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Opening dates of two new PriceSmart clubs in Jamaica pushed back by Melissa
Jamaica· 2026-01-11 05:07
Core Viewpoint - PriceSmart Inc has delayed the opening of two new warehouse clubs in Jamaica due to disruptions from Hurricane Melissa, with new expected opening dates set for autumn 2026 and winter 2026 for the respective locations [1][2]. Group 1: New Store Openings - The third Jamaican location in Montego Bay is now scheduled for autumn 2026, while the fourth location on South Camp Road in Kingston is expected to open in winter 2026, which is about three months later than previously planned [2]. - The company does not anticipate any further delays for new club openings at this time, according to CEO David Price [2]. Group 2: Financial Investments - PriceSmart has acquired five acres in Montego Bay for the new club and has leased property opposite Sabina Park cricket ground for the Kingston site, with plans to spend approximately US$27.6 million (J$4.4 billion) on construction [3]. - The Kingston lease is for 30 years, with two options for 10-year renewals [3]. Group 3: Current Operations and Performance - Jamaica currently has two PriceSmart clubs, which experienced heavy traffic during the Christmas season, with customers reportedly waiting up to four hours to check out [4]. - PriceSmart operates 56 clubs across 12 countries and one US territory, an increase from 54 clubs a year earlier [5]. - The company reported first-quarter earnings per share of US$1.29, which fell short of forecasts of US$1.35, while revenue increased to US$1.38 billion, exceeding expectations [5]. Group 4: Future Expansion Plans - CEO David Price mentioned that the existing Jamaican clubs have "weathered the storm well" and resumed operations quickly, with plans for expansion and remodeling of the Portmore club to begin in fiscal 2026 [6]. - The expansion will include larger floor space and more parking, which are seen as effective ways to drive sales and enhance the member experience [6].