Congratulations on a stellar voyage

IT IS our honour to pay tribute to Jamaica Fruit and Shipping (JFS) on your 100th anniversary. Yours is an illustrious and proud history, and a great example of the power of family and partnerships in business and nation-building.

Former US President Franklin D. Roosevelt once said: “To reach a port, we must set sail – sail, not tie an anchor – sail, not drift.

Pioneers Charles Edward Johnston and Captain Sibrandt List didn’t drop anchor or went adrift; they set sail on a deliberate and courageous uncharted journey of enterprise, and in so doing, built a great legacy that has endured, not just to the benefit of their children and grandchildren, but for generations of Jamaicans.”

Kingston Wharves was born out of the same JFS pioneering vision. History reflects that in 1929, Jamaica Fruit and Shipping and Grace Kennedy jointly leased, then later purchased the Grace building and wharf from W.R. Grace. The companies operated the wharf together and later purchased the adjoining wharf, both located in downtown Kingston at the time. In 1945, Kingston Wharves was established, and the two companies transferred all their wharf assets and the building on Harbour Street to the new company.

By channelling all outbound and inbound cargo through Kingston Wharves, Jamaica Fruit and Shipping gave life to the fledgling company and significantly contributed to its profitability and long-term viability.

Today, JFS continues to impact Kingston Wharves and the wider Jamaican economy by facilitating trade and other economic spin-offs.

Your longevity is a testament to the astute and solid leadership of Charlie Johnston, the Johnston family, and others who have built on the legacy of his. Congratulations on a stellar voyage. Though at times the seas have been rough, the winds contrary and the fog on the horizon dense, you kept a clear vision and kept sailing.

We at Kingston Wharves Limited wish you many more centuries of success.