Caribbean Cream, manufacturer of Kremi ice cream and frozen novelty products, anticipates that demand for ice cream will weaken following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa on October 28.

CEO Christopher Clarke shared at the company’s annual general meeting on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the Courtleigh Hotel and Suites in New Kingston, that the company was not spared the brunt of the cyclone, as its Montego Bay outlet was damaged.

“The company’s assets came through the hurricane okay, with a few notable exceptions. A few of our depots are without electricity but running on backup. The Montego Bay depot was worst hit…it has lost its roof,” he said.

“The roof took several electrical components with it, so substantial repairs will be needed. However, backup power is available on site,” Clarke continued.

In addition, the Caribbean Cream CEO is reaching out to independent depots to ascertain their level of damage and provide assistance where possible. Concerning employees, Clarke said the company has reached out to most employees but was unable to contact some. On this note, extended prayers for their safety and well-being.

While noting that demand will reduce as a result of the hurricane, Clarke said it was an opportunity to stock up for a possible resurgence around Christmas, when there is usually a higher demand.

He further clarified that, “I don’t expect to rebound right away. Obviously, we make ice cream, which is not a critical good right now.

In the meantime, the Caribbean Cream CEO anticipates that revenues will continue to grow based on the company’s increase in stock availability and third-party contracting. These, he said, were due to the company’s investment in a new cold room.

Efficiency challenges

Revenues for the half-year ended August 31, 2025, reached $1.63 billion, surpassing the comparative period in 2024 by almost one per cent.  However, revenues were just 45 per cent of the $2.99 billion for the year ended February 28, 2025.

“We are well on our way to crossing the $3-billion mark,” he declared at the AGM.

For the six months, Caribbean Cream generated a loss of $12.59 million compared with a net profit before tax of $45.19 million in the same period a year prior.

“The company struggled with efficiency during the year, mainly due to equipment issues and a labour market that has become competitive for skilled employees such as technicians and quality personnel,” Clarke explained, adding that it continued into the new fiscal year.