This was the consensus emerging from a Round Table Discussion
convened by the Agency for Reconstruction and Development (ARD) on
Wednesday.
It was agreed that the umbrella association should include
producers, designers, retailers, wholesalers, exporters and investors.
Training programmes, including business management skills development
for craft producers, bulk purchasing, and seeking institutional support
from the Government of Grenada were identified as potential
responsibilities for such an association.
The Round Table Discussion was attended by a cross-section of craft
and gift producers, retailers and non-governmental organisations, as
well as the banking sector.
Representatives from the Grenada Cooperative Bank and the Grenada
Development Bank expressed the view that financing of the sector would
be greatly facilitated by an umbrella association.
There are at least 270 individual craft producers in Grenada, plus numerous gift shops and other retail outlets.
ARD Director of Economic Recovery Richard de Lima noted the need for
a “marketing document” that profiles the craft and gift sector “in its
totality” as a key area for investment in Grenada.
To this end, the ARD has commissioned a profile on the Craft and
Gift Sector, and participants at the Round Table Discussion had the
opportunity to examine the draft document and provide inputs. The
profile provides an overview of the sector, focussing on the following
“made in Grenada” sub-sectors:
- Decorative Home Furnishings
- Costumes, including masquerade and theatrical
- Art and ornamental ware
- Jewellry
- Clothing
- Souvenirs
- Toys and Games
As a means of stimulating investment in Grenada, the ARD has
commissioned similar profiles on Agriculture, Fisheries, Information
Communication Technology, Tourism, and Higher Education and Training.
Representatives from the following entities participated in the Round Table Discussion:
Grenada Development Bank
Grenada Cooperative Bank Ltd.
Grenada National Organisation of Women
Grenada National Council for the Disabled
White Cane Industries
GIGI Spice Dolls
Reflections
Caribbean Naturals
Art And Soul
Helvellyn House Pottery
Angel Fish
Tropical Jewellry Magic
Grenada Art Council