Vendors at the Castries Vendors Arcade are poised for a significant transformation following a meeting on Monday between the Saint Lucia Cruise Port, the Castries Constituency Council, and key stakeholders. The engagement, led by Mayor Geraldine Lendor-Gabriel, Saint Lucia Cruise Port General Manager Lancelot Arnold, and lead architect Jamal Francis from The Design House, outlined the ambitious redevelopment plans for the Vendors Arcade and Boardwalk.
During the session, the Saint Lucia Cruise Port team presented their vision for the arcade’s modernization, highlighting upgrades aimed at enhancing both vendor operations and the overall experience for cruise passengers. Vendors were given a platform to voice their concerns and provide feedback, with a primary focus on minimizing disruptions to their daily business during construction.
Among the key issues raised were e-commerce integration and increased advertising opportunities—areas vendors believe are essential for their continued success in a rapidly evolving market. Addressing these concerns, Mr. Arnold reaffirmed Saint Lucia Cruise Port’s commitment to supporting vendors, emphasizing the company’s collaboration with the Castries Constituency Council to enhance business opportunities through digital marketing and e-commerce initiatives.
“Saint Lucia Cruise Port will work hand in hand with the Castries Constituency Council to create more opportunities for vendors, ensuring a seamless transition into e-commerce and online marketing efforts,” Arnold stated.
The redevelopment, which will be executed in phases to limit business disruptions, is expected to significantly improve the functionality, aesthetics, and accessibility of the Vendors Arcade. Saint Lucia Cruise Port has committed to regular consultations and updates with the Vendors’ Association and other key groups to ensure transparency and stakeholder engagement throughout the process.
With the project set to reshape one of Castries’ key commercial and tourism hubs, vendors remain hopeful that the upgrades will lead to greater visibility, increased sales, and an enhanced experience for both locals and visitors.
