Business View Caribbean | Feb 2019

some enterprising changes, including a number of curfews to curtail criminal activity. Those significantly impacted our hours of business, where we couldn’t be open past a certain time. However, major strides have been made and we are in full agreement with the enforcements and we regulate ourselves to those times. Because of that, we’ve seen an upswing in customer turnout because they feel safe with the increased security presence, and the environment is much, much better than it was. “At our North Coast locations, which are big tourist areas, we’re seeing an increased uptake in business from hoteliers, guest houses, villas, even Airbnb owners. So the hospitality industry is directly interested in what we have available at our stores, especially housewares, appliances, and furniture, and we will continue to grow that business. “Bashco continues to make strides in the realms of every community we are located in. We are working to provide the products people want, at prices they can afford. In the last six months, we’ve made a big effort to improve our customer service because we want to be known, not only for the best prices, but as the store that gives service excellence. On the environmental front, we’ve changed out our air conditioning for fuel-efficient units; changed our bulbs to LEDs. And we have indoor and outdoor LED bulbs for sale, as well. In every avenue of our business, we’re trying to be as efficient as we can be for the sake of our customers and the country of Jamaica.” PREFERRED VENDORS n BDO - Founded in 1993, BDO in Jamaica is a member of one of the world’s largest and foremost providers of assurance, au- diting, accounting, taxation, financial man- agement, and business advisory services. It serves clients in a broad range of public and private sectors. - www.bdo.com.jm n Maritime General Insurance Brokers Ltd. www.mgibrokers.com 25