Thank You Speech - GraceKennedy - Observer Food Awards - June 2012


Good evening ladies and gentlemen.
I must express profound appreciation for this award. It is indeed a pleasure to know that the hard work and commitment that we have employed in our company over the years is recognised. The Observer Food Awards continues to be a prestigious annual event that has many salivating not only for the dishes that are presented, but for the many honours that are bestowed upon individuals and companies alike each year. We are proud to join this cadre of awardees, and our sincere gratitude goes out to the organizers and judges of the Awards.
At GraceKennedy, we believe in developing the best quality products that will ensure positive growth for our nation, in all aspects including financially and economically. For us, the Grace Brand far surpasses just a name; we stand for great food, great quality and great nutrition.
When we started out ninety years ago, our founders Dr. John J. Grace and Fred William Kennedy envisioned a company that catered to Jamaicans by providing quality products at an affordable cost. While we have evolved from a small company that caters only to our island home, to a conglomerate that provides food and beverage regionally and internationally, including the US, Canada, Belize, Europe and as far as Africa, our values remain the same.
We continue to solidify our commitment to our employees by implementing strategies that boost staff morale and maintain our productivity. Our dedication to our local communities can be seen through activities and projects implemented by the Grace and Staff Community Development Foundation which aims to relieve poverty, suffering and distress among the poor and unemployed, support activities which promote community development, and foster the spirit of volunteerism throughout GraceKennedy and beyond.
For nine decades we have been a company that is committed to making a positive impact on the world, and we continue to do that as we extend our footprint globally to showcase our rich culture so people the world over can have a little taste of Jamaica. And, we have received positive feedback about our many products, including fond memories when one recalls the days growing up and eating Grace products, and smiles that give approval to the mouth-watering meals prepared using our favourite foods.  
At GraceKennedy, we believe those experiences should never end, and so, we continue to work tenaciously to demonstrate this commitment as we pass on the love from our company to your home.
I thank you.