KINGSTON, Jamaica — While highlighting some of the company’s achievements and contributions to Jamaicans over the years, Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness stressed that the J Wray and Nephew Limited 200th anniversary celebrations were about paying tribute to a true Jamaican institution.

“Over the decades and centuries, this brand has become inseparable from Jamaica’s cultural identity, a symbol of creativity, craftsmanship, resilience but above all, excellence,” said Prime Minister Holness before an audience comprising specially invited guests, media and executives from the company at the launch of its anniversary celebrations on Wednesday.

The launch took place at 23 Dominica Drive in New Kingston.

“Today, we’re not here to celebrate a company, we’re saluting a Jamaican institution. An iconic brand that has endured two centuries, lifted communities, employed generations and taken the spirit of Jamaica to every corner of the globe,” Holness continued.

J Wray and Nephew Limited was born out of the Shakespeare Tavern which was owned by John Wray in 1825. In 1860, his nephew Charles Ward was brought into the business.

“We’ve never lost sight of our core mission,” Managing Director Daniel Caron said at the launch. “Transforming lives, impacting communities and supporting educational initiatives through our scholarship programmes. We believe in nurturing the next generation of Jamaican leaders.”

Caron continued, “As the oldest registered company in Jamaica, J Wray and Nephew Ltd and the award-winning brands that we represent, have been ingrained in the fabric of Jamaican life over the last two centuries and found a home in the hearts of Jamaicans and persons all over the world.”

Opposition Spokesman on Industry, Commerce and Global Logistics, Anthony Hylton, and master blender Dr Joy Spence also spoke at the launch.

Fae Ellington effectively guided the proceedings, which also featured a performance by the ASHE Ensemble, who thrilled attendees with a medley of popular songs and dance routines.

To honour its bicentenary, the company will host a year-long programme of celebrations honouring its rich heritage, the people who have built and sustained the company and its brand over generations, and the communities it continues to serve. One such activity is a special part-proceeds CSR-driven consumer promotion that will fund the enhancement of learning and community centres across the island through the J Wray and Nephew Foundation.