Fri | Jan 16, 2026

North Beech Limited formed

New joint venture takes over JOL, GCML printing and distribution

Published:Wednesday | January 7, 2026 | 12:09 AM
Executive Chairman of Jamaica Observer Limited Adam Stewart (left), and Executive Chairman of RJRGLEANER Communications Group Joseph Matalon sign the joint-venture agreement that set the foundation for the establishment of North Beech Limited – the new e
Executive Chairman of Jamaica Observer Limited Adam Stewart (left), and Executive Chairman of RJRGLEANER Communications Group Joseph Matalon sign the joint-venture agreement that set the foundation for the establishment of North Beech Limited – the new entity responsible for the integration of print production and distribution operations of both media houses.

Effective December 22, 2025, North Beech Limited officially commenced operations, supporting the collaboration of the printing and distribution functions of the Jamaica Observer Limited (JOL) and the Gleaner Company Media Limited (GCML).

The formation of the joint venture marks the final stage in a process to combine the printing and distribution operations of the two media houses, which began in August 2025 with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU). During the MOU period, the companies assessed opportunities to collaborate on printing and distribution, testing potential synergies and identifying efficiency gains aimed at reducing overall production costs.

The new company, North Beech Limited, now handles all the printing and distribution for the Jamaica Observer, Sunday Observer, Daily and Sunday Gleaner, THE STAR, THE WEEKEND STAR and all other related publications.

Additionally, related data including information on vendors, contractors, agents, subscribers, and suppliers was transferred to North Beech. The data transfer was conducted in accordance with Jamaica’s Data Protection Act, ensuring the protection and appropriate handling of all affected stakeholder data. No action is required from customers or vendors at this time.

This initiative forms part of a broader effort to enhance operational efficiency, reduce duplication, and improve service delivery across the island.

Both the JOL and the GCML remain independent and distinct entities, continuing to operate their editorial, financial, and corporate functions separately. The formation of North Beech Limited pertains only to the print and distribution of the newspapers and is aimed at delivering long-term value to readers, partners, and stakeholders.