News Archive - Page 7 of 21 - Caribbean Export

Talent Scouts sing the praises of Caribbean Rhythm Showcase

KINGSTON, JAMAICA: The international talent scouts and music industry executives invited to last weekend’s staging of Caribbean Rhythm Showcase are singing the praises of the latest initiative organised by Jamaican talent agency Headline Entertainment in cooperation with the Caribbean Export Development Company (Caribbean Export) and the European Union.

The event saw 20 artistes representing 10 Caribbean states being introduced to international music executives over a four-day period and also schooled on various critical elements of the music industry including publishing, royalties and the overall music business.

Now in its second year, the event culminated with a performance from the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica, which was live streamed for global viewing. Following the performance the artistes had a chance to meet with the talent scouts in one-on-one sessions to discuss possible alliances.

For A&R consultant Cristy Barber, who is now based in Nashville in the United States, but no stranger to Jamaica, the event was truly a boon for the development of Caribbean artistes.

“First, I must say I would have paid to see this show. This is such a brilliant idea I have never heard of anything like this, and these kids brought it tonight. I’m so honoured that I was flown in to be one of the executives. What I purposely did since I have been here with them over the past couple days, I didn’t research any of the talent, I just got to know them personally. When I tell you that every single one of them was lovely, it was fun to hang out with them. It is one of the most exciting things I have seen in Jamaica and I have done 30 years here. I have just been encouraging them to keep doing what they are doing. I hope that the international market now knows that the Caribbean market is not just soca, calypso or reggae, these kids just showed us their range and strengths in the different genres… this was amazing,” said Barber.

Those sentiments were echoed by international producer and songwriter Nikki Fernandez. She added that the whole Caribbean Rhythm Showcase experience served to highlight the strong talent pool that exists in the region.

“It was amazing! Spending time with these incredibly talented young people with old souls was just a blessing. I believe that all of them will find an opportunity somewhere, no matter what. They bring so much to the table as artists and talent. This was an amazing opportunity for everyone concerned. Hats off to Headline Entertainment and Caribbean Export for sharing something that has been absolutely incredible,” Fernandez noted.

Some of the artistes are being taken on by UK-based vocal coach Bashiyra, who was part of the panel assembled by the team from Headline Entertainment and Caribbean Export for this year’s event.

“There are some real jewels here. My thing is really about the artiste honing their vocals and knowing how to deliver whether it is in a live setting or translating that into the studio and their audio recordings. I would just encourage each and every one of them to continue to pursue the dream. For me personally I know there are a number of these artists that I will be taking on and training with vocal lessons and stage craft,” Bashiyra stated.

Staying true to themselves as artists was the critical lesson coming from Tanya Lawson, director of marketing, Caribbean & gospel strategies at Audiomack in the United States.

For Lawson the cohort which participated in this year’s exercise demonstrated that the region is awash with talent and that there is more in Caribbean artistes than reggae, dancehall, soca and calypso.

“If we keep staging events like Caribbean Rhythm Showcase we can show the variety of artistes who can come out of the region. Yes people already know that different types of artistes come out of the Caribbean, it’s just that they need to be given this type of spotlight. Look at Nicki Minaj, she’s from Trinidad, look at Rihanna, she’s from Barbados … Rihanna’s the largest pop star in the world right now and she started off with that niche Caribbean thing and now she’s switched over to pop. So from seeing all this talent you know it can happen again. Don’t stop being you and think you have to conform for America. To crossover just be yourself and they will pick it up. Look at afrobeats. They stayed themselves, stayed in their lane and the sound was heard all over the world. But I was pretty impressed by everything that was on show here this year for the Caribbean Rhythm Showcase,” Lawson pointed out. The acts who participated in Caribbean Rhythm Showcase were Lex MD, Kraff, Indie Allen, and Pink Fox from Jamaica; the Dominican Republic’s Mariela ‘La Marimba’ Velazquez. Ava Symone Barrett and Khia ‘Keeya’ Poitier from The Bahamas; Trinidad and Tobago was represented by Dania Duntin, Aisha Noel and Jiselle ‘Jiselle Singer’ Singh; Arien Seaton from Antigua and Barbuda; Rhea ‘SugahRhe’ Ellis from Barbados; Colton ‘Colton T’ Thomas from the Commonwealth of Dominica; Ryan ‘Riggy Atmosphere’ Riggs from Grenada; Erica Edwards from St Kitts and Nevis; Javid ‘Jay-R’ Rouse, Krystian Mark and Derron ‘Magikal’ Rouse from St Vincent and the Grenadines, Jesse ‘Justos’ Nelson from Saint Lucia; and Jackie ‘Jaxx’ Hanover from Guyana.

Le plus grand salon de l’alimentation au monde, le SIAL Paris 2022, sera la prochaine étape pour les entreprises des Caraïbes après une présentation impressionnante lors de l’événement commercial britannique.

Quatorze marques caribéennes exposeront au SIAL Paris 2022 sous le pavillon “Absolutely Caribbean”.
Le SIAL Paris 2022 fait suite au succès du stand des Caraïbes à la foire britannique Speciality & Fine Food.
Le SIAL est le plus grand salon bisannuel du monde, attirant 310 000 visiteurs de 200 pays.

La nourriture et les boissons des Caraïbes seront une fois de plus au menu lorsque 14 entreprises régionales se rendront en France du 15 au 19 octobre pour participer au plus grand salon agroalimentaire du monde, le SIAL Paris 2022.

Exposant sous le pavillon “Absolutely Caribbean” avec le soutien de l’Agence de développement des exportations des Caraïbes et de l’Union européenne, les marques caribéennes établies et émergentes auront l’occasion de nouer des contacts avec des milliers d’importateurs, de détaillants et d’acheteurs d’Europe, du Moyen-Orient, d’Afrique et d’Asie.

Certaines des entreprises qui se sont rendues à Paris ont également participé récemment à une exposition enrichissante et productive à la Speciality & Fine Food Fair (SFFF) à l’Olympia de Londres du 5 au 6 septembre, qui a généré plus de 70 pistes pour les producteurs participants, y compris un accord de distribution en attente en Irlande.

Le succès des entreprises régionales au SFFF a démontré l’intérêt croissant pour les aliments et les boissons des Caraïbes au Royaume-Uni et dans toute l’Europe, les consommateurs recherchant des produits plus naturels, plus sains et plus innovants.

Les entreprises qui participent au SIAL Paris 2022 sont ; Seules les noix de coco de Guyane, de Sainte-Lucie et d’Afrique du Sud sont acceptées. Cacoa Sainte Lucie et St Lucia Distillers, Choko Lakay d’Haïti, Coffee Roasters of Jamaica Ltd, Native Organics from the Bahamas, Belize’s Truly Turmeric, Sishado du Suriname, VincyFresh Ltd de St Vincent et les Grenadines, Flauriel de Saint-Kitts-et-Nevis, Superb Blend de la Barbade, Chicharon The World’s Cinnamon Rum de la République dominicaine et J&J Spirits, SRL et V’Toria Rhonda Vineyard & Winery de Trinidad et Tobago.

Ces entreprises caribéennes sont à l’avant-garde de certaines des tendances les plus avant-gardistes de l’industrie alimentaire, avec un accent particulier sur les profils de saveurs caribéennes uniques, les ingrédients naturels et indigènes, et les processus de production et de fabrication durables.

Le SIAL n’a pas eu lieu depuis octobre 2018 en raison de la pandémie de COVID-19, l’anticipation et l’excitation sont donc à leur comble pour tous les professionnels de l’industrie alimentaire qui espèrent trouver des produits savoureux, tendance et ayant une histoire captivante à raconter.

World’s biggest food fair ‘SIAL Paris 2022’ next stop for Caribbean businesses after impressive display at UK trade event

Fourteen Caribbean brands to exhibit at SIAL Paris 2022 under ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ pavilion.
SIAL Paris 2022 follows success of Caribbean stand at UK’s Speciality & Fine Food Fair.
SIAL is the world’s biggest biannual trade fair, attracting 310,000 visitors from 200 countries.

Caribbean food and drink will be on the menu once again as 14 regional businesses head to France from 15th-19th October to take part in the world’s biggest food tradeshow SIAL Paris 2022.

Exhibiting under the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ pavilion with the support of the Caribbean Export Development Agency and the European Union, established and emerging Caribbean brands will get the chance to network and connect with thousands of importers, retailers and buyers from Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

Some of the businesses travelling to Paris also recently took part in a rewarding and productive showing at the Speciality & Fine Food Fair (SFFF) at London’s Olympia from 5th-6th September, which generated over 70 leads for the participating producers, including a pending distribution deal in Ireland.

The success of regional businesses at SFFF demonstrated the growing interest in Caribbean food and drink in the UK and across Europe as consumers look for more natural, healthy, and innovative products.

The companies participating at SIAL Paris 2022 are; Only Coconuts from Guyana, St Lucia’s Cacoa Sainte Lucie and St Lucia Distillers, Choko Lakay from Haiti, Coffee Roasters of Jamaica Ltd, Native Organics from the Bahamas, Belize’s Truly Turmeric, Sishado from Suriname, VincyFresh Ltd from St Vincent and the Grenadines, Flauriel from St Kitts and Nevis, Superb Blend which is based in Barbados, The Dominican Republic’s Chicharon The World’s Cinnamon Rum and J&J Spirits, SRL and V’Toria Rhonda Vineyard & Winery from Trinidad and Tobago.

These Caribbean businesses are at the forefront of some of the most cutting edge trends in the food industry with a particular focus on unique Caribbean flavour profiles, natural and indigenous ingredients, and sustainable production and manufacturing processes.

SIAL has not been staged since October 2018 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, so anticipation and excitement is at an all-time high for all the food industry professionals hoping to find products that are tasty, trendy, and with a captivating story to tell.

First Live Caribbean Rhythm Showcase Sizzles with Regional Talent

The grand ballroom of the Jamaca Pegasus Hotel in Kingston came alive on Sunday night as musical acts from across the region displayed their talent at the second annual Caribbean Rhythm Showcase organised by Jamaican talent agency Headline Entertainment in partnership with the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) and the European Union.

The musical showcase, which aims to highlight the talents of Caribbean artistes in front of international music executives and other industry players, saw 20 acts representing 13 regional states taking to the stage and mesmerizing both the live in-house audience as well as the thousands who joined the event virtually via various online platforms.

The excitement was palpable throughout the event and continued following the proceedings on stage when guests including the international music industry buyers had the opportunity to have one-on-one time with the artistes in a specially created lounge.

It was all smiles from Allyson Francis of the Caribbean Export. She was absolutely pleased with how the first live staging of the Caribbean Rhythm Showcase had been executed, the talent on display from the region and the reaction from the international buyers and industry execs.

“The truth is we are always taking our artistes to other showcases such as a MIDEM or WOMEX and I said to myself ‘what about a Caribbean Showcase?’ I wanted something where the young, fledgling, fantastic artistes, as we have seen here tonight, who need that platform are given an opportunity. It was not just coming up on the stage and singing, that was just the climax. It took the form of a full three days where they were engaged with buyers, distributors, going through workshops as well. So we were providing them with that capacity building by understanding what is going on in the industry. And -now that we have showcased the talent, we are hoping that we get some deals… there are performances that rocked the place and I know the buyers are ready and eager to speak to these artistes.”

“We just wanted to do something for the Caribbean that was new, different and unique and has an impact,” Francis continued.

She also noted that the impact of the showcase can also be seen in the way it brought the region’s young people and artistes together to showcase not only what the region has to offer, but more importantly the diversity of the offering from the people of the Caribbean.

For Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Sport and Entertainment, Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Caribbean Rhythm Showcase is an idea whose time has come.

“I am so overjoyed on what I saw here tonight, it was great. There was such a diverse talent pool showcasing different genres, different musical styles, great voices, just talented people all from our Caribbean region. This is a great way of showcasing the Caribbean talent, getting buyers to come connecting them and helping to build careers.”

As a long-standing player in the music industry herself, Grange said the one piece of advise she would offer the aspiring acts who exhibited their talent on the showcase, was to get the right management structure in place to guide their careers.

“I don’t know how many of these emerging artistes have management. But they must seek good management. This is about management and direction. So a good manager is able to guide you in terms of your focus, you can’t sing everything. You must decide what’s your style, what’s your image, how you are going to be packaged and how you are going to be presented and marketed,” said Grange.

The twenty acts who took to the stage for the international buyers and music industry executives were Lex MD, Kraff , Indie Allen, and PinkFox from Jamaica; the Dominican Republic’s Mariela ‘La Marimba’ Velazquez. Ava Symone Barrett and Khia ‘KEEYA’ Poitier from The Bahamas; Trinidad and Tobago was represented by Dania DANIA’ Duntin, Aisha Noel and Jiselle ‘Jiselle Singer’ Singh; Arien Seaton from Antigua and Barbuda; Rhea ‘SugahRhe’ Ellis from Barbados; Colton ‘Colton T’ Thomas from the Commonwealth of Dominica; Ryan ‘Riggy Atmosphere’ Riggs from Grenada; Erica Edwards from St Kitts and Nevis; Javid ‘Jay-R’ Rouse, Krystian Mark and Derron ‘Magikal’ Rouse from St Vincent and the Grenadines, Jesse ‘Justos’ Nelson from Saint Lucia; and Jackie ‘Jaxx’ Hanover from Guyana

The Caribbean Investment Forum Presents A New Period of Transformation for the Region

Caribbean Investment Forum (CIF) focused on building a SMARTer, GREENer Caribbean
The event seeks to attract over 450 enterprises and investors
CIF to take place in Trinidad and Tobago over the period 8-11th November 2022

Start any conversation with anybody, anywhere in the World, and ask “What comes to mind when you hear, The Caribbean”? Invariably, they envisage white sand beaches, cruise ships, Pina Colada’s, reggae music and by extension Bob Marley, food, weddings…back to the beaches.

The region has long held its identity as a tourism juggernaut in the global travel industry.

While it is an identity that will continue to benefit Caribbean Communities for decades to come, over the past few years regional leaders have made distinct decisions that build Brand Caribbean’s assets beyond beaches and beers into more sustainable industries of commerce.

With the COVID-19 pandemic entering its 3rd year, Caribbean leaders are urgently moved to action opportunities that support the sustainable development of island communities.

The Caribbean Investment Forum is a high-level business-focused event designed to present and explore these investment opportunities across the region. The regional forum is organized by the Caribbean Export Development Agency in collaboration with the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, CARICOM, the Caribbean Development Bank, the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies and with the support of the European Union.

Taking place, the 8-11th of November 2022, at the Hyatt Regency in Trinidad and Tobago, it is a launching pad for thought leaders keen on accruing the benefits of first-mover advantages in this developing space. The Caribbean Investment Forum connects key regional decision-makers, innovators, and entrepreneurs with the World’s most influential investors.

Under the theme Building A SMARTer, GREENer, Caribbean, stakeholders learn and explore some of the most attractive investment opportunities in technology, agriculture, renewable energy, and innovation; Projects that will improve the lives of over 30 Million Caribbean People in the 23 Countries across the Region and in the global diaspora.

Visit our website: www.caribbeaninvestmentforum.com

JA’s Indie Allen, T&T’s Aisha Noel in the 20 selected for Caribbean Rhythm Showcase 2022

The judges have spoken and tomorrow, Jamaica will welcome a consortium of Caribbean artistes to participate alongside some of our local talent in the Caribbean Rhythm Showcase hosted by the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) in cooperation with the European Union.

The artistes will perform their original music from a myriad of Caribbean genres including Reggae, Dancehall, Pop, Soca, Afro Beats, Neo Soul Beats as well as Caribbean fusion for the second annual staging of the Caribbean Rhythm Showcase.

“The music sector presents numerous opportunities for sustainable, inclusive economic growth and diversification in the Caribbean and after the resounding success of the first edition of the Caribbean Rhythm Showcase, we are excited to again provide a platform for the region’s artistes in various genres, to share their culture and creativity with international industry executives,” said Allyson Francis, Services Specialist at Caribbean Export.

A total of 20 emerging acts originating in and around the region were selected from more than 250 submissions in the preliminary round. Among those selected for the showcase are: – soulful Reggae fusion singer Indie Allen from Jamaica, named by popular digital streaming platform Pandora one of the ‘Caribbean Artiste to Watch’ for 2022 and Trinidad and Tobago Soca star with close to two million subscribers on YouTube Aisha Noel, known for her breakthrough single ‘Nobody Be Safe’.

Jamaica has three other artistes representing the country in the Reggae, Dancehall and Afrobeats genre, that is Lex MD, Kraff and PinkFox respectively. Also in the West Indies, coming from the Dominican Republic is Mariela ‘La Marimba’ Velazquez. The Bahamians Ava Symone Barrett and Khia ‘KEEYA’ Poitier are bringing Caribbean Pop flavour.

The Eastern Caribbean islands are all represented in the final cut. Trinidad and Tobago also has Dania ‘DANIA’ Duntin and Jiselle ‘Jiselle Singer’ Singh in the Caribbean Fusion category. Rounding off the group, artistes from there is Arien Seaton from Antigua and Barbuda, Rhea ‘SugahRhe’ Ellis from Barbados, Colton ‘Colton T’ Thomas from the Commonwealth of Dominica, Ryan ‘Riggy Atmosphere’ Riggs from Grenada, Erica Edwards from St Kitts and Nevis, Javid ‘Jay-R’ Rouse, Krystian Mark and Derron ‘Magikal’ Rouse from St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Jesse ‘Justos’ Nelson from Saint Lucia. There is also Jackie. ‘Jaxx’ Hanover.

It will be a test of talent, creativity, delivery and perseverance as these promising talents meet up in the ‘Music Capital of the Caribbean’ and already the Skool Band members, who will be taking the finalists through the rehearsal period in preparation for their performances in front of a judging panel on Sunday, September 18, are keyed up to work with them.

Skool Band leader Desi Jones revealed that rehearsals have already started. “We’re locked in rehearsals to prepare ourselves ahead of the arrival of the artistes. I am quite impressed with the pool of talent and we look forward to backing each of the acts as they perform their original songs,” asserts Jones.

This year’s dynamic judging panel is comprised of Mickey Dread from Barbados, DJ Umba from Trinidad and Tobago, Luke Boyea from St Vincent and the Grenadines, Henry Luc of Haiti and a trio of Jamaicans including Steve Locke, Collin Hines and Mickey Bennett supported by Caribbean Export and Headline Entertainment representatives.

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Caribbean food producers taste success at Speciality & Fine Food Fair 2022

‘Absolutely Caribbean’ stand attracts interest from major UK and European retailers.
Over 70 leads were generated including a distribution deal in Ireland for Belize’s ‘Naledo’.
Ten Caribbean companies exhibited at the Fair under the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ pavilion.

Caribbean food and drink was one of the hottest attractions at the recently concluded Speciality & Fine Food Fair 2022 at London’s Olympia.

Ten regional companies exhibited at the event from 5th-6th September under the ‘Absolutely Caribbean’ pavilion and their unique products drew in buyers from leading stores across the UK and Europe looking to capitalise on the growing demand for innovative flavours.

Representatives from Sainsbury’s, Marks and Spencer, Fortnum & Mason, Whole Foods Market, Turtle Bay Restaurants, and Wanis International Foods, came to the booth to sample a range of products made with indigenous ingredients including hot pepper sauces, turmeric paste, jellies, jams, tea, beer and rum.

Several convenience stores, delicatessens, chefs, food bloggers, and wholesalers also took an interest in the Caribbean stand, which was one of the busiest throughout the two-day trade event. The pavilion was also visited by three-time Caribbean Chef of the Year Collin Brown, and Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, founder of ‘The Black Farmer’ food range.

Over 70 leads were generated from the event for Caribbean artisan producers hoping to increase exports.

Anastasha Elliott, owner of St Kitts-based company Sugar Town Organics, said she was “thankful” for the opportunity. She added: “It was my first time showcasing our food brand ‘Flauriel’ on this type of stage. The feedback, queries, and reviews opened my eyes to possibilities I had not considered before when it came to my food brand.”

Lafleur Little from Vincentian brand Pringa’s commented on the number of people who enjoyed sampling their sauces, seasonings, and jellies. She said: “Persons from the UK are really venturing out of their comfort zone and trying more spicy foods. It was a pleasure to serve them Pringa’s line of sauces and condiments. I know they enjoyed it because most came back for seconds. They couldn’t believe they were getting all these beautiful flavours from sauces and condiments.”

Caribbean food was already creating a buzz at the Fair after Naledo’s ‘Truly Turmeric’ whole root paste, and CariBelle Foods’ ‘Lime & Mango Dip’ were chosen as ingredients for two live cooking demonstrations. These breakout sessions, led by renowned chef and consultant Steve Walpole, captured the imagination of attendees and boosted the profile of these products even further.

Naledo’s Chief Operating Officer, Nareena Switlo, said she was “thrilled” at the response to the company’s turmeric paste along with interest in their brand story which focuses on partnering with hundreds of Belizean farmers, and maintaining a sustainable and equitable supply chain.

As a direct result of the Fair, Naledo secured dozens of leads as well as a deal with a distributor in Ireland (subject to negotiations).

Ms Switlo adds: “We also have orders from some independent stores and meetings to arrange with larger distributors and retailers. So, stay tuned to see what we cook up!

“We would like to thank the Caribbean Export Development Agency for arranging the booth and supporting all the producers who attended. It was a fantastic business trip that will result in Naledo expanding further into UK and European markets.”

Ten Caribbean companies took part in the Fair with the support of the Caribbean Export Development Agency and the European Union – Superb Blend (Barbados), Old Duppy (Barbados), Naledo (Belize), Kalembu (The Dominican Republic), Shavuot (Jamaica), Flauriel (St Kitts and Nevis), Pringa’s (St Vincent and the Grenadines), St Lucia Distillers (St Lucia), the Antillia Brewing Company (St Lucia), and CariBelle Foods (Trinidad and Tobago).

Twenty emerging acts selected for the 2022 staging of Caribbean Rhythm Showcase

That’s right, a total of 20 fledging artistes will perform their original music from a myriad of Caribbean genres including Reggae, Dancehall, Pop, Soca, Afro Beats, Neo Soul Beats as well as Caribbean fusion for the second annual staging of the Caribbean Rhythm Showcase.

These 20 acts come from more than 250 submissions in the preliminary round and represent 13 countries in total. The diverse talent has roots in Antigua & Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago.

The Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) in cooperation with the European Union introduced the noteworthy platform for performing artistes across the region to demonstrate their uniqueness and creativity virtually, whereby they would be exposed to professionals within the music industry in anticipation of developing their careers to a global standard.

Those who are part of the final selection have now been invited to participate in an innovative and eclectic showcase to be staged in Kingston, Jamaica on Sunday, September 18, in front of a live audience consisting of international producers, label representatives and other talent buyers.

The Caribbean Rhythm Showcase will be livestreamed on YouTube. Immediately following the live Showcase, registered industry executives have the opportunity to directly interact with the artistes via Zoom.

“The cultural and creative industries are important sectors for the region. Our orange economy has the potential to contribute significantly to the transformation of the Caribbean if we leverage the opportunities presented through digitalisation” shared Allyson Francis, Services Specialist at Caribbean Export.

This year’s dynamic judging panel is comprised of Mikey Dread from Barbados, DJ Umba from Trinidad and Tobago, Luke Boyea from St Vincent and the Grenadines, Henry Luc of Haiti and a trio of Jamaicans including Steve Locke, Collin Hines and Mikie Bennett supported by CEDA and Headline Entertainment representatives.

“The Caribbean Rhythm Showcase team is on a mission to put talent on display, have them gain pragmatic exposure and create a wide range of opportunities for them to engage and collaborate with other regional musicians which will by way of the platform generate international interest in our region’s greatest product – our creative people,” says Jerome Hamilton, Managing Director of Headline Entertainment.

“Last year, the biggest highlight for me was definitely the presentation put on by a number of artistes and us being able to bring all the talents with varied backgrounds under one banner. It created a great kaleidoscope of some of the talent across the Caribbean,” he added.

In addition to having an opportunity to travel to the proclaimed ‘Music Capital of the Caribbean’ the individuals selected are expected to participate in a whirlwind of activities prior to the live showcase, engage with various members of the music industry, and will undergo gruelling rehearsals with the internationally acclaimed Skool Band in preparation for their performances.

In partnership with the Jamaica Tourist Board, the Ministry of Gender, Culture, Entertainment and Sports, JAMPO and other partners, the visitors will tour local attractions, participate in industry talks and attend Kingston-based events.

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Absolutely Caribbean Steals the Show at Speciality and Fine Food Fair

Ten Caribbean artisan producers showcased at the Speciality and Fine Food Fair.
Over 10,000 visitors attended the international food and drinks trade fair.
Caribbean Export commits to continuing to support the export of Caribbean produce internationally.

Caribbean Export supported ten food and drink producers to participate at the Speciality and Fine Food Fair at the Olympia London, UK. The group of Caribbean firms showcased under a highly visible Absolutely Caribbean pavilion that drew the attention of chefs, trade buyers, press and, bloggers.

At the end of a busy first day of the show, participating companies had nothing but praise for their first in-person trade show since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Great first day at the Specialty & Fine Food Fair with an exceptional reception of our brand and products. The market has definitely acquired a taste for some Hauntingly Flavourful Old Duppy” shared Nick Bynoe from Old Duppy Barbados.

Hesma Tyson, from CariBelle Foods echoed this sentiment stating “Great first day. So much positive feedback on our products. This market is not shy from sampling spicy food. Glad for this opportunity.”

Tyson’s Lime & Mango Dip will also feature in the cooking demonstrations led be top consultant chef Steve Walpole.

Caribbean Export in collaboration with the European Union has been supporting the development of these firms over the past 12 months to prepare for new markets, working with food and drinks retail experts Category Wins.

Lead expert David Marston shared “A truly spectacular day at a fantastic show, and also a fantastic diversity of opportunities for the finest food and drink producers from the Caribbean; excited to see what day 2 brings and to share some of the Absolutely Caribbean produce with new buyers and organisations”.

Having released an updated edition of the report Unlocking the Profit Potential of the Caribbean, more and more trade buyers have sought out Caribbean producers in order to meet the increasing demand being experienced as consumers continue to explore new flavors from the Caribbean.

The ten companies included: Naledo (Belize), Superb Blend (Barbados), Old Duppy (Barbados), Flauriel (St Kitts and Nevis), Pringa’s (St Vincent and the Grenadines), Shavuot (Jamaica), St Lucia Distillers (St Lucia), Kalembu (The Dominican Republic), the Antillia Brewing Company (St Lucia), and CariBelle Foods (Trinidad and Tobago).

Two Caribbean products handpicked for live cooking demonstrations at the Speciality & Fine Food Fair 2022

Lime & Mango Dip produced by CariBelle Foods to feature in ethical eating cooking session.
Naledo’s Truly Turmeric paste selected for seminar and live demo focused on healthy foods.
Major UK tradeshow attracts over 10,000 members from the artisan food and drink sector.

Two Caribbean products have been handpicked by a top professional chef to feature in cooking demonstrations at the upcoming Speciality & Fine Food Fair 2022.

The Lime & Mango Dip produced by Trinidad and Tobago’s CariBelle Foods will be used in a live cooking session entitled ‘Ethical Eating – guilt free and delicious’ taking place on 5th September. On 6th September, Truly Turmeric paste manufactured by Belizean-based Naledo, will be part of a cooking demo and seminar on ‘The healthy food movement – an unstoppable trend’.

Well-respected British chef and consultant Steve Walpole chose the Caribbean products for his highly-anticipated ‘Taste the Trends Kitchen’ breakout sessions. This segment of the two-day tradeshow is set to explore emerging trends in the food industry especially in relation to sustainability, ethical production methods, and healthy living choices.

Caribbean food and drink items are in growing demand from health conscious consumers in the UK and Europe who are looking for products that are as pure and natural as possible and still taste great.

Naledo’s Turmeric Paste is made from wildcrafted, whole root turmeric, cold-pressed coconut oil, fresh lime juice, and sea salt; while CariBelle’s best-selling Lime & Mango Dip combines fresh mango and lime with herbs, vegetables, and spices.

Managing Director at CariBelle Foods, Hesma Tyson, says she feels “elated” that her product has been chosen for a live chef demo at the Fair. She believes the dip was picked because it is “an all-natural product made from fresh Trinidadian fruits”. She adds: “This dip is the perfect balance of sweet, spice and tang, and pairs well with all meats and vegan dishes.”

Ten Caribbean food and drink producers are attending The Speciality & Fine Food Fair at London’s Olympia from 5th-6th September 2022 with the support of the Caribbean Export Development Agency and the European Union. This important trade event is expected to attract international buyers and retailers from a range of sectors including hospitality, food service, import & export, and wholesale.

Talking about the benefits of exhibiting at the Fair, Ms Tyson says: “Our company wants to introduce heat and flavour to the UK market. We are interested in expanding into this market because we have the capacity to supply it. We expect interest from buyers who are looking for quality products to add to their inventory and we are prepared to ‘wow’ visitors who come to our booth with the sampling of our products.”

The 10 Caribbean companies participating at the Fair are Naledo (Belize), Superb Blend (Barbados), Old Duppy (Barbados), Flauriel (St Kitts and Nevis), Pringa’s (St Vincent and the Grenadines), Shavuot (Jamaica), St Lucia Distillers (St Lucia), Kalembu (The Dominican Republic), the Antillia Brewing Company (St Lucia), and CariBelle Foods (Trinidad and Tobago).

Caribbean Fashion Designers to Showcase at Autumn Fair Moda, UK

Caribbean fashion is always in season and right on time. Ten designers from across the region will be heading to showcase and promote their brands at one of the leading international marketplaces – Autumn Fair at Birmingham, UK from 4-7 September 2022, funded by the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) and the European Union (EU).

“The Caribbean fashion industry remains an important sector within the cultural industries. We created the Caribbean Fashion Showroom to support the increased visibility of Caribbean designers with the ultimate aim of increasing exports of Caribbean fashion” shared Allyson Francis, Services Specialist at Caribbean Export.

The regional fashion brands set to exhibit at the upcoming Autumn Fair under the Caribbean Fashion Showroom booth are Theodore Elyett (Bahamas), Catori’s (Barbados), Gisselle Mancebo (Dominican Republic), Sandilou (Haiti), Reve Jewellery (Jamaica), Designs by Nadia (Saint Lucia), FETE-ish (Saint Lucia), Kimmysticclo (St. Vincent and the Grenadines), LOUD by Afiya (Trinidad & Tobago) and Aya Styler (Trinidad & Tobago).

With the support of the EU and Caribbean Export, these creative businesses aim to attract and network with leading European buyers while exhibiting the warmth and uniqueness of the islands through various fabrics, colours and indigenous materials covering clothing, footwear, jewellery and accessories.

Teasea Bennett, Co-Founder, Reve Jewellery

“We are excited to participate in a trade show garnered towards the fashion industry, and really happy to be a part of this group and to meet the other participating brands and designers. I look forward to meeting potential retailers and to tap into the UK market; the Caribbean has a lot to offer! Going with an open mind, to learn and of course to network, it’s a great opportunity! Thank you to Caribbean Export for the inclusion and look forward to being a part of more events such as these in the future.” – Teasea Bennett, Co-Founder, Reve Jewellery.

Autumn Fair is the UK’s industry leading marketplace for wholesale home, gift and fashion. This four-day event aims to host and offer the best products and inspiration as well valuable connections, just in time for the Golden Quarter. Autumn Fair provides the perfect opportunity for buyers to top up their stock and make last minute orders for the festive season. With over 600+ UK and international exhibitors showcasing their collections each year, there’s a huge variety of products at Autumn Fair from across their four key buying destinations – Home, Gift, Moda and Design & Source.

Caribbean businesses set sights on European market with participation at the Speciality & Fine Food Fair 2022

Ten Caribbean food producers will boost their chances of expanding into the lucrative European market when they take part in the upcoming Speciality & Fine Food Fair (SFFF) at Olympia in London from 5-6 September 2022.

The regional companies set to exhibit at the SFFF under the ‘Absolutely Caribbean Pavilion’ are Naledo (Belize), CariBelle Foods (Trinidad and Tobago), Old Duppy (Barbados), Flauriel (St Kitts and Nevis), Chocolala (The Dominican Republic), Pringa’s (St Vincent and the Grenadines), Shavuot (Jamaica), St Lucia Distillers (St Lucia), Kalembu (The Dominican Republic) and the Antillia Brewing Company (St Lucia).

Supported by the European Union and the Caribbean Export Development Agency, these businesses will aim to attract leading European buyers and distributors when they exhibit a range of traditional products made from indigenous ingredients including hot pepper sauce, turmeric paste, jellies and jams, cocoa, tea, beer and rum.

The SFFF is described as “the go-to showcase for emerging and established brands within the artisan, fine food and drink industry”. It is renowned for uncovering ground-breaking and inspiring products as well as predicting emerging trends and this year over 10,000 visitors from around the world are expected to attend the annual event.

“We are extremely excited to exhibit our tropically inspired Caribbean ales at SFF22. It is a great way to reboot our exports to the UK after two long years of pandemic disruption. We look forward to meeting new distributors, importers and retailers and sharing a taste of St Lucia with them” shared Andrew Hashey, Founder, Antillia Brewing Co.

SFFF exhibitors are given direct access to hundreds of decision makers who represent established retailers and brands around Europe, allowing them to network and learn, while sharing their unique products and individual business stories.

In order to give the 10 Caribbean participants the best chance of success at the SFFF, Caribbean Export has also been assisting some of them with preparing to export via a ‘Launch to Market’ programme which ran from September 2021 to June 2022.

This readiness programme focused on issues such as market compliance, regulations and labelling, as well as marketing and branding with the aim of capitalising on increasing consumer demand in Europe and the UK for Caribbean food which is worth upwards of £100m, according to research commissioned by Caribbean Export. Now these Caribbean companies will take all that they have learned from the ‘Launch to Market’ programme, and combine it with the unparalleled exposure provided by the SFFF platform, to demonstrate why their products should be on menus and shelves throughout Europe.