Banks DIH Limited officially commissioned its $13.7 billion bottling plant at Thirst Park, Georgetown, on Sunday evening, enhancing its capacity to produce 400,000 cases of beer per month.
Chairman Clifford Reis stated that the new facility positions the company to better meet both local and international demand for its products while creating more job opportunities. He noted that this plant represents the fourth phase of Banks DIH’s expansion plans.
With the new production facility, the company now boasts the capability to brew and bottle 800,000 cases each month and store 900,000 cases of products. Reis revealed plans to install a new canning line soon, which will produce 17,000 cans per hour, expected to be commissioned in the first half of the financial year. This line will have the capacity to produce 950,000 cans per month, featuring popular products like Banks Beer, GT Beer, Guinness, and Coca-Cola.
Reis commended President Dr. Irfaan Ali for his guidance during the project’s initial phases, emphasizing that it will create thousands of jobs for Guyanese citizens.
In his address, President Ali remarked on how companies like Banks DIH bring the strong vision of Guyana to fruition through their brand expansions. He highlighted that as the economy grows, increasing incomes and consumer spending will drive demand for food and beverages, indicating that the country is at a crucial juncture.
“The direction is clear, the opportunity is real, the time is now,” said President Ali, noting that companies like Banks DIH should play a significant role in shaping Guyana’s manufacturing future. He urged the company to consider expanding its operations to handle bottling of other local products currently outsourced and to incorporate more local rice production into their offerings.
The President also addressed historical challenges posed by high energy costs, which have hindered industrial growth. However, he expressed optimism about the transformative Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project being developed in Wales, Region Three, which is on track for completion this year. Lower energy costs, he asserted, would enhance the viability of local manufacturing and encourage both new industries and existing companies to expand.
Established in 1969, Banks DIH now has more than 13,000 shareholders. President Ali noted that the company’s institutional memory and financial strength provide a unique advantage, enabling it to undertake long-term investments and absorb short-term risks compared to newer companies.
He concluded by indicating that the upcoming 2026 National Budget will introduce targeted support for the manufacturing and industrial sectors to prepare them for a new era of business development.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by various officials, including Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues, and Chief Investment Officer and Head of the Guyana Office for Investment Dr. Peter Ramsaroop.
