188 nominations for awards across 28 categories at upcoming JMEA Gala

The Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) Awards Nomination Cocktail, held last week at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in new Kingston, saw a record 188 nominations across 28 award categories, marking the largest in the event’s history.

Submissions came from a wide cross-section of the industry, including large and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), representing sectors, such as food and beverage, agro-processing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, construction, fashion, and services.

“This milestone marks the highest number of nominations in the Awards’ history, surpassing the 162 received in 2024 and the 147 in 2023,” said Kamesha Blake, executive director of the JMEA.

“We strive to be as inclusive as possible, giving our members at all levels the opportunity to participate and compete. This year, we expanded several categories to accommodate both large and small manufacturers, creating even greater opportunities for MSMEs to be recognised.”

The record-breaking submissions were further bolstered by the exciting addition of several first-time entrants, including Tripple C Manufacturing, Inspired by Jadan, MC Systems, Simardo, Hyrie Wellness, House of Fennel, and The Contractor Centre.

Many of these nominees represent family-run businesses and emerging entrepreneurs carving out new ground in niche markets. Their participation highlights the growing influence of MSMEs, whose innovation and resilience continue to drive creativity within the sector and open new pathways to both local and international opportunities.

Blake added that the presence of these newcomers reflects not only the expanding reach of the Awards, but also the steady growth of the JMEA’s membership, which now stands at 600 companies strong. This growth, she noted, reinforces the association’s role as the united voice of the industry and demonstrates the increasing confidence manufacturers and exporters place in the JMEA as their advocate and partner.

ANNUAL TRADITION

The nominations will culminate at the M&E Awards Gala, scheduled for October 4, at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel, where the winners will be officially announced. The Awards are an annual tradition, recognising excellence, innovation, and dedication within Jamaica’s manufacturing and export sectors, while showcasing the competitive spirit and creativity that drive the industry forward. Winners are determined each year by a distinguished panel of external judges, all respected experts in their fields, who carefully review submissions to identify the companies and individuals most deserving of recognition for their excellence, innovation, and leadership within the sector.

As the event continues to grow in importance, the JMEA has adapted the Awards to reflect the industry’s evolving landscape and priorities.

Last year, the association introduced three new categories: the TEF Tourism Linkages Award, which honours contributions to Jamaica’s tourism value chain; the Manufacture Sustainability (ESG) Award, spotlighting businesses excelling in sustainable practices; and the Inclusivity Champion Award, recognising companies fostering diverse and inclusive workplaces.

This year, the scope of recognition has been further expanded. In addition to the 28 competitive categories, the JMEA will honour past directors who have served with distinction, acknowledging their leadership, vision, and longstanding contributions to the growth of the association and the industry. The gala will also recognise partner companies whose collaboration and support have been instrumental in advancing the JMEA’s mission, strengthening industry resilience, and positioning Jamaican manufacturing and exporting for global competitiveness.