Limners and Bards Limited (The LAB) is charting a new course for 2025, placing innovation and adaptability at the heart of its strategy to elevate Caribbean creativity on the global stage. As the region’s creative industry continues to evolve, The LAB is positioning itself as a dynamic force ready to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Expanding Horizons in the Caribbean
The LAB has announced ambitious plans to extend its footprint across the Caribbean, targeting new markets in Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados. The company has already initiated exploratory visits, gathering insights to craft tailored strategies for each region. These ventures are not just about geography but about cultivating a shared vision of regional creative growth.
“We see immense untapped potential in the Caribbean,” said Chairman Steven Gooden. “Our expansion is not just about business; it’s about fostering a collective identity that the global market will recognize and value.”
Through collaborations with local stakeholders and tailored content initiatives, The LAB intends to anchor itself as a cornerstone of the Caribbean’s creative ecosystem.
Content Creation: The Heart of Growth
At the core of The LAB’s 2025 blueprint is a renewed focus on storytelling. The company plans to roll out an array of original productions that blend local authenticity with universal appeal. Leading this charge is the much-anticipated film Love Offside, set for a summer 2025 release, alongside the festive drama Spices of Christmas, scheduled for production early in the year.
“Jamaica’s cultural heritage is our treasure trove,” said CEO Kimala Bennett. “We are tapping into this rich reservoir to craft narratives that resonate globally while staying true to our roots.”
The LAB’s innovative distribution strategy includes theatrical releases, licensing deals, and streaming partnerships, ensuring its content reaches audiences far and wide. With global demand for authentic storytelling on the rise, The LAB aims to cement its place as a leading purveyor of Caribbean culture.
Financial Discipline Fuels Innovation
Despite industry headwinds in 2024, The LAB demonstrated resilience. The company achieved a net profit of $82.9 million, marking a 44.7% increase year-over-year, even as revenues dipped to $958.1 million. Investments in advanced production technology and strategic cost management have positioned the company to navigate economic challenges while focusing on long-term growth.
By refining operational efficiencies and maintaining a disciplined approach to financial management, The LAB has strengthened its ability to reinvest in its creative ventures. Shareholders’ equity climbed to $638.5 million, with total assets exceeding $1 billion — milestones that underscore the company’s commitment to sustainable growth.
Vision for the Future
As The LAB gears up for 2025, its leadership is unwavering in its commitment to innovation and regional collaboration. By bridging the Caribbean’s creative potential with global opportunities, The LAB envisions a future where the region is not just a contributor but a leader in the global content landscape.
“Our mission is clear,” said Gooden. “We aim to redefine the narrative of Caribbean creativity, blending our cultural essence with modern storytelling techniques to create a legacy that will inspire generations to come.”
Through bold initiatives and a forward-looking strategy, The LAB is not just adapting to change but driving it — a testament to its role as a beacon of Caribbean innovation.
