Drinks giant Bacardi said this year’s Third Annual Bacardi Black-Owned Vendor Market generated nearly $30,000 for small business owners.

Held on the lawn at the Bacardi global headquarters on Pitts Bay Road, the recent event set a new benchmark, the company said, tripling last year's sales for local Black-owned businesses.

Bacardi said the event was an initiative dedicated to support and empower Black entrepreneurs on the island.

A Bacardi statement said: “As part of the company's ongoing commitment to empowering individuals through economic opportunity and community engagement, this event serves as a vital platform for local Black-owned businesses to showcase their products, connect with customers, and drive meaningful growth.

“This year's market featured more than 60 vendors spanning food, retail, and artisanal sectors, highlighting the innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit within Bermuda's Black-owned business community.

“This year, Bacardi introduced a masterclass offered to participating vendors in advance of the market with curated learning and networking designed to equip vendors with practical skills in branding, pitching and scaling their businesses.

The masterclass featured industry experts who provided actionable strategies to help entrepreneurs take their businesses to the next level.”

Douglas Mello, Bacardi International Ltd managing director commented: “We are incredibly proud of the impact the Bacardi Black-Owned Vendor Market continues to have on the Bermuda business community.

“This event goes beyond a single day of sales. It's about creating long-term opportunities, fostering meaningful connections, and equipping Black-owned businesses with the resources they need to thrive.

“By expanding this initiative with the Bacardi Masterclass, we are ensuring that local entrepreneurs not only gain visibility but also the knowledge and tools to sustain and grow their businesses."

Bacardi said it is committed to fostering career growth and business development through impactful initiatives that drive long-term success and economic empowerment.

This includes the recently launched Bacardi Hospitality Accelerator Programme in Bermuda, which provides world-class training and professional development for local hospitality professionals.

Across ten countries, Bacardi has launched Shake Your Future, a free bartender training programme designed to equip underemployed and unemployed young adults with the skills needed for sustainable careers in hospitality.