GraceKennedy has inked a distribution deal with S.M. Jaleel Limited, which will see its World Brands and Grace Foods & Services subsidiaries distributing beverages previously distributed by Jamaica Beverages, a company under the S.M. Jaleel umbrella.

The announcement comes as Jamaica Beverages reveals its strategic decision to focus solely on manufacturing.

Under the arrangement, World Brands will be distributing the Busta, American Classic and Turbo line of beverages. Grace Foods & Services will distribute the very popular Chubby beverage line.

According to GraceKennedy Group CEO, Don Wehby, “GraceKennedy is always looking for opportunities to distribute quality products, and we believe this product line is in keeping with that strategy. We have had a good relationship with S.M. Jaleel and look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership. I know this deal will benefit GraceKennedy by adding to our margins and overall revenue.”

World Brands Services is a subsidiary of GraceKennedy which distributes for third party principals. The company presently has, among its principals, Capri Sun, Frito Lay, Masterfoods Inc. and SC Johnson.

“We are excited about the partnership and believe that this new portfolio of products are good additions to those distributed by GraceKennedy. The synergies are evident as our products are sold in similar outlets to those previously sold by Jamaica Beverages,” said CEO, Grace Foods Jamaica, Andrea Coy.

The distribution arrangement took effect on January 11.