Standards hurt furniture sector
Published:Monday | February 21, 2011 | 12:00 AM
THE EDITOR, Sir:
I just had to reply to Mortimer McPherson's article, titled 'The struggling furniture business', published in The Sunday Gleaner dated February 6.
The main reason why importation of furniture and wood products from foreign manufacturers has stymied the growth of what was once a vibrant local sector is the dishonesty, laziness and lack of professionalism of Jamaican cabinetmakers.
This is why they can't get jobs. I have met two such Jamaicans since returning from abroad. One man requested that I pay a deposit of $20,000 on December 2007. This was for work I ordered and he promised to deliver.
Still waiting
I am still waiting for the goods. He obviously had no intention of doing the job. I bet I am not the first or last person he has done this to.
Another furniture maker was commissioned by my builder to make me a kitchen four years ago. It has not been completed, even though I paid extra to have it finished.
I have just had enough of these unprofessional men. Undoubtedly, businessmen like these do not deserve to get jobs. Their growth and competitiveness cannot compare with the service of Europeans and Americans.
I am, etc.,
ROSEMARY ROSE