Barbados manufacturer Harris Paints is seeking to build its presence in Jamaica's market through a local acquisition. President of the Optimist Club of North Portmore, Audrey Young (right), along with her colleagues, paints the exterior walls of the Bridgeport Police Station last August. - ANTHONY MINOTT PHOTO
HARRIS PAINTS of Barbados is expected to make an announcement shortly on the acquisition of a Jamaican paint producer, the BARBADOS BUSINESS AUTHORITY reported yesterday.
Managing director David Tindale confirmed that they were in discussions with principals of the Jamaican manufacturer and exporter of premium paints, but declined to offer any further details.
Harris Paints has operations in St Lucia, Dominica and Guyana, where it is the market leader. The company is also said to be looking for other investment opportunities in the region.
Asked about the company's performance in the Barbados market, Tindale said Harris Paints was holding its own in a competitive environment where foreign brands were also creeping into the market. He said he expected the next two years to be strong ones for paint manufacturers, given the level of construction activity in Barbados and the wider Caribbean.
Harris Paints is a manufacturer of decorative paints as well as industrial and marine products.
Local Note: The Gleaner contacted the Jamaican paint firm identified by the BARBADOS BUSINESS AUTHORITY yesterday evening but was told the managers had left.
