KINGSTON, Jamaica — FirstRock Real Estate Investments (FirstRock) has successfully concluded its third development initiative for KFC Costa Rica, executed through its subsidiary, First Rock LATAM S.A. This ambitious project, initiated in April, encompasses a state-of-the-art restaurant and a cutting-edge distribution center. The restaurant phase reached completion in June, followed by the delivery of the distribution facility in August. Located in Coyol, a prominent industrial zone in Costa Rica, the distribution center is poised to enhance KFC’s logistical efficiency across the region. FirstRock extended gratitude to its collaborators, including Constarq, KFC’s development team, ITFCR, and BAC Credomatic, for their pivotal roles in the project’s success. This milestone underscores FirstRock’s growing influence in Latin America and the Caribbean, reaffirming its dedication to creating long-term value through strategic real estate investments.
分类： business
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New 2026 Forester for KIG
Kingston Industrial Garage (KIG), the authorized dealer for Subaru in Jamaica, officially launched the 2026 Subaru Forester on October 4 at its Spanish Town Road showroom. The event marked the debut of the latest iteration of the popular sport utility vehicle, which has long been a favorite among Jamaican drivers for its reliability and adaptability to local terrain.
Jeffrey Panton, Managing Director of KIG, emphasized the significance of the Forester to the Subaru brand and its loyal customer base. ‘The Forester is a cornerstone of our lineup. Its performance and durability make it one of the top choices for Jamaican drivers,’ Panton stated in an interview with the Jamaica Observer’s Auto magazine.
The 2026 Forester boasts a bold, redesigned exterior that aligns with Subaru’s philosophy of blending functionality with aesthetics. Subtle design elements, such as hummingbird motifs and paw prints, add a touch of personality to the vehicle. The car’s spacious glasshouse ensures excellent visibility, while the redesigned front seats enhance safety and comfort. A powered rear tailgate opens to a reshaped cargo area, making loading and unloading more convenient.
Inside, the Forester features a fully digital 12.3-inch driver instrument cluster and an 11.6-inch vertical infotainment screen, equipped with USB ports, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10W wireless charger. The vehicle is built on Subaru’s advanced Global Platform, which improves safety, chassis dynamics, and overall driving experience. Key upgrades include a larger 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and dual-pinion electronic power steering for a smoother ride.
The Forester retains Subaru’s legendary symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, now further refined for enhanced performance across various road conditions. Advanced safety features, such as Vehicle Dynamics Control and the upgraded EyeSight system, which now includes a wide-angle monocular camera, ensure superior protection for drivers and passengers alike.
Panton expressed confidence in the Forester’s ability to thrive in the competitive automotive market, citing Subaru’s proven reliability and technological advancements. He also shared updates on KIG’s expansion plans, including a new showroom in Montego Bay, expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
The 2026 Subaru Forester represents a harmonious blend of innovation and tradition, offering a fresh design while staying true to the elements that have made it a trusted choice for Subaru enthusiasts.
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FID and Casino Gaming Commission sign MOU for information sharing and compliance
KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant move to bolster the fight against financial crimes linked to casino operations, the Financial Investigations Division (FID) and the Casino Gaming Commission (CGC) have formalized their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The agreement, announced on Friday, aims to enhance the prevention, detection, investigation, and enforcement of illicit financial activities within the casino sector.
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EXPRESS CATERING’S US$5-M GAMBLE
Express Catering Limited (ECL), the company behind popular brands like Margaritaville and Bob Marley’s One Love at Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (SIA), has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began as a simple airport concessionaire has evolved into a strategic brand consolidator, poised for a nationwide rollout. This shift is underscored by its impressive first-quarter results for the period ending August 31, 2025, which revealed a 50% surge in net profit to US$1.51 million, alongside a 5% increase in revenue to US$6.8 million.
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Forex: $161.62 to one US dollar
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the latest financial update from the Bank of Jamaica, the US dollar demonstrated a slight uptick in its exchange rate against the Jamaican dollar on Friday, October 10, 2025. Closing at $161.62, the US currency marked an increase of nine cents from the previous trading session. This movement reflects ongoing fluctuations in the foreign exchange market, influenced by global economic trends and local financial policies. Concurrently, the Canadian dollar experienced a decline, settling at $115.47 after a drop from $116.10. Similarly, the British pound saw a minor decrease, ending the day at $216.26 compared to its previous close of $216.53. These shifts underscore the dynamic nature of currency markets and their responsiveness to international economic developments.
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Nexa Credit Union Financial Wellness Seminar
In celebration of Credit Union Month and Financial Information Month 2025, Nexa Credit Union successfully organized a Financial Wellness Seminar on October 4, 2025. The event, held in partnership with the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and Insurance Consultants of Grenada Ltd., focused on critical financial topics such as retirement planning, social security, and insurance. The seminar aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary for effective financial management and long-term security. Featured speakers included Lisa Douglas, Public Relations Officer of the NIS; Delores Joseph, Health, Life, and Pension Benefits Supervisor at Insurance Consultants Grenada Ltd.; and Xiomara Cherebin-Forsyth, Nexa’s In-House Legal Counsel. Together, they provided comprehensive insights into maximizing NIS benefits, the role of insurance in financial protection, and essential legal considerations like will preparation and estate planning. The seminar, open to both members and non-members, underscored Nexa Credit Union’s commitment to financial education and community empowerment. Participants actively engaged in discussions, shared personal experiences, and participated in practical exercises, fostering an environment of learning and collaboration. Nexa Credit Union’s initiatives align with the broader goals of Financial Information Month, which promotes informed financial decision-making across the Eastern Caribbean. For more details on Nexa’s upcoming programs, visit nexacreditunion.com or follow their social media channels.
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Southern Air and Seven Air Partner with Government to Make Antigua a Regional Cargo Hub
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has greenlit a strategic initiative to enhance collaboration with international logistics giants Southern Air and Seven Air, marking a significant step in positioning the nation as a central air and maritime logistics hub for the Eastern Caribbean and beyond. This decision comes on the heels of successful charter operations between Miami and Antigua, orchestrated by the Extreme Group—an affiliate of Southern Air and Seven Air—which showcased the potential for scaling up regional logistics through expanded air freight, port operations, and warehousing services.
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Gevaarlijk spel met schuldenplafond
In a recent session of De Nationale Assemblée (DNA), a new legislative amendment was passed to raise the government’s debt ceiling. Proponents of the amendment, primarily from the ruling coalition, argue that the measure is essential to balance the budget and meet ongoing governmental obligations. However, this move has sparked significant concern among economists and policymakers, who warn of the potential misuse of debt to fund consumptive expenditures such as salaries, allowances, and other compensations, as well as the purchase of vehicles, foreign travel, and various goods. Such practices do not contribute to economic growth but instead increase the future burden on society.
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Mount Gay marks historic full-circle moment with Single Estate Series launch
Mount Gay, the world’s oldest rum producer, has unveiled the third and fourth editions of its Single Estate Series, marking a historic return to its Barbadian roots. The dual launch event, held at the historic St Lucy estate, brought together company executives, mixologists, industry leaders, and guests to celebrate the full-circle journey of rum-making—from sugarcane fields to the tasting glass.
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Antigua Barbuda Yachting and Marina Association Announces Economic Impact Study
The Antigua Barbuda Yachting and Marina Association (ABYMA) has launched its fourth annual Discover Antigua Barbuda Yachting & Marine Expo, spotlighting the yachting industry’s pivotal role in the local economy. The event, which commenced today, features the unveiling of a groundbreaking Economic Impact Study, the first of its kind in over two decades. This study, commissioned by ABYMA and led by consultancy Eco-Sustainability, aims to evaluate the industry’s contributions, identify challenges, and uncover growth opportunities. President Franklyn Braithwaite emphasized the study’s importance, stating, ‘Understanding how we can develop and support this sector will benefit the entire economy.’ The research, set to begin in December 2025 and conclude by June 2026, will analyze both consumer behavior and the business landscape. Vice President Bobby Reis highlighted the sector’s dual role in boosting tourism and creating year-round employment. The Expo also showcased the International Yacht Restoration School of Technology & Trades Scholarship Fund, a partnership between ABYMA and local organizations, designed to nurture Antiguan talent in marine trades. Liz Isdale, representing the scholarship program, noted, ‘Investing in local potential is key to sustaining industry growth.’ Governor General Deputy Sir Clare Roberts officially opened the event, declaring, ‘Opportunity takes to the seas.’ Running through October 9th, the Expo offers career advice and networking opportunities, supported by sponsors including Antigua Yacht Club Marina and Falmouth Harbour Marina. For more details, visit www.abyma.ag.