The reintroduction of Ju-C to the Vincentian market, through the Eastern Caribbean Bottlers Inc (ECBI), will present a number of benefits to St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Chief executive officer of Eastern Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC), Osmond Davy was speaking at the reopening {{more}}of ECBI last Thursday, when he noted that since the reopening of the plant, a number of Vincentians have gained employment.

“In our opinion, the sky is the limit,” Davy said.

“We have employed some 40 plus people. During this festive season, we’ll see further circulation of money. There will be increases to NIS (National Insurance Services)…In all it will be a contribution to increase our GDP which…is nation building.”

Since acquiring the assets of St Vincent Bottlers Ltd in April 2014, the CEO revealed that they have successfully completed phase one, which was to reintroduce Ju-C. Currently, ECBI manufactures six flavours of Ju-C: red, orange, apple, banana, pineapple and Ju-C cola.

Davy added that there are a number of goals to be completed in phase two.

“Next will be Phase two, we will be introducing Village Ram; an energy drink which I’m pretty sure you are all are quite aware of. In addition, we are bringing water onto the market, other flavours of soda and fruit juices,” he said.

The CEO further expressed pride in being able to bring Ju-C back to the market, just one month before the Christmas holiday and noted that “it’s nostalgia in a bottle. Our children will now be able to experience the taste of Ju-C.”

Chair for the board of directors, Audrey DeFreitas expressed thanks to Davy and his team for all their hard work, the company’s Canadian counterparts and the public for their continued support.

“The decision to acquire Bottlers Limited was indeed a hard decision for the board of directors to make as it meant moving away from our core business and entering into unchartered waters. I am confident that this new venture will be a success,” DeFreitas said.

“As we approach this festive season, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our patrons for their support throughout the years. We look forward to serving you in the New Year.”

Following the ceremony on Thursday, the ECBI building in Campden Park was blessed and officially opened. Persons present were able to have a short tour of the manufacturing area.(BK)