Canouan Resort under new management

The local hotel industry continues to undergo changes. This time, it is the announcement that after five years, Raffles has ended its management of the Canouan Island Resort.{{more}}

Effective yesterday, May 6, the hotel management company Raffles/Fairmont Resorts no longer has responsibility for the day to day operations of the Canouan resort.

SEARCHLIGHT has been reliably informed that the hotel is undergoing a transitional phase and is expected to revert to ownership operation as Carenage Bay Resort effective May 20, when it will resume taking reservations.

Comment on the issue from an official from Raffles was not forthcoming.

However, a statement by Achille Pastor-Ris, President and Chief Executive Officer of Canouan Resorts Development, said: “Despite all best efforts, a great product and competitive marketing strategies, we recognize that we have challenges going forward to ensure the survival of the hotel known as Raffles Resort.”

“Our business model will therefore be undergoing changes within the hotel management,” the document continued.

It is anticipated that although there will be a reduction in the staff numbers required for the summer hotel operation, over 350 positions are expected to be retained by the new management company.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves told SEARCHLIGHT the resort was undergoing a period of reorganization and restructuring, and there was the expectancy that more development work would take place.

“Rather it being a cause for concern, you have to view it in context of further development,” Gonsalves said. (DD)