Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday has welcomed Sandals Resorts’ continued investment in St. Vincent and the Grenadines following high-level discussions aimed at expanding tourism development, creating jobs and strengthening the country’s economy.
The Prime Minister recently met with senior executives of Sandals Resorts, accompanied by Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Sustainable Development Dr. Kishore Shallow and Attorney General Louise Mitchell.
Representing Sandals were Board Director Gervase Warner, Chief Financial Officer Conor Lawler, Chief Administrative Officer Jordan Samuda and Regional Managing Director for the Eastern Caribbean Winston Anderson.
The meeting focused on future investment opportunities, tourism expansion, capacity building and broader economic development initiatives as both sides reaffirmed their commitment to working together for the long-term benefit of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Prime Minister Friday praised Sandals’ contribution to the local economy, noting the significant impact the resort group has had through employment creation, increased visitor arrivals, enhanced airlift and foreign direct investment.
During the discussions, Sandals executives provided an update on several major projects currently planned for the country.
Among them is the ongoing expansion at Buccament Bay, where more than 40 additional luxury suites are being added to the island’s tourism room stock. The first phase of the project is already underway and includes the construction of 22 signature Rondoval Villas.
A second phase will see the development of 20 Hillside Sky Suites, bringing the immediate value of the investment to approximately US$45 million.
Executives also discussed plans for the highly anticipated Beaches St. Vincent and the Grenadines resort at Mount Wynne. Preparatory and design work is expected to begin with a strong focus on environmental sustainability, including the protection of sea turtle habitats, coral reef ecosystems and marine biodiversity.
Jordan Samuda said Sandals remains enthusiastic about its future in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and is committed to contributing to the country’s continued growth and development.
He noted that upcoming investments are expected to generate hundreds of new jobs while stimulating economic activity throughout the country.
Prime Minister Friday said his administration looks forward to maintaining a strong partnership with Sandals and ensuring that the benefits of tourism investment are shared broadly throughout the economy.
“The development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines requires continuity, partnership and a shared commitment to the national interest,” Friday said.
The Prime Minister added that his government remains committed to working collaboratively with the resort group to create opportunities for Vincentians, support local businesses and promote sustainable economic growth.
The Rondoval Villas are scheduled for completion in November 2026, while the Hillside Sky Suites will follow shortly afterward. Construction of Beaches St. Vincent is expected to begin in 2028.
Collectively, the projects are expected to add nearly 400 new rooms to the country’s tourism inventory, creating hundreds of jobs and delivering significant long-term economic benefits to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.