Associated Brands Industries Limited (ABIL) recently marked its 50th anniversary with an extraordinary celebration of brand excellence in Trinidad and Tobago, where the regional manufacturing and distribution powerhouse was founded five decades ago by visionary entrepreneur Arthur Lok Jack.

The celebratory event, held at the Hyatt Regency in the twin island republic on Saturday, November 2, brought together for the first time representatives from all territories in which the company operates.

“It was a night dedicated to recognising not just past accomplishments but also by the company’s dedicated employees and partners unwavering commitment towards the company’s success,” ABIL said in a release.

(From left) Terri – Lee Bovell, Emcee and Event Host, with dear friends Jamie Lok Jack, Director of ABIL, and Kathryn Inniss, General Manager of Sunshine Snacks at ABIL’s 50th anniversary celebration at the Hyatt Regency in Trinidad.

The anniversary celebration was amplified by the presence of political representatives, prominent business leaders and personalities who took the opportunity to pay tribute to ABIL’s legacy. Among those who honoured the occasion was Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, who conveyed his heartfelt congratulations in a video tribute, praising both Arthur Lok Jack and his son Nicholas – who will take over from his father as Chairman and Group CEO – for their outstanding contributions to the Caribbean business landscape.

The event also attracted tributes from Trinidadian cricket legend Brian Lara and PB Scott, Chairman, CEO, and principal shareholder of the Musson Group.

Representatives from ABIL’s Jamaican team also made significant contributions to the evening’s atmosphere, according to the company noting that key attendees from the team included Vinnette Stephenson, Operations Manager; Jerazeno Bell, Sales Operations Manager for Portmore; Raymon Brahim, Sales Operations Manager for Montego Bay; and Shantell Hill-Afonso, Marketing Manager for Sunshine Snacks.

“Their attendance exemplified the collaborative spirit that drives the company forward,” the company said.

Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, delivers a virtual message of congratulation to Arthur Lok Jack on 50 years of business and Nicholas Lok Jack on his appointment as executive chairman of ABIL.

As the night unfolded, the celebration reached a crescendo with an electrifying performance by Trinidadian soca sensation Nailah Blackman. Her dynamic stage presence and infectious rhythms energised the atmosphere, encouraging guests to not only honour ABIL’s rich history but also to celebrate the promising future that lies ahead, according to the release.

“This lively entertainment provided a fitting musical homage to a company that has brought happiness and satisfaction to consumers for 50 glorious years,” ABIL said.

Founded in 1974 by Arthur Lok Jack, ABIL has evolved over the decades from its modest beginnings into a major player in the manufacturing and distribution of snack foods, chocolates, confectionery, biscuits, and breakfast cereals.

“This anniversary does not merely reflect the passage of time but is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the Caribbean and beyond,” ABIL said.

ABIL has embraced a simple yet profound mission: to craft exceptional snack foods that delight consumers. Throughout the years, this mission has matured into a diverse portfolio of beloved brands, including Sunshine Snacks, Charles Candy, Devon Biscuits, and Universal Cereals.

Over the years, strategic innovation combined with an acute understanding of market demands has allowed ABIL to broaden its reach. Today, ABIL products can be found in 26 international markets, extending from Latin America and the Caribbean to the United Kingdom, Taiwan, and Ireland.