The United States is in a good position to remain the major supplier of consumer ready products to Jamaica, given its proximity and cost competitiveness. However, promotional and other assistance to importing firms will protect the U.S. market share. On average about 70 percent of total food sales goes to the large wholesalers and 25 percent to large retailers. The HRI sector accounts for only approximately 5 percent of food sales. The large wholesalers in turn sell to smaller wholesalers who sell to retailers.
Retailing is done primarily through supermarkets and grocery stores located island wide.
Companies should try to participate in local trade shows and expos as this will indicate to the local companies that there is an interest and a willingness to commit to the market. Jamaican importers tend to establish long standing relationships with suppliers as long as this does not put them at a disadvantage on the local market. Franchising and exclusive distributorship arrangements have worked particularly well in the Jamaican market. U.S. companies may also want to explore the possibility of establishing joint venture production operations with local companies. In addition to companies involved in the production of spices and sauces, processing of juices and concentrates, the canning of fruits and vegetables, the production of jams and jellies, breads and pastries, there are three companies involved in the preparation of dried snacks, one in processed meats, one in confectionery, two in soups, three in liquors, one in soft drinks, one in breakfast cereal and two in syrups.