The support from UK travel agents for Sandals Resorts has been immense since the passing of its founder, Butch Stewart.
- Adam Stewart expressed his deep appreciation during the 15th anniversary of the Sandals Foundation.
- The Sandals Foundation has significantly contributed to Caribbean communities over the years.
- Innovative fundraising plans are underway to support various health initiatives in the Caribbean.
- Strong business performance in 2024 reflects the enduring partnership with UK travel agents.
In a heartfelt acknowledgment, Adam Stewart, the executive chairman of Sandals Resorts International, conveyed his gratitude to UK travel agents for their steadfast support following the death of his father, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart. Speaking at an event commemorating the 15th anniversary of the Sandals Foundation, he emphasised the seamless assistance received from the UK trade, vowing ongoing support in return.
The Sandals Foundation, established in 2009, has provided $100 million in aid to Caribbean islands, addressing environmental concerns, advancing community projects, and bolstering educational and health endeavours. Stewart praised the foundation’s continuous efforts, underscoring its pivotal role in enhancing the region’s development landscape.
Looking to the future, the foundation is planning another ambitious fundraising effort, inspired by last year’s triumphant £100,000 fundraising run in Antigua. The upcoming challenge in St Vincent is intended to bolster paediatric healthcare, with Heidi Clarke, the foundation’s executive director, expressing optimism for surpassing prior achievements.
Further affirming Sandals’ commitment to its partners, Karl Thompson, managing director of Unique Vacations, highlighted the company’s unwavering dedication to UK travel agents. With initiatives like commission incentives, comprehensive online training, and the ‘Sell & Go’ programme, which facilitated holidays for 600 agents last year, Sandals ensures a robust support system for its partners.
This concerted effort is evident in the business’s remarkable performance throughout 2024. Thompson reported that operations are on par with a phenomenal previous year, marking a strong post-pandemic recovery. With the business volume surpassing pre-Covid levels of 2019, the ongoing vitality of Sandals’ operations has been maintained, bolstered by solid trade sales, which constitute half of the company’s transactions.
The unwavering support from UK travel agents remains a cornerstone of Sandals’ sustained success and community contributions.
