Big companies pump $$$ into GuyExpo

Ansa-McalGeorgetown: During a symbolic handing over ceremony at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, ANSA McAL Limited; Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T); E-Networks; Digicel Guyana; Corum Distribution; Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL); Shangri-La; and Global Technology pledged more than $15 million to the hosting of the Guyana Trade Fair and Exposition (GuyExpo).

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali applauded the longstanding supporters and even those such as Corum Distribution and Shangri-La that are contributing for the very first time. The funds will be used to ensure the successful hosting of GuyExpo 2014.

Though their contributions varied in amount, the contributors had one thing in common, they all praised GuyExpo, as one of the most successful trade fairs in the Caribbean. According to the corporate donors, the annual event creates the perfect opening for the business community to have firsthand interaction with the masses.

ANSA McAL Public Relations Officer Darshanie Yusuf said the Trinidadian conglomerate is once again capitalising on a great opportunity to promote its wide collection of products to the Guyanese populace. “We see GuyExpo as an excellent opportunity to meet old and new customers who are often times eager to learn about what we have to offer. It allows for that one-on-one interaction,” Yusuf told reporters minutes after handing over the symbolic cheque of $2.6 million to Minister Ali.

During the four-day exposition, which is set to commence on Thursday with a grand opening ceremony, ANSA McAL will have on show its “House” in which all of its products will be highlighted. Additionally, there will be an ANSA McAL Beverage sector. “We are also going to have a STAG Regional Night on Sunday where we’ll be bringing two artistes from Trinidad and Tobago to perform on stage,” the PRO added. In addition to the $2.6 million, given to the Ministry, ANSA McAL is utilising some $3 million to get ready for the grand fair.

GT&T pledged $3 million to the exposition. The company, which was described by Minister Ali as one of the most dynamic sponsors, said it was present since the commencement of GuyExpo back in 1994 at the North Ruimveldt Multilateral School and will continue to offer its support.

During this year’s trade fair, GT&T will be promoting its DSL Services. At the GT&T Village, spectators would have access to free wifi, in addition to great opportunities that can see them walking away with fascinating prices.

Global Technology contributed $1 million. According to the Chief Executive Officer George Melville, Global Technology would be participating in GuyExpo for the fifth time. “The response encourages us to come back every year,” Melville told reporters during a brief interview. He pointed out that during this year’s exposition, Global Technology would be promoting Satellite Technology while simultaneously promoting its goods and services. He said the company now reaches far-flung communities.

Banks DIH; Courts Guyana Inc; Continental Group of Companies; the National Communications Network (NCN); Impressions and Party Rentals are among other sponsors of this year’s exposition.