KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Anthony Hylton, said the National Competitiveness Council is focused on getting critical reforms implemented to improve the environment for doing business.

These measures will create the kind of environment where investors, including operators of international franchises, can come into the island and flourish.

“The importance of international franchises operating in Jamaica cannot be over-emphasised. They provide a boost to industry competition and raise the quality and standards in the marketplace, ultimately benefiting consumers,” he said.

Hylton was addressing Burger King’s 30th anniversary awards ceremony at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston on Tuesday, where some 111 members of staff were honoured for long service to the company.

He saluted Burger King for three decades of operations in the country and for contributing to the economic landscape of Jamaica and the wider Caribbean region.

“Burger King has certainly raised the bar, setting new globally accepted customer standards in the industry,” Hylton said.

He also commended the awardees, who have served between 10 and 30 years, and wished the management success in the future development of the company.

Hylton acknowledged Burger King’s policy to utilise mainly local produce in its locations across the island. The fast food chain employs some 900 Jamaicans.

In addition to its direct contribution to the country’s economy, the Minister said Burger King has also demonstrated its commitment to corporate society and was the pioneer for competitive youth debating in Jamaica.

Chairman of Burger King Jamaica, Lois Sherwood; and Directors Frank Ventura, Richard Lake and Maurice Robinson were also honoured for 30 years with the company. Michael Lake was awarded for 24 years contribution.