HOME SOLUTIONS LTD SEPT 2025 VOL 12 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN ALSO IN THIS ISSUE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS PORTS AUTHORITY CREATING THRIVING COMMUNITIES WHERE TRINIDAD’S MIDDLE CLASS CAN AFFORD TO LIVE
WWW.BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE.COM Email for all inquiries: info@businessviewmagazine.com 2422 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 820 Sanibel FL, 33957 239.220.5554 CONTACT US TITLE SPONSORS GREAT NEWS! Business View Publishing was named to the 2020 Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies! Read the press release Editor in Chief Karen Surca Research Directors Varakunan Somas Contributing Writers Dan Macharia Vice President of Production Jared Ali Director of Marketing Nora Saliken Director of Administration Michelle Siewah Digital Strategist Jon Bartlow Art Director Renée Yearwood Managing Director Alexander Wynne-Jones COO Matthew Mitchell Executive Publisher / CEO Marcus VandenBrink 1 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
EDITOR’S NOTES September brings more than warm breezes and a stunning coastal view for the Caribbean region. This month has always been known for symbolizing a new beginning. Schools, businesses, governments and families press the reboot and look forward to what the fall may hold. For the businesses, government entities and organizations that we profiled for our September issue it is full steam ahead. Our current issue continues to bring you unparalleled features of some of the up and coming companies dotting the islands to wellestablished business leaders in their economic sectors- September’s edition is no exception. We had the opportunity to sit down with Anthony James Plumbing to turn the tap towards its current business growth and planned initiatives ahead. Not to be overshadowed, we sat down with the British Virgin Islands Port Authority to discuss supply chain issues, and the economic picture as we head into fall. This issue Business View Magazine also profiled The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association and Home Solutions to get a glimpse into the region’s thriving tourism sector and booming housing sector, as well as providing a look ahead for these two leaders in their respective industries. As with every issue, my hope as editor-in-chief is that our valued readers continue to learn something new with each issue we produce for you and that September offers the beauty that only the Caribbean islands can boast about. Karen Surca Editor in Chief Dear Readers, 2 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 15 ANTHONY JAMES PLUMBING, MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED From Classroom to Caribbean: How One Teacher Built a Multi-Island Plumbing Business 25 HOME SOLUTIONS LIMITED Creating Thriving Communities Where Trinidad’s Middle Class Can Afford to Live COVER HOME SOLUTIONS LIMITED 2 EDITOR’S NOTES 7 OPENING LINES BEST PRACTICES IN CONSTRUCTION ANTHONY JAMES PLUMBING, MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED 15 3 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
37 BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS PORTS AUTHORITY Modernizing Operations Across Caribbean Archipelago 49 CARIBBEAN HOTEL AND TOURISM ASSOCIATION (CHTA) Modernizing Operations Across Caribbean Archipelago BEST PRACTICES IN SUPPLY CHAIN AND LOGISTICS BEST PRACTICES IN TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY The articles in this publication are for information purposes only. Business View Publishing assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed, or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual or organization has been provided by such individual or organization without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is that of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Business View Publishing. HOME SOLUTIONS LIMITED 25 4 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
Business View Caribbean provides media coverage for organizations operating within select industries. Our publication satisfies the need for industry-specific information and intel on key businesses across the Caribbean! Get BVC delivered straight to your inbox. Get updates on the latest business news. 100% FREE to subscribe! We respect your privacy, now & always. Click below to sign up for a FREE SUBSCRIPTION to Business View Caribbean and get each new issue sent directly to your inbox! SUBSCRIBE STAY INFORMED WITH CORE BUSINESSES FROM THE CARIBBEAN
GUYANA ON COURSE TO BECOME REGIONAL MARITIME HUB Source: caribbeannewsglobal.com, Editor, First Published September 26th, 2025 The government of Guyana is working towards making Guyana a maritime hub in the region, serving as a strategic link for international shipping routes and global trade highlighted by minister of public utilities and aviation, minister Deodat Indar, as he addressed maritime officers and stakeholders during the celebration of World Maritime Day 2025. Globally, shipping carries around 80 per cent of world trade, and Minister Indar stressed that “The maritime sector in Guyana is [now] the most important generator of wealth in Guyana.” With the recent addition of four Floating Production Storage and Offloading Vessels (FPSOs), five drill ships, up to 70 ocean-going vessels, and other major supply ships, Guyana’s maritime industry is booming. The country recorded a 43.4 percent economic growth in 2024, with 10 percent growth expected for 2025. Minister Deodat Indar noted that president Ali has tasked the Maritime administration with making Guyana more competitive and advancing plans for a deepwater port in Berbice, supported by new roads and bridges linking Brazil. The facility will open Guyana further to regional and international markets. Opening Lines 7 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
efficiency across all maritime operations”, minister Indar said. Looking at global trends, minister Indar pointed out that “The maritime industry itself is on a growth trajectory, projected to exceed 4.2 trillion by 2031.” The minister praised seafarers, captains, port workers, and oil and gas professionals for their contributions to building a stronger, more resilient maritime economy. “We are mandated to make Guyana that place. That is why a deepwater port has been on the horizon,” the minister said. Minister Indar explained that deepening river channels for larger Panamax and post-Panamax ships will lower import costs, translating into reduced prices for consumers. Work is currently taking place to modernise Guyana’s regulatory laws that govern port facilities. “With a reformed port act put in place and the establishment of an independent port authority will ensure transparency, accountability, and world-class 8 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
Source: caribbeannewsglobal.com, Editor, First Published September 26th, 2025 Senior authorities from ministries and planning offices of the countries of the region will gather in Brasília on October 2-3, 2025, to participate in the Twentieth Meeting of the Regional Council for Planning of the Latin American and Caribbean Institute for Economic and Social Planning (ILPES). The meeting is organized by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and the government of Brazil, through the National Secretariat for Planning of the Ministry of Planning and Budget. The conference will open on Thursday, October 2 at 9:00 in Brasilia (GMT-3), bringing together ministers, deputy ministers and other senior authorities from the region’s countries, along with representatives of civil society and United Nations organizations, to discuss a document entitled Foundations for a planning and public management agenda for sustainable development in Latin America and the Caribbean. At this intergovernmental meeting, José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs, ECLAC’s executive secretary, will present the document Technical, operational, political and prospective (TOPP) capabilities for managing transformations: underpinnings of a new paradigm. This text fleshes out the concept of TOPP capabilities and their importance, not only for designing public policies but also for implementing them effectively, sustaining them over time, and adapting them to changing environments. The publication of both documents will set a new course for ILPES’s work on training, technical assistance, and research on planning and public AUTHORITIES WILL ANALYSE THE FOUNDATIONS FOR A PUBLIC PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT AGENDA FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN management for the next five years. In the framework of the 20th meeting of the Regional Council for Planning, the 19th Conference of Ministers and Heads of Planning of Latin America and the Caribbean will take place, with the aim of vanguard experiences on the practice, experience and prospects for planning in the region. On this occasion, three panel discussions will be held on institutional capabilities and cooperation for 9 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 OPENING LINES
implementing a regional agenda on planning and public management. Prior to the start of official activities, on Wednesday, October 1, a Session on foresight, anticipatory governance and a Pact for a Productive, Sustainable and Inclusive Future will be held. This session will present the state of the art in these areas, at a global level and in Latin America and the Caribbean, putting special emphasis on the Brazil 2050 Strategy. The Regional Council for Planning is the subsidiary body of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in charge of guiding the activities of the Latin American and Caribbean Institute for Economic and Social Planning (ILPES). It is made up of the main planning authorities from the United Nations regional commission’s member states. 10 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
Source: caribbeannewsglobal.com, Editor, First Published September 26th, 2025 In accordance with the Minister for Finance, Economic Development and the Youth Economy and Minister for Justice and National Security, Philip J Pierre, policy proposals to provide an increase in disposable incomes, per the 2025/26 budget allocation, the cabinet of ministers has assented in fulfilment of this commitment. The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) on Thursday announced that: “The department of the public service is currently processing submissions from agencies.This process is scheduled for completion by October 10, 2025, after which implementation steps will proceed.” The result of this means. All non-established government employees who are daily paid or classified as wage earners will be given permanent employment after two years. “Under the cabinet’s decision, this policy will apply to employees who have completed at least two years of continuous service. Once implemented, approximately 1,288 workers across government ministries, departments, and agencies are expected to benefit,” OPM added.“The cabinet’s approval reflects the government’s philosophy of fairness, dignity, and respect in work. It underscores a commitment to ensuring that those who serve the nation are properly recognised, supported, and empowered to move forward with greater stability.” In the interest of workers, fair wages and cost of living adjustments, the OPM continued: “For many years, these workers have served the government of Saint Lucia without the security of permanent status. With this approval, they will gain greater job security, recognition, and stability. Permanent status will also make it easier for workers to access loans, qualify for mortgages, and plan confidently for their families’ ST LUCIA ANNOUNCES PERMANENT ESTABLISHMEN OF NON-ESTABLISHED PUBLI SECTOR EMPLOYEES 11 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 OPENING LINES
NT IC 12 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
best practices IN CONSTRUCTION ANTHONY JAMES PLUMBING, MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED FROM CLASSROOM TO CARIBBEAN: HOW ONE TEACHER BUILT A MULTI-ISLAND PLUMBING BUSINESS IEDC ONLINE ARTICLE TRINIDAD MINISTRY OF PLANNING, ECONOMIC AFFAIRS, AND DEVELOPMENT ONLINE ARTICLE 13 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
HOME SOLUTIONS LIMITED CREATING THRIVING COMMUNITIES WHERE TRINIDAD’S MIDDLE CLASS CAN AFFORD TO LIVE 14 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
FROM CLASSROOM TO CARIBBEAN: HOW ONE TEACHE ISLAND PLUMBING ANTHONY JAMES PLUMBING, MAINTENANCE AT A GLANCE ANTHONY JAMES PLUMBING, MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED WHAT: F ull-service plumbing company operating across contracting, maintenance, and supply divisions, serving commercial, industrial, and residential clients with projects ranging from Parliament buildings to hotel installations WHERE: H eadquartered in Trinidad and Tobago WEBSITE: www.jamesplumbing.wordpress.com A 43-YEAR JOURNEY REVEALS HOW FAMILY VALUES TRANSFORM A LOCAL TRADE INTO A REGIONAL LEAD 15 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
ER BUILT A MULTIG BUSINESS E AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED In 1982, when Anthony James left his teaching career to launch a plumbing business with nothing but a Hillman Hunter car and determination, Trinidad and Tobago’s construction industry was vastly different from today’s sophisticated market. What began as one man’s leap from education to entrepreneurship has evolved into a cornerstone of the Caribbean plumbing sector, operating across multiple islands and serving clients from government ministries to five-star hotels. AND SMART TECHNOLOGY CAN DER. 16 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
“Anthony James Plumbing was founded by Anthony James, who is my dad. We’re a family business,” explains Anton James, the company’s current director. “He left teaching in 1982 and decided to go around with his Hillman Hunter, a popular car at the time, doing plumbing and maintenance. Then he got into bigger projects with the state and made his name in the private sector in Trinidad.”The transition from classroom to construction site proved prescient, positioning the company to capitalize on the nation’s infrastructure boom. Today’s Anthony James Plumbing is a member of the Trinidad & Tobago Contractors Association, operating from locations in Belmont and Tobago. The family structure remains intact with Anthony James as managing director and licensed plumber, his wife serving as director and company secretary, and their sons Anton and Brent handling different operational aspects.“We’ve done projects in Barbados, St. Lucia, and Grenada Hotels through Nicholas Development, including Radisson and Crown Plaza Hotel,” Anton notes, highlighting the company’s regional expansion beyond Trinidad’s 1.5 million population market into the broader Caribbean construction landscape. THREE PILLARS OF SUCCESS Anthony James Plumbing operates through three distinct business segments that have positioned the company as a comprehensive service provider in the Caribbean market. The contracting division handles major commercial and industrial projects, while maintenance services provide ongoing support, and a recently launched supply operation serves the broader plumbing community. “The operation is Anthony James Plumbing, and we do plumbing maintenance, plumbing contracting, and plumbing supply,”Anton explains.“The plumbing supply is a supply house that we’ve opened just over a year now in May 2024. That’s another business segment because we are looking at changes in the business environment and realizing that sometimes you’re a victim of your own success.” The supply division addresses a strategic challenge: as the company grew, it became less competitive for smaller projects but could now support emerging contractors who needed materials and guidance. 17 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 ANTHONY JAMES PLUMBING, MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIM
The contracting portfolio reads like a tour of Trinidad’s most significant infrastructure. “We’ve refurbished the Parliament, done the Government Campus Plaza buildings, which are 23-story towers including the Ministry of Legal Affairs and the TTIR Tower,” Anton details. “We’ve done the teaching hospital in San Fernando, refurbished sporting facilities like Dwight York Stadium in Tobago, the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, and Skinner Park facility.” These flagship projects point to the company’s capabilities in complex commercial plumbing systems, while the maintenance contracts with institutions like Parliament and RHAND Credit Union provide steady revenue streams that stabilize cash flow between major construction projects. TECH-FORWARD TRADITIONS Anthony James Plumbing has embraced digital transformation through FieldPoint software, a field service management platform that streamlines operations from work orders to inventory tracking. “We use FieldPoint service applications, and we’re happy with them. We’ve been using FieldPoint since 2021, which is one of the enhancements that came out of Covid,” Anton explains. “Even though COVID was so difficult, it was an opportunity for us to look and see where we could do better... And this is one of those areas.” “We can share information with the customer in real time. We can load up work orders, and our team doesn’t have to get a written work order from the office before they leave. They can pull it up and get a notification that says, ‘Okay, you have a new work order, we need you to get to this job, and this job is a priority.’ And then somebody at the office admin can even change it up and say, ‘okay, we need to reschedule this job,’ and that happens all in real time.” “We also have a rigid snake camera because here in the islands, we have to go and see what’s going on in sewage lines. So, we have that CCTV capacity as well. We have machines to clear any chokes, we use Pro Press coupling,” Anton notes. The marketing approach balances modern digital presence with traditional networking. “We have Anthony James Plumbing on Facebook and 18 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 MITED
Instagram, and we’re using the supply side to reverse engineer business for maintenance. People come to buy from the supply side and then say, ‘Hey, can somebody come install this for me?’ And we install that for them.” This hybrid strategy leverages their 43-year reputation while expanding reach through social media platforms. CULTURE, SAFETY & STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS The company’s internal culture centers on what Anton calls being “a family in service,” a philosophy that encompasses employee relations and supplier relationships. This approach aligns with industry trends where relationship-based partnerships help 19 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 ANTHONY JAMES PLUMBING, MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIM
smaller plumbing businesses compete against larger franchises, which command less than 5% of total market share despite their visibility. “We are a family in service and internally we want to invest in our people. Unlike any family, there are conflicts and disagreements, but there’s warmth and harmony and taking care of each other,” Anton explains. “People want to work with us because they know we are going to take care of you, we take care of each other, and they know that at the end of the day, this is family.” The company maintains connections with former employees who have started their own businesses. “I’ve had a call from that guy a couple of weeks ago saying, ‘Hey, do you have this material? Can I come buy it, or do you have this piece of equipment that you can lend to me?’ And it’s like, ‘Yeah, sure, it’s not in use.’” Safety protocols include job safety analyses and method statements, while the company provides uniforms and appropriate equipment for different tasks. The supplier network operates on similar relationship principles. “We are very relationshipbased.That family energy does not extend internally only, it’s also external,” Anton notes. Porters AgriIndustrial is a key partner. “That’s a company that deals with pumping info@watersourcett.com We deliver reliable, heavy-duty solutions for commercial applications. It is important to us that we work closely with our customers to find solutions that are tailored to their specific needs. Contact us today before starting your�next�project! 20 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 MITED
equipment, and they’ve done a lot of projects with us. They’ve done the Ministry of Legal Affairs with us, and they’ve always extended to us any technical assistance we need,” Anton explains. “If we have an issue with a pump and want to know what the best solution is, their engineers always recommend something to us. Or if we have reservations about performing and meeting the requirements of a building. Porters Agri was there to say, ‘Okay, listen, this is what we think needs to happen.’” The relationship has weathered financial challenges, with Porters providing extended credit facilities during cash flow difficulties on projects. “We definitely appreciate Charles Porter and his family, as it’s also a family business over there. But regarding pumping equipment and supplier support, he’s done a lot. And he’s been around as a supplier and a key part of our supply chain since I entered the business in 2008, so, it’s definitely a long-standing relationship that we’ll continue to move forward with.” PEOPLE, EQUIPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE Anthony James Plumbing’s capital allocation strategy focuses heavily on human resources development, mirroring broader industry challenges where skilled labor shortages affect plumbing companies globally. The company has expanded employee benefits significantly, moving beyond basic compensation to comprehensive support packages that address healthcare and professional development needs. “For this fiscal year, we are investing in our people. We are adding a fringe benefit when you work, we will add extra money to your pay packet as a bonus because we appreciate attendance. We’re adding group healthcare because we understand that for people, their health is their wealth,” Anton explains. The training investments include formal education support.“I’ve just had a member of staff embark on an introductory project management course that the company sponsored. So, we are really making an effort to invest in our people.” Equipment expansion targets the growing maintenance segment, which provides consistent cash flow between larger projects. “We are 21 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 ANTHONY JAMES PLUMBING, MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIM
experiencing growth in our maintenance segment of the business, and we intend to invest in another self-contained maintenance vehicle so that we are more responsive to customers because we have locked in a few contracts with KPIs that include a response time of two hours from the trouble call,” Anton notes. The supply division is also receiving equipment upgrades. “We want to add fabrication services where customers give us measurements and we will thread it, groove it for you, and charge you accordingly for that service.” REGIONAL AMBITIONS & MANUFACTURING DREAMS Anthony James Plumbing’s future strategy capitalizes on Trinidad and Tobago’s position as the second largest consumer market in the English-speaking Caribbean, with plans to become a regional supply hub. The company aims to leverage partnerships with international suppliers to serve the broader Caribbean construction market. “In the next two to five years, we are making a big thrust on the plumbing supply side of our business. We are going to service suppliers to the Caribbean region, and we are going to do that through partnerships with our US suppliers and international suppliers,” Anton explains. This regional expansion will be personally led by Anton himself, indicating the strategic importance of this initiative.The maintenance services will also expand with more aggressive pursuit of private sector contracts. “We want to continue to get proposals especially in the private sector to provide plumbing services in terms of preventative maintenance on a fortnightly or monthly basis.” The long-term vision includes manufacturing capabilities that would capitalize on Trinidad’s strategic shipping location. “One of our longerterm goals is that Anthony James Plumbing as a group would look into manufacturing some type of plumbing part, maybe simple gaskets for your toilet or something like that. Because Trinidad and Tobago is a really nice place in terms of shipping, so if we can get manufacturing done, we can ship to the world,” Anton reveals. “But that is a long-term goal, like a five-to-ten-year plan.” 22 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 MITED
23 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 ANTHONY JAMES PLUMBING, MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIM
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n The Water Source Limited www.watersourcett.com From a single teacher’s entrepreneurial leap in 1982 to a multi-faceted Caribbean operation with manufacturing aspirations,Anthony James Plumbing exemplifies how family businesses can evolve while maintaining their foundational values, adapting to market changes through strategic diversification and technological adoption. 24 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 MITED
CREATING THRIVING COM TRINIDAD’S MIDDLE CLA HOME SOLUTIONS LIMITED AT A GLANCE HOME SOLUTIONS LIMITED WHAT: R eal estate developer specializing in middle-class housing communities, offering integrated services from land acquisition to community management WHERE: T rinidad and Tobago WEBSITE: www.homesolutionstt.com 25 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
MMUNITIES WHERE ASS CAN AFFORD TO LIVE In 2003, when Venezuelan real estate developers gathered with Trinidad and Tobago government officials around a business roundtable to discuss Vision 2020’s national housing development plan, few could have predicted the lasting impact of one rejected proposal. While the official framework ultimately excluded their initial ideas, Luis Dini, CEO of Home Solutions, saw something the bureaucrats missed: a powerful opportunity to transform middle-class housing in the twin-island nation. “We saw something greater; a powerful opportunity to uplift the middle class, drive innovation, and champion affordable housing,” Dini explains.The Venezuelan CEO had identified a critical gap in Trinidad’s housing market that persists today. With 191,000 people currently on the Housing Development Corporation’s waiting list, the need for private sector intervention has never been more urgent. Where government projects target low-income housing and private developments cater to the wealthy, Home HOW LUIS DINI’S COMPANY FOUND THE HOUSING SWEET SPOT BETWEEN GOVERNMENT PROJECTS FOR THE POOR AND LUXURY DEVELOPMENTS FOR THE WEALTHY 26 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
Solutions caters to the neglected middle ground. The company’s debut project in Lange Park, Chaguanas, was pivotal.The Point represented a bold experiment in lifestyle-driven, affordable community living using innovative building technologies. “The Point became a bold step forward, not only in construction technology but also in redefining lifestyle-driven, affordable community living,” Dini reflects. All 96 homes sold successfully, proving that Trinidad’s middle class was hungry for quality housing options that balanced affordability with modern amenities. This early success established the foundation for what would become an enduring legacy. 16 COMMUNITIES, 1,700+ HOMES From Legacy’s modest 23 residences to the ambitious 512-apartment East Lake North development currently under construction, Home Solutions has methodically built its reputation one community at a time. The portfolio covers Trinidad’s landscape, from Cara Court’s 94 apartments to the expansive East Lake’s 286 homes, each project reinforcing what Dini calls the company’s “Tradition of Trust.” “We don’t just build structures, we build futures,” Dini emphasizes. “By guiding communities beyond construction into self-sustained management, we help foster security, pride, and long-term value for families and neighborhoods alike.” This philosophy includes community cultivation, addressing Trinidad’s housing crisis through private sector innovation while government capacity remains constrained at 4,000 units annually. The numbers tell a compelling story of consistent growth. Major developments like North Hills delivered 144 apartments, while newer projects such as Lotus added 96 units to Endeavour, Chaguanas. East Lake North’s two phases are the company’s largest undertaking, with Phase 1’s 256 apartments completed and Phase 2 matching that scale. Each project builds on lessons learned from previous developments, incorporating feedback from residents and adapting to market demands. “Every home is a promise of quality, and every development represents our unwavering standards,” architect Craig Kristofer Daniel observes.The diverse portfolio includes everything from Q-Belmont’s intimate 28 apartments to Pine Place’s 48 units, showing Home Solutions’ ability to scale projects appropriately for different markets and locations. With over 2.5 million square feet developed across Trinidad, the company has proven its capacity to deliver consistently while maintaining the personal touch that distinguishes it from larger, established competitors. 27 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 HOME SOLUTIONS LIMITED
THE COMMUNITY CREATOR MODEL Home Solutions operates fundamentally differently from traditional developers, handling multiple development facets with an integrated team supported by expert local consultants. This comprehensive approach eliminates the typical fragmentation that plagues construction projects, where multiple contractors and subcontractors often work at cross-purposes. “We are more than developers, we are community creators,” Dini explains. “Our approach integrates everything from landowner agreements, concept design, permitting, and construction to the sales and promotion of each unit, all handled by our dedicated team.” This one-stop model addresses a persistent complaint in Trinidad’s construction industry, where projects frequently stall due to coordination failures between different service providers. 28 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
The company’s philosophy encompasses long-term community sustainability. Rather than walking away after the last unit sells, Home Solutions guides new developments through the critical transition period when residents must organize themselves into functioning communities. This hands-on approach helps establish homeowner associations, security protocols, and maintenance systems that preserve property values over time. “We want to provide a one-stop solution for housing needs,” Dini states. “From conception to sales, marketing, engineering and construction, we want to do it all and reduce headaches.” The strategy has proven particularly effective in Trinidad’s middleincome market, where buyers often lack the time or expertise to coordinate multiple service providers. Daniel adds that this integrated approach allows for seamless design modifications during construction, keeping customers satisfied while maintaining project timelines. The model has helped Home Solutions maintain its customer service reputation, with many clients returning for second homes or referring family members. EXCELLENCE THROUGH INNOVATION Home Solutions has transformed from a small Venezuelan startup into a sophisticated operation 29 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 HOME SOLUTIONS LIMITED
employing streamlined construction systems and industrialized practices across Trinidad’s challenging regulatory landscape. The company’s evolution exemplifies careful adaptation to local conditions while maintaining the technological edge that initially distinguished it from established competitors. “Innovation and thoughtful design are at the heart of every decision we make,” Daniel notes. “Every home is a promise of quality, and every development a commitment to integrity, professionalism, and excellence.”This philosophy has guided the company through 2.5 million square feet of development, establishing reliable partnerships with both local and international suppliers that ensure consistent material quality and delivery schedules. The company’s human capital strategy sets it apart in Trinidad’s construction sector. “Our team, many of whom have grown with us over the years, receive ongoing training and mentorship, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the housing sector,” Dini explains. Several employees have advanced to become partners and directors, creating institutional knowledge that competitors struggle to replicate. This internal promotion culture addresses a common industry challenge where experienced construction professionals frequently move between companies. Strong banking sector support has enabled Home Solutions to offer financing solutions that make homeownership accessible to middle-class families. Trinidad’s liquid banking environment, combined with the Central Bank’s efforts to keep mortgage rates competitive, creates favorable conditions for Serving a broad client base, we are committed to quality, reliability, and safety—delivering tailored solutions that drive project success and long-term partnerships. Advance Aggregate Company Limited is a leading provider of integrated construction services, specializing in the supply and transport of premium aggregates, heavy equipment rental, and site preparation. ADVANCE AAREGATE: EXCEEENCE IN CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS
first-time buyers.The Trinidad and Tobago Mortgage Finance Company offers 2% fixed rates for loans under TT$1.5 million, directly benefiting Home Solutions’ target market. “Long-term financing solutions empower more families to become homeowners, secure their future, and contribute to a growing economy,” Dini observes. EXPANSION AND GROWTH Home Solutions is poised for significant expansion with over 1,200 additional housing units in the pipeline, characterizing the company’s most ambitious growth phase since its 2003 establishment. The development schedule reflects both market confidence and the company’s proven ability to deliver projects on time and within budget. “We’re actively working to expand our proven model to neighboring islands, bringing our vision of community living to new shores,” Dini reveals. This regional expansion strategy positions Home Solutions to capitalize on Caribbean-wide housing (868) 298-8956 SPC Vinyl Flooring 31 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 HOME SOLUTIONS LIMITED
demand while diversifying beyond Trinidad’s market. The recent City Heights project exemplifies Home Solutions’ evolving sophistication. The 90-unit San Fernando development, built in partnership with the Furness Group and government agencies, showcases the company’s ability to organize complex stakeholder relationships while maintaining its core focus on middle-class housing. Units priced between TT$1.2 million and TT$1.5 million target first-time buyers and young professionals, addressing the sweet spot in Trinidad’s housing market. “Today, we’re proud that many of our team members have risen to become partners and directors, creating a legacy of leadership from within,” Dini notes. This internal advancement signifies maturation from a Venezuelan startup into a Caribbean institution. Technology integration remains central to future plans, with cutting-edge construction methods and digital project management systems enhancing efficiency. Daniel observes that government offices increasingly recognize the importance of accessible GOING BEYOND BLOCKS AND MORTAR Building Together, Positively Impacting Lives. TCL celebrates Luis Dini’s excellence in the East Lakes and other housing projects. Together with Home Solutions Limited, we’re building more than homes — we’re creating lasting value and brighter futures for Trinidad & Tobago. 32 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
housing, creating a supportive environment for continued private sector involvement in addressing Trinidad’s 191,000-person housing waitlist. MISSION REALIZED: COMMUNITIES THAT THRIVE Home Solutions’ success ultimately rests on relationships that persist, with many clients returning for second homes or enthusiastically referring others. “We take great pride in the trust our clients place in us, many returning for second homes or referring friends and family,” Dini observes. “That kind of loyalty inspires us every single day.” The company maintains a customer service philosophy that prioritizes reasonable problemsolving over rigid contract enforcement.“We always approach things from a reasonable point of view. If you have a problem with something and demonstrate that problem from a reasonable point of view, we will fix that problem,” Dini explains. This approach has generated organic growth through word-of-mouth recommendations, particularly valuable in Trinidad’s close-knit communities where reputation spreads quickly. Home Solutions’ impact shows in broader economic development. Each project creates 33 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 HOME SOLUTIONS LIMITED
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Advance Aggregate advanceaggregate@gmail.com Advance Aggregate: Excellence in Construction Solutions. Advance Aggregate Company Limited is a leading provider of integrated construction services, specializing in the supply and transport of premium aggregates, heavy equipment rental, and site preparation. Serving a broad client base, we are committed to quality, reliability, and safety—delivering tailored solutions that drive project success and long-term partnerships. n FloorsWD www.floorswdtt.com FloorsWD Ltd. is a trusted provider of highquality SPC vinyl flooring, rubber flooring, and mouldings in the Caribbean. We offer expert guidance, exceptional service, and have the capacity to support large projects efficiently while maintaining competitive pricing for residential and commercial spaces. n Trinidad Cement Limited (TCL) www.tcl.co.tt The TCL Group is a leading manufacturer and supplier of cement across the Caribbean, shaping the region’s growth and infrastructural development. The Group leverages the expertise of its global parent company, Cemex, and regional partnerships to deliver innovative solutions to serve the evolving needs of the industry. For TCL, partnerships are not only the foundation of successful projects—they are essential to fostering innovation, resilience, and shared progress across the Caribbean. employment opportunities at multiple skill levels, from construction workers to project managers, contributing to Trinidad’s economic diversification beyond oil and gas. The company’s focus on middle-class housing addresses a critical gap that government programs cannot fill, while its community management approach ensures longterm property value preservation. As Trinidad and Tobago continues evolving its housing landscape, Home Solutions has established itself as more than a developer. The company exemplifies how private sector innovation can address public challenges while building sustainable business success. With expansion plans underway and a pipeline exceeding 1,200 units, Dini’s original vision of uplifting the middle class through quality housing continues driving the company forward, one community at a time. 34 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS PORTS AUTHORITY MODERNIZING OPERATIONS ACROSS CARIBBEAN ARCHIPELAGO best practices IN SUPPLY CHAIN AND LOGISTICS 35 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
36 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
MODERNIZING O ACROSS CARIBB ARCHIPELAGO BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS PORTS AUTHORITY AT A GLANCE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS PORTS AUTHORITY (BVIPA) WHAT: M aritime authority managing seven seaports including cargo, ferry, and cruise facilities across the archipelago WHERE: B ritish Virgin Islands WEBSITE: www.bviports.org FROM AI-ENHANCED SECURITY SYSTEMS TO MILLION-VISITOR CRUISE OPERATIONS, THE BVI PORTS AUTHORITY ADAPTS TRADITIONAL MARITIME MANAGEMENT TO SERVE A COMPLEX 60-ISLAND ECONOMY 37 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
OPERATIONS BEAN Y The British Virgin Islands’ economy depends on a network of seven seaports scattered across an archipelago of more than 60 islands and cays. At the helm of this maritime empire is Dean Fahie, Deputy Managing Director of the BVI Ports Authority, whose operational purview encompasses everything from the 1,312-foot cruise pier that welcomes ships carrying up to 180,000 gross registered tons to the intricate web of navigation aids that guide vessels safely through Caribbean waters. 38 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
“My scope involves our operations department, which primarily handles the berthing of ships, the cargo management of cargo that comes into the BVI, our security team that manage the entire facilities of the port and also our marine department that deal with all our navigation aids and berthing of vessels at our facilities,” Fahie explains. His responsibilities also include maintenance teams across the territory’s port infrastructure. The scale of operations under Fahie’s oversight becomes clear when examining the numbers. Port Purcell, the authority’s main cargo facility, can simultaneously accommodate 10 ships along its 244-meter quay front. The facility’s six acres of paved container storage area and 6.7-meter depth capability make it a critical gateway for goods flowing into the territory. Meanwhile, the cruise operations have proven their significance with the BVI achieving a milestone in 2024 by welcoming over 1.09 million visitors, marking only the second time since 2016 that the territory has exceeded the one million visitor mark. SECURITY IN THE DIGITAL AGE Port security has evolved dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated technology adoption across maritime operations. The BVI Ports Authority operates within a global environment where cybersecurity threats have become increasingly sophisticated, with industry experts warning that 2025 will bring AI-driven attacks, ransomware, and vulnerabilities in operational technology systems. For Fahie, this reality translates into continuous adaptation of security protocols across all port facilities. “Constantly at present now we’re looking at training our security staff, updating them in terms of various aspects of security,” Fahie says. “In terms of AI, we are looking at different areas in which we can assist our security team or help the security team be more effective in terms of monitoring and securing all facilities. We have not fully opened up to that process yet, but we are looking at areas that we can go into for the future.” The authority maintains a structured approach to security preparedness.“We have training beginning as always next month in some areas to update our security staff, keep them abreast of the threats that are there for various port facilities and to ensure that our security staff are adequately equipped to deal with the issues that may arise at various points of interest,” Fahie explains. Cybersecurity is a parallel front in the authority’s 39 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS PORTS AUTHORITY
security strategy. “We do have an IT team on staff that is actually looking at our cybersecurity to ensure that if we do have any attack that we are safeguarded from any threats and also ensure we are safeguarded from any threats that may seek to get into our system,” Fahie notes.“That is something that we’re pursuing very effectively to ensure that doesn’t happen, and our IT team are staying on top of that.” FROM SUPPLY CHAIN RECOVERY TO SAFE NAVIGATION The global supply chain disruptions that plagued maritime operations during the pandemic have largely subsided across BVI’s ports, according to Fahie’s assessment of current cargo flows. Where once delays and shortages dominated shipping schedules, the territory now experiences markedly 40 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
CONNECTING VISITORS WITH THE CULTURE, BEAUTY, AND SPIRIT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS. CONTACT (284) 340-3692 DARRELLFAHIE@EPTBVI.COM
STEADFAST THROUGH CHANGE In the ever-shifting world of Caribbean cruise tourism, consistency is not easy to come by. Elroy’s Cruise Line & Tour Agency Limited has weathered storms both literal and figurative—from hurricanes that reshaped the Virgin Islands to the global pause brought on by the pandemic. Through it all, the company has remained a staple of the industry: a trusted partner for cruise lines and a familiar name for thousands of guests who step ashore each year. Founded more than two decades ago as a small family business, Elroy’s Cruise Line & Tour Agency Limited began with one safari bus and a commitment to treat every guest as though they were being welcomed into the community. That principle has not changed. What has evolved is the company’s reach: today, Elroy’s operates a fleet of vehicles and vessels, supports a growing team of guides and drivers, and manages a diverse catalogue of tours that reflect both the beauty and culture of the Virgin Islands. The company’s portfolio ranges from scenic drives and cultural encounters to more adventurous experiences such as self-drive Jeep and boat excursions. Each tour is designed to offer something distinct while balancing the need to manage visitor flow responsibly. Over the years, Elroy’s has shown that growth does not need to come at the expense of sustainability. By introducing alternatives like Virgin Gorda Escape (Spring Bay) and expanding into less-frequented areas such as East End and Beef Island, the company has helped ease pressure on iconic sites while uncovering new stories for guests to discover. What distinguishes Elroy’s Cruise Line & Tour Agency Limited is not only the tours themselves but the manner in which they are delivered. Reliability, punctuality, and cultural storytelling remain central. The company views each cruise call as an opportunity to showcase the Virgin Islands’ best qualities while ensuring that guests leave with both memories and respect for the destination. Looking ahead, Elroy’s Cruise Line & Tour Agency Limited sees opportunity not in rapid reinvention but in steady progression—strengthening its fleet, expanding its adventure offerings, and continuing to spread tourism’s economic benefits across wider communities.The company knows that the future will bring both challenges and opportunities, just as the past has. What remains certain is that Elroy’s Cruise Line & Tour Agency Limited will continue to stand firm as a cornerstone of the cruise tourism landscape, guided by experience, resilience, and a deep connection to the islands it calls home.
improved reliability in goods movement.This recovery positions the BVI favorably within a Caribbean region where port handling charges remain two to three times higher than similar facilities globally. “Things have gotten a lot better since COVID. We have seen major disruptions in our supply chain, but since COVID we have seen things have gotten much better. Our supplies are coming in on time, on schedule,” Fahie reports. “We have also seen an increase in high demand for goods to be brought into the territory. And as of now we have not seen too much of a delay; there are actually rarely any delays in stuff coming in.” The authority has implemented digital solutions to streamline cargo collection processes, addressing inefficiencies that beset many Caribbean ports. “We are trying to ensure that on the goods that are entering into the territory, people can get them as quickly as possible,” Fahie explains.“We are looking at a number of areas in terms of software that persons can pay online, that they can log into our system to make sure that their goods are ready to be collected, or we will send them a notice saying your goods are ready to be collected, so they can come and collect, pay online, and the process at our facility will be seamless and much more quicker and efficient.” “We are also always ensuring that our navigation aids are working. If they do need to be repaired, we take them out, put down something temporarily, but we always make sure that there is always some marker or aid there that ships can move in and out of our waters without any problems,” he adds. While the authority explores technological solutions for navigation enhancement, Fahie acknowledges they “haven’t found any solutions as yet” but remain “always open to anyone who’s willing to offer something that we can look at.” INFRASTRUCTURE, INVESTMENT, AND TOURISM The BVI Ports Authority functions as a critical economic enabler for a territory where tourism and financial services generate the bulk of government revenues. With the BVI achieving over one million visitors in 2024, including 768,293 cruise passengers, 43 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS PORTS AUTHORITY
the ports have proven their capacity to handle significant traffic volumes while supporting broader economic growth across key sectors. “I would probably say that it is similar, slightly not a major increase,” Fahie says when assessing current economic conditions. “Our role is to ensure that we have the facility to ensure that whenever there’s room for improvement or development, that we are there to ensure that it grows, it is developed. But there are a number of areas that need to be addressed in terms of economic development.” The authority positions itself strategically to accommodate economic expansion through infrastructure readiness. “Primarily we are here to ensure that as a gateway to the BVI, whatever comes in comes through our facility. We are making sure that we adequately equip ourselves and we adequately have sufficient areas or space so that if we have an influx of containers, for example, we can add free housing. If there’s a demand from a ship to do additional work, we must ensure that we are ready and in a position to assist,” Fahie explains. Construction materials are the most significant growth sector flowing through the ports, indicating ongoing recovery and development efforts.“Primarily, I think we’re still seeing some development in construction even after the hurricane. Portions are still making several construction repairs, but that’s where we see mostly development in construction. So, we see a lot of building material coming in,” Fahie notes. “Food supplies are constantly coming in as well, containerized cargo coming in on a regular basis.” Capital investment priorities focus heavily on expanding cargo handling capabilities and enhancing security infrastructure. “We have been refurbishing our various warehouses to ensure that we have sufficient space to accommodate the influx of cargo that we’ve seen. We’ve been building a new hazmat warehouse to deal with all our hazmat goods that are coming into the territory, so they are isolated from the regular cargo,” Fahie asserts. Tourism infrastructure plays an equally vital role in economic development. “I feel that the role that 44 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09
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