Sun | Feb 8, 2026

New whole foods store to support MoBay’s journey towards healthier lifestyles

Published:Saturday | February 7, 2026 | 12:07 AMAlbert Ferguson/Gleaner Writer
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From left: Abbi-Gaye Phillipps, co-founder and managing director, and Krishna Phillipps, co-founder and director, cut the ribbon during the opening of Organica Whole Foods Store’s new Montego Bay location in St James. They are joined by team members (fro
Contributed
From left: Abbi-Gaye Phillipps, co-founder and managing director, and Krishna Phillipps, co-founder and director, cut the ribbon during the opening of Organica Whole Foods Store’s new Montego Bay location in St James. They are joined by team members (from left) Terry Phillipps, Catherine Bell, Afiya Brown, Norman Martell, Julia Lyons and Brandon Wilson.
Jason Russell, businessman and president of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, poses with Organica customer Donna Stuart, assistant vice president, corporate affairs at Main Event.
Contributed
Jason Russell, businessman and president of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, poses with Organica customer Donna Stuart, assistant vice president, corporate affairs at Main Event.
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WESTERN BUREAU:

Jason Russell, president of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has welcomed the Organica Whole Foods Store to Montego Bay, saying it is timely and aligned with the city’s growing push towards healthier lifestyles and economic diversification.

In fact, business leaders and health-conscious shoppers turned out in force for the opening at Southern Cross Business Circle in Freeport, Montego Bay, hailing it as both a boost to western Jamaica’s post-hurricane recovery and a powerful signal of confidence in the city’s long-term economic future.

“Organica being open is timely. Even at Pier One (his own establishment), people are asking about ingredients and it’s up to us as business owners to pivot into this healthier direction,” said Russell. “Businesses like Organica are a step in the right direction ... businesses that are about growth and personal well-being.

“Businesses coming into Montego Bay that focus on personal development are important to the future and resilience of Montego Bay.”

While the Freeport outlet is Organica’s third, it is the first location in western Jamaica. The grand opening drew customers, community leaders and business stakeholders, who seemed eager to welcome the health-focused grocer into the tourism capital. It specialises in natural and organic foods, wellness products and household essentials.

STRATEGIC AND SYMBOLIC EXPANSION

According to Abbi-Gaye Phillipps, founder and managing director of Organica, the expansion into western Jamaica is both strategic and symbolic.

“Opening Organica in the west at this moment is a deliberate and intentional step. Montego Bay has always been a vibrant hub of innovation and entrepreneurship,” she said. “This store represents our confidence in the region and our belief that access to quality, nourishing food should be available to every community, especially as we rebuild and move forward together.”

According to Phillipps, the Montego Bay outlet complements Organica’s two Kingston locations and its growing online platform, which provides islandwide delivery through OrganicaWholeFoods.com.

The new store also features the Rooted Wellness Bar, a joint venture between Organica and Kamila’s Kitchen.

“Organica takes the guesswork out of being healthy. One of the hardest parts of a wellness journey is knowing where to start, and you can start right here,” said Kamila McDonald, of Kamila’s Kitchen. “The Rooted Wellness Bar may be the only functional wellness bar in Jamaica. Every smoothie, tea and juice is designed with a purpose.”

The Organica Whole Foods Store operates on site during regular trading hours. Islandwide online shopping and delivery are available via OrganicaWholeFoods.com.

albert.ferguson@gleanerjm.com