Aubyn Hill Prods Bankers to Find, Invest in Local Businesses – Our Today

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister, Senator Aubyn Hill, has stressed the importance of the banking sector investing in local enterprises that strengthen the economy.

Speaking at the media launch for the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce Industry EXPO on January 31, Hill recounted the story of Marcia Nicely, founder of Marc Corporate Uniforms, and how his belief in her led to the expansion of her brand and business.

Hill said he was searching for a local supplier for NCB’s staff uniforms and Nicely won the bid, which she originally got for only a year. Hill told the audience that Nicely’s business at the time was being serviced by a small compliment of staff working out of her home and that she would have had to personally deliver all over the island herself when the uniforms were ready. After learning of her business and speaking with her, Hill realised he was in a position to assist with the growth of a local company headed by a hardworking Jamaican woman.

He instead gave her a 5-year contract worth J$80million. This financing meant that Nicely could invest in a factory space and hire more staff, which led to the massive expansion of the company that now boasts a staff compliment of over 100 persons and does businesses in 13 other Caribbean markets.

Nicely also supplies uniforms to NCB, Sagicor, Courts and Jamaica National and her operating space is now a standalone factory and office covering 24,000 square feet to properly service her impressive portfolio of corporate clients.

Hill underscored Nicely’s experience by pointing out that this is the job of local banks, to find local, productive persons who are making constructive business strides. He urged his former colleagues in banking to find a way to finance the expansion of local businesses.

“Bankers must go and find productive people, people who contribute,” he stressed.

He also congratulated Nicely who, last September, was the recipient of the JMEA’s “Woman in Manufacturing and Exporting” Award for her excellent contribution to the sector. Hill expressed confidence that her two sons will continue to work to expand the company even further.

Source: Our Today