Premier Brantley Highlights Local Manufacturing
The Honourable Mark Brantley, Premier of Nevis and Minister of Trade in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), recently visited the Clifton Estate Rum Company to recognize its growing success.
Owner Mark Theron has expanded his business to make Clifton Estate Spiced Rum an official export of Nevis.
During his September 4 visit to the Long Point factory, Premier Brantley praised the company’s achievements.
He noted that Clifton Estate Rum is now sold in the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union, establishing it as a genuine export product from the island.
Tour and Expansion Plans
Mr. Theron personally guided the premier through the facility and even invited him to fill his own bottle of rum.
He also shared exciting plans to transition into a full distillery in the near future.
Premier Brantley described the current operation as “impressive” and called the expansion plan “music to my ears,” underscoring the government’s commitment to encouraging small-scale manufacturing.
A Boost for Nevis’ Manufacturing Sector
The NIA continues to welcome investors who can help diversify the island’s economy through manufacturing.
Premier Brantley encouraged both local and international partners to consider opportunities in this growing sector.
He emphasized that light manufacturing plays a key role in Nevis’ economic strategy.
Current products made on the island include:
Doors and windows
Fencing wire and galvanize roofing
Cabinetry, moldings, and furniture
Bottled water and food products
Natural beauty products (#ad) and face masks
These enterprises are helping Nevis create jobs, strengthen exports, and support long-term economic stability.
Rum Factory as a Tourist Attraction
In addition to producing export-quality rum, the Clifton Estate facility has become a unique tourist attraction.
Visitors can:
Tour the factory and learn about rum-making
Bottle their own rum as a keepsake
Taste a variety of liqueurs and spirits crafted on-site
This combination of manufacturing and tourism helps promote Nevis as a destination for both culture and craft beverages.
Mr. Theron expressed appreciation for the premier’s visit, saying it was a pleasure to share the company’s progress.
He reaffirmed his commitment to growing the Clifton Estate Rum brand and contributing to Nevis’ reputation as a producer of high-quality products.
Continuing Support for Local Businesses
Premier Brantley’s visit to Clifton Estate Rum is the first in a series of factory tours planned to spotlight Nevis’ small manufacturers.
Over the coming weeks, he intends to visit other local operations to further encourage investment and innovation in light manufacturing.
He concluded by stating that all of Nevis should take pride in these achievements, as the island proves it can produce goods for both domestic use and international export.