At 65, the company can be dubbed ‘an elder statesman’
EVERY BIRTHDAY is a milestone on yet another year of continued efforts to strive and persevere, and this 65th anniversary for Deryck A. Gibson Limited is no less. At 65 years old, the company would be classified as ‘an elder statesman’, being part of the ushering of Jamaica during independence into its industrial birth. Through Deryck A. Gibson Limited and its partners, the impact of the Doctor Bird 1 and Doctor Bird 2 power plants in Old Harbour created one of the catalysts for many industries and sectors. Our Port of Kingston now being the major hub in this region was amply lifted and outfitted in the early years by many ominous looking straddle carriers which became part of the backbone of the port’s growth. This impact was duly a small part of the overall vision of our founder Sir Deryck Gibson, dubbed ‘The Fittest Man in Industry’. Through his unwavering persistence and belief that Jamaica’s growth hinged on finding the best equipment and raw materials for its development as a nation, a company like no other was forged.
The early ‘adult’ years of the company were kind, etched with numerous successes from the supply of cranes to ports, heavy equipment to bauxite industries, and tools and machinery for every fathomable sector in Jamaica. This developed a company now known for being the go-to specialist for all industrial needs and services. The company benefited from excellent team members who dedicated most of their entire working life to building a formidable company and environment that inspired many. The company has weathered many storms in its innings of 65 and counting, from the financial sector meltdown, globalisation and its fallouts, to numerous policy changes (local and worldwide) and now COVID-19 … the pandemic of the century! With our supply chains coming from every region in the world, not only was health affected, but the ability to provide the products due to global shortages and increased lead times had a major impact on our deliverables.
In 2019, there was a reawakening under new leadership, with technical and continued visionary capacity, putting us on a path to becoming the premier industrial company which has been transforming communities by its impact on infrastructural developments. This is synergised with a keen focus on energy responsible solutions, a mandate from our new directors in carrying on this rich legacy. Our wonderful staff has met this challenge as they have done over the last 65 years head-on.
The sourcing of new and innovative solutions such as Diehl Smart water meters, Rotary Automotive Lifts, Kaeser Air Compressors and many other strong brands has created a customer-centric and driven vision for the next 65 years. We could, however, not forget to dedicate this milestone today to our key stakeholders, partners, the hundreds of customers, and our family. ‘Team DAG’ humbly says thank you for making a mere vision continue to impact the horizons of this great country, Jamaica. Stay safe and, most importantly, protect yourself and families during the ‘new normal’ while we continue to power your development with innovation.
KENNETH LAWRENCE CEO