FROM humble beginnings in 2006, Southside Distributors Limited today operates from its own 5008-square-ft production facility in Comma Pen, St Elizabeth.

A contestant on NCB’s Capital Quest, the company churns out an array of locally produced jerk seasoning, sauces, canned juices, canned ackees, canned callaloo and solomon gundy for distribution on the local and international market.

Southside Distributors is headed by its Founder and CEO Denese Palmer, who brings significant experience in quality management and food safety, having undergone advanced training in food chemistry and quality control systems. The managing director is also HACCP trained and is qualified to train the staff to meet the requirements of international food safety standards.

Over its lifetime, the company has seen an increase in its market share both locally and internationally. In 2012, Southside finalised two major distribution agreements which saw a significant increase in exports to the United Kingdom and the United States.

The international appeal of the company’s canned ackee, canned callaloo and jerk products, as well as an increased marketing thrust, has created significant buyer and distributor interests, with additional contracts being finalised for further exports to the US and UK, as well as Canada.

Locally, Southside Distributors’ products are present in several hotels and the company has secured shelf space in supermarkets. Notwithstanding, the company has declared an intensified focus on exports more this year than ever before.

Southside Distributors has expanded its operations over the years and has increased its market share by 80 per cent in 2013 when compared to 2012. This has enabled the company’s growth in becoming one of the local standard-bearers in the community of Junction and its environs.

Achievements

Denese Palmer has copped 6 awards on the company’s behalf:

* NCB’s Nation Builder Award for Women in Business in 2012

* NCB’s Women in Business Region Two Award in 2010

* National Bakery’s Bold Ones in Manufacturing Award in 2012

* Scotiabank’s Entrepreneurial Challenge 2nd place winner 2012

* JAMPRO’s Most Improved Company in the Export Max Program 2014.

* The company was also a finalist in the categories of ‘fastest growing business and Young Entrepreneur of year’ in the ActionCOACH Americas Business Excellence awards in 2014.