Interview with Mr. Micah Hillaire Trade & Operations Manager – Foodland

Mr. Hillaire, thank you for talking to Barnacle. How long have you been the Trade and Operations Manager?

I assumed my responsibility in this capacity approximately three years ago. 

How would you rate the relationship between Foodland and the marine industry?

The relationship between Foodland and the marine industry is a mutually beneficial one. We provide goods and services as per their request and deliver directly to them.  

How would you assess the contribution that you’ve made to the industry?

Our contribution to the industry has been quite significant. There has been a noticeable steady increase in yachters requests over the years. Some of these requests have also served to stimulate growth in some unique product offerings instore. When we purchase directly from local farmers and fisherfolk, they are then better able to provide for their families and have an improved quality of life. Thus, this leads to increased overall economic activity in the local economy. 

What are some of the challenges you face?

• Given the short timeframe we have to work with, it can be quite challenging to fulfil some requests, which oftentimes would require visiting multiple farms across the island. 

• Unavailability of items. Local farmers tend to grow the same items during a particular period, therefore limiting the availability of a variety of items.

What are your plans for developing your services to the industry? 

We would like to continue working along with the farmers to ensure that the items being requested are made available on a more consistent basis. Secondly, work closer with the officials from the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure that we get buy-in from them to provide the technical and educational support required to meet our demands from the farmers. Finally, we would like to have a formal relationship with the marinas to ensure that our service is adequately promoted to the yachters. 

What separates Foodland from its competitors?

Accessibility – Our location on Kirani James Boulevard makes it easily accessible for yachters to receive their goods. Additionally, the fact that Foodland is part of the Huggins conglomerate, adds to its level of credibility, trustworthiness and resources.

Reliable service – Our Chandlery department is designed to provide service to our customers around the clock and our dedicated team ensures that orders are fulfilled in a timely manner.

Wide range of local and foreign produce – Our relationship with farmers through our Cash for Crop program in which cash is received on the spot in exchange for produce allows us to provide the customers with the best fresh produce.

What is your wish for the relationship with the yachting and marine industry?

I wish to see the yachting industry continue to grow and provide sustainable jobs and improve the livelihood for our people and contribute towards the overall economic development of our country.