Advertising and Marketing in the Bahamas
Bahamas Distribution and Sales Channels
As Bahamian Government policy prohibits foreign investors from
opening retail and wholesale outlets, goods intended for sale to
the general public are normally purchased by local wholesalers,
several of whom specialize in particular lines. The usual
business practice is for wholesalers to make purchases directly
from their counterparts in Florida, which is why such a large
proportion of third-country products are imported into The
Bahamas through the United States. Most wholesalers and some
retailers, however, are willing to make direct purchase
arrangements. In some cases, Bahamian retail outlets or
wholesalers will enter exclusive distributorship arrangements
with foreign firms.
Franchising in the Bahamas
There are a number of American franchises in The Bahamas. Most
franchises are successful because they appeal to both the local
community and the four million plus tourists who visit The
Bahamas. Although Bahamian Government policy prohibits American
foreign retail chains from opening outlets in The Bahamas,
various contractual distributorship and franchise arrangements
are possible.
Direct Marketing in the Bahamas
Many Bahamians use credit cards and can order items by mail or
telephone for delivery to The Bahamas if the exporter is willing
to ship. However, import duties levied on the sales price and
freight of small shipments often make such orders economically
non-viable, though this trend is changing with companies like
GPS Bahamas. Many Bahamians
prefer to shop in person in Florida to benefit from their
personal exemptions from customs duties.
Advertising, Marketing Firms
Bahamas 2000, Ltd.
Internet Marketing, website design, strategic planning,
advertising, photography, video production.
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