GEORGE PELGRIM FEATURED IN NEWSWEEK

The prominent Newsweek International magazine will spotlight St. Maarten in its upcoming issue, featuring an in-depth look at the island’s development and future prospects. The feature includes interviews with key stakeholders, including Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunication (TEATT) Grisha Heyliger-Marten, Prime Minister Luc Mercelina, major property developers, and representatives from the cruise sector. The coverage will explore the island’s economic growth, tourism industry, and infrastructure projects, providing a comprehensive view of how St. Maarten is evolving as a regional hub for investment and travel. George Pelgrim of Intermar and CEO of Port St. Maarten Alexander Gumbs are prominently featured. Here is what they told Newsweek about their respective sector:

George Pelgrim - Intermar

George Pelgrim, St. Maarten businessman and founder of Caribbean International Maritime (INTERMAR) and St. Maarten Shipping & Stevedoring (SSS), is at the helm of St. Maarten’s maritime transformation. Since launching his businesses 40 years ago , Pelgrim has seen the island’s port grow from a small facility with a single finger pier to one that handles over 100,000 TEUs annually.
However, challenges remain. As the shipping industry shifts toward larger vessels powered by LNG and low-emission engines, Sint Maarten’s current port infrastructure faces limitations. “To stay competitive, we must continue investing in infrastructure,” Pelgrim stresses, highlighting the need for expansion to accommodate these larger vessels.
Despite these challenges, Sint Maarten’s strategic location gives it a significant edge. “We’re often the first stop in the Caribbean for vessels coming from Europe,” Pelgrim explains. The island’s efficient port and relatively low bureaucracy make it an attractive transshipment hub, and this growing business is closely tied to the island’s broader economic expansion. INTERMAR and SSS, founded in 1985 has expanded its services from ship agency and cargo handling to include 3PL warehousing and inland transportation logistics and today processes a throughput of 1200-1500 TEUs weekly.

The organization has grown from 10 employees in 1985 to 150 employees, reflecting the company’s broader success. Looking ahead, Pelgrim plans to invest in electric trucks and emission-controlled equipment, though challenges remain with the local grid. With 60% of imports coming from the U.S., Pelgrim views the American market as vital. “Sint Maarten offers natural beauty and strong economic potential,” he concludes. For investors, now is the time to act.