Georgetown Chamber of Commerce Warns Against Non-Compliance in Retail Sector

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has raised alarms about the prevalence of substandard goods and labor law violations among retailers and supermarkets in Guyana. Highlighting the sale of counterfeit and expired items, the Chamber urges regulatory bodies to increase oversight on imports and retail operations. The GCCI also calls for strict enforcement of tax and labor laws to ensure fair practices in the marketplace. The Chamber pledges its support to the government in addressing these issues, aiming to maintain high standards in consumer safety and business integrity.

More than 350 Women Win Public Works Contracts in Guyana

In a significant move towards gender inclusivity in construction, 365 women across Guyana have been awarded public works contracts as part of the government's expansive road development initiative. With substantial allocations in Regions Four, Five, and Six, women are breaking into this traditionally male-dominated field. For instance, Region Four received $11.5 billion for road improvements, with 216 women contractors involved. The program not only empowers women but aims to expand the country’s contractor base, as the government has integrated nearly 2,000 new contractors since 2020. The Ministry of Public Works emphasizes quality, requiring contractors to meet high standards for durability, and encourages community participation by inviting residents to monitor construction. This push towards diversity aims to build local expertise while reshaping industry norms.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SEs)

1. Holiday Promotion Partnerships with Massy Stores

   • Opportunity: Partner with Massy Stores during their holiday SUV giveaway to offer complementary holiday gift sets, locally crafted cards, or festive decor. Small businesses can co-brand promotions and increase exposure to Massy’s customer base.

   • Notes: Offering add-ons or special holiday bundles alongside Massy’s promotions will increase brand visibility and tap into the holiday shopping season.

2. Compliance Services for Retailers Following GCCI’s Call for Standards

   • Opportunity: Small consulting firms can provide compliance services to help local retailers meet GCCI standards in quality, labor, and tax regulations.

   • Notes: Small businesses can conduct affordable compliance audits or workshops to attract local retailers who want to avoid penalties while strengthening consumer trust.

3. Custom Merchandise for Cricket Fans Linked to RHTY&SC

   • Opportunity: Produce cricket-themed merchandise, like T-shirts and caps, that celebrate Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club’s recent achievements, appealing to cricket enthusiasts.

   • Notes: Leveraging the popularity of local cricket clubs allows small businesses to connect with loyal fans and drive sales through club events or online marketplaces.

Medium Enterprises (MEs)

1. Construction Equipment Leasing for New Road Contractors

   • Opportunity: Lease construction equipment and offer material sourcing to the contractors working on government-funded road projects, especially to the 365 women newly awarded contracts.

   • Notes: Flexible leasing terms and customer support will attract these contractors, many of whom are new to the industry, creating a steady client base for medium-sized equipment suppliers.

2. Retail Compliance and Quality Assurance Services for GCCI Standards

   • Opportunity: MEs can set up a quality assurance service to help retailers comply with GCCI’s standards and regulations, which includes product testing, labeling checks, and employee training.

   • Notes: With GCCI’s focus on higher standards, there’s demand from retailers who need professional guidance to align with regulations, especially for food and imported goods.

3. Auxiliary Training Programs in Aviation and Oil & Gas

   • Opportunity: As technical training needs rise, MEs can offer complementary courses in advanced machinery operation, regulatory compliance, and safety, targeting students from the aeronautical engineering school.

   • Notes: These auxiliary programs cater to industries like aviation and oil & gas, which are growing and will benefit from a more skilled workforce, creating an in-demand niche for medium-sized training enterprises.

Large Enterprises (LEs)

1. Renewable Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure Services for the Gas-to-Energy Project

   • Opportunity: Large firms can provide technology and sustainable solutions for Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy project, including renewable energy integration and clean tech consulting.

   • Notes: Given the project’s transformative impact, major players can position themselves as long-term partners in Guyana’s energy transition, creating a reputation in sustainable energy.

2. Integrated Logistics and Fulfillment Solutions with Massy Stores

   • Opportunity: Provide logistics and supply chain management services to optimize Massy’s in-store and online holiday promotions, improving their efficiency and customer satisfaction.

   • Notes: Large-scale logistics support will allow Massy to better manage inventory, speed up deliveries, and enhance customer experience, setting the foundation for future partnerships.

3. Public-Private Partnerships in Youth Sports Development

   • Opportunity: Partner with local sports associations like the RHTY&SC to fund youth programs or sponsor events, which could include the U16 Boxing Championship and the Champion of Champions futsal tournament.

   • Notes: Supporting youth programs and sports events builds brand loyalty among younger demographics, contributes to community development, and strengthens corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Mobile Compliance and Quality Assurance Services for Retailers

• Opportunity: With the GCCI pushing for higher standards in retail compliance, individuals can offer mobile compliance checks for small businesses, focusing on product quality, labeling, and basic health and safety guidelines.

• How It Works: This side hustle requires basic knowledge of GCCI standards (which can be learned through online resources or short courses) and can be done part-time by visiting local shops, supermarkets, and small vendors. Offer a basic audit package and recommend improvements, ensuring stores meet standards.

• Potential Income: Charge around GYD $5,000–$10,000 per visit for small audits, creating a regular income stream as shops may need monthly check-ups to stay compliant.

2. Event Merchandise and Pop-Up Shop for Sports and Festivals

• Opportunity: With a booming sports culture and events like the U16 boxing tournaments, cricket matches, and community futsal events, there’s a demand for fan merchandise and themed accessories. This side hustle would involve selling custom T-shirts, caps, and small memorabilia at events.

• How It Works: Get a basic screen-printing kit or partner with a local printer to produce fan gear featuring local sports teams or event themes. Set up a pop-up stall at these events or leverage social media to sell directly to fans.

• Potential Income: T-shirts could sell for GYD $3,000–$5,000 each, and other items like caps, wristbands, and mini flags could bring in GYD $500–$2,000 each. With regular events, this could easily become a lucrative weekend gig.

3. Mobile Training Sessions for Construction and Compliance Basics

• Opportunity: With many new contractors, particularly women entering the construction field, there’s an opportunity to provide short, practical training sessions covering essential compliance, construction basics, and safety protocols. This could be especially valuable in rural areas where access to training is limited.

• How It Works: Use weekends or evenings to host small, focused workshops in communities or even at people’s homes. Topics could include reading basic plans, safety gear usage, and compliance essentials. Alternatively, offer one-on-one sessions tailored to the client’s project.

• Potential Income: Charge GYD $5,000–$15,000 per session, with packages for groups or repeat clients. This could become a steady side income as contractors will likely need ongoing assistance as they take on more projects.