In a move to promote greater collaboration and knowledge transfer between large enterprises and smaller businesses, the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) organised the first in a series of visits to the Pepsi Cola Jamaica (PCJ) bottling plant in Kingston.

The initiative, part of JMEA’s broader membership engagement strategy, provides a platform for first-hand knowledge exchange between major exporters and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.

During the visit, PCJ highlighted strategic practices for enhancing productivity in manufacturing and emphasised the significance of understanding consumer preferences and the role of a strong brand identity in maintaining competitiveness within the market.

During the ‘Tour and Learn’ initiative, JMEA executive director and members of the secretariat embarked on a comprehensive journey through the company’s state-of-the-art facility.

Kamesha Blake, executive director of JMEA, highlighted the significance of the initiative in fostering the growth of the manufacturing sector and supporting the development of smaller enterprises.

“We want to help develop our small manufacturers and give them a future into becoming a larger community,” said Blake, noting that the members selected for the tour were chosen based on their sectors, ensuring a diverse representation of agri-businesses visiting the plant facility.

Anecia Walters, transformation manager at PCJ, also expressed the importance of the collaboration: “We’re thrilled to be part of this unique initiative with the JMEA, aiming to elevate the manufacturing sector. This marks our first tour of this kind at PCJ, underscoring our heightened engagement with the JMEA.”

She continued: “We see the association as a crucial advocate for the manufacturing sector, and we’re committed to actively contributing to initiatives that drive industry improvement and growth. Recognising the significance of ongoing Government incentives, we believe in the collective contribution to the sector’s development and look forward to future collaborative endeavours.”

Pepsi Cola Jamaica recently celebrated the inauguration of its new US$30-million state-of-the-art production line, a significant milestone that positions the company as an industry leader in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, doubling its production capacity to meet the rising demand for its diverse beverage portfolio.