分类： business

In a compelling appeal to Tobago’s tourism leaders, a concerned citizen has called for a transformative shift in the island’s tourism strategy. The current focus on luxury tourism, while beneficial in some aspects, risks creating economic exclusion and limiting opportunities for local communities. The author advocates for a more inclusive model termed ‘equal tourism,’ which aims to broaden participation and ensure that the benefits of tourism growth are shared equitably among citizens, small businesses, and communities. The proposal emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes affordability, community engagement, and sustainable development. Key recommendations include reframing connectivity strategies, supporting mid-tier accommodations, expanding community-based tourism, and upgrading infrastructure. Additionally, the author stresses the importance of smarter marketing, stronger governance, and local empowerment to ensure Tobago’s tourism sector thrives in a way that benefits all stakeholders. The article highlights the success of similar strategies in other Caribbean nations and urges Tobago to embrace a model that reflects its unique identity and values. By fostering a tourism industry rooted in fairness and accessibility, Tobago can protect its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community spirit while achieving long-term economic resilience.

Nutrien Ltd, a leading global crop-input producer based in Canada, has announced a controlled shutdown of its Trinidad Nitrogen operations at the Point Lisas Industrial Estate, effective October 23. The decision stems from ongoing port access restrictions imposed by Trinidad and Tobago’s National Energy Corporation (NEC) and persistent challenges in securing affordable and reliable natural gas supplies. These issues have significantly reduced the free cash flow contribution of the Trinidad operations over an extended period.

In a landmark appointment, Leesa Murally has been named the first female managing director of Carib Brewery Ltd, a subsidiary of the Ansa McAL group, effective November 1. This historic move underscores the company’s commitment to diversity and leadership excellence. Murally, who currently serves as the beverage sector’s chief financial officer and corporate secretary to the board of Caribbean Development Company Ltd (CDC), brings a wealth of experience in finance, risk management, and corporate governance. Her career spans key roles at CDC and Witco, and she currently sits on the boards of CDC, Bayside Towers, and Community Chest. Murally’s academic credentials include an MBA in strategic planning from Heriot-Watt University, and she is a Fellow of the ACCA and a Certified Internal Auditor. Known for her people-centered leadership style, Murally has a proven track record of driving continuous improvement, fostering data-driven decision-making, and enhancing governance and cybersecurity. In addition to Murally’s appointment, Ansa McAL announced David Welch as the new managing director of AMCO, effective November 1. Welch, with over 25 years of experience in the FMCG industry, previously served as managing director of Carib Brewery and marketing director at CBL. The group expressed confidence that both leaders will play pivotal roles in advancing the beverage and distribution sectors’ growth and success.

The West Indian Tobacco Company Ltd (Witco) has witnessed a significant change in its leadership as Luis Verenzuela resigned from his position as a director, effective October 10. Verenzuela, who joined the board in July 2023, is set to transition into a new role within the British American Tobacco (BAT) group. His departure was officially announced on the TT Stock Exchange website on October 21. Taking over Verenzuela’s responsibilities is Gustavo Gonzalez, who assumed the role of director on October 16. Gonzalez boasts an impressive track record, having spent over two decades with the BAT group, most recently serving as the operations director for Latin America North and Caribbean. The board of directors expressed gratitude for Verenzuela’s contributions and extended a warm welcome to Gonzalez, highlighting his extensive experience and expertise.

Agostini Ltd has once again postponed the closing date for its acquisition bid of Prestige Holdings Ltd, the local operator of prominent franchises including KFC, TGI Fridays, Subway, and Starbucks. This marks the fourth extension, with the new deadline now set for November 18. The announcement was made public on October 21 through a notice in local newspapers and on the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange website. According to the notice, the delay is intended to allow for the completion of all necessary regulatory approvals, particularly the merger application submitted to the TT Fair Trade Commission. The initial share-swap proposal, introduced in June, offered one Agostini share for every 4.8 Prestige Holdings shares. Agostini has committed to purchasing all deposited shares within the timeframe mandated by securities law. The original closing date was July 20, with subsequent extensions pushing the deadline to August 5, September 5, and October 21. Agostini CEO Barry Davis previously cited delays in the share-swap process, attributing them to issues such as misplaced share certificates and the passing of some shareholders. Despite these challenges, Agostini confirmed on September 10 that it had secured the minimum shareholding required to proceed with the takeover.