Preparations for Expo ’98 in full swing

It was first known as the Festival Grand Market and year after year, thousands of Belizeans flocked to the grounds of the Belize Technical College to check out what the business community had to offer. Three years ago, however, the show underwent a massive transformation, but the fundamental objectives remained the same. Jacqueline Woods reports.

Over sixty-five Belizean companies have signed up to take part in Expo ’98. According to Kevin Herrera, General Manager of Belize Chamber of Commerce, the two-day show will bombard visitors with an array of locally produced goods and services.

Kevin Herrera, General Manager, B.C.C.

“We need events such as these in Belize to showcase what Belize has in Belize and believe me, many of our products are very, very good. And we have to encourage our producers and those for providing such services within Belize, that to continue improving, striving for excellence.”

Next weekend’s show at the S.J.C. Gymnasium, will be the third to take place since it replaced the Festival Grand Market in 1995. Herrera says besides having displays from insurance companies, the banks, agriculture and furniture companies, Expo ’98 will also be a family affair, as there will be some added attractions for the children.

Kevin Herrera

“A horseback riding during the day. We have rides for the kids, children and we have several of those, along with the steel band that will be there on Sunday. We have music all during the day and we have prizes, gate prizes, raffles, so it is a complete package. It will be extremely interesting for those who come out and we are expecting that this will be the biggest yet.”

To get into Expo ’98, there will be a cover charge of two dollars for adults and one dollar for children. Jacqueline Woods for News Five.

Expo ’98, which is being organized by the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will be held on September twelfth and thirteenth.