Carnival Corporation announced that more than 85% of the contracted companies at its newest destination, Celebration Key, are from Grand Bahama.

This reflects Carnival’s commitment to local empowerment and fostering sustainable partnerships with the community, the company said in a statement.

To date, more than 180 Bahamians from various islands are actively engaged in the construction phase. with 29 of the 31 construction companies onsite being Bahamian.

Lionel Jervis, project manager for KFL Construction, said: “Carnival has really demonstrated its belief in Grand Bahamians. Local companies are working on all aspects of this development, giving us a unique opportunity to employ so many local people. We are all gaining invaluable experience on a groundbreaking project, working together to build something that will be extremely impactful for the future of Grand Bahama.”

As part of Carnival’s commitment to sustainable partnerships, at least 75 percent of outlets at Celebration Key will be owned and operated by Bahamians to boost local businesses.

With up to 70 restaurants and retail outlets to be established, the project will generate over 700 permanent jobs in Grand Bahama, including approximately 300 Bahamians hired directly by Carnival Corporation to help welcome 2.2 million guests each year to Grand Bahama starting in 2025.