Continuing its initiative to support local businesses, Baha Mar officials announced yesterday that they have awarded to date in excess of $615 million in local contracts to more than 400 contractors.
The $3.5 billion resort development had initially committed to awarding some $400 million in contracts to Bahamian contractors, but has already far exceeded that commitment, said executives.
According to company officials, Baha Mar has used local companies to provide many of the supplies that have been critical to the construction of the resort.
Rather than importing all of the materials needed for the construction of the resort's four hotels and numerous buildings on the property, Baha Mar has sourced vast quantities of supplies, such as concrete blocks and fencing, from local manufacturers.
Nine miles of hotel balcony railings - the equivalent of 28 basketball courts - have also been manufactured by local businesses.
"We have built strong relationships with many local suppliers who have provided high quality service and products over the three years since we celebrated the groundbreaking," said Paul Pusateri, Baha Mar's chief operating officer. "We are delivering on our promise to provide opportunities for local businesses and grow the economy. Our relationship with hundreds of Bahamian companies from many industries is key to transforming The Bahamas."
Company officials added that while local vendors fill an important role in Baha Mar's construction requirements, materials to furnish the resort such as furniture, fittings and equipment are being imported on schedule for the resort's opening in December.
Last week, officials at the Nassau Container Port noted that imports coming through the port associated with Baha Mar had not yet reached levels that were anticipated by this stage of the resort's development.

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