KINGSTON, Jamaica — As Jamaica enters recovery mode following Hurricane Melissa, Omni Industries Limited says it is ramping up its production and distribution of essential construction materials, such as zinc and PVC pipes.

The company said the hurricane caused only minimal impact to its facilities at Twickenham Park, St Catherine and no long-term disruptions to business.

“Many are hurting. Some have lost their houses and belongings, some mourn loved ones, and many have seen their farms or businesses wiped out. There are still Jamaicans in cut-off areas, waiting for relief, and thousands are without the comfort of reliable water or even electricity,” Chairman of the Board, Von White said in a statement on Wednesday.

White said the company is aware of how swiftly circumstances shifted for so many across the island, and one of the ways in which it can be of service is by ensuring that the essential materials it manufactures and distributes remain available at this critical time.

The company distributes Alu-zinc nails, PVC pipes and fittings, which will be crucial to restoring water supply; plywood and boards; electrical conduits; and other general hardware supplies.

Outside of production, Omni is also directly assisting communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. According to the company, truckloads of Omni’s products and care packages are being directed to relief efforts in western Jamaica, which bore the brunt of the storm.

It said it has coordinated with Kemtek Development, Project STAR and others to provide items like Alu-zinc roofing, water buckets and construction materials to areas in Westmoreland, St Elizabeth and other impacted parishes. It has also deployed a team of volunteers to assist with clean-up efforts.

Managing Director Patrick Kumst emphasised Omni’s readiness to support the national recovery, stating, “Omni has been part of Jamaica’s foundation for over 50 years, and in this moment, we’re here to do what we’ve always done, which is provide materials people can count on. We’re ready to work closely with agencies like the NWC (National Water Commission), JPS (Jamaica Public Service), and others, leading the restoration of key services. We are here to support and will assist in every way possible,” he said.