The Tribune

The Bahamas Hotel Association (BHA), on the eve of its 60th anniversary, has disclosed that it is changing its name to the Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA).

“The success of the BHA has been through partnerships. Tourism is far reaching in its effect on economies, countries and industries. Adding the ‘T’ to the name allows the BHA to engage all of the stakeholders who assist in the guest experience,” said Stuart Bowe, BHTA president.

“We are very proud of the partnerships in our past, especially the ones with the Government, the Ministry of Tourism, Promotion Boards and tourism related stakeholders. We recognise that everyone who participates in the industry is vital to the overall customer experience.”

Through its allied membership, the BHTA has always reserved a space for tourism partners. The growth in its allied membership has consistently outpaced hotel membership within the organisation.

This year, allied members will elect their first vice-president to sit on the BHTA’s executive committee in 2013, advocating for their interests in the organization’s governance.

“The Caribbean on the whole is moving in this direction, because of the expanding effect of adding allied members. It is a natural move considering our allied members are growing faster than others. It recognises that the industry is far deeper than hotels. The broader membership – inclusive of airlines, ground transportation, tour operators, restaurants, wholesalers, insurance companies, credit unions – provides a greater voice when advocating on behalf of the industry,” said Mr Bowe.

This Friday morning, the BHTA will also hold its 60th Annual General Meeting (AGM), where it will unveil the organisation’s new logo and release a document that chronicles the history of the organization and the industry.

“For the first time we will share the full story about BHA; it’s historical role, the range of activities it engages in, and how all that parallels with the development of our industry and our young nation. It’s fascinating and we believe will create a broader appreciation for the organisation, its industry partners, the Ministry of Tourism and other stakeholders. It’s a tribute to the work of many in our nation who have built our industry”, said Mr Bowe.

Early in 2013, BHTA will embark on a strategic planning exercise that will chart a course for the organisation over the next five to 10 years.

“We must continue to change with the times as well as seek to change the times,” said Mr Bowe. “I’m hoping that 60 years from now the leaders then will look back at us and appreciate that, like our predecessors, we too have created new building blocks which would have propelled the industry and the nation to greater heights.“

A celebration ball will be held on Friday at Atlantis, where industry leaders will be joined by the Prime Minister, the Minister of Tourism and other members and dignitaries.

The BHA`s significance, its past, and its broadening future role is being underscored by the Prime Minister, who has issued a Proclamation commending the organisation and declaring the week of November 25 as ‘Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association Week’.