Josephine Gabriel and Company Limited has officially commissioned a fully automated EC$10 million bottling plant at Canefield, marking a major milestone in local manufacturing and private sector investment in Dominica.
Managing Director Marisa Gabriel-Simelda said the new facility reflects years of planning and a deliberate focus on sustainability and efficiency. She told those gathered that “this plant represents a significant step forward for our company in terms of efficiency, quality, and environmental responsibility.”
Gabriel-Simelda explained that automation and modern design were central to the investment, noting that “the new system allows us to reduce plastic usage, improve consistency, and operate in a more sustainable way while meeting growing demand.” She said the project positions the company to compete more effectively within regional markets while maintaining strong environmental standards.
The facility is described as the only fully automated bottling plant of its kind in the English-speaking Caribbean. It features advanced technology that increases output, improves quality control, and reduces waste and energy consumption.
Company officials say the upgrade will also improve workplace safety and operational reliability. The commissioning ceremony drew support from government and business stakeholders. Acting Prime Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre praised the investment as an example of private sector confidence in Dominica’s economy. It encouraged other firms to pursue innovation and expansion through available incentives and financing options.
The new plant is expected to strengthen Josephine Gabriel and Company’s ability to supply both local and export markets, while contributing to broader efforts to diversify the economy through value-added manufacturing.
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