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We Want To Transform Public Transport In Jamaica…Andrew Holness

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Public Transportation

Madam Speaker, I could not speak about roads without emphasizing that an efficient and orderly public transportation sector is not only critical for the development of any well-run society but is also essential for the daily lives of Jamaican citizens. Our vision is to have a professional transportation sector that is operated with pride, where the investors and operators are the strongest advocate for order and high quality service from their industry. I know there are a significant number of transport operators who view public passenger transport as a formal business. However, too many operators see it as a hustle. We want to assist our transport operators to create a real industry out of public transportation. I have heard the voices of our public transportation operators and I am convinced that there is a critical mass that share this vision to develop a first-world public transportation sector.

“Our vision is to have a professional transportation sector that is operated with pride, where the investors and operators are the strongest advocate for order and high quality service from their industry.”

Madam Speaker, the transport sector is multi-faceted and made up of a number of stakeholders, including drivers, owners/investors, and owners who are also drivers. Their concerns are varied and include the rising expenses that they are faced with, the need to access affordable financing to retool, and issues relating to appropriate places to stop, disembark and take on passengers.

Some have expressed to me that they have no special facility for health insurance or pensions.

While the transport sector is largely a private operation, there is a significant public service they provide and this government is willing to work with our transport operators in meaningful ways to address their issues and improve their conditions. In the coming weeks, I will be arranging consultations with the various taxi groups to further explore their concerns.

Madam Speaker, to support the public transportation sector, the Government will be implementing the following:

1. Cutting of renewal fees for Route Taxi, Hackney Carriage, Rural Stage Carriage, and Contract Carriers of public passenger vehicles by 30% for a period of one year. This incentive is given to allow operators to regularize themselves and avoid tickets. During this period the Ministry of Transport and Mining has been directed to establish an updated database of all operators. While over 9,000 operators were able to benefit from the CARE programme to the tune of approximately $300 million, too many operators were not able to access the programme for a variety of reasons including lack of registration or incomplete registration with the relevant authority at the relevant date.

2. We must improve the quality of service, behaviour and awareness of our drivers. We will be introducing a short course for all Public Passenger Vehicle drivers to be administered by the Island Traffic Authority in collaboration with the Heart Trust NSTA. Drivers will be invited to register for the course focused on the new RTA, defensive and courteous driving techniques, maintenance and sanitation procedures for vehicles, assistance with establishing bank accounts and digital wallets, and the use of digital payment technologies. All drivers who register and complete the course will be formally certified and receive a $25,000 grant from the Government. Specifically for motorcycle riders, we will be making 10,000 helmets available free of cost for who go through a short course.

3. Last year the government announced a special loan window for transport operators to refleet or upgrade their vehicles. We are currently recrafting the existing DBJ loan facility to facilitate access on preferential terms for persons who would like to change their current vehicle or motorcycle to an electric vehicle or motorcycle. Our preliminary analysis shows that electric vehicles could be very efficient for certain types of taxi operations.

4. The NWA has been directed to collaborate with the Ministry of Transport to assess the adequacy of parking, loading bays and approved stops in all urban areas and townships and along all approved routes. Where these facilities overlap with roads on the SPARK programme they will be addressed as the roads are improved.

The NWA will however prepare a specific budget for high use and critical loading areas and parking area to be funded in the next budget.

Madam Speaker, we want to transform public transport in Jamaica, the above measures along with the 100 electric buses announced last week is a significant seed in that transformation.

Nuturing S.E.E.D.S for Peace, Opportunity and Prosperity. PRIME MINISTER OF JAMAICA The Most Hon. Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP Extracted from 2023 Budget Presentation

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Businessuite News24

India’s 10-Minute Delivery Boom: A Blueprint for Disruption—and a Wake-Up Call for Caribbean Courier Companies

While the Caribbean market differs significantly in terms of geography, population density, and infrastructure, India’s 10-minute delivery trend signals a major shift in consumer expectations and service standards that cannot be ignored. Caribbean courier and logistics companies must take this as a call to evolve or risk irrelevance.

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India is currently experiencing a radical transformation in its retail and logistics sectors, driven by the explosive rise of quick-commerce (q-commerce) and the 10-minute delivery promise. Platforms like Blinkit (Zomato), Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, and Flipkart Minutes are reshaping consumer expectations, retail operations, and supply chains through hyperlocal fulfillment and lightning-fast logistics. As the trend spreads across urban and tier-2 Indian cities, it offers both a glimpse into the future of delivery and a warning for other regions—including the Caribbean.

Inside India’s 10-Minute Delivery Revolution

The delivery model hinges on speed, convenience, and proximity:

  • Companies now offer a growing range of products—from groceries and snacks to electronics and pharmaceuticals—delivered in under 10 minutes.

  • Consumers, especially Gen Z and millennials, are driving demand for instant gratification, backed by digital platforms and mobile-first lifestyles.

  • The rise of micro-fulfillment centers or “dark stores”—small warehouses strategically placed within dense neighborhoods—makes this model viable and scalable.

  • AI-driven inventory management, smart rider dispatching, and urban logistics innovation are pushing the boundaries of traditional supply chains.

As a result, India’s urban logistics infrastructure is being reshaped, and tier-2 and tier-3 cities are becoming growth frontiers for quick-commerce and smart warehousing.

Implications for Caribbean Courier and Delivery Companies

While the Caribbean market differs significantly in terms of geography, population density, and infrastructure, India’s 10-minute delivery trend signals a major shift in consumer expectations and service standards that cannot be ignored. Caribbean courier and logistics companies must take this as a call to evolve or risk irrelevance.

1. Rising Expectations for Speed and Convenience

Consumers across the Caribbean—particularly in urban areas and among younger demographics—are becoming accustomed to same-day or next-day delivery through global platforms like Amazon, Shein, and even regional players. As q-commerce normalizes faster fulfillment, local consumers will begin demanding shorter delivery windows, even for basic items.

Action: Caribbean courier companies must optimize last-mile delivery using routing software, rider apps, and hyperlocal delivery hubs to reduce travel time and improve efficiency.

2. Opportunity for Micro-Fulfillment and Smart Warehousing

The Indian model shows the power of small-scale, decentralized warehousing. In Caribbean cities like Kingston, Port of Spain, Bridgetown, and Nassau, underutilized retail spaces and urban properties can be converted into dark stores or inventory depots to support fast local fulfillment.

Action: Logistics players and even supermarkets or pharmacies should collaborate to build shared micro-warehousing infrastructure, possibly using a cooperative model to manage costs and logistics.

3. Platformization and Tech Partnerships

Q-commerce in India is driven by advanced tech platforms, real-time inventory systems, and intelligent dispatching. Many Caribbean companies are still operating on legacy systems with little digital integration.

Action: Courier services must invest in tech-enabled platforms—either by building in-house apps or partnering with regional tech startups—to offer app-based ordering, real-time tracking, and integrated payment solutions.

4. Gig Economy and Flexible Workforce Models

India’s delivery model depends on a mix of full-time and gig delivery riders, supported by incentives and flexible shifts. The Caribbean’s informal workforce presents a similar opportunity.

Action: Embrace a gig workforce model with structured onboarding, safety protocols, and performance incentives—without compromising rider well-being.

5. Regional Logistics Integration

Small market sizes and geographic fragmentation in the Caribbean make it difficult to achieve India-style scale. However, regional integration—via a Caribbean logistics alliance or digital fulfillment network—could increase efficiency and reduce cross-border delivery costs.

Action: Policymakers and private players should explore multi-island logistics hubs, shared air/sea freight routes, and cross-border fulfillment platforms.

Challenges and Considerations

  • Urban infrastructure in Caribbean cities is often unprepared for high-frequency delivery services; road congestion and informal address systems remain issues.

  • High import dependency makes local warehousing more complex; inventory planning needs to factor in shipping times and customs clearance.

  • Worker rights and labor protections must be addressed early to avoid India’s growing criticism over gig worker exploitation.

  • Sustainability and profitability need to be prioritized; Caribbean companies cannot afford long-term losses in pursuit of unsustainable speed.

Conclusion: Learn, Localize, Lead

India’s 10-minute delivery boom presents a compelling case study in innovation under pressure. For Caribbean courier companies, the key takeaway is clear: consumer behavior is changing fast—and local businesses must move faster.

Rather than trying to replicate India’s model exactly, Caribbean firms should localize quick-commerce strategies, leverage technology, and reimagine urban logistics in ways that reflect the region’s unique strengths and constraints.

The companies that act now to digitize, decentralize, and adapt will not only survive but could lead a Caribbean logistics transformation—setting new regional benchmarks for speed, service, and customer satisfaction.

India’s 10-Minute Delivery Boom: Reshaping Retail, Logistics, and Urban Spaces

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Businessuite News24 International

India’s 10-Minute Delivery Boom: Reshaping Retail, Logistics, and Urban Spaces

India is witnessing a rapid and transformative shift in its retail and logistics sectors through the rise of quick-commerce (q-commerce)—a model that promises to deliver goods within 10 minutes. At the center of this boom are companies like Blinkit (owned by Zomato), Swiggy Instamart, Zepto, and Flipkart Minutes, which are racing to meet the increasing demand for ultra-fast delivery, not just in metropolitan areas but also in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

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India is witnessing a rapid and transformative shift in its retail and logistics sectors through the rise of quick-commerce (q-commerce)—a model that promises to deliver goods within 10 minutes. At the center of this boom are companies like Blinkit (owned by Zomato), Swiggy Instamart, Zepto, and Flipkart Minutes, which are racing to meet the increasing demand for ultra-fast delivery, not just in metropolitan areas but also in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

The Emergence of the 10-Minute Promise

Initially focused on groceries, q-commerce platforms are expanding into electronics, fashion, household goods, and even pharmaceuticals. This evolution is driven by several converging factors:

  • Consumer lifestyle changes, especially post-pandemic, have increased the demand for convenience and instant gratification.

  • Smartphone penetration and digital payments have made ordering easier and faster.

  • Fierce competition and significant investor backing have accelerated innovation and service expansion.

  • Changing consumer behavior, particularly among Gen Z, favors frequent, smaller transactions over traditional bulk shopping.

What started as an experiment in convenience has quickly become a default expectation in many urban centers.

Hyperlocal Warehousing: The Backbone of Q-Commerce

To fulfill the 10-minute delivery promise, companies are building a decentralized web of micro-fulfillment centers, also known as “dark stores.” These small, strategically located warehouses serve a 2–3 km radius and are optimized for speed and efficiency.

  • Speed and proximity are the game-changers. By stocking inventory close to consumers, platforms cut delivery times dramatically.

  • AI and predictive analytics ensure these hubs are stocked with high-demand items, reducing waste and improving inventory turnover.

  • Optimized delivery routes and short travel distances reduce fuel consumption and cut costs.

  • Operational flexibility is key—these dark stores, often located in underutilized urban spaces, are agile and scalable.

This model is not just transforming mega-cities. Tier-2 and tier-3 cities like Lucknow, Indore, and Coimbatore are emerging as new logistics hubs, offering lower operational costs, available workforce, and growing consumer bases. The trend is also driving demand for Grade A warehousing infrastructure, with automation and tech-readiness becoming standard.

Economic Opportunity Meets Ethical Dilemmas

While the 10-minute model offers enormous economic potential, it comes with a growing list of concerns:

  • Worker welfare is under scrutiny. Riders often face unsafe conditions, intense delivery pressure, and unrealistic performance expectations.

  • Profitability remains elusive, especially in non-metro areas where lower order values may not justify the cost of hyperlocal fulfillment.

  • Health and consumption patterns may be affected as frequent, impulsive purchases could lead to unhealthy food choices and increased consumerism.

  • Urban congestion is escalating, with a surge in delivery vehicles clogging roads and increasing the risk of accidents.

  • Regulatory uncertainties, particularly around land use and licensing for dark stores, pose ongoing challenges for expansion.

The Road Ahead: Tech-Driven, Consumer-Focused, and Regulation-Watched

The future of India’s quick-commerce ecosystem will depend on balancing technological advancement, consumer convenience, operational efficiency, and social responsibility. Innovations in last-mile delivery automation, predictive inventory systems, and rider safety tech are being explored as solutions.

Moreover, as the model spreads to smaller cities, the hyperlocal warehousing surge will likely create new job opportunities and stimulate local economies—if managed sustainably.

Conclusion

India’s 10-minute delivery boom is more than just a race to deliver faster—it’s a redefinition of urban retail and logistics. It exemplifies how digital infrastructure, urban planning, and evolving consumer behaviors are reshaping the modern commerce landscape. The path forward must balance speed with sustainability, profit with worker safety, and innovation with inclusivity to ensure long-term growth and societal benefit.

India’s 10-Minute Delivery Boom: A Blueprint for Disruption—and a Wake-Up Call for Caribbean Courier Companies

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Businessuite Markets

Mailpac Group Doubles Q1 Revenue to $716.4M, Driven by My Cart Express Integration

The Company delivered a strong performance for the first quarter of the financial year, with total revenues of $716.4 million, representing a 94% increase over the J$368.5 million reported for the corresponding period in 2024. This growth was primarily driven by the integration of My Cart Express in reporting.

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Khary Robinson Executive Chairman, Mailpac Group Limited has released the following Unaudited Financial Statements for the First Quarter Ended March 31, 2025

Throughout the quarter, Mailpac focused on improving service delivery, and increasing customer conversions.

Despite an increasingly competitive marketplace and external factors threatening efficiencies, our financial performance reflected the impact of our continued focus on long-term growth and sustainability, delivering superb results for the period.

Financial Performance: The Company delivered a strong performance for the first quarter of the financial year, with total revenues of $716.4 million, representing a 94% increase over the J$368.5 million reported for the corresponding period in 2024. This growth was primarily driven by the integration of My Cart Express in reporting. Gross profit for the quarter amounted to $388.7 million, compared to $197.9 million for the same period last year, reflecting improved margins and operational efficiencies. This improvement is attributed to increased operational efficiencies and negotiated cost reductions achieved through economies of scale. The Company recorded net profit of $69.7 million of Q1 2025, an increase from $50.1 million in Q1 2024, representing a 39% year-over-year increase. Strategic Developments and

Financial Position: During the quarter, Mailpac continued to make significant capital investment in technology infrastructure and logistics to support long-term scalability and development of service offerings, Additionally, we continue to benefit from the tax remission under the Jamaica Stock Exchange Junior Market rules, now at 50%, following the completion of the initial 5-year full remission period in December 2024.

As at March 31, 2025, Mailpac Group Limited reported total assets of $2.3 billion, up from $626.3 million as at March 31, 2024. The increase is largely attributed to the rise in intangible assets following the acquisition and increased right-of-use assets.

Shareholders’ equity grew to $806.2 million, compared to $537.9 million in the prior year. Outlook: The Company remains focused on growth through innovation, strategic partnerships, and enhanced customer experiences. With an increasingly digital consumer landscape and our expanding footprint, we are confident in delivering continued value to shareholders and stakeholders alike. The Board of Directors and management team would like to express our appreciation to our shareholders, customers, employees and partners for their continued support. We remain committed to delivering value for all out stakeholders and thank you for your unwavering trust in Mailpac.

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Logistics & Transportation

Unilever Caribbean’s Strategic Shift: Embracing Outsourced Logistics for Enhanced Efficiency

UCL’s strategic move reflects a broader trend among Caribbean manufacturers and distributors. Companies like Nestlé Jamaica have similarly outsourced their logistics operations to focus on core business areas. This regional shift is influenced by the desire to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and leverage the expertise of specialized logistics providers

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Unilever Caribbean Ltd (UCL) has recently approved a significant transformation in its distribution strategy by adopting a new route-to-market structure. This move involves outsourcing its distribution, warehousing, and logistics services to third-party partners, marking a pivotal shift aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and focusing on core business competencies.

Rationale Behind the Shift

The decision to outsource logistics functions is driven by multiple strategic considerations:

  • Cost Optimization: Outsourcing allows companies to reduce operational costs associated with maintaining in-house logistics infrastructure.

  • Focus on Core Competencies: By delegating logistics to specialized providers, companies like UCL can concentrate on areas such as customer acquisition, experience, and retention, which are critical for revenue growth.

  • Enhanced Flexibility and Scalability: Third-party logistics providers (3PLs) offer scalable solutions that can adapt to changing market demands, providing greater flexibility in operations.

These factors collectively contribute to a more agile and responsive supply chain, better equipped to meet the dynamic needs of the market.

Regional Trends in Logistics Outsourcing

UCL’s strategic move reflects a broader trend among Caribbean manufacturers and distributors. Companies like Nestlé Jamaica have similarly outsourced their logistics operations to focus on core business areas. This regional shift is influenced by the desire to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and leverage the expertise of specialized logistics providers

Jamaica’s strategic location and ongoing investments in logistics infrastructure further support this trend. The country’s Logistics Hub Initiative aims to position Jamaica as a global logistics hub, enhancing its appeal to companies seeking efficient distribution channels.

Global Perspective on Logistics Outsourcing

Globally, the logistics outsourcing market is experiencing significant growth. The market is projected to reach USD 2,153.7 billion by 2035, driven by factors such as globalization, e-commerce expansion, and the need for advanced supply chain solutions. Companies are increasingly turning to 3PLs to access cutting-edge technologies, improve service levels, and achieve cost efficiencies.

Outsourcing logistics functions allows businesses to benefit from the specialized capabilities of 3PLs, including real-time tracking, inventory management, and advanced analytics. This strategic approach enables companies to respond more effectively to market changes and customer expectations.

Conclusion

Unilever Caribbean’s adoption of an outsourced logistics model signifies a strategic alignment with both regional and global trends aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and focusing on core business functions. By leveraging the expertise of third-party logistics providers, UCL positions itself to better navigate the complexities of the modern supply chain landscape, ultimately aiming to deliver greater value to its customers and stakeholders.

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Businessuite News24

$420 Million Secured for Second CNG Plant at JUTC Spanish Town Depot

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An investment of $420 million is being made by Jamaica’s largest independent power supplier, InterEnergy Group, for the development of the second compressed natural gas (CNG) facility, at the Jamaica Urban Transit Company’s (JUTC’s) Spanish Town depot.

The disclosure was made by Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport (MSETT), Hon. Daryl Vaz, during a press briefing at the Ministry’s offices in Kingston, on Thursday (May 22).

“This facility will be able to fuel 202 CNG buses per day. Added to the [existing facility at the] Spanish Town depot, that is a total of 397 CNG buses per day,” the Minister outlined.

Mr. Vaz pointed out that the JUTC’s CNG fleet currently has 127 buses, while another 100 are set to arrive in the island within weeks.

“When the InterEnergy facility is completed, we will not only have the capacity to fuel the 227 CNG buses in the fleet but we will also have the capacity to fuel 75 per cent above the demand that will exist for the JUTC with the CNG,” the Transport Minister maintained.

He noted that the InterEnergy facility is expected to be completed between August and September of this year.

“The [new CNG] buses will get here by the middle to the end of June. That is down time. School is off, and we will be in a better position to start back-to-school, not only with the buses being fuelled in Portmore but the new facility in Spanish Town,” he outlined.

Meanwhile, the Minister indicated that the Government has received a proposal from Xcelerate Energy, which has indicated that it is prepared to fund and build out Phase 3 of the Portmore CNG fuel plant, taking the facility’s capacity up to 195 buses per day.

The Government’s investment in CNG buses is expected to further improve operational efficiencies at the JUTC, while leading to significant savings.

By: DONIQUE WESTON JIS

Photo: Donique Weston

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