ST JAMES, Jamaica — What began as uncertainty in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has given way to renewed momentum for Montego Bay–based Eclipse Florals and Plant Store, as owner Anand Kumar enters 2026 with a clearer strategy and fresh confidence in the business’s future.

“The hurricane forced me to rethink everything,” Kumar said. “What started as loss has turned into an opportunity to rebuild smarter and plan for growth.”

The storm, which disrupted operations last October, resulted in the complete loss of Eclipse Florals’ inventory, infrastructure and essential tools. Rather than signalling the end of the business, the setback became a turning point, prompting Kumar to reassess how the company operates, scales and engages customers.

That transition was supported by National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCB), which continues to assist small businesses in moving beyond recovery and toward sustainable growth.

NCB said it helped restore cash flow and rebuild momentum early in the new year by providing market access opportunities and digital payment solutions for the business.

With the bank’s support, Kumar participated in the Market on the Lawn at Devon House, an experience that delivered immediate and tangible results. The event enabled Eclipse Florals to reconnect with customers, generate sales and validate demand insights that are now shaping the company’s growth plans for 2026.

“The outcome exceeded my expectations,” Kumar said. “It helped me see that the business still has strong potential.”

Kumar also credited encouragement from his NCB agent, Monique Smith, which helped him overcome initial hesitation about re-entering the market.

“At first, I hesitated,” Kumar admitted. “But that support pushed me to take the step back into the market.”

The business’s return was further strengthened through collaboration within the plant entrepreneur community, as fellow vendors contributed plants and products, allowing Eclipse Florals to participate and underscoring the value of peer-to-peer support within the small business ecosystem.

NCB said a critical enabler of the business’s return and future expansion was its mobile point-of-sale (mPOS) solution, which ensured seamless card payments and reduced missed sales opportunities.

“The mPOS removed a major barrier,” Kumar said. “It allowed me to focus on customers and maximise every sale.”

Proceeds from the market are now being reinvested in inventory, infrastructure and future market participation, as Eclipse Florals shifts from rebuilding to expansion.

“This experience has reset how I approach the business,” Kumar added. “I’m no longer just recovering; I’m planning how to grow.”

Danielle Cameron Duncan, vice president of payments and digital channels at NCB, said the outcome reflects the bank’s broader commitment to enabling economic growth.

“Our role is to ensure entrepreneurs have both the tools and the opportunities to move forward. We understand that when small businesses regain confidence and clarity, they grow, and that growth strengthens communities and the wider economy,” she said.