National

A Quiet Comeback: From Setback To Supply Chain

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – In the wake of Carnival’s Celebration Key opening next weekend, President of the Dolly Madison Home Center, d’Von Archer speaks about Carnival’s ripple effects on the Grand Bahamian economy.

Published

9 months ago

July 8, 2025

Kendeno Knowles

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS -d’Von Archer has run Dolly Madison Home Center for years, a household name in Freeport since the late 1960s.

While the loss of staff is real, he sees Carnival’s presence not as competition, but collaboration.

“While they may have taken some of my staff, and I say that jokingly, the spinoff of their supplies that they need for their operation has been very accommodating, very helpful for us,” Archer said.

As the cruise giant prepares to open Celebration Key next weekend, Dolly Madison is adjusting, keeping shelves stocked with items Carnival contractors may need.

Still, even with new partnerships, he says business just isn’t what it used to be.

“Our economy just isn’t where it used to be, persons may want things, but now is not the time financially for them to go and get them,” he said.

To meet customers where they are, Archer says they’ve had to get creative.

“We’ve tried to have as many sales as we can that hopefully would not affect their pockets so much, and not [kinda] sic break the bank,” he said.

The business has also had to rebuild after Hurricane Dorian nearly wiped them out.

While it may not be the same Dolly Madison of the past, Archer believes the brand and its role in the community still matters.

“We’re trying to keep that Dolly Madison name alive to what people know Dolly Madison used to be, and what it can and will be,” he said.

A legacy business still standing, still rebuilding, and still betting on Grand Bahama.