13 September 2007
Economic Development Department and Jersey Harbours establish joint initiative at Southampton Boat Show 14th- 23rd September.
Members of the Economic Development Department (EDD) will join forces with Jersey Harbours to promote the benefits of doing business with both Jersey’s marine leisure industry and the wider Jersey economy at this year’s Southampton Boat Show.
In addition to a partnership with Guernsey Harbours on the main consumer stand, Economic Development is sponsoring the main hospitality suites – to be named: ‘Les Écréhous’, ‘Les Minquiers’ and ‘Les Pierres de Lecq’ (the Paternosters). The suites are used during the show by major companies to host events. Companies and their clients who attend the Southampton Boat Show represent key targets for investment in and visits to the Island. To maximize the promotion of the Island, each suite, entranceway and reception will be decorated with large branded Jersey banners and themed displays. The reception to the suites is to be manned throughout by a Jersey receptionist to ensure the Jersey message is communicated consistently.
Two EDD/Jersey Harbours sponsored events are also planned - a press reception on the afternoon of the 14th and a business to business luncheon for 50 Jersey businesses and their guests on the 18th.
Assistant Minister for Economic Development, Deputy Alan Maclean said “this is an excellent example of Jersey Harbours and ED collectively promoting Jersey’s business and enterprise culture – this approach is at the heart of EDD’s new Enterprise and Business Development strategy. The show, which has an international profile, will develop high quality business links that will translate into growth opportunities for the Island’s economy”.
Guest speaker ex-Jersey Clipper captain Will Carnegie will offer the guests a brief insight to Jersey’s attractions as a destination for marine business and leisure. Guests will receive tastes and gifts from Genuine Jersey producers including La Mare wines and jams, Jersey cream, Jersey butter and Jersey Pottery tide clocks.
Economic Development Chief executive Mike King who is to host the luncheon said: “By combining EDD and Jersey Harbours presence at the show we will be communicating the benefits of doing business with Jersey to a key market in the most cost effective manner. We will be promoting opportunities that include purchasing a luxury motor cruiser from a Jersey supplier through carrying out registration and insurance to encouraging additional or new inward investment into the Island either through established or new businesses. We will also be looking to enhance the position of Jersey in the minds of high net worth individuals who may be considering the island for residency.”
The Boat Show comes at an important time for Jersey. During the last year Jersey Harbours has formed a Port Suppliers Association in conjunction with the British Marine Federation (BMF). Jersey Harbourmaster Howard Le Cornu was invited to join a BMF board conducting a high level strategic survey of the economic impact of marinas upon local economies. Jersey became one of the eight British marinas studied within the report which is to be published during the week.
Over 600 organisations will be exhibiting at the Show, displaying their products and services across the 10 days. An estimated 118,000 visitors attended the Boat Show in 2006.
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