time, like the major distributors, but we find that they still cannot deliver a hundred percent of what we need,” she explains. This strategic shift represents a fundamental business model evolution that will require substantial organizational changes. The ambitious plan involves creating separate corporate entities to optimize operations and eventual public offerings. “Within the next 24 months, we will have two companies, our distribution company and our manufacturing company, and we are planning to take both public,” Williams states, outlining a complex restructuring that positions both divisions for independent growth and investor access. Leadership development parallels operational expansion as Williams transitions from hands-on management to strategic oversight.“When I started the company, like most entrepreneurs starting a company, you have to be doing a lot of the things yourself.And I found myself in that space where I had to wear multiple hats,” she reflects.“I am now in the space where I am focusing on empowering leaders within my organization to lead.” This evolution from micromanagement to delegation represents a critical transition, enabling the founder to focus on strategic initiatives while building sustainable organizational capabilities. CELEBRATING TWO DECADES, MILESTONES AND WHAT’S NEXT Successful enterprises often mark milestone anniversaries by reflecting on achievements while positioning for future growth. For companies in competitive industries like bottled water, significant anniversaries provide opportunities to strengthen brand narratives and launch new initiatives that build on established market positions. Lifespan’s 20th anniversary celebration extends throughout 2025, marking two decades of growth from a small Portland parish operation to Jamaica’s only NSF International-certified bottled water company.The company’s journey mirrors the broader evolution of the global bottled water industry, which has grown from a niche market to a nearly $300 billion sector driven by health consciousness and water quality concerns. 60 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 07
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