Strategic investment program continues unabated

Durrant Pate/Contributor

Transport and courier service operator, Knutsford Express, has been able to ride out severe financial challenges arising from Hurricane Melissa, resulting in a below-par second quarter performance. 

Melissa, the most devastating storm to hit Jamaica in recent history, rippled through Knutsford Express’ operations on October 28 last year as a Category 5 hurricane, with several routes and depots severely affected. Some routes remained inoperable for up to two weeks, creating significant disruptions to service delivery and financial performance for the second quarter, which ended November 30, 2025.

In its just-released second-quarter audited financials, the company reports that the period was marked by unprecedented challenges following hurricane Melissa. As a result, revenue for the second quarter declined 17.4% to $413 million, down from $500 million in the corresponding period last year. 

The quarter ended with a net loss of $3.6 million, a stark contrast to the net profit of $53 million recorded in the prior year period. Despite these challenges in the second quarter, the cumulative six-month performance demonstrates the resilience of our business model. 

Half-year performance

Revenue for the six-month period ended November 30, 2025, went down by a more modest 3.5% to $1,013 million, compared to $1,050 million in the comparative period. Earnings per share for the six-month period stood at $0.13, reflecting the company’s ability to maintain profitability despite the significant disruptions experienced during the quarter. Beyond the financial results, the management and board are immensely proud of the role the company played in Jamaica’s recovery efforts. 

Knutsford Express built-up available capacity enabled it to respond swiftly and effectively to the public’s heightened needs during this critical period. In addition, the company scaled its operations to meet surging demand for passenger travel and courier services, ensuring that essential connectivity remained available when it was needed most.

Additionally, the transport and courier outfit provided numerous complimentary transport services to support organised relief efforts across the island, demonstrating our commitment to the communities we serve. Looking ahead, the board and management anticipate a strong recovery in revenues, as operations normalise and the economy rebounds. 

Strategic investment program

In the meantime, Knutsford Express’ strategic investment program continues unabated with ongoing additions to its coach fleet designed to yield increased operational efficiencies and enhanced service delivery. This commitment to growth is reflected in the company’s balance sheet with total assets increasing 13.3% to $2.38 billion compared to $2.1 billion a year ago. 

These investments, the management says, “positions us well to capitalise on the anticipated recovery and to continue meeting the evolving needs of our customers. We remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering long-term value for all stakeholders through prudent management, strategic investment, and continued innovation. The challenges of this quarter, while significant, have reinforced our operational capabilities and our essential role in Jamaica’s transportation infrastructure.”