Hurricane Melissa disrupted operations across key sectors and required many businesses to reassess and adjust in real time. Recovery has been ongoing, shaped by cost pressures, supply chain constraints, and shifting market conditions. The Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) has announced the nominees for its 41^st Annual Awards, recognising organisations and entrepreneurs that are strengthening operations and advancing performance within this environment.

The announcement was made at the official launch event on May 14, 2026, recognising nominees spanning multiple industries and business sizes across Jamaica’s private sector. This year’s theme, “Building Forward: Recognising Excellence in Recovery, Resilience & Growth,” captures the direction many businesses are taking as they focus on improving systems, increasing efficiency, and positioning for sustained competitiveness.

The awards ceremony will feature a keynote address from Dr. The Most Hon. Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica, who will serve as guest speaker at this year’s event. The Prime Minister is expected to share remarks on national economic priorities, resilience within the private sector, and the role of business leadership in driving sustained recovery and growth in the post-Hurricane Melissa environment.

JCC President Emile Leiba noted that businesses are operating in a period where adaptation has become a constant requirement, stating, “Following Hurricane Melissa, many businesses had to adjust quickly and reassess how they operate under pressure. What has followed is a steady focus on strengthening operations, improving financial management, and adopting digital tools that support continuity and growth.” 

In the Best of Chamber Award category, which recognises excellence across enterprise sizes, Micro Enterprise nominees are KCLH Full Business Solutions, Joan Latty Realty, and Suga Lifestyle. Small Enterprise nominees are Epic Technologies and ESIROM, Medium Enterprise nominees are Allied Insurance Brokers, BIOregeneration Integrated Medical Centre Ltd., Caribbean Assurance Brokers Ltd., Caribbean Foods Ltd., Fraser Fontaine & Kong, Myers Fletcher & Gordon, Attorneys-at-Law, and Stronghold Information Management. Large Enterprise nominees are Aventa, Chas E. Ramson Ltd, and CUNA Caribbean Insurance Jamaica Ltd. Extra-Large Enterprise nominees are FLOW Jamaica, GraceKennedy Ltd., Guardsman Group, Jamaica Public Service Company Ltd., Massy Gas Products (Jamaica) Ltd., National Commercial Bank, Red Stripe, Seprod, and Supreme Ventures Ltd.

For the JCC CARRERAS Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Award, nominees are GraceKennedy Ltd., Jamaica Public Service Company Ltd., J. Wray & Nephew Ltd., Massy Gas Products (Jamaica) Ltd., National Commercial Bank, Optimum Altice, Red Stripe, and Seaboard Freight & Shipping Jamaica Ltd., highlighting companies integrating responsible business practices, sustainability, and governance into their operations.

The Entrepreneur Award nominees are Brian Lumley- Foodie Focused Ltd., Jeffrey Azan- Select n Start, Joni-Gaye Cawley- HR Consultants Joni-Gaye Cawley & Associates, and Theo Smith- Great House Caterers, recognising individuals who continue to create impact through innovation and disciplined execution.

Nominees for the JCC CG United Marketing Excellence Award are Chilitos Jamexican Food, Flow Jamaica, Grace Kenney Ltd, Red Stripe and Sagicor Group Jamaica.

Leiba added that businesses navigating current conditions are placing greater emphasis on internal systems, collaboration, and strategic investment in technology. He notes, “Businesses that are maintaining discipline in their operations and remaining open to change are better positioned to manage uncertainty. There is also a greater willingness to collaborate and to use available tools and partnerships to support growth.” 

The JCC 41^st Annual Awards will bring together leaders from across Jamaica’s business community to recognise performance, leadership, and innovation across sectors. The Chamber extends congratulations to all nominees and looks forward to celebrating their achievements at the awards ceremony.