Established 30 years ago to meet the growing demand for quality building materials and home improvement supplies across Jamaica, Atlantic Hardware & Plumbing Company Limited (AHPC) has grown from modest beginnings to becoming one of Jamaica’s leading wholesale distributors of hardware and plumbing supplies.

Founded in 1994 by Donald Fung, the then family-owned business has undergone major transformations over the last few decades — including a change in location and ownership less than two years ago. Yet despite the changes, Managing Director Deanall Barnes said Atlantic continues to expand while staying true to its core values.

“We serve hardware stores, contractors, developers, and retail consumers across Jamaica. With more than 1,000 repeat customers and a 30-year reputation for reliability, competitive pricing, and hard-to-find items, Atlantic Hardware has become a trusted name in the industry,” Barnes told the Jamaica Observer recently.

“We continue to build on a strong foundation as we pursue future growth,” he added.

Now operating from a modern warehouse at Marcus Garvey Drive, Atlantic has significantly expanded its offerings. As a full-scale hardware wholesale distributor, the company stocks thousands of high-quality items across various categories including building materials, plumbing, electrical supplies and tools.

“We are national distributors of a myriad of hardware and plumbing products and supplies to hardware stores, contractors and developers. These products and supplies include but are not limited to: PVC pipes and plumbing accessories, tools, white cement, white lime, doors, toilets, lumber, drywall, cement board, silicone, locks, ladders, nails [concrete, wire and galvanised], mesh wire, chicken mesh, sieve mesh, linoleum, man hole covers, pick axes, shovels, and cutlasses,” Barnes said in outlining a number of the inventory items now in stock.

Atlantic, also as an authorised distributor for globally recognised brands such as Stanley, DeWalt, Bosch, Generac, and WD-40, is currently supported by a strong global supplier network in countries and continent such as the US, Asia, Europe and Latin America.

In March 2024, the company was acquired by a group led by Construct Group Limited and Lumber Depot Limited, marking a pivotal point in its growth trajectory.

According to CEO Barnes, one of the most significant upgrades post-acquisition has been the implementation of a state-of-the-art ERP system, aimed at streamlining operations and improving service delivery. This, he said, was further complemented by the company’s relocation to the larger facility and its enhanced focus on customer experience and operational efficiency.

The company also successfully listed on the Junior Market of the Jamaica Stock Exchange in February 2025, raising net proceeds of $460 million while attracting over 3,000 new shareholders.

“Among our many accomplishments, the company is most proud of a successful IPO, which marked a significant milestone in our 30-year history, positioning the business for even greater things ahead,” Barnes said.

Proceeds from the IPO, along with funds from the sale of its former Ashenheim Road location, have been used to repay debt, resulting in estimated annual interest savings of $94 million. The listing also improved the company’s public profile and delivered corporate tax efficiencies that support future profitability.

In its financial report for the first half of 2025, Atlantic recorded revenues of $864 million, driven by strong customer demand and an expanded sales team. Net profit stood at $33.9 million, supported by efficient purchasing, strengthened supplier relationships, and effective inventory and pricing management. The company now has total assets of $1.5 billion and a market value exceeding $2 billion.

Looking ahead, the company is actively pursuing contracts for large-scale development projects, particularly in the hospitality and hotel sectors. Plans are also underway to broaden the product portfolio with new lumber variants and steel-based materials, in response to evolving market needs. With its investment in a Special Projects Division, the company remains optimistic about achieving its key growth targets.

“Atlantic Hardware is well positioned to capitalise on the foundation we have laid. Our strengthened balance sheet and improved gross margins provide the financial and operational flexibility to pursue new growth initiatives, expand our supplier network, and invest in our technology and infrastructure,” Barnes said.

A recent site designation by the Jamaica Customs Agency, he said, is also expected to enhance logistics and reduce offloading costs — further increasing operational efficiency.

As the company celebrates over 30 years in business, Chairman Paul Scott underscored Atlantic’s enduring values.

“We remain committed to our principles of reliability, quality, and customer service. We are confident in our strategy and in our ability to deliver long-term value for all stakeholders,” he said in a recent shareholders report.

With its renewed momentum and forward-looking strategy, Atlantic Hardware’s leadership believes the next chapter in the company’s story is just beginning. The launch of a training institute is expected to provide comprehensive training across all staff levels — from security officers to executives — in sales and marketing.

“Our reputation of excellence has made us the go-to provider for customers across island. Our focus on customer needs is also one of our strong points which have helped us to deliver the best solutions while creating long-lasting relationships that are built on trust,” the directors said. “We pride ourselves on our extensive inventory and exceptional service. Customers turn to us not only for everyday items but also for those hard-to-find products that make a difference in their projects.”

Deanall Barnes, managing director of Atlantic Hardware, stands outside the company’s Marcus Garvey Drive location. (Photos: Karl Mclarty)

An assortment of inventory items carried by Atlantic Hardware.

Atlantic Hardware was listed on the Junior Market of the JSE in April of this year.

Atlantic team member Andrea Austin opens a box of plumbing supplies during a tour of the hardware, recently.

Atlantic team member Mario Wilson showcases plyboards, sheet racks and some other items neatly stocked in the warehouse area.

Managing Director Deanell Barnes converses with David Harris, chief financial officer at Atlantic Hardware