National

Straw Vendors Facing Facing Hardship

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – Straw vendors at the Port Lucaya Marketplace are still finding it hard to make sales as the group relies on cruise ship passengers who don’t come by too often.

Published

12 months ago

May 18, 2023

Berthony McDermott

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – Straw vendors at the Port Lucaya Marketplace are still finding it hard to make sales as the group relies on cruise ship passengers who don’t come by too often.

After what straw vendors are describing as a downward spiral for years, one Grand Bahama vendor says they’re fighting to get things back to the way it was.

Port Lucaya Straw Market vendors representative Lorenzo McKenzie says they feel Grand Bahama has been ignored, adding its time to take the bull by the horn.

Mckenzie says they’re not making enough money to comfortably pay bills and invest in their business.

And he’s not alone. Vendors say this past Monday, a cruise ship docked, bringing tourists to the marketplace. But, as straw vendor Delerise Davis explains, those onboard didn’t seem interested in buying.

Despite the grim outlook right now, vendors say they’re trusting in God and are hopeful Grand Bahama will make a triumphant return.