That break will come within less than a month, when the Contact Centre and Strategic Sourcing Summit of the Americas will be staged.

Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), the local co-ordinator of the summit which will run from February 8-11, will promote Jamaica and the Caribbean as 'near-shore' call centre destinations for international companies based mainly in Europe and the United States.

Major competitors such as the Philippines are known as 'off-shore' destinations given their distance from the international companies they serve.

MARKETING AND PROMOTIONS

"The summit is important for Jamaica because it will give Jamaican companies the opportunity to showcase their capabilities to approximately 150 international business persons who have interests in out-sourcing to Jamaica," stated Julian Robinson, the manager of marketing and promotions in a recent interview with The Gleaner. "A lot of these business executives have interests not only in the call centre industry but also interests in other investments and trade opportunities," Mr. Robinson confirmed.

In addressing questions regarding the primary reason for the summit and the possible spin-offs for the local economy, Mr. Robinson said "We are hoping that some of these companies will see what they like in Jamaica and make a decision to invest. By doing that, they would provide opportunities for job creation."

JAMPRO is encouraging companies to invest in existing companies or set up new ones. The full list of companies that are expected to participate in the summit is not yet available.

However, the companies to be showcased at the upcoming event are those already in the call centre business and are looking for an off-shore location; consultants who advise companies of where to locate, and technology providers who provide support services for companies.

"It is significant that Jamaica was selected for the summit. It points to the fact that the international community views Jamaica's e-commerce industry in a positive light," said Mr. Robinson. "The fact that we are hosting top companies and industry leaders, adds credibility to our efforts."

Apart from investment and job creation, JAMPRO is hoping that another major spin-off from hosting the conference is that Jamaica will be seen as a serious contender and an emerging destination in the e-commerce sector.

Patrick Casserly, chief executive officer of Sitel and E-Services Group International, two of the Caribbean's largest e-commerce companies, told The Gleaner on Monday that Jamaica will now be able to compete with the Philippines, the largest e-commerce competitor.

http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20040121/news/news8.html