Business View Caribbean | Feb 2019

in the ever-changing Jamaican economy. The following is an edited transcript of that conversation. BVC: Have there been any significant recent changes to the way you do business? Azan: “Yes. We’ve learned about the efficacy of what we were doing in the past and made some changes along the way. One thing that’s very prevalent right now is a new, national ban on single-use plastic bags in Jamaica. Going into 2020, Styrofoam and other such disposable packaging will also be banned. Since the end of 2018, we’ve been phasing out plastic bags and encouraging customers to bring their own reusable shopping bags or buy reusable bags from our store. There are numerous studies that show the danger of plastic bags for the environment. We believe it’s a great initiative to make for a cleaner, better Jamaica and we’re glad to be part of it. “Customer reaction to the ban is mixed. A lot of persons were concerned. Based on the large amount of small goods we sell here, it’s been hard to tell someone they can’t have a plastic carrying bag. Actually, the ban is on bags 24” by 24”, so we can still offer larger bags for bigger purchases, if necessary. Over Christmas, as part of our marketing activities, we gave out thousands of Bashco reusable bags and now we have them for sale. We’re doing our best to make it a seamless transition because it can be confusing for people who maybe don’t understand the depth of why a ban is necessary.” 20