TPDCO Head Salutes Key Stakeholders As Agency Marks 30-Year Milestone

As the Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo) marks three decades of existence this year, Executive Director, Wade Mars, is thanking all the key partners and stakeholders, who have made the work of the entity a success.

He was speaking at TPDCo’s recent 30th Anniversary Stakeholder Awards Ceremony held at The Garden Hotel in Mandeville.

The event celebrated the partnerships that have sustained the agency since its establishment in 1996.

Mr. Mars noted that over the three decades, TPDCo has done extensive work to enhance towns and attractions, improve industry standards, train thousands of tourism workers and support communities across Jamaica, through the collective efforts of government agencies, private-sector partners and community stakeholders.

He thanked stakeholders for their continued support and for holding the agency accountable, while expressing optimism about the next 30 years.

Mr. Mars said that Jamaica’s tourism industry has evolved and overcome challenges while remaining a major pillar of the economy, and sustained collaboration will be essential to further strengthen the country’s tourism brand and ensuring that the benefits reach communities across the island.

Custos of Manchester, Hon. Garfield Green, lauded TPDCo for three decades of strengthening Jamaica’s tourism brand through product development, improved industry standards and community partnerships.

He noted that with Manchester’s heritage-based offerings, warm hospitality and expanding network of guest accommodations, the parish brings a richness to Jamaica’s tourism product beyond traditional resort destinations.

Mayor of Mandeville, Councillor Donovan Mitchell, for his part, said TPDCo has contributed to the industry through partnerships, improved standards, community development and service excellence.

He highlighted Manchester’s heritage attractions, including Marshall’s Pen Great House and Roxborough Estate, alongside local businesses and attractions that offer opportunities to expand inland, and community tourism.

Councillor Mitchell highlighted the need for greater investment in local cuisine, crafts, cultural traditions and historic sites, noting that these experiences could generate employment and support small businesses.

TPDCo’s mission is to facilitate the diversification, development and improvement of Jamaica’s tourism product to enhance the visitor experience and foster socio-economic growth.

This is done through the expertise of its staff and strategic alliances with industry stakeholders.