Founder and Chairman of Sandals and Beaches Resorts, Gordon "Butch" Stewart, along with Jamaica Prime Minister Andrew Holness, shared their gratitude for their guests and each other at the Chairman's Appreciation Luncheon on Dec. 18 at Sandals Montego Bay resort.
From start to finish, it was apparent that this was no ordinary event. Guests were greeted upon arrival with welcome drinks and dancers in Carnival-like attire, escorted to the resort's new conference center for cocktails and hors-d'oeuvres, and seated at tables covered with black-sequined tablecloths.
They enjoyed the singing of the Jamaican National Anthem by one of Sandals' employees along with a three-course lunch including lobster and filet mignon. Everyone received a gift of wine and chocolate cake when the luncheon wrapped up.
Designed as a thank-you to all those who have helped make the Sandals brand what it is today, there was no shortage of appreciation to go around.
"I've grown to admire and respect and love the energy and passion of Gordon 'Butch' Stewart," Holness said. "You could describe him as a patriot, a thinker, an innovator, but he is also a philanthropist and someone who cares deeply about people." Holness expressed his gratitude for Sandals' continued investment in Jamaica and across the Caribbean. "We have confidence in your brand as an ambassador for our country."
Holness also mentioned that while sun, sea, and sand are certainly what attracts people to Sandals properties, the value-added benefit here is the warmth of the Jamaican people. He also underlined the importance of the tourist experience needing to be "safe, secure, and seamless," and what he was doing to help ensure that.
Attending the luncheon were ministers of the Jamaican government, the mayor of Montego Bay, the directors and general managers of Sandals Resorts International, and executives from Sandals' marketing representative Unique Vacations Inc., among others. Also in attendance were eight travel agents who are considered elite Certified Sandals Specialists.
Deputy Chairman Adam Stewart said the goal was to "tell the Sandals' story." He talked about the history of the resorts, how they have changed through the years, what was new, and what was on the horizon. Several other members of the Sandals team also spoke of the successes they have had in their areas of expertise.
Founder and Chairman Butch Stewart, a native of Jamaica, wrapped up the luncheon sharing his experiences throughout the evolution of the Sandals brand, what it was like in Jamaica through the years, and personally thanking all those in attendance.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
