KINGSTON, Jamaica -The Hendrickson family and Grace Kennedy are the 2011 recipients of the Jamaica Observer Business Leader Award.

In an unusual move the Award Selection Committee chose two winners this year as the achievements of the companies made it “difficult to choose between the two”.

According to the committee, the historic decision resulted from the fact that both companies could not be separated by the scope, depth or quality of their impact on the Jamaican economy over the past 50 years.

The two were awarded for their continued contribution to the economy since Independence at a gala awards ceremony at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston Sunday night.

Known for their exploits in baking, through National Bakery, the Hendrickson family is involved in a range of industries spanning tourism, manufacturing, agro-processing, farming, to packaging.

Meanwhile, the name Grace Kennedy has been a staple in Jamaican households for decades. Starting in foods, the company has diversified and is now a strong force in the financial sector.

To be considered for nomination, all companies had to be at least 50 years old, or be able to trace their roots to 1962 or before.

See full story in Monday’s Daily Observer

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