the future. She said, “By adopting sustainable practices such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and supporting local communities, IHB members can attract a loyal, environmentally conscious clientele while contributing to the preservation of our island.”

Affirming that integration of technology as a priority, Mathlin-Tulloch announced that IHB has partnered with Next Trip, enabling seamless online bookings for all Intimate Hotel properties via their website.

Financial solutions tailored to small hoteliers are needed. She stated, “Whether it is through access to grants, low-interest loans, or financial training programmes, it is essential that we provide our members with the tools they need to modernise and upgrade their properties without being burdened by insurmountable debt.”

The influx of visitors for major events such as We Gatherin’, CARIFESTA, Crop Over, and the Food and Rum Festival presents an opportunity for IHB to capitalise on its reputation for offering “a homecoming experience that reflects the warmth and hospitality that Barbados is known for.” Additionally, she pointed out the potential in expanding into sporting and medical tourism.

Minister of Tourism and International Transport Ian Gooding-Edghill.

Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, commended the group stating, “Intimate Hotels of Barbados has consistently adapted with vision and resilience, becoming a partner and a strong representative for Barbadian small intimate hospitality properties.”

Recognising their economic impact, he highlighted that the sector contributes approximately 14 per cent of the $87 million generated annually in tourism revenue and employs over 1,200 people.

Reassuring IHB members of continued governmental support, he stated, “You will come along and grow with us in the national tourism framework.” Addressing concerns about competition from new hotel developments, he assured that their niche market would not disappear.

Gooding-Edghill added, “I say to you, and I mean it sincerely, were it not for you, we would not have been able to accomplish the growth that we are seeing within the tourism sector. Were it not for you, we could not have added additional flights on the London route; were it not for you, we could not have brought additional airlift such as Delta and American Airlines from other markets; and were it not for you, we would not be in a position to go back to the market to shop for additional airlift to drive additional arrivals and obviously visitors to the destination.”

The festivities featured toasts from past chairpersons of the organisation, including Renee Coppin, Kashka Haynes, and Mahmood Patel. The keynote address was delivered by May Hinds, CEO of May Hinds Consulting, a pioneering regional tourism and hospitality entrepreneur. (STT)