Barbados Hosts 13th Annual Caribbean Hotel Investment Conference and Operations Summit (CHICOS)

On November 13, 2024, Barbados welcomed 300 top investors, industry leaders, and tourism professionals to its shores for the 13th annual Caribbean Hotel Investment Conference & Operations Summit (CHICOS). Of the 300 attendees, 225 were visitors from across the globe.
 
This prestigious event, which took place at the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle All Inclusive Resort, underscores Barbados’ commitment to fostering sustainable growth and innovation within the region’s hospitality sector and reinforces the island’s position as a premier destination for tourism investment and development. This year, attendees and speakers explored strategic insights and innovations essential for driving sustainable tourism growth within Barbados and across the region.
 
The Minister of Tourism and International Transport, the Hon. G.P. Ian Gooding-Edghill, extended a warm invitation to the conference attendees and emphasized Barbados’ rapid expansion within the tourism sector: “Your presence underscores the immense value Barbados places on tourism investment and business development, as well as the importance of tourism as a pillar of our economy. We invite discerning investors to explore opportunities in accommodations, family-oriented attractions, and infrastructure, as Barbados continues its journey towards sustainable growth.”
 
Barbados has made significant strides in revitalizing its tourism sector since the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, steadily regaining market share and nearing pre-pandemic arrival levels. These achievements have been bolstered by strategic marketing efforts and enhanced airlift and cruise capacities, paving the way for further tourism investment.
 
Speaking on the conference’s importance, CEO of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), Andrea Franklin, expressed enthusiasm for the promising trajectory of Barbados’ tourism industry:
 
“Barbados stands at a pivotal moment in its tourism journey, presenting immense potential for investors looking to tap into a vibrant and resilient market. The CHICOS conference showcases our nation’s renewed commitment to building a sustainable tourism ecosystem that enriches our economy and elevates the visitor experience. We welcome investors who share our vision for progress and innovation as we work to solidify Barbados as a leading destination for global travelers.” 

Barbados has seen remarkable advancements in its tourism landscape, with recent developments in luxury accommodations, exclusive villa projects, and premium real estate on the island’s west coast. These additions cater to the growing demand for high-end travel experiences and are supported by increased airlift from key international markets, reinforcing Barbados as a leading Caribbean travel hub. New accommodations currently on stream are as follows:

• Hotel Indigo Barbados is currently under construction with 132 rooms, expected to open in early 2025.
• The Blue Monkey Hotel and Beach Club is scheduled to open in March 2025 on the west coast.
• The adults-only, all-inclusive resort Royalton Chic is expected to open in the spring of 2026 with 220 suites.
• The first international destination from Pendry Hotels and Resorts, Pendry Barbados, is scheduled to open on the north side of the island in 2026 with 74 luxury beachfront rooms.
• And finally, the long-awaited all-inclusive Hyatt Ziva Barbados project is expected to begin construction in January 2025 and open in early January 2027, offering 367 hotel rooms and 28 luxury condominiums.

CHICOS Chairman Parris Jordan shared, “We at CHICOS are delighted to bring the conference to Barbados for the first time. The island’s strong hotel performance and increasing popularity as a tourist destination make Barbados a compelling choice of host.”

Jordan added, “The new Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle provides the perfect location with top-quality meeting facilities to successfully host CHICOS 2024.”