packaging material comes with its own challenges. For instance, we recognize that PET, which we use in our bottling process, is recyclable,” Williams explains. “We have recently partnered with the recycling partners of Jamaica to put up a redemption center at our head office in Portland. And this would allow persons in the community to be able to take their PET bottles to the redemption center in exchange for monetary rewards.” Energy independence represents another sustainability focus, with solar power now providing significant operational support. “30% of our energy comes from the solar system, a PV system. And we’re looking at expanding on that as we go along. Solar would not be able to run our entire factory, but it would generate clean air energy for a huge percentage of what we consume,” Williams states. Technology integration includes operational efficiency. The company implemented SAP Business One enterprise resource planning and incorporated artificial intelligence into administrative functions. “We use an enterprise resource system called SAP B1, which integrates all the departments and makes life a lot easier. Also, we have integrated AI into a lot of our administrative functions,” Williams notes, demonstrating how modern manufacturing combines sustainability with technological advancement. DISTRIBUTION AND LEADERSHIP EVOLUTION Successful manufacturing companies often reach inflection points where traditional distribution partnerships limit growth potential, forcing strategic decisions about vertical integration. The bottled water industry particularly challenges smaller producers who must balance distribution reach with brand control while competing against multinational beverage corporations with extensive logistics networks. Building proprietary distribution capabilities requires significant capital investment but offers greater market control and customer relationships. Williams recognizes these dynamics as Lifespan approaches its next growth phase. “My top priority at this time is to build out our distribution because we have relied on external distributors for a long 59 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 07 LIFESPAN COMPANY LIMITED
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