In the heart of Barbados, Ingrid Brathwaite, the visionary behind Superb Blend, has built a thriving agro-processing business that embodies innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth. With a commitment to producing high-quality, locally sourced products, Superb Blend has evolved from a small-scale enterprise into a competitive player in regional and international markets. Through strategic partnerships and leveraging support from the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), Ingrid has successfully expanded her business footprint, proving that Caribbean entrepreneurs can excel on the global stage.
Harnessing Opportunities for Growth
Superb Blend’s growth trajectory has been fuelled by its active participation in various Caribbean Export-led initiatives, which provided crucial exposure, training, and funding. Over the past five years, Ingrid has engaged in multiple interventions designed to enhance business acumen, refine product offerings, and connect with global buyers.
One of the most significant milestones was Superb Blend’s participation in international trade shows, such as SIAL Paris (2022, 2024) and the Specialty Fine Foods Show in London (2022). These platforms allowed the company to showcase its premium agro-processed products, establish key partnerships, and gain insights into emerging consumer trends. Additionally, the Absolutely Caribbean Virtual Tradeshow (2020) provided a digital avenue for Ingrid to engage with international buyers during the pandemic, ensuring business continuity despite global disruptions.
Capacity Building and Market Readiness
Beyond trade show participation, Ingrid has prioritized enhancing her business skills and market readiness through targeted workshops facilitated by Caribbean Export. The ProNET workshops on Product Development and Export Marketing (2023) equipped her with the knowledge to refine her offerings and develop strategies for penetrating new markets. Similarly, the EPA (Economic Partnership Agreement) workshops (2019, 2024) provided invaluable insights into leveraging trade agreements to expand exports, particularly to the European Union.
Financial Support and Business Expansion
Ingrid’s dedication to growth was further supported by Caribbean Export’s Direct Support Grants Scheme (2021), which provided financial assistance to improve production capacity and enhance branding. This funding enabled Superb Blend to invest in better packaging, modernized equipment, and expanded distribution channels, strengthening the brand’s market presence.
A Testament to Caribbean Entrepreneurship
Today, Superb Blend stands as a testament to the power of strategic support and entrepreneurial determination. With a workforce of approximately 30 employees, the company continues to contribute to the Barbadian economy while expanding its reach beyond the Caribbean. Ingrid’s story exemplifies how leveraging regional support mechanisms can lead to transformative business success.
After showcasing at SIAL Paris 2024, Ingrid remains committed to scaling Superb Blend’s operations and reinforcing the Caribbean’s reputation for excellence in agro-processing. Building on this strong foundation, with a global mindset and unwavering resilience, Superb Blend is poised for even greater achievements in the years to come.
