BPO Companies Seeking to Expand in Manchester

Several companies in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector are seeking to set up operations in Manchester and other areas of central Jamaica, says Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Audley Shaw.

The Minister said, recently he met with the president of Sutherland Global Services (SGS), and he indicated that their most productive BPO facility is located in Mandeville, which began operations just one year ago and employs 1,300 persons.

“Other companies have said they are interested. They see the productivity, and they want to come and operate from Manchester, Clarendon, and other areas of central Jamaica,” the Minister said.

“We have to continue with that, as people are in urgent need of gainful employment,” he emphasised, while delivering the keynote address at the official opening of the expanded Rapid True Value store in Mandeville, on November 13.

Mr. Shaw told the gathering that while the push began with the previous Government, his Administration will be ensuring that it continues for the benefit of the country.

“We have to put the private sector at the head as the engine of growth,” the Minister said, while assuring that the Government will remain purposeful in the management of the economy.

“We need more individuals and we need more companies pursuing excellence in our country,” Mr. Shaw said.

The Minister commended Hardware and Lumber for expanding its outlet in the town, and described the investment as “impressive, and a sign of confidence in our country”.