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Jamaica’s private sector leadership has thrown its weight behind the strategic partnership between Sandals Resorts International and Royal Caribbean Group, framing the deal as a watershed moment for Caribbean enterprise. According to the Jamaica Observer, the PSOJ released a statement celebrating the agreement as a model for how homegrown companies can scale to global relevance.
PSOJ President Patrick Hylton emphasised that Sandals’ journey from its Montego Bay origins to becoming a globally recognised hospitality brand represents the kind of success story Jamaica needs to replicate across multiple sectors. "This partnership is an important Jamaican success story and a clear example of the economic transformation we want to see across our private sector," Hylton said, noting that the achievement should inspire confidence among local entrepreneurs that they can compete successfully on the international stage.
The PSOJ also commended Adam Stewart, executive chairman of Sandals Resorts International, for building on the legacy of the company’s late founder, Gordon "Butch" Stewart, and positioning the Sandals and Beaches brands for their next growth phase. The transaction is expected to close in early 2027, pending relevant approvals and customary closing conditions.
Beyond celebrating the commercial milestone, the PSOJ used the moment to call for broader systemic support for Jamaican businesses seeking to expand. The organisation stressed that sustained growth of globally competitive enterprises depends on maintaining economic stability, competitive taxation, efficient regulation, modern infrastructure, and access to capital and talent. According to the PSOJ statement, Jamaica’s long-term development hinges on the ability to build and retain more companies capable of moving from local success to regional leadership and global relevance.
Sandals Resorts was founded more than four decades ago in Montego Bay and has grown into one of Jamaica’s most successful home-grown enterprises, operating the Sandals and Beaches resort brands across the Caribbean. The company has become a globally recognised hospitality group under the leadership of executive chairman Adam Stewart, building on the vision of founder Gordon "Butch" Stewart, who also served as president of the PSOJ.
This partnership demonstrates to Caribbean entrepreneurs and business leaders that regional companies can achieve global scale and attract major international investment. The PSOJ’s endorsement signals that the deal serves as a template for how other Caribbean enterprises in tourism, manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and creative industries can pursue expansion and international competitiveness.
Sources and attribution
- Jamaica Observer
- Royal Caribbean acquires stake in resort operator Sandals for $3 billion
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- LEADERS Interview with Adam Stewart, CD, Hon. LLD, Executive Chairman, Sandals Resorts International
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- An Interview with Gordon “Butch” Stewart, Chairman …
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