MONTEGO BAY, St James — Organisers of the inaugural Jamaica International Beauty Expo (JIBE) has signed Dolla Financial Services as the ‘presenting sponsor’ of the event, which being promoted as the ultimate convergence of stakeholders in the beauty and wellness industry. JIBE is set to unfold at Montego Bay Convention Centre in Rose Hall, St James, from August 10-12.

As ‘presenting sponsor’, Dolla Financial Services will be the only micro-finance institution showcasing its suite of “simple money solutions” to industry stakeholders and attendees at the trade show that will focus on the business of beauty and wellness.

CEO of Dolla Financial Services, Kadeen Mairs, says his organisation has been working alongside many micro and small beauty professionals, including barbers, hairdressers, make-up artists and nail technicians, by providing the financial support needed on their way to becoming successful entrepreneurs.

“Jamaica International Beauty Expo is an ideal platform for Dolla Financial to extend its reach to even more beauty professionals and entrepreneurs, including start-ups with little or no banking history, providing them financing and loans they require,” said Mairs, who pointed out that his company’s loan facilities allow beauty industry professionals up to $4 million in funding with flexible interest rate, to grow their business.

Hairstylists, barbers, nail technicians, dermatologists, make-up artists, masseuses, fashion designers, aestheticians, dentists, producers of beauty products, suppliers of raw materials and wellness experts are just some of the assortment of talent coming together at the annual trade show to showcase their products and services, highlight the latest trends, broker business deals towards expansion and diversification, and strengthening their brands.

“For the first time in Jamaica, on this scale, businesses large and small, will meet, network, educate and connect with consumers of beauty, giving them the opportunity to experience the latest trends, best products, and the best in style and glamour in an industry that is averaging $6 billion annually. The industry covers the entire body, mind and spirit, as beauty extends beyond hair and nails; and the Jamaica International Beauty Expo will highlight the opportunities for all stakeholders in this lucrative industry,” JIB coordinator Suzette Brown explained.

According to Brown, while focus will be placed on our skilled practitioners in the industry and the products available in the marketplace, the initiative has also been designed to bring awareness of the opportunities in the global arena that could see Jamaica playing a prominent role as one of the leading exporters of products in the US$600-billion beauty and wellness industry.

“We are therefore, particularly interested in creating a platform for small entrepreneurs who are producing or distributing natural and organic products for hair, body and overall well-being to showcase and sell their products from day one of the expo,” Brown said.

JIBE is being guided by the theme ‘The Business of Beauty’ and will feature a full roster of educational seminars, workshops, demonstrations providing in-depth industry insight on a variety of topics. The expo will also be highlighted by new product launches; a job seekers registry for beauty professionals and trainees, consultations; hair, nail and make-up competitions, themed entertainment and a food court.

Icons of the industry will also be honoured at the event.