Tropical Battery acquired the rights to distribute Yamaha units and parts in the middle of last month, adding to its already impressive list of specialist automotive lines. Brand Manager Martello Melville has said that "Tropical Battery Co. Ltd. has been appointed the dealership for Yamaha motorcycles and spare parts in Jamaica. Initially, the major operations of this unit will take place from 15 Ashenheim Road (Tropical's head office) with limited operations also going through our retail network. I will be heading this unit and will be assisted by a small core of dedicated staff comprising of administrative and technical personnel".

Melville intimated that the newly acquired brand would assist all Yamaha customers by sourcing parts locally where possible, making arrangements to effect repairs on units in need of service, and expediting orders for parts. Mr. Melville was understandably vague about the official start-up date for the brand as Tropical Battery had not yet received its first order of motorbikes and other spare parts. He has, however, said that "tentatively, we would like to be up and running for the end of November".

- M.J.