FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BUSINESS LEADERS TO EXPLORE PATHWAYS TO LONG-TERM PROSPERITY AT 18TH ANNUAL ANDROS BUSINESS OUTLOOK

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – As Andros faces growing opportunities in tourism, entrepreneurship, conservation and investment, business leaders, policymakers, tourism stakeholders and residents will gather on Mangrove Cay on Thursday, June 18, 2026, for the 18th Annual Andros Business Outlook under the theme, “Strengthening Foundations for Long-Term Prosperity.”

The event, to be held at Swain’s Cay Lodge, will feature a keynote address by Hon. Leon Lundy, MP for Central, Mangrove Cay and South Andros and Minister of Transport.

Recognized as the largest island in The Bahamas and home to some of the country’s most significant natural assets, Andros boasts world-renowned bonefishing flats, extensive blue hole systems, vast marine and terrestrial ecosystems and a growing eco-tourism sector. Participants will examine how these assets can be leveraged to create sustainable economic opportunities while preserving the island’s unique character and way of life.

Discussions will focus on tourism development, transportation connectivity, entrepreneurship, environmental sustainability, workforce development and opportunities for greater Bahamian participation in the island’s economic growth.

Cheryl Bastian, owner of Swain’s Cay Lodge, said she is proud to host the event and believes it provides an important platform to elevate Andros’ profile while addressing key issues affecting the island.

“We are very proud to host the Andros Business Outlook at Swain’s Cay Lodge. We believe we are a strong example of a Bahamian-owned hotel that has earned international recognition through exceptional service and authentic hospitality,” Bastian said.

“Hosting the Outlook gives us an opportunity to discuss how we can strengthen Andros’ economy, address challenges and bring greater recognition to the island. As the largest island in The Bahamas, known as the Big Yard, Andros deserves greater attention and investment.”

She added: “This event brings together the people who can help shape the future of Andros. We often feel overlooked, but this is an opportunity to highlight both the challenges we face and the tremendous opportunities that exist throughout our communities.”

A major focus of this year’s Outlook will be tourism and its role in driving long-term economic growth across Andros. Industry leaders will examine strategies to improve air connectivity, strengthen visitor demand, expand eco-tourism opportunities and increase local ownership within the sector.

Kerry Fountain, Executive Director of the Bahama Out Islands Promotion Board, said the conference theme aligns closely with efforts to expand tourism opportunities while protecting the island’s natural and cultural assets.

“Andros possesses some of the strongest tourism growth opportunities in The Bahamas because of its unmatched natural environment, world-class fishing, eco-tourism experiences and authentic Bahamian character,” Fountain said.

“The challenge and opportunity before us is ensuring that future tourism growth is supported by improved accessibility, sustainable planning and meaningful participation by local communities. The Outlook provides an ideal forum to discuss how we achieve those objectives.”

Fountain noted that invitations have been extended to several tourism industry leaders to participate in a panel discussion on the future of tourism in Andros.

The proposed panel includes Dr. Kenneth Romer, Deputy Director General of Tourism and Director of Aviation, who will discuss national tourism policy, aviation development and Andros’ role within the country’s broader tourism strategy; Sarah Swainson, Director of Business Development at Makers Air, who will discuss airlift, affordability and future route opportunities; Bryan Baeumler, owner of Caerula Mar Club, who will provide insights into visitor demand and destination development; and a representative of the Bahamas National Trust, who will discuss balancing economic growth with the protection of Andros’ globally significant natural resources.

Joel Moxey, a sustainable tourism consultant participating in the event, said discussions should focus on ensuring that economic growth translates into meaningful benefits for Bahamians.

“We have to focus on creating economic sovereignty, where development is felt by local people and where growth improves lives, creates opportunities and strengthens communities,” Moxey said.

“It doesn’t make sense to celebrate economic growth if working people don’t experience the benefits. Success should be measured by whether people have greater opportunities to build wealth, access quality services and improve their overall quality of life.”

Moxey also emphasized the importance of expanding local ownership and entrepreneurship.

“We welcome investment, but we must create opportunities for Bahamians to become owners, investors and entrepreneurs rather than simply participants in the labour force. Sustainable development must benefit both current and future generations.”

Joan Albury, President and CEO of The Counsellors Ltd., said one of the Outlook’s key discussions will focus on ensuring Bahamians are positioned to benefit from growing sectors such as fly fishing and eco-tourism.

“We need to be intentional about creating ownership opportunities for Bahamians and ensuring that local businesses have access to the resources they need to grow and compete,” Albury said.

“Fly fishing and eco-tourism are areas where Andros has tremendous advantages. As investment continues to grow, we must ensure Bahamians remain active participants and beneficiaries in the industry’s future.”

Albury said the Outlook will provide an opportunity to examine both opportunities and challenges facing the sector while identifying practical solutions for sustainable growth.

The Andros Business Outlook serves as a premier forum for discussion, networking and collaboration, bringing together public and private sector stakeholders to examine issues affecting the island’s future. The event highlights Andros’ economic potential while promoting investment, innovation and sustainable development.

For registration and additional information, visit tclevents.com or contact Margaret Albury at 322-1000 or malbury@tclbahamas.com.