THE success of the just-concluded 33rd Negros Trade Fair (NTF), where participating entrepreneurs have earned a total sales of about P31.8 million, is a validation of how Negrenses strongly unite, an official of the Association of Negros Producers (ANP).
Christina Gaston, president of ANP, on Sunday said, the trade fair is a testament to what Negrenses can achieve if they work together towards one vision.
"Months of hard work by everyone involved has paid off," she said, adding that "blessings such as these continue to encourage us to do our share in promoting what Negros has to offer."
Themed "Sweet Talk: Sugar and Spice, Awesome and Nice," the five-day trade fair held at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City ended Sunday, September 30.
Participated by 70 producers, including local government units (LGUs), one of the longest-running trade fairs in the country is organized by ANP in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental.
This year's NTF has surpassed the sales in 2017.
As of 11 p.m. last night, ANP reported a total sales of P31.8 million, which is about 24 percent higher than last year's P25.6 million.
During the Arima Day on September 25, producers earned P1.32 million.
It increased to P5.40 million on the first day; P7.14 million - second day; P6.30 million - third day; P5.62 million - fourth day; and P6.11 million - last day.
Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage based in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental is the overall top grosser this year.
It was followed by NVC Foundation Inc., Inasalan sa Dalan, Casa Carmela, Virgies Home Made, Ereneta-Manaloto Chorizo, Felicias, El Ideal Bakery, Kusina Jamora, and Art Energy at second to 10th spots, respectively.
The ANP, though, has yet to announce the actual sales of these top grossing enterprises.
In terms of sector, those under food posted the highest sales of P12.57 million. The figure is 37 percent higher than last year's P9.19 million.
It was followed by gifts, decor and houseware sector with P9.39 million; home furnishing and furniture - P4.38 million; fashion - P3.33 million; natural and organic - P1.45 million; and tourism - P718,223.
Gaston said they can attribute the higher sales to having good quality products, creative new items offered, excellent promotions, attractive displays, and vibrant atmosphere at the fair.
"It is also the result of cooperative exhibitors, support from partners and having a great organizing team," she added.