– agro-processors push their brand, product at Uncapped

AN attractive label or design always attracts the eyes of a naturally inquisitive human, so local agro-processors have started to capitalise on that by making their products stand out and be noticed.

In the past, the cost of good packaging was not favourable for local manufacturers, especially the small and micro enterprises. The advent of technology and other resources have presented manufacturers with the ability to ensure that their brand is exceptional.
An example of good presentation were the products made by Chanzar’s enterprise, a manufacturing business which had its well labelled and packaged products on display at the third Uncapped Market Place at the track and field facility at Leonora on Saturday.
Co-owner of Chanzar’s, Caroline David said their products which are branded “Caesar’s Logi” contain no preservatives and additives.

“Our look could compete with the international products and our products are healthy… our aim is to help people enhance their cooking in a healthy way,” she said.
The business, which was established by her father, has been thriving on its image and the natural components for over 40 years in Linden.

Since it all started at home, they added Logi to the brand’s name because Logi basically means home, where it all began.

Although their heart is close to home, David said the business hopes to extend its reach to supermarkets out of Linden and even overseas.

Some of the products that they offer include all-purpose seasonings, clove powder, mixed cinnamon power, plantain flour, cassareep and local juices, among others.
She believes that the list will continue to expand because Uncapped presents an opportunity for them to reach the customers and consumers.
Chanzar’s was, however, just one of the 64 agro-processors who benefited in the same or similar way from the expo.

Vice President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association, Ramsay Ali, said the association continues to host Uncapped with the aim of assisting local agro-processors to improve their business in many ways.

He said businesses which usually participate in the expo are able to improve their quality, packaging and the availability and presence of their products in stores.
Uncapped was first held at the Sophia Exhibition Centre for three days in 2017 and earlier this year it was shifted to the Guyana National Stadium where the participation grew.
The participation continues to grow, he said, noting that they hope to introduce Uncapped to Berbice in the last quarter of this year.

Guyana is expected to soon reap the benefits of an emerging oil and gas sector and Country Manager of ExxonMobil, Rod Henson, said the country should maintain a diversified economy.

His suggestion was motivated by the wide variety of agro-processed products that were displayed at Uncapped.

He believes that Uncapped presents the best opportunity for small businesses to get their products to the market faster than usual.

“We already export rice and sugar, but we want to expand the range to more processed foods, so the growing industry needs encouragement,” Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin said at the recent Uncapped expo.

Although many businesses have been pushing the development of the agro-processing industry, the minister said the government will continue to support them by raising awareness about food standards, and making the regulations a little less complicated.
The minister had said the government will also conduct awareness campaigns so that everyone would know who is producing what, and the standards and certifications required for that type of production.

He believes that local businesses need to improve the quality of packaging in order to be competitive and attractive.