AFTER learning about Jamaica’s hefty annual spend on imported cosmetics — a staggering figure that’s only grown since they first heard it reported as $44 million — married couple Sheldon and Shanika Cardoza were inspired to create a natural, home-grown alternative with KlutchJA Organics, seeking to alleviate skin issues through natural products and help Jamaicans transition to more natural, holistic ways of achieving healthy, radiant skin.

“I was listening to a JIS review and, based on the review, it said that…we imported, I think it was $44 million in cosmetic products. I was like, what? You know, $44 million — that is a lot of money, and I just need $1 million,” CEO and founder Sheldon Cardoza humorously recalled during an interview with the Jamaica Observer.

KlutchJA Organics evolved from Sheldon’s previous business, KlutchJA, which specialised in clothing, accessories, and cosmetic jewellery. However, the lucrative cosmetics industry beckoned, and Sheldon was motivated to carve out a niche for himself. With a background in chemistry and a newfound passion for soap-making, he discovered a pressing need for natural skincare solutions to address common skin conditions like acne and eczema. Jamaica’s abundance of natural herbs and plant-based products further fuelled his enthusiasm. Initially investing half a million dollars from his personal savings, Sheldon launched KlutchJA Organics in 2019. Over time, he injected an additional $2.5 million into the business to acquire equipment, bringing the total investment to $3 million.

“The business started out in our kitchen; that is where the first batch of soap was made. In the kitchen we would be sealing and shrinking the soaps in our home at the time,” Sheldon reminisced, recalling the humble beginnings of KlutchJA Organics.

Within the same year KlutchJA Organics, which began with a few soaps made in the home of the Cardoza couple in Mandeville, Manchester, achieved a significant milestone by landing a space on store shelves within the parish. While skincare and elaborate routines often evoke a luxurious lifestyle, Klutch JA Organics experienced rapid uptake by pharmacies, stemming from a different approach. The company’s foundation is built on addressing genuine skin concerns rather than catering to those seeking a comprehensive skincare regimen. Many customers turned to KlutchJA Organics seeking solutions for specific issues like acne and dark spots. Turmeric, a renowned natural ingredient for these problems, became the company’s best-selling product from the outset, resonating with customers seeking effective relief. The product line gradually expanded to include charcoal, aloe vera, and eventually tomato-based products — all designed to provide targeted solutions for common skin concerns.

“Tomatoes actually help reduce the production of oil, basically because of the lycopene that is inside the tomato,” Chief Operation Officer Shanika Cardoza shared with the
Sunday Finance.

This discovery of the tomato’s benefits led to the development of a new product catering to individuals with oily skin who struggle with acne and eczema but cannot use traditional treatments due to their skin type. Initially, the business experienced a slow start due to limited brand recognition. However, just before the pandemic it had gained significant momentum and was thriving. Sales soared to approximately 1,000 soaps per month, with some months exceeding that figure. A key factor contributing to this success was the company’s innovative approach to offering private labelling services, allowing other businesses to rebrand their own products.

“During the COVID period, when a lot of people lost their jobs, there was actually an influx of sales — even prior to that, because a lot of people were now looking at an alternative source of income so they wanted to start a little side business and so on,” added Shanika.

After developing 18 different soaps KlutchJA Organics later expanded its product line to include oils such as lip balms, face and body oils, and hair growth oils. The company also introduced other skincare products, including scrubs, moisturisers, body creams, and face and body masks. In addition, it now distributes raw ingredients, and has recently added serums to its catalogue, further diversifying its offerings.

“We introduced the turmeric plus and kojic acid soap last year and it has been our best seller since then, bringing in 60 to 70 per cent of its sales,” Shanika said with excitement.

KlutchJA Organics’s journey was marked by early struggles with management, supply chain distribution, and staffing. However, the most significant hurdle was finding reliable suppliers for containers and raw ingredients, which led to inconsistent supply and constant changes in packaging and labelling. Determined to overcome this obstacle, the company invested in research to identify suppliers who could provide consistent, high-quality containers and raw ingredients in bulk quantities, partnering with local farmers whenever possible. This strategic move enabled KlutchJA Organics to stabilise its operations and focus on growth. Following a successful transition the business expanded to a small physical store in Mandeville, Manchester, in 2021. Now, with sales on the rise, KlutchJA Organics is poised to relocate to a larger space after outgrowing its current location.

KlutchJA Organics has successfully placed its products in stores and pharmacies across various locations, including Mandeville, Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Hanover, and Negril. Additionally, customers can shop online at https://klutchjaorganics.com/ or connect with the brand on social media platforms like Instagram. With a strong local presence established, KlutchJA Organics is now setting its sights on expansion, targeting the Caribbean region for export as well as exploring opportunities in the United States and European markets. In a heart-warming display of partnership and entrepreneurship, the husband-and-wife team behind KlutchJA Organics is working tirelessly to make their brand a household name. With plans for expansion and a vision for the future, they’re determined to leave a lasting legacy.

“As a family business we hope that KlutchJA doesn’t stop with us,” they shared. “We hope that our future children will share the same passion as us, and the business will continue for years to come.”