The Mayor of Montego Bay, Charles Sinclair, said that the opening of a second Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS) financial facility in Montego Bay is a welcome addition to the overall expansion of the tourism capital.

He noted that commercial activity has been increasing in Montego Bay, along with the growth of the information and communication technology (ICT) sector; and the wide range of services being offered through the new JN Financial Services office at Catherine Hall enhances the diverse financial services, which the city now offers.

"The opening of this facility confirms that Montego Bay is witnessing an expansion of its business, trade and commercial centre beyond the boundaries of the original town centre," Sinclair said, "and mutual benefits will flow from this valuable addition to the landscape."

The mayor was speaking at the official opening of the state-of-the-art JN Group facility, which features a JN Express centre, a convenient and modern approach to 'do it yourself' banking, where persons can conduct their banking services using the society's online portal, LIVE by JN, or drop-box facility to make payments.

bill payments

The location also has two special ATMs which allow JN members to deposit cash to their accounts; and the machines accept the funds, which become immediately available to the account holder and can be accessed at point-of-sale locations or online to make bill payments.

In addition, the offices of two JNBS subsidiaries, JN Fund Managers Limited and NEM Insurance Company (Ja) Limited, are also located in the complex.

"Montego Bay continues to experience growth and an influx of new businesses in various spheres," the mayor stated. "These without doubt provide a necessary and desired boost to the local economy by providing job opportunities."

Earl Jarrett, general manager of JNBS, said the demand for the society's service has outgrown the capacity of its Market Street branch. He explained that "this full service location offers general insurance, investment, savings and mortgage products and services".

Joining the mayor in welcoming a second JNBS facility to St James, Gloria Henry, third vice-president of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, told the JNBS leadership: "You have not only listened to your customers for a new location, but you have differentiated in innovation and technology in this centre."

"Jamaica National has blazed a trail for financial services in this area," Henry affirmed.