What started as a frustrating experience sourcing materials for his first home turned into a thriving business venture for Andrew Hinds, the managing director of Highqual Industry Limited. Established in 2005 and formally registered in 2006, Highqual Industry has been in operation for nearly two decades, providing raw materials for the manufacturing of aluminium windows.

Hinds recalls the challenge of trying to install windows in his new home, only to realise how tedious and fragmented the process of sourcing materials was. After accompanying a tradesman to multiple suppliers across the island, he recognised a gap in the market.

“I said to him, ‘Is this what we have to go through to make a few windows in Jamaica? And he said, ‘Boy, this is it.’ So right there and then, I said this could be better,” Hinds shared with the Jamaica Observer in a sit-down interview.

From that moment, the concept for Highqual Industry was born — a full-service facility offering all the materials needed to manufacture aluminium windows, all under one roof. The name “Highqual” reflects its commitment to high quality products. Hinds’ previous experience as a financial controller and accountant at a hardware store gave him a competitive edge. His past role allowed him to build relationships with international suppliers, whom he later approached to supply materials for his new venture. The response was positive, and discussions began on shipping materials to Jamaica. However, the real challenge started when the first shipment arrived. Hinds faced a major hurdle: a key supplier, whom Hinds only identified as Paul, shipped a container worth US$55,000 — without upfront payment.

“I am there fidgeting, thinking about how to order this container. And Paul said to me, ‘Andrew, I have shipped the container,’” Hinds shared.

With less than US$1,000 available and a 30-day credit period, Hinds had to act fast. Clearing the container from the wharf was another obstacle. He researched Jamaica’s manufacturing regulations and eventually secured permits and tax deferments, drastically reducing upfront costs. Despite overcoming import hurdles, two weeks passed with no sales. Just when uncertainty loomed, an English customer walked into the store looking to purchase a window. Seizing the opportunity, Hinds timidly mentioned that they were now selling materials for window manufacturing.

“In his English accent, he said, ‘Wow, that’s wonderful. I will have to tell my friends,’” he recalled, imitating the customer who helped propel the business onto a path of growth.

That customer’s purchase became the turning point. In the following weeks, customers started visiting, and momentum grew. However, with the 30-day payment deadline nearing, Hinds made a desperate call to Paul. Paul’s reassurance gave Hinds much-needed breathing room, allowing him to focus on building Highqual Industry. Recognising the need to boost visibility, Hinds launched a grass-roots marketing campaign. He combed through the Yellow Pages, listing all window manufacturers in Kingston, Spanish Town, and St Catherine, created flyers, and personally delivered them. The response was positive, and sales began to rise steadily. As demand grew, Hinds expanded Highqual’s product range. By 2009, the company introduced glass and mirrors, making it a one-stop shop for aluminium window hardware and glass products.

Highqual also tackled inefficiencies in the industry. Many local manufacturers still used outdated tools. To address this, Hinds collaborated with international partners to develop specialised machines capable of punching, boring, and cutting, replacing traditional manual techniques and improving production efficiency. Before Highqual Industry entered the scene, the window manufacturing sector was controlled by a single large distributor. This distributor focused solely on aluminium extrusions and enforced minimum purchase requirements, locking out smaller buyers.

The market became fragmented, forcing smaller players to purchase materials at marked-up prices from intermediaries. Hinds disrupted this model by removing minimum purchase limits and offering all materials under one roof, giving even small manufacturers access to critical supplies. This inclusive approach quickly earned Highqual significant market share, but by 2016, competitors began adopting Highqual’s full-service concept.

“But one thing is for sure — they copied aspects of the concept. They did, but Highqual still remained dominant by virtue of being the industry leader and by constantly diversifying its product range,” He told the Business Observer.

Starting from a 10×15 ft office space in Twickenham Park, Highqual rented warehouses nearby and used walkie-talkies for communication.

“Even after I left that place, I kept paying rent for it for about six years without occupying it to remind myself of where I’m coming from,” Hinds revealed.

In 2011, the company purchased its headquarters at 597 Spanish Town Road, spanning 110,000 square feet. This was followed by the acquisition of its May Pen branch at 11 Manchester Avenue in 2016. Today, Highqual Industry has grown from five employees to a team of 33, serving clients across Jamaica. Looking ahead, Hinds envisions Highqual Industry as the premier distributor of aluminium extrusions, glass, and specialised hardware. Highqual has already diversified into real estate, developing townhouses and apartments and acquiring properties for future projects. The headquarters is also undergoing expansion to feature a showroom, expected to be completed in the coming months.

“The future plan is to continue on the trajectory of having Highqual being our premier distributor of aluminium extrusions, glass, and select products like solar panels and garage doors — products that target the construction industry,” he shared.

HINDS… one thing is for sure — they copied aspects of the concept. They did, but Highqual still remained dominant, by virtue of being the industry leader and by constantly diversifying its product range. (Photo: Joseph wellington)

One of Highqual’s cleaning machines for its manufactured windows. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Oral Malcolm (left), supervisor of fabricators, and Andrew Hinds, managing director of Highqual Industry, at one of the company’s UPVC punching machines designed by Hinds. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Andrew Hinds, managing director of Highqual Industry, showcases the company’s custom-made, locally manufactured windows. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Oral Malcolm (left), supervisor, and fabricator Chevon Ferguson showcase windows manufactured at Highqual Industry’s factory located at its headquarters on Spanish Town Road in Kingston. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Highqual Industry Limited’s 110,000-square-foot warehouse, stocked with aluminium materials for window manufacturing. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Highqual Industry Limited uses specialised equipment, including a suction machine, to efficiently lift and securely transport glass and mirrors within its warehouse. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)