Acquisition reinforces PanJam’s commitment to growing regional and global trade connections

Pan Jamaica Group Limited (PJG), has completed the acquisition of West Indies Freight (W.I. Freight) in the United Kingdom and Jamaica Trading Services Limited (JTS) in Jamaica.

The strategic acquisitions advance the Group’s long-term vision of expanding its logistics footprint and strengthen its presence in key markets through the addition of complementary logistics and freight forwarding businesses. Together, these businesses will enhance PJG’s ability to serve customers across Jamaica, the United Kingdom and the wider Caribbean while supporting the Group’s long-term growth ambitions.

Founded by Jamaican entrepreneur Philip Jackson, Jamaica Trading Services has been a trusted name in freight forwarding and customs brokerage for 38 years, while West Indies Freight has served customers across the United Kingdom, the Caribbean and international markets for more than five decades. Together, the businesses provide freight forwarding, customs brokerage, sea and air freight, haulage, international relocation and logistics services, with extensive expertise in facilitating trade between the Caribbean and global markets.

The acquisition represents another significant step in Pan Jamaica Group’s strategy of investing in market-leading businesses that create long-term value while strengthening its Global Services portfolio. By adding West Indies Freight and Jamaica Trading Services to its existing logistics interests, including JP Logistics Solutions with its Miami- and UK-based warehousing, freight consolidation and shipping businesses, the Group continues to expand its capacity to offer competitive global shipping services to individuals and businesses that are seeking to move cargo across borders.  

Valrie Campbell, Managing Director of Pan Jamaica Logistics Group, said the acquisitions reflect the Group’s disciplined approach to building a stronger regional logistics network.

“Successful logistics businesses are built on trust, expertise and strong relationships, and that’s exactly what West Indies Freight and Jamaica Trading Services bring to the Group. Their track records, experienced teams and deep understanding of the markets they serve make them an excellent strategic fit for Pan Jamaica Group. We look forward to building on that success together while continuing to deliver the high standard of service customers have come to expect.”

The combined strengths of the businesses will enable PJG to offer customers broader service coverage, enhanced connectivity between major international markets and greater access to comprehensive freight forwarding and logistics solutions. According to Campbell, “The core focus of the business will be to secure faster transit times for cargo coming to Kingston by offering a best-in-class integrated end-to-end service. We now have the capacity, systems, personnel and infrastructure to collect your cargo and literally deliver it to you in Jamaica.” The expanded network will also support Jamaican importers, exporters and businesses seeking to grow internationally while making it easier for overseas customers to access Caribbean markets.

West Indies Freight and Jamaica Trading Services will continue operating under their established brands, preserving the reputations and customer relationships they have built over many years. PJG also intends to retain the expertise of the existing management teams and employees to ensure continuity throughout the integration process.

Mitzie Gordon Burke-Green, Managing Director of Jamaica Trading Services, said the acquisition represents an exciting opportunity to build on the company’s proud legacy while continuing to deliver the exceptional service customers have come to expect. “For more than 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping to grow Jamaica Trading Services alongside an incredible team whose dedication and commitment have shaped the company into what it is today. As we begin this new chapter with Pan Jamaica Group, I am excited by the opportunities ahead. This partnership allows us to build on the strong foundation we’ve established, expand our capabilities and continue delivering the personalised service, reliability and trusted relationships that have always been at the heart of Jamaica Trading Services. I look forward to working with our new colleagues across the Group as we continue growing the business together.”

Phillip Jackson said joining Pan Jamaica Group marks an exciting new chapter for the businesses he spent decades building. “When I founded Jamaica Trading Services nearly four decades ago, my goal was to build a business defined by integrity, exceptional service and lasting relationships. Seeing that vision grow into two respected logistics companies has been one of the greatest achievements of my career. As I looked to the future, it was important to find an organisation that shared those same values and had the ambition to take the businesses even further. Pan Jamaica Group is that organisation, and I am confident this partnership will create new opportunities while preserving the reputation, customer focus and culture that have defined our companies for decades.”

This acquisition reflects Pan Jamaica Group’s continued commitment to investing in businesses that strengthen regional trade infrastructure, support economic growth and create long-term value for customers, shareholders and the wider Caribbean. Pan Jamaica Group also holds interests in Kingston Wharves Limited (Jamaica’s leading multipurpose terminal operator and container freight station) as well as Geest Line (UK based shipping line offering weekly services and the fastest transit time between Europe and the Caribbean.