Lasco Manufacturing Limited, renowned for its iCool brand, is set to enhance its production capabilities with the installation of a new Italian processing and filling plant at its White Marl, St Catherine facility. This strategic move, expected to be operational within the next three months, aims to increase beverage output by 40%, just in time for the high-demand festive season. The initiative is part of a comprehensive $1.1 billion retooling program extending through 2026, as confirmed by Director Vincent Chen during the company’s annual general meeting. Chen emphasized that the investment is a pivotal step in driving efficiency, reducing costs, and expanding export opportunities, stating, ‘We’re not sleeping; we’re actively seeking ways to grow.’ The retooling effort comes amidst a challenging financial landscape. For the fiscal year ending March 2025, Lasco reported a modest 3% revenue increase, a significant drop from the 18.6% growth recorded two years prior. Net profit, however, edged up 8% to $2.2 billion. The first quarter of the new financial year saw a 10% decline in sales revenue to $2.92 billion, with net profit dipping to $618.3 million from $701.7 million in the previous year. Deputy General Manager Lisa Watt attributed the softer performance to local market contraction and global economic pressures. The company’s expansion strategy is designed to fortify its position in the competitive fast-moving consumer goods sector, both domestically and internationally. Last year, Lasco secured a partnership with a major US retailer, marking a significant step in broadening its distribution beyond the Caribbean diaspora. While details of the agreement remain undisclosed, executives view it as a cornerstone of their export growth strategy. Lasco’s diverse product portfolio, ranging from powdered foods to beverages, continues to drive its market presence. Watt highlighted the necessity of retooling aging equipment to enhance efficiency and asset returns, noting that the new plant will significantly boost productivity and support innovation. Despite shareholder concerns over declining revenue growth and asset returns, Watt reassured stakeholders that the retooling program, coupled with product innovation and export expansion, will restore double-digit growth. Additionally, Lasco plans to invest in compressors, pumps, and an expanded ozonation system to further reduce costs and improve quality, reinforcing its resilience against supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties. The company has allocated $1.1 billion for capital investments from 2024 to 2026, with $425 million already spent in the past fiscal year.
标签： Jamaica
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WATCH: Nursing students receive laptops from Richard and Diana Stewart Foundation
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant boost to their academic pursuits, nursing students at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona have been gifted new laptops by the Richard and Diana Stewart Foundation. The donation ceremony was held at the Faculty of Medical Sciences on Monday, marking a pivotal moment in the students’ educational journey. Diana Stewart, head of the foundation, lauded the students for their unwavering dedication and service, hailing them as ‘quiet heroes in moments of crisis.’ She highlighted the evolving role of technology in healthcare, stressing its importance in modern nursing practices. ‘Technology is now an essential part of patient care, from digital health records to telemedicine,’ Stewart remarked. She emphasized that access to such tools is critical for learning, research, and professional preparation. The donation, she noted, is not merely a contribution of equipment but an investment in the future of Jamaica’s healthcare sector. Stewart expressed her hope that the laptops would enable students to conduct research, complete assignments, and collaborate effectively, fostering the efficiency and flexibility required in today’s world. The gesture underscores the foundation’s commitment to education and its mission to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals. ‘May these laptops serve you well, and may you continue to serve with excellence, compassion, and pride,’ Stewart concluded.
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Several Caribbean countries rattled by earthquake
A moderate earthquake measuring 4.0 on the Richter scale struck several Caribbean nations early Wednesday morning, as confirmed by the Seismic Research Centre (SRC) at the University of the West Indies (UWI) in St. Augustine, Trinidad. The tremor occurred at 5:07 am local time, with its epicenter located at a depth of eight kilometers. Despite the quake’s intensity, there have been no immediate reports of damage or injuries. The seismic event was felt across multiple regions, including 206 kilometers east-northeast of Point-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe; 233 kilometers east of Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda; and 246 kilometers northeast of Roseau, Dominica. Authorities and local residents remain vigilant, though the situation appears to be under control.
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Connecticut man charged for murdering parents
A tragic domestic violence incident in Waterbury, Connecticut, has resulted in the arrest of a 25-year-old man for the alleged murder of his parents. The victims, identified as 51-year-old Carlene Williams and 55-year-old Marc Adams, were found with fatal gunshot wounds at their Beverly Avenue residence on Monday evening. Authorities were alerted to the scene, where the couple was pronounced dead. The suspect, Javan Adams, has been charged with multiple offenses, including murder with special circumstances, murder during the commission of a felony, larceny of a vehicle, and criminal use of a weapon. Javan is currently held on a $5 million bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday. Reports indicate that the suspect has a lengthy criminal history, with over seven prior domestic violence offenses, underscoring the severity of the case. The incident has reignited concerns about domestic violence and its devastating consequences.
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World pole vault record holder ‘Mondo’ Duplantis says he wants to visit Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis, the Swedish-American pole vault sensation and current world record holder, has expressed his enthusiasm for visiting Jamaica. In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram by Dr. Tahira Redwood, the 25-year-old athlete conveyed his desire to explore the island’s vibrant culture and connect with its people. Duplantis, who hails from Louisiana, acknowledged that Jamaica may not host many pole vault events but emphasized his eagerness to visit regardless. He stated, ‘Hey my Jamaica people, I really hope to see you soon. Probably not much pole vault events hosted in Jamaica, but I want to come anyway, the vibes look insane. I really need to come to Kingston. I need to come to Jamaica. Just tell me where to pull up and I’m there.’ Additionally, Duplantis showed interest in Jamaica’s renowned KFC chicken, which Dr. Redwood highlighted for its unique spicy flavor. This gesture underscores his curiosity about the island’s culinary offerings and cultural richness. Duplantis’s message has sparked excitement among Jamaicans, who are eager to welcome the global sports icon to their shores.
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S&P revises outlook to positive on NCB
S&P Global Ratings has revised its outlook for NCB Financial Group (NCBFG) and its primary banking subsidiary, National Commercial Bank Jamaica (NCBJ), from ‘stable’ to ‘positive’. This adjustment indicates a heightened likelihood of credit rating upgrades for both entities within the next one to two years. While S&P has maintained the current ratings of ‘BB-‘ for NCBJ and ‘B-‘ for NCBFG, the shift in outlook is closely tied to Jamaica’s improved national credit rating, which was upgraded last month. The agency commended the Jamaican government for its disciplined fiscal management and debt reduction efforts, which have strengthened the country’s financial stability and its ability to support the banking sector. Additionally, S&P highlighted the resilience of Jamaica’s economy, driven by robust tourism revenues and remittances, which have bolstered foreign reserves and stabilized the Jamaican dollar. The economy is projected to grow by 2% this year, fostering a more stable environment for banks. NCBJ, Jamaica’s largest bank, was praised for its diverse service offerings, while NCBFG was recognized for its diversified business portfolio, including its ownership of a major insurance company. However, S&P cautioned that NCBJ’s non-performing loans, though manageable, remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels, and NCBFG’s Bermuda subsidiary carries higher-risk loans tied to tourism and construction. The agency also noted that any stagnation in Jamaica’s economic progress could revert the outlook to ‘stable’.
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Veggie ‘burgers’ face the chop as EU lawmakers back labeling ban
In a landmark decision, the European Parliament has voted to prohibit the use of meat-related terminology such as ‘burger’ and ‘steak’ for marketing plant-based food products. The vote, held during a plenary session in Strasbourg, France, saw 355 lawmakers in favor and 247 against the proposal. The measure, championed by French right-wing lawmaker Celine Imart, aims to address concerns over consumer clarity and protect the interests of the livestock farming sector. Imart emphasized that while alternative proteins should remain accessible, labeling plant-based products with meat-related terms is misleading. The proposal, which must still be negotiated with the EU’s 27 member states, has sparked debate. Critics, including the Greens and left-leaning lawmakers, argue that the ban is unnecessary and could stifle innovation in the growing plant-based food industry. Meanwhile, the livestock sector, particularly in France, has welcomed the move as a safeguard against competition. The decision highlights the ongoing tension between traditional agriculture and the rising demand for sustainable, plant-based alternatives.
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I Have A Heart Foundation breaks blood collection record at 13th blood drive
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The I Have A Heart Foundation (iHAH), in collaboration with Margin to Centre (M2C), has achieved a historic milestone with its largest blood collection to date, potentially saving 228 lives. The 13th Blood Drive, held on September 27, 2025, at Emancipation Park in Kingston, saw 111 registered donors contribute 76 units of blood. The overwhelming turnout temporarily exhausted the National Blood Transfusion Service’s (NBTS) blood bag supply, necessitating an on-site replenishment. This event marks the foundation’s most successful drive and the second highest collection for the NBTS this year. Abi-Gaye Smythe, Founder and Managing Director of iHAH, highlighted the growing community awareness of the critical need for blood donations, emphasizing the foundation’s mission to improve lives “one heart at a time.” Dr. Samantha Johnson, Co-founder of M2C, underscored the collaboration’s alignment with their goal to enhance healthcare access for marginalized women. To date, iHAH has collected 354 units of blood, potentially saving 1,062 lives. In response to the community’s enthusiasm, the foundation is considering rescheduling its next drive to an earlier date in 2026. The event’s success was supported by numerous sponsors, including All Power Limited, Juici Patties, and Wisynco, among others. Smythe expressed profound gratitude to donors, volunteers, and sponsors, noting that each donation represents a life saved and a stronger, more compassionate Jamaica.
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Forex: $161.61 to one US dollar
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The US dollar demonstrated a slight upward trend in Jamaica’s foreign exchange market on Wednesday, October 8, closing at $161.61, marking a modest increase of five cents compared to the previous day. This data was reported in the Bank of Jamaica’s daily exchange trading summary. In contrast, the Canadian dollar experienced a decline, ending the day at $116.06, down from its previous close of $116.35. Similarly, the British pound also saw a dip, settling at $215.80, a decrease from $216.31. These fluctuations highlight the dynamic nature of currency markets and the varying performance of major global currencies in Jamaica’s financial landscape.
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Ras-I celebrates a wonderful 2025
Reggae artist Ras-I is celebrating a landmark year in his musical career, marked by significant achievements and exciting new projects. His 2020 hit single, ‘Somewhere Wonderful,’ was chosen as the official soundtrack for the Jamaica Tourist Board’s 2025 Easter campaign, a milestone that underscores the song’s enduring appeal and cultural resonance. Now, Ras-I is gearing up for the release of a new single, ‘Rastafari in Charge,’ featuring Munga Honourable, and is also preparing an album set for 2026.
In an interview with the Jamaica Observer, Ras-I expressed his satisfaction with the trajectory of his career. ‘Everything has been happening in perfect timing,’ he said. ‘I am happy that my career is moving in the right direction so I can show the youths that hard work and consciousness really do pay off.’
Ras-I’s philosophy as an artist is deeply rooted in creating music that stands the test of time. Inspired by advice from legendary Jamaican singer Beres Hammond, he is committed to producing content that will remain relevant for decades. ‘As artistes, we’re not making music just for us. Once we press that button and release it, it’s no longer just for us; it’s for the people,’ Ras-I explained. ‘I decided not to follow trends but to sing what’s in my heart, and so everything you hear from me is made out of good vibes and good energy.’
This approach has clearly paid off, as ‘Somewhere Wonderful’ continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, even five years after its release. ‘To create something that was so culturally great that it got the support of corporate was everything to me,’ Ras-I said. ‘The track transcended all limits because it was so relatable. The common man loved it because we all wanna go wonderful places, and we’re equally tired of being misunderstood.’
Ras-I’s latest collaboration with Munga Honourable, ‘Rastafari in Charge,’ is a testament to the power of intergenerational partnerships in the music industry. The track, which blends the talents of a seasoned artist with a rising star, has been well-received, and its accompanying music video has further boosted its popularity. ‘This track shows a connection with one of the more established and legendary artistes and the new crop of reggae and dancehall artistes, and it’s a feel-good vibe,’ Ras-I noted. ‘The message is conscious as always with my songs, and it’s just all about positivity and upliftment.’
Reflecting on the collaboration, Ras-I praised Munga’s professionalism and dedication. ‘Munga came early, helped set up, and to me that was something special,’ he said. ‘I said to myself, this is how big artistes should work with younger artistes and help to filter in so we can help maintain the relevance.’
Ras-I also addressed the broader narrative around older artists working with younger ones, emphasizing the importance of maintaining standards while allowing for creative freedom. ‘Sometimes people say the standard drops, but that’s not it at all. The disconnect comes from ‘It’s not what you say but how you say it,’’ he explained. ‘We have to maintain standards, but we also have to allow the artistes to be the artistes.’
As ‘Rastafari in Charge’ continues to gain momentum, Ras-I is already looking ahead to his next big project: an album set for release in 2026. While he remains tight-lipped about the details, he assured fans that the creative process has been smooth. ‘We’re putting together the album, and that’s all I will say. It’s been five years,’ he shared. ‘It’s been so smooth because the hardest part of putting an album together is never the creative side, it’s the business side, the paperwork. But definitely, 2026 it’s coming.’
With his unwavering commitment to quality and his ability to bridge generational gaps, Ras-I is poised to leave an indelible mark on the reggae music scene.