Wisynco Group Limited is poised for significant growth as it enters a new phase in its multibillion-dollar expansion strategy. In a recent announcement at the company’s annual general meeting (AGM) held at the S Hotel Kingston, CEO Andrew Mahfood unveiled plans to introduce new packaging formats, including glass and Tetra Pak, as part of a broader effort to meet the rising demand for sustainable products and tap into the growing export market.
Having completed its largest-ever capital expenditure program, Wisynco has successfully doubled its production capacity. This key development will not only meet local market needs but will also serve as a springboard for the company’s ambitions to expand into international markets, including the UK, US, and the Caribbean. As part of this initiative, the company is currently trialing Tetra Pak-based packaging for use in the hotel and restaurant sectors, while glass packaging will be introduced for a range of its products, including its flagship brands such as Wata, Bigga, and Boom.
“Expanding our packaging options is about more than just meeting market demand—it’s about being a responsible corporate citizen and reducing our environmental impact. By introducing glass and Tetra Pak, we’re not only addressing the sustainability challenge but also improving the shelf life of our beverages,” said Andrew Mahfood during the AGM.
The decision to diversify packaging comes after several years of changes aimed at reducing plastic use, including efforts to make Wisynco’s bottles 50% lighter and reduce cap sizes. These measures are part of the company’s long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability, which includes a partnership with Recycling Partners of Jamaica (RPJ) that helps facilitate the collection and recycling of bottles.
Wisynco’s chairman, William Mahfood, highlighted that the company has already started testing Tetra Pak packaging for Wata water in Jamaica’s hotel industry. “Many hotels have opted to go plastic-free, and we’re responding to this shift by providing Tetra Pak as a packaging alternative,” he explained. This trial will initially focus on the hotel trade, but as production scales up, the company plans to introduce the Tetra Pak packaging to the wider market.
In addition to packaging innovation, Wisynco is exploring new ways to enhance its energy efficiency. The company plans to increase its use of solar power and liquefied natural gas (LNG) to optimize energy costs as part of its overall sustainability drive. Furthermore, the company is expanding its wastewater treatment facilities to ensure that its growing operations remain environmentally responsible.
These initiatives align with the company’s broader strategic focus on expanding its global footprint. Wisynco has set ambitious targets to increase the export share of its revenue, which currently accounts for only 2% of its total sales, but is expected to grow significantly with the new packaging lines and increased production capacity. The company plans to leverage its expanded portfolio, which includes products like Trade Winds and Tru-Juice, to gain traction in overseas markets.
“We’ve always been focused on ensuring that we have enough local production capacity to support our export ambitions. Now that we’ve reached that point, we’re turning our attention to scaling up exports, especially with the new product lines and packaging options we’re rolling out,” said Chairman William Mahfood.
In addition to the operational advancements, Wisynco is also investing in its distribution network. The company recently acquired land in Lacovia, St. Elizabeth, to build a new warehouse, expanding its reach across Jamaica. This follows the success of its distribution center in Hague, Trelawny, which has significantly enhanced the company’s logistics capabilities.
Despite challenges in the global market, including rising costs and supply chain disruptions, Wisynco continues to perform well. For the 2024 fiscal year, the company reported an 11% increase in revenue, reaching J$54.27 billion. However, net profits rose by a more modest 5%, reflecting the costs associated with the company’s expansion.
Looking ahead, Wisynco remains committed to its mission of building a more sustainable and efficient future while continuing to focus on international growth. With a diversified packaging portfolio, increased production capacity, and strategic investments in energy and distribution, the company is well-positioned to meet the demands of both local and global markets in the years to come.
