BahaMar is committed to delivering a master planned resort community that represents the “New Bahamas” featuring historic as well as modern Bahamian architecture and arts, and is providing more economic opportunities for Bahamian businesses to be able to participate in the benefits of their luxury mega-resort.
Androsia is one such business reaping the rewards. This Batik fabric manufacturing company in Fresh Creek, Andros has been contracted by BahaMar to design canvas fabric for decoration in the resort, including drapes, cushions and a variety of furnishings.
“The inclusion of Androsia fabric is just the beginning of the list of Bahamian businesses that will be included by BahaMar as they bring to the resort market a modern hotel property representing all that is good in The Bahamas. The design intent of BahaMar is to send our guests home with an understanding and appreciation of The Bahamas’ rich cultural heritage,” said John Kristich, BahaMar’s Executive V.P. οΎ– Design & Development.
Androsia is preparing 2,000 yards of navy and white, Andros orchid designed canvas fabric for BahaMar to ship to the US to be used in the making of the furniture for the resort. Androsia’s eight-week production contract for BahaMar provided additional employment for Androsians in Fresh Creek.
Owner of Androsia, Jeff Birch said working with BahaMar is one of the highlights of their existence as a business.
“The new relationship between BahaMar and Androsia is a historic one, in terms of the fact that Androsia has been one of the most consistent suppliers of fabric in the country,” said Birch.
He applauded BahaMar for partnering with local businesses to develop a unique experience for the resort development.
He added that such partnerships augur well for expansion of not just BahaMar but the country’s tourism in general. “Androsia came into being with this link to tourism, so the BahaMar connection is a two-fold one. BahaMar made a conscious decision to try and fit locally made goods into its development, and for that I must give them A+,” Birch said. “I’m sure that in some instances it is difficult because certain manufacturers are not ready for the types of large orders that a mega development like BahaMar may need.”
Androsia has developed its reputation through the years. Since 1973 Androsia has used the beauty of the environment of The Bahamas for inspiration for their print designs and brilliant colours. Andros-ia has a complete line of women’s, men’s, and children’s batik clothing as well as accessories and home goods. Androsia is sold throughout The Bahamas.
The Nassau Guardian
