maintain stringent quality standards. The UV treatment systems allow these facilities to meet FDA requirements without introducing additional substances into their processes. For an island region where both pharmaceutical production and water bottling represent significant economic activities, these specialized solutions address unique industrial needs that continental suppliers might overlook. SUPPLY CHAIN CHALLENGES POST-COVID The global pandemic tested supply chains worldwide, with island-based businesses facing amplified challenges. For PSI, this reality prompted strategic adaptations that have ultimately strengthened their operational model. “COVID was definitely challenging in terms of supply chain disruptions, especially being in the Caribbean,” Conde reflects. “Most things companies like ours do involve importing from the US, Europe, and Canada—Aquafine, for example, is built in Canada.” The electronics shortage particularly affected their business, threatening to disrupt client operations across multiple industries. PSI responded with foresight that has now become standard practice. “We’ve learned after COVID to create a substantial inventory of different parts, specifically the most essential components our customers might need,” Conde explains.“UV systems, lamps, ballasts, electronic boards—this way, if a global event like COVID happens again, we’re ready to provide our customers with equipment without delays, which were a huge issue during the pandemic.” The company also embraced digital transformation out of necessity, turning temporary solutions into permanent advantages. “We’ve adapted to doing things like Zoom meetings when we can’t visit customers, and many clients have adjusted to this format,” says Conde. “It helps us be more present. If a customer from Jamaica needs troubleshooting for their equipment, we can do a virtual meeting and it’s almost like we’re there.” This digital pivot has allowed PSI to maintain their hallmark personal service while reducing response times and travel costs. “COVID changed many dynamics, and if you don’t adapt to these new approaches, it’s like you didn’t learn anything,” Conde observes. “That’s very important when growing a business—you need to learn, adapt and overcome.” CLIENT RELATIONSHIPS AND BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY PSI’s client portfolio reads like a who’s who of pharmaceutical manufacturing, with over 95% of their business coming from the private sector in 18 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03
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