BCCI welcomes Subway franchise

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Date AddedSeptember 07, 2009 10:59:33 PM

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IN A statement issued yesterday, the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) noted that it does not object to the recent application made for the Subway franchise to enter the local market.
Conceding that the policy regarding foreign franchises has been "somewhat inconsistent over the years" the BCCI noted that "competition, customer service or customer preferences have dictated how the various franchises which were given entry, have succeeded".
The private sector body went on to note that "as a tourist destination, Barbados should not be adopting a hard rule which denies the entry of foreign franchises. While visitors should be encouraged to sample our local delicacies and dishes they should not be restricted from enjoying fast food or restaurant brands well known in the international arena".
Asserting that opening the market to foreign franchises can only enhance Barbados' tourism product, they noted that several indigenous fast food products and restaurants and challenged these businesses to be "confident that their quality of service, product and prices will allow them to compete with any other entity in the market".
Finally, they urged Government to "ensure that there is a level playing field for all involved".
Alfundi Investments Limited, a local company, has applied for the operation of the Subway franchise in Barbados. A Government notice on July 10 this year indicated that persons objecting to a licence being granted for the operation of the business, should do no later than August 15.
Last week, three local businesses voiced their objections, with their reasoning ranging from competition and lower prices to the sourcing of foreign inputs to be used in the menus.