faces a tough battle in restoring the hospitality industry's profit-making.

But he is certain, when final figures are tallied, that there will have been an improvement on last year's report of a $40 million loss for major properties over the previous five years.

Mr. Barker expects any recovery to be slight and is calling on a unified approach during his year as president.

The new chief is suggesting that hotels be the first to take advantage of possible new telephone companies offering reduced rates.

After 19 years in the hotel industry in Bermuda, Mr. Barker, vice president of Princess Hotels, said he was honoured to be elected president of the BHA.

"The number one priority as far as I am concerned is to return the hospitality industry to a profitable position. We had a consolidated report for last year which showed a loss for the major properties of $40 million over five years.

"This year we have not received the final results for the year ended September 30, 1993 but the early indications are that we are still in a loss position even though there has been a slight improvement.'' Occupancy has risen to around 60 percent, still below the more successful years of the 1980s.

The figures for occupancy in November increased compared to 1992 and 1991, standing at 55.3 percent.

Projections for the month of December are for an improvement on 1992. And the 68 Degree Temperature Guarantee could help figures in January, February and March.

Mr. Barker added: "There is no secret to the formula. The ingredients are revenue and expenses. We will work together along with the Department of Tourism and continue with our successful marketing and advertising campaigns.

"There is expected to be an increase in business both from Japan and Europe but the biggest market continues to be the Eastern Seaboard of the United States.'' On the expenses side the new president called for a unified approach to improve the situation.

"We will be looking very closely at every expense, particularly the significant local costs of electricity and telephones. Our competitors in other jurisdictions pay less for these essential services.

"Any savings will immediately improve our ability to be more competitive. It is my understanding there are a number of applications before the Minister for new telecommunications licences.

"Should these licences be granted I expect that the main properties will benefit significantly.''