Castries Arcade Vendors recently participated in a Financial Literacy Clinic hosted by Saint Lucia Cruise Port (SLCP) in partnership with the Castries Constituency Council (CCC).
Held at the National Cultural Centre on Thursday, October 15th, and supported by the Cultural Development Foundation, the clinic brought together four financial and business-support partners: Bank of Saint Lucia, Saint Lucia Development Bank, Small Business Development Centre and BELfund. The agencies shared practical guidance to help vendors strengthen their businesses, including information on business registration, access to financing, revenue growth and strategies to improve day-to-day business operations.
In attendance were Senior Minister and Minister for Local Government, Public Service, Transport, Information, & Utilities Regulation Stephenson King, Mayor of Castries, Her Worship Geraldine Lendor-Gabriel, and other ministry officials.
The Senior Minister addressed the vendors, stating: “You are our ambassadors and the face of Saint Lucia for the visitors we welcome to our shores. I urge you to take full advantage of the opportunities presented today and over the next few days of training and to apply what you learn to strengthen your business, elevate the quality of the service you provide and maximize your earning potential.”
Mayor Lendor-Gabriel also encouraged vendors; “This training is an investment not only in yourself, but in the future of your family. Growing your business is essential to long-term sustainability. I encourage you to use today’s training to strengthen your business, and to share the knowledge gained with your family to ensure long-term sustainability together.”
Vonetta Charles, Destination and Stakeholder Integration Manager of Saint Lucia Cruise Port, underscored the importance of the training and SLCP’s continued commitment to Castries Arcade vendors. “The new Vendors Arcade will provide improved infrastructure and a modern environment, but beautiful buildings alone do not create success. This Vendor Training Programme was designed specifically to equip vendors with the skills, tools, and confidence needed to thrive in the revitalized facility and in a tourism industry that continues to evolve.”
The Financial Literacy Clinic is the first in a series of training sessions scheduled from October to November 2026, with additional sessions expected to continue in 2027. Upcoming topics will include the code of business conduct, conflict resolution and teamwork, customer service excellence and merchandising. Several sessions regarding merchandising will be delivered as vendors transition into their new stalls at the redesigned Castries Vendor’s Arcade.
The training programme is designed to help vendors maximize opportunities throughout the cruise season, while strengthening their ability to serve local customers and stay over visitors.