THE SPANISH FACTOR - JAMAICA TOURIST ISSUE 12
The modern incarnation of Spanish ventures into Jamaica is proving to be a tipping point for the island’s tourist industry. While Spanish hotel groups RIU, Grupo Piñero, Iberostar, Fiesta, Excellence and Fuerte have added 6,000+ brand new hotel rooms to the destination in the form of 10 hotels, the Abertis group has transformed tourist gateway MBJ Sangster International Airport into a world class facility. Following in the footsteps of their countrymen, Spanish health care provider Hospiten is adding yet another key resource to the island with the building of a brand new private hospital.
In addition to the creation of thousands of permanent and peripheral jobs, the Spanish companies are bringing vital ‘know-how’ and experience to the destination. Their groundbreaking efforts at the forefront of the tourism expansion was reinforced by Their Majesties King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofía of Spain during their first ever state visit to Jamaica.
The Spanish companies on the island have made their local presence known in many ways, but perhaps most importantly, through the creation of more than 10,000 jobs. Embracing their role as partners in the development of Jamaica, Spanish investors are taking their social responsibility seriously and playing their part to make Jamaica Caribbean’s premier destination. In 2006, all the Spanish companies investing on the island came together to found the Spanish-Jamaican Foundation, which is already making a difference through the introduction of Spanish language teaching in local schools and a new Hospitality School in Montego Bay. While additional schools and improved language skills form part of the long-term solution to supply the booming tourism industry with professional staff, the successful transfer of international expertise and ‘know-how’ to the local workforce is a vital human aspect in the creation of a winning combination. Hence, the new companies are striving to implement international ‘best practices’ without losing the trademark smile of the Jamaican people in the aim of creating a top-notch service culture.
Changes are taking place behind the scenes of the Caribbean escape through various social work programs and educational activities implemented by the Spanish-Jamaican Foundation, such as the integration of persons with disabilities into the Jamaican workforce. Explains Spanish Ambassador Jesus Silva, who is spearheading the Foundation’s efforts, “The Fiesta Hotel in Lucea is the proud employer of 15 workers from this program. One person has already reached the level of supervisor.” Other tourist related projects include the Jamaica Heritage Trail, a Football Academy supported by the Real Madrid Foundation to transmit positive values to young people living in depressed areas around Montego Bay, as well as the provision of solar power to Jamaican schools.
THEIR MAJESTIES KING JUAN CARLOS I AND QUEEN SOFIA OF SPAIN
Spain’s commitment to Jamaica was further cemented during Their Majesties King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia’s first ever state visit to Jamaica in February 2009. Of immense importance to the Spanish companies investing on the island, His Majesty King Juan Carlos I pointed to tourism as Jamaica’s leading industry and highlighted the strong ties between the two countries, not only in the political and economic fields, but also in the spheres of culture and development aid.
Said King Juan Carlos I at a luncheon during his visit, “Spaniards are well aware of the importance of tourism, since this industry’s development was one of the driving forces behind our economic and social progress four decades ago. Tourism is what made Spain the world’s eighth largest economy, and the second in terms of annual arrivals of tourists, with more than sixty million last year.”
The Spanish Monarch pointed to Spanish cooperation in initiatives guaranteeing the training of young Jamaicans in order to reach levels of excellence comparable to the most advanced tourism markets in the world, such as the future inauguration of a Hotel Management School and the Jamaican Government’s programmes to promote Spanish as the principal foreign language in Jamaica’s educational system.
His Majesty stated that it gave him great satisfaction to witness the work been carried out by Spanish companies in Jamaica, particularly in the Montego Bay area. Said the Spanish Monarch, “In just a few years, they have helped energise the vital industry for development and job creation which is tourism, one of the industries that has the best growth prospects for the 21st century.”
The Spanish Monarch expressed his sincere wish for the relationship between Jamaica and Spain to continue advancing along the path of cooperation, friendship and collaboration. Said King Juan Carlos I, “Our investors’ stake is a long-term one; they are here to stay. Their dynamism and experience in competitive and sophisticated markets contributes to the local economy, but they also receive much from Jamaica, from its beauty and its people, renowned for their courtesy, kindness and creativity.”
GRUPO PIÑERO
DANIEL FERRA, GENERAL MANAGER, GRAN BAHIA PRINCIPE HOTEL
The third largest hotel chain in Spain, Grupo Piñero is owned and operated by the astute Don Pablo Piñero from Spain. The group boasts 17 hotels in the many resort areas of Spain, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Featuring three, lagoon style swimming pools that surround the main building, Grupo Piñero’s 680 suite Gran Bahia Principe hotel in Runaway Bay officially opened its doors in 2007. While 2,000 jobs were created during construction, the hotel now employs 650 staff in permanent positions.
Says Daniel Ferra, who was appointed General Manager for Gran Bahia Principe in 2008, “Jamaica is different than the other Caribbean islands because of the beautiful mountainous terrain, the colorful personalities of the people, the infectious music, the culture and the exciting cuisine.” Spanish born Ferra is a seven year industry veteran who has held many management positions, including that of Regional Manager for the Caribbean.
According to the General Manager, the destination can be further developed through the enhancement of the many attractions and the culture that is unique to the country. The fact that the majority of Gran Bahia Principe’s 420,000 annual visitors come from Canada, Spain, USA and Portugal, has also created a demand for language skills. “The availability of more bi-lingual employees, who can communicate in French, Spanish and Italian, would greatly help to improve the overall tourist offer,” says Ferra.
Ferra believes that the visit of The King and Queen of Spain helped portray a good image of the Spanish investors, “It helped show Spanish companies not only as a major business force in Jamaica, but also as very involved in improving the lives of Jamaicans through the creation of jobs and the improvement of infra-structure.”
Grupo Piñero is active in the local communities through the JHTA, Chamber of Commerce, Social Service Clubs and schools, as well as through specific education, sports and local projects that help the social development of the community. Says Ferra, “We are very proud of all our community involvement, but in particular our Eco-Bahia department that aims to help create a cleaner environment by working with local fishermen and schools.
We also support a local orphanage for abandoned children called ‘Miss Daisy’s Home’, by providing clothing, food and money on a regular basis.”
GRUPO EL FUERTE
SALVADOR LUQUE GARCÍA, CHAIRMAN, SEAWIND KEY INVESTMENT
A family owned company operating in the hotel industry since 1957, Fuerte Hotels has 6 resort hotels on the southern coast of mainland Spain. Through local Jamaican company Seawind, the company has been active in Jamaica since 2006, when they bought land in Montego Bay to build the 5-star, US$180M projects of Secrets St. James Hotel and Secrets Wild Orchid Hotel. During construction, Grupo Fuerte has created an average of 1,500 jobs, while 1,000 permanent jobs will be created once the hotel operations open.
Chairman of the local company since 2008, García has held the position of Technical Manager and been a Board Member of Fuerte Hotels since 1992. Says García, who hails from the world class tourist destination of Marbella, explaining why the company decided to invest in Jamaica, “Some of our shareholders had intimate knowledge of Jamaica and brought the rest of us to the island to study the project. JAMPRO (the current Jamaica Trade & Invest/JTI) helped us understand the possibilities of the island. Additionally, our US hotel management company and shareholders in the project, AM resorts, believed in Jamaica as a destination for their focus market; the US.” The Chairman points to the new MBJ Airport as another, main competitive factor, “The airport facilities have been dramatically improved over the last years.” García credits Jamaican born Michael McMorris, Seawind’s Managing Director, with navigating the company through the investment and construction process. “Without him, it would have been very difficult,” he says.
Says García, who draws many parallels to his homeland, “Jamaica resembles the Spanish region of Andalusia a lot; both have a very strong and unique culture. Add the still unspoiled landscape, the sea, the weather and its strategic location as well as the commitment of the country to develop; this gives you the foundations for a successful tourist destination.”
Once open, the hotel estimates 350,000 annual visitors, 70% from the US and 30% from Canada and Europe. According to the Seawind Chairman, all figures point towards growth of the local tourist industry, “It is the country’s decision how substantial this growth will be, but it should be controlled and sustainable to avoid spoiling the island.” Adds García, “What is good for Jamaica is good for all the international companies operating on the island, and vice versa. I regard it as a ‘win-win’ relationship.”
Says Garcia about the groups’ involvement in local charities: “The Fuerte Foundation and our local company are about to sign a cooperation agreement with the Roman Catholic Dioceses of Montego Bay for the enhancement of the Holy Family Self Help Centre in Mount Salem, Montego Bay.”
MBJ AIRPORTS LTD.
FERNANDO BOSQUE MOHINO, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, MBJ AIRPORTS LIMITED
MBJ Airports Ltd. has been active in Jamaica since 2003, when the Spanish Abertis Group decided to diversify its international portfolio by embarking on the 30 year concession for the redevelopment and operation of Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport. While majority shareholder Abertis has invested US$33M directly, MBJ Ltd. has invested a total of US$183M to create a world class tourist gateway for the popular north coast destinations. During the construction phase, 2,200 jobs were created through the project, a number of those jobs have been maintained through the expanded operation of the facility.
There is no doubt that the redevelopment of a brand new airport facility has played a vital role for the growth in tourism. Says CEO Fernando Bosque Mohino of the airport modernization project, “The current airport facilities encompass a brand new departures concourse with loading bridges at all gates, as well as the latest common use terminal equipment (CUTE) at every check-in counter.” With the addition of a huge shopping mall to the departure hall, the renovation also includes a new immigration and arrivals concourse, while the refurbished old terminal houses additional departure gates.
With more than 30 years experience in finance and airport business, the Madrid born CEO brings a high level of international experience to the position he has held since 2007. His know-how from senior jobs at numerous multinational companies reaches into both the airline and construction industries and includes the management of public enterprises with 15,000+ workforces.
In 2008, a total of 3,385,218 passengers travelled through MBJ Airport, of which 65% were from the US, 13% from Canada, 15% from Europe and 4% from the Caribbean and the rest of the world. However, the new airport facility is geared up to handle up to 9 million visitors per year. States the CEO, “We have effectively doubled the capacity of the airport.”
According to the CEO, Jamaica will grow as a tourist destination because of its proximity to the US and South America and its ease of access. Comments Bosque, “Spanish investors have had a bigger impact on job creation than any other group of investors in the last 25 years, particularly during the development phases of their projects.” In addition to the redeveloped Sangster International Airport, Bosque points to the new, north coast highway as a significant improvement to the island’s main infrastructure.
Concludes the CEO, “Jamaica has an interesting culture and I can only say that Spain is all the better for having had the foresight to explore business options here, paving the way for other possibilities that can only serve to boost the country’s offering to the rest of the world.”
IBEROSTAR HOTELS & RESORTS
PHILIPP HOFER, MANAGING DIRECTOR, IBEROSTAR ROSE HALL BEACH & SPA RESORT
With more than 75 years experience in the hospitality industry, Iberostar Hotels & Resorts is a family-owned Spanish company, which has been active in Jamaica since 2005. Founded around the principles of superior customer service and quality, Iberostar prides itself in providing unique vacation experiences throughout its brand new, US$82M three hotel resort complex, which offers 5-star amenities to suit every budget. Following the 2007 opening of its first hotel, Iberostar Rose Hall Beach, the group swiftly opened the more upscale Iberostar Rose Hall Suites, and shortly thereafter Iberostar Grand Hotel Rose Hall, a deluxe adults-only hotel offering with luxury accommodations.
While Iberostar employed 3,000 construction workers during its 2 year construction period, the group currently counts a permanent operational staff of 1,200. Says Managing Director Philipp Hofer, the 15 year hospitality expert who is at the helm of all three Iberostar properties, “Jamaica is known for its wonderful climate, natural attractions and rhythm of reggae. Rich in culture, the warmth of the people makes the vacation experience unforgettable.”
Prior to joining Iberostar in 1998, Hofer worked with major hotel brands such as Sheraton in Austria, Italy and Mexico, before joining Iberostar as a Public Relations Coordinator. However, the young, Austrian hotelier quickly rose through the ranks to Executive Manager after opening three Iberostar properties in Mexico and successfully growing Iberostar’s presence on the island of Cuba. Only a year after it’s opening, Iberostar Rose Hall is rated Number 1 in Jamaica and the Caribbean by TripAdvisor.
Says Hofer, “Jamaica is known worldwide as one of the most attractive islands in the Caribbean and will develop further in coming years.” Hofer, who holds a degree from The School of Tourism and Hotel Administration in Austria, is fluent in several languages and has lived in Jamaica with his wife and two young sons since his 2007 appointment as Director for Iberostar’s Montego Bay operation.
According to Hofer, the investments by Spanish companies have been of vital importance to the country’s economic growth, “In addition to the creation of both direct and indirect jobs and the development of the economy through the purchase of goods, the new hotel groups have promoted the destination widely.”
Iberostar was delighted to host the Spanish Royals on their recent visit to the island. Says Hofer, “We were honored that Iberostar Grand Hotel Rose Hall was chosen to host one of the official functions for King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia of Spain. Their visit has helped to reinforce tourist development by Spanish companies on the island.”
The Iberostar Group is committed to the social and economic development in the communities in which their companies do business. Explains Hofer, “Iberostar is part of the Spanish-Jamaican Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose main goal is to provide cooperation for social welfare and development.”
RIU HOTELS & RESORTS
ANGELLA BENNETT, DIRECTOR OF SALES, RIU HOTELS & RESORTS
Since the first RIU resort was built in 2001, RIU Hotels & Resorts has invested in excess of US$450M dollars in Jamaica. Today, the Spanish hotel chain offers 2,393 rooms in four different hotels located in the popular tourist resorts of Negril, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. The second largest hotel chain in Spain in terms of turnover, RIU came into being with a small hotel in Majorca in 1953. Since then, it has grown from a small family business to an international company with 96 hotels in 10 countries and 12,000 employees united by the motto: “give the guest service with heart.”
Explains Director of Sales, Angella Bennett, “Mr. Riu fell in love with Jamaica and its people on his first visit to the island many years ago. In addition to beautiful beaches and lush landscape, he felt the island had so much culture, adventure and history to share with his guests.” Hence, Mr. Riu convinced several European tour operators to promote and sell Jamaica, leading to an initial surge of European visitors. Since that time, RIU resorts have been discovered by the Americans and Canadians to the point where they now represent the chief portion of RIU’s clientele.
Explains Bennett, who believes Jamaica has the potential to become one of the leading Caribbean destinations, “Jamaica has the advantage of being popular thanks to great ambassadors like Bob Marley and Harry Belafonte. Many people already have a connection to the island through reggae, foods and even history. When they visit our island, the connection just grows stronger.”
RIU purchases around 30% of their products from local suppliers, a number the company is aiming to grow as much as possible to help boost local businesses. Says the Sales Director, “While our hotels directly employ around 2,000 people, RIU has created a lot of indirect jobs on the island through the purchase of services and products from florists, farmers and so on. Working with local vendors allows us to buy fresh produce, and positively impacts the local economy.”
According to Bennett, who is Jamaican, foreign investment by Spanish hotel groups has been a huge benefit to the island, “The companies that are investing their money here have entered into a long-term commitment to the destination of Jamaica and its people. That means taking responsibility for the sustainability of the destination and its environment.” Says Bennett, “The new hotels have increased arrivals to the destination, increased exposure, opened new markets and offered new opportunities to both locals and visitors. Bennett points out that the millions of US$ invested also directly impact the country’s social development through schools, education and on-the-job training. Adds Bennett, “Good education and training, in turn, positively impacts the companies operating on the island.”
In 2009, RIU’s US$200,000 donation enabled the opening of the Pediatric Orthotic Clinic in Negril, a clinic that provides care, corrective braces and therapy for children with skeletal injuries, issues or deformities. Explains Bennett, “The clinic has already treated more than 30 children. RIU also organized a special day for the children with football players from the Chicago Bears. This project is close to my heart.”
Bennett describes the “RIU family” as a quiet, conservative and caring company that takes great pride in the hotels, employees and destinations they work with, “RIU does things to benefit people, the environment and the community; not only because it is good for business, but more because it is the right thing to do.”
HOSPITEN GROUP
CARLOS SALAZAR BENÍTEZ COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR
An international medical-hospital network with 40 years experience in the healthcare sector, the Hospiten Group specializes in the provision of medical services in tourist resorts and residential areas. With 12 private hospitals and more than 1,000 beds, Hospiten operates over 100 health centers under the registered trademark Clinic Assist. Says Carlos Salazar, Commercial Director for the Hospiten Group, “Our aim is to provide our clients with first rate health care services, using advanced medical technology, the best medical staff and personalized care.”
Located in several major cities and tourist destinations across Spain, the Dominican Republic and Mexico, the group is currently expanding into the heart of the popular north-coast with a brand new 9,400 m2 hospital in Rose Hall, Montego Bay.
Constructed over three floors, the new hospital is designed and decorated to give patients a feeling of being in a hotel, while providing the latest in technology and human resources to ensure that patients are provided with a comprehensive and personalized service. Explains Salazar, “While one floor is home to a hospitalization area with 23 double rooms, a nurse station and a drugstore, the hospital offers a wide range of services including a 24-hour Emergency Room, ICU, Special Care Unit, CAT-Scan, diagnostic imaging and laboratory services, Operating and Delivery Room as well as outpatient services.”
While working to obtain the necessary licenses and permits for the construction of the hospital in Jamaica, Hospiten has already opened two nurse stations providing in-house services to guests of Iberostar Rose Hall, Montego Bay and Palladium Hotels, Negril. Says Salazar, “We attend over 600,000 patients a year at our centers and hold certificates of the strictest European and American rules and standards, including Quality Assurance and Environmental Management, ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.”
In the Caribbean region, Hospiten operates two hospitals in the Dominican Republic and two in Mexico. In the Dominican Republic, Hospiten has hospitals in Bavaro and Santo Domingo. Both the 70bed Hospiten Bavaro and the 47-bed Santo Domingo hospitals offer ICU beds, operating rooms and emergency room cubicles. While the hospital in Bavaro has advanced image diagnosis equipment to deal with any medical emergency such as CAT Scan, Ultrasound, X-Ray equipment, its Santo Domingo counterpart additionally offers a pediatric ICU with incubators as well as highly specialized medical services such as Cardiology, Catheterization and Magnetic Resonance.
In Mexico, the Hospiten Group has a highly specialized 55-bed hospital in Cancun with ICU beds, pediatric ICU with incubators and operating rooms and services of high medical specialization including a Catheterization Lab, Magnetic Resonance and CAT Scan. These services are complemented by the latest addition to the network, the 20-bed Hospiten Riviera Maya, which offers 5 emergency room cubicles, a birthing room and CAT Scan, making it fully equipped to cover the demand for health services in the area.
Currently expanding to consolidate its position as one of the leading international companies in the sphere of hospital services, Hospiten’s presence brings yet another key element to the islands’ service offer. Concludes Salazar, “All of our centres are equipped with the latest technological innovations in the medical and management fields, and are staffed by a team of recognised professionals providing the top-level healthcare services that characterize the Hospiten Group. The professionals that make up our staff combined with the quality of our first-rate facilities allow us to provide first rate service.”
In addition to the creation of thousands of permanent and peripheral jobs, the Spanish companies are bringing vital ‘know-how’ and experience to the destination. Their groundbreaking efforts at the forefront of the tourism expansion was reinforced by Their Majesties King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofía of Spain during their first ever state visit to Jamaica.
The Spanish companies on the island have made their local presence known in many ways, but perhaps most importantly, through the creation of more than 10,000 jobs. Embracing their role as partners in the development of Jamaica, Spanish investors are taking their social responsibility seriously and playing their part to make Jamaica Caribbean’s premier destination. In 2006, all the Spanish companies investing on the island came together to found the Spanish-Jamaican Foundation, which is already making a difference through the introduction of Spanish language teaching in local schools and a new Hospitality School in Montego Bay. While additional schools and improved language skills form part of the long-term solution to supply the booming tourism industry with professional staff, the successful transfer of international expertise and ‘know-how’ to the local workforce is a vital human aspect in the creation of a winning combination. Hence, the new companies are striving to implement international ‘best practices’ without losing the trademark smile of the Jamaican people in the aim of creating a top-notch service culture.
Changes are taking place behind the scenes of the Caribbean escape through various social work programs and educational activities implemented by the Spanish-Jamaican Foundation, such as the integration of persons with disabilities into the Jamaican workforce. Explains Spanish Ambassador Jesus Silva, who is spearheading the Foundation’s efforts, “The Fiesta Hotel in Lucea is the proud employer of 15 workers from this program. One person has already reached the level of supervisor.” Other tourist related projects include the Jamaica Heritage Trail, a Football Academy supported by the Real Madrid Foundation to transmit positive values to young people living in depressed areas around Montego Bay, as well as the provision of solar power to Jamaican schools.
THEIR MAJESTIES KING JUAN CARLOS I AND QUEEN SOFIA OF SPAIN
Spain’s commitment to Jamaica was further cemented during Their Majesties King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia’s first ever state visit to Jamaica in February 2009. Of immense importance to the Spanish companies investing on the island, His Majesty King Juan Carlos I pointed to tourism as Jamaica’s leading industry and highlighted the strong ties between the two countries, not only in the political and economic fields, but also in the spheres of culture and development aid.
Said King Juan Carlos I at a luncheon during his visit, “Spaniards are well aware of the importance of tourism, since this industry’s development was one of the driving forces behind our economic and social progress four decades ago. Tourism is what made Spain the world’s eighth largest economy, and the second in terms of annual arrivals of tourists, with more than sixty million last year.”
The Spanish Monarch pointed to Spanish cooperation in initiatives guaranteeing the training of young Jamaicans in order to reach levels of excellence comparable to the most advanced tourism markets in the world, such as the future inauguration of a Hotel Management School and the Jamaican Government’s programmes to promote Spanish as the principal foreign language in Jamaica’s educational system.
His Majesty stated that it gave him great satisfaction to witness the work been carried out by Spanish companies in Jamaica, particularly in the Montego Bay area. Said the Spanish Monarch, “In just a few years, they have helped energise the vital industry for development and job creation which is tourism, one of the industries that has the best growth prospects for the 21st century.”
The Spanish Monarch expressed his sincere wish for the relationship between Jamaica and Spain to continue advancing along the path of cooperation, friendship and collaboration. Said King Juan Carlos I, “Our investors’ stake is a long-term one; they are here to stay. Their dynamism and experience in competitive and sophisticated markets contributes to the local economy, but they also receive much from Jamaica, from its beauty and its people, renowned for their courtesy, kindness and creativity.”
GRUPO PIÑERO
DANIEL FERRA, GENERAL MANAGER, GRAN BAHIA PRINCIPE HOTEL
The third largest hotel chain in Spain, Grupo Piñero is owned and operated by the astute Don Pablo Piñero from Spain. The group boasts 17 hotels in the many resort areas of Spain, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Featuring three, lagoon style swimming pools that surround the main building, Grupo Piñero’s 680 suite Gran Bahia Principe hotel in Runaway Bay officially opened its doors in 2007. While 2,000 jobs were created during construction, the hotel now employs 650 staff in permanent positions.
Says Daniel Ferra, who was appointed General Manager for Gran Bahia Principe in 2008, “Jamaica is different than the other Caribbean islands because of the beautiful mountainous terrain, the colorful personalities of the people, the infectious music, the culture and the exciting cuisine.” Spanish born Ferra is a seven year industry veteran who has held many management positions, including that of Regional Manager for the Caribbean.
According to the General Manager, the destination can be further developed through the enhancement of the many attractions and the culture that is unique to the country. The fact that the majority of Gran Bahia Principe’s 420,000 annual visitors come from Canada, Spain, USA and Portugal, has also created a demand for language skills. “The availability of more bi-lingual employees, who can communicate in French, Spanish and Italian, would greatly help to improve the overall tourist offer,” says Ferra.
Ferra believes that the visit of The King and Queen of Spain helped portray a good image of the Spanish investors, “It helped show Spanish companies not only as a major business force in Jamaica, but also as very involved in improving the lives of Jamaicans through the creation of jobs and the improvement of infra-structure.”
Grupo Piñero is active in the local communities through the JHTA, Chamber of Commerce, Social Service Clubs and schools, as well as through specific education, sports and local projects that help the social development of the community. Says Ferra, “We are very proud of all our community involvement, but in particular our Eco-Bahia department that aims to help create a cleaner environment by working with local fishermen and schools.
We also support a local orphanage for abandoned children called ‘Miss Daisy’s Home’, by providing clothing, food and money on a regular basis.”
GRUPO EL FUERTE
SALVADOR LUQUE GARCÍA, CHAIRMAN, SEAWIND KEY INVESTMENT
A family owned company operating in the hotel industry since 1957, Fuerte Hotels has 6 resort hotels on the southern coast of mainland Spain. Through local Jamaican company Seawind, the company has been active in Jamaica since 2006, when they bought land in Montego Bay to build the 5-star, US$180M projects of Secrets St. James Hotel and Secrets Wild Orchid Hotel. During construction, Grupo Fuerte has created an average of 1,500 jobs, while 1,000 permanent jobs will be created once the hotel operations open.
Chairman of the local company since 2008, García has held the position of Technical Manager and been a Board Member of Fuerte Hotels since 1992. Says García, who hails from the world class tourist destination of Marbella, explaining why the company decided to invest in Jamaica, “Some of our shareholders had intimate knowledge of Jamaica and brought the rest of us to the island to study the project. JAMPRO (the current Jamaica Trade & Invest/JTI) helped us understand the possibilities of the island. Additionally, our US hotel management company and shareholders in the project, AM resorts, believed in Jamaica as a destination for their focus market; the US.” The Chairman points to the new MBJ Airport as another, main competitive factor, “The airport facilities have been dramatically improved over the last years.” García credits Jamaican born Michael McMorris, Seawind’s Managing Director, with navigating the company through the investment and construction process. “Without him, it would have been very difficult,” he says.
Says García, who draws many parallels to his homeland, “Jamaica resembles the Spanish region of Andalusia a lot; both have a very strong and unique culture. Add the still unspoiled landscape, the sea, the weather and its strategic location as well as the commitment of the country to develop; this gives you the foundations for a successful tourist destination.”
Once open, the hotel estimates 350,000 annual visitors, 70% from the US and 30% from Canada and Europe. According to the Seawind Chairman, all figures point towards growth of the local tourist industry, “It is the country’s decision how substantial this growth will be, but it should be controlled and sustainable to avoid spoiling the island.” Adds García, “What is good for Jamaica is good for all the international companies operating on the island, and vice versa. I regard it as a ‘win-win’ relationship.”
Says Garcia about the groups’ involvement in local charities: “The Fuerte Foundation and our local company are about to sign a cooperation agreement with the Roman Catholic Dioceses of Montego Bay for the enhancement of the Holy Family Self Help Centre in Mount Salem, Montego Bay.”
MBJ AIRPORTS LTD.
FERNANDO BOSQUE MOHINO, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, MBJ AIRPORTS LIMITED
MBJ Airports Ltd. has been active in Jamaica since 2003, when the Spanish Abertis Group decided to diversify its international portfolio by embarking on the 30 year concession for the redevelopment and operation of Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport. While majority shareholder Abertis has invested US$33M directly, MBJ Ltd. has invested a total of US$183M to create a world class tourist gateway for the popular north coast destinations. During the construction phase, 2,200 jobs were created through the project, a number of those jobs have been maintained through the expanded operation of the facility.
There is no doubt that the redevelopment of a brand new airport facility has played a vital role for the growth in tourism. Says CEO Fernando Bosque Mohino of the airport modernization project, “The current airport facilities encompass a brand new departures concourse with loading bridges at all gates, as well as the latest common use terminal equipment (CUTE) at every check-in counter.” With the addition of a huge shopping mall to the departure hall, the renovation also includes a new immigration and arrivals concourse, while the refurbished old terminal houses additional departure gates.
With more than 30 years experience in finance and airport business, the Madrid born CEO brings a high level of international experience to the position he has held since 2007. His know-how from senior jobs at numerous multinational companies reaches into both the airline and construction industries and includes the management of public enterprises with 15,000+ workforces.
In 2008, a total of 3,385,218 passengers travelled through MBJ Airport, of which 65% were from the US, 13% from Canada, 15% from Europe and 4% from the Caribbean and the rest of the world. However, the new airport facility is geared up to handle up to 9 million visitors per year. States the CEO, “We have effectively doubled the capacity of the airport.”
According to the CEO, Jamaica will grow as a tourist destination because of its proximity to the US and South America and its ease of access. Comments Bosque, “Spanish investors have had a bigger impact on job creation than any other group of investors in the last 25 years, particularly during the development phases of their projects.” In addition to the redeveloped Sangster International Airport, Bosque points to the new, north coast highway as a significant improvement to the island’s main infrastructure.
Concludes the CEO, “Jamaica has an interesting culture and I can only say that Spain is all the better for having had the foresight to explore business options here, paving the way for other possibilities that can only serve to boost the country’s offering to the rest of the world.”
IBEROSTAR HOTELS & RESORTS
PHILIPP HOFER, MANAGING DIRECTOR, IBEROSTAR ROSE HALL BEACH & SPA RESORT
With more than 75 years experience in the hospitality industry, Iberostar Hotels & Resorts is a family-owned Spanish company, which has been active in Jamaica since 2005. Founded around the principles of superior customer service and quality, Iberostar prides itself in providing unique vacation experiences throughout its brand new, US$82M three hotel resort complex, which offers 5-star amenities to suit every budget. Following the 2007 opening of its first hotel, Iberostar Rose Hall Beach, the group swiftly opened the more upscale Iberostar Rose Hall Suites, and shortly thereafter Iberostar Grand Hotel Rose Hall, a deluxe adults-only hotel offering with luxury accommodations.
While Iberostar employed 3,000 construction workers during its 2 year construction period, the group currently counts a permanent operational staff of 1,200. Says Managing Director Philipp Hofer, the 15 year hospitality expert who is at the helm of all three Iberostar properties, “Jamaica is known for its wonderful climate, natural attractions and rhythm of reggae. Rich in culture, the warmth of the people makes the vacation experience unforgettable.”
Prior to joining Iberostar in 1998, Hofer worked with major hotel brands such as Sheraton in Austria, Italy and Mexico, before joining Iberostar as a Public Relations Coordinator. However, the young, Austrian hotelier quickly rose through the ranks to Executive Manager after opening three Iberostar properties in Mexico and successfully growing Iberostar’s presence on the island of Cuba. Only a year after it’s opening, Iberostar Rose Hall is rated Number 1 in Jamaica and the Caribbean by TripAdvisor.
Says Hofer, “Jamaica is known worldwide as one of the most attractive islands in the Caribbean and will develop further in coming years.” Hofer, who holds a degree from The School of Tourism and Hotel Administration in Austria, is fluent in several languages and has lived in Jamaica with his wife and two young sons since his 2007 appointment as Director for Iberostar’s Montego Bay operation.
According to Hofer, the investments by Spanish companies have been of vital importance to the country’s economic growth, “In addition to the creation of both direct and indirect jobs and the development of the economy through the purchase of goods, the new hotel groups have promoted the destination widely.”
Iberostar was delighted to host the Spanish Royals on their recent visit to the island. Says Hofer, “We were honored that Iberostar Grand Hotel Rose Hall was chosen to host one of the official functions for King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia of Spain. Their visit has helped to reinforce tourist development by Spanish companies on the island.”
The Iberostar Group is committed to the social and economic development in the communities in which their companies do business. Explains Hofer, “Iberostar is part of the Spanish-Jamaican Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose main goal is to provide cooperation for social welfare and development.”
RIU HOTELS & RESORTS
ANGELLA BENNETT, DIRECTOR OF SALES, RIU HOTELS & RESORTS
Since the first RIU resort was built in 2001, RIU Hotels & Resorts has invested in excess of US$450M dollars in Jamaica. Today, the Spanish hotel chain offers 2,393 rooms in four different hotels located in the popular tourist resorts of Negril, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. The second largest hotel chain in Spain in terms of turnover, RIU came into being with a small hotel in Majorca in 1953. Since then, it has grown from a small family business to an international company with 96 hotels in 10 countries and 12,000 employees united by the motto: “give the guest service with heart.”
Explains Director of Sales, Angella Bennett, “Mr. Riu fell in love with Jamaica and its people on his first visit to the island many years ago. In addition to beautiful beaches and lush landscape, he felt the island had so much culture, adventure and history to share with his guests.” Hence, Mr. Riu convinced several European tour operators to promote and sell Jamaica, leading to an initial surge of European visitors. Since that time, RIU resorts have been discovered by the Americans and Canadians to the point where they now represent the chief portion of RIU’s clientele.
Explains Bennett, who believes Jamaica has the potential to become one of the leading Caribbean destinations, “Jamaica has the advantage of being popular thanks to great ambassadors like Bob Marley and Harry Belafonte. Many people already have a connection to the island through reggae, foods and even history. When they visit our island, the connection just grows stronger.”
RIU purchases around 30% of their products from local suppliers, a number the company is aiming to grow as much as possible to help boost local businesses. Says the Sales Director, “While our hotels directly employ around 2,000 people, RIU has created a lot of indirect jobs on the island through the purchase of services and products from florists, farmers and so on. Working with local vendors allows us to buy fresh produce, and positively impacts the local economy.”
According to Bennett, who is Jamaican, foreign investment by Spanish hotel groups has been a huge benefit to the island, “The companies that are investing their money here have entered into a long-term commitment to the destination of Jamaica and its people. That means taking responsibility for the sustainability of the destination and its environment.” Says Bennett, “The new hotels have increased arrivals to the destination, increased exposure, opened new markets and offered new opportunities to both locals and visitors. Bennett points out that the millions of US$ invested also directly impact the country’s social development through schools, education and on-the-job training. Adds Bennett, “Good education and training, in turn, positively impacts the companies operating on the island.”
In 2009, RIU’s US$200,000 donation enabled the opening of the Pediatric Orthotic Clinic in Negril, a clinic that provides care, corrective braces and therapy for children with skeletal injuries, issues or deformities. Explains Bennett, “The clinic has already treated more than 30 children. RIU also organized a special day for the children with football players from the Chicago Bears. This project is close to my heart.”
Bennett describes the “RIU family” as a quiet, conservative and caring company that takes great pride in the hotels, employees and destinations they work with, “RIU does things to benefit people, the environment and the community; not only because it is good for business, but more because it is the right thing to do.”
HOSPITEN GROUP
CARLOS SALAZAR BENÍTEZ COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR
An international medical-hospital network with 40 years experience in the healthcare sector, the Hospiten Group specializes in the provision of medical services in tourist resorts and residential areas. With 12 private hospitals and more than 1,000 beds, Hospiten operates over 100 health centers under the registered trademark Clinic Assist. Says Carlos Salazar, Commercial Director for the Hospiten Group, “Our aim is to provide our clients with first rate health care services, using advanced medical technology, the best medical staff and personalized care.”
Located in several major cities and tourist destinations across Spain, the Dominican Republic and Mexico, the group is currently expanding into the heart of the popular north-coast with a brand new 9,400 m2 hospital in Rose Hall, Montego Bay.
Constructed over three floors, the new hospital is designed and decorated to give patients a feeling of being in a hotel, while providing the latest in technology and human resources to ensure that patients are provided with a comprehensive and personalized service. Explains Salazar, “While one floor is home to a hospitalization area with 23 double rooms, a nurse station and a drugstore, the hospital offers a wide range of services including a 24-hour Emergency Room, ICU, Special Care Unit, CAT-Scan, diagnostic imaging and laboratory services, Operating and Delivery Room as well as outpatient services.”
While working to obtain the necessary licenses and permits for the construction of the hospital in Jamaica, Hospiten has already opened two nurse stations providing in-house services to guests of Iberostar Rose Hall, Montego Bay and Palladium Hotels, Negril. Says Salazar, “We attend over 600,000 patients a year at our centers and hold certificates of the strictest European and American rules and standards, including Quality Assurance and Environmental Management, ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.”
In the Caribbean region, Hospiten operates two hospitals in the Dominican Republic and two in Mexico. In the Dominican Republic, Hospiten has hospitals in Bavaro and Santo Domingo. Both the 70bed Hospiten Bavaro and the 47-bed Santo Domingo hospitals offer ICU beds, operating rooms and emergency room cubicles. While the hospital in Bavaro has advanced image diagnosis equipment to deal with any medical emergency such as CAT Scan, Ultrasound, X-Ray equipment, its Santo Domingo counterpart additionally offers a pediatric ICU with incubators as well as highly specialized medical services such as Cardiology, Catheterization and Magnetic Resonance.
In Mexico, the Hospiten Group has a highly specialized 55-bed hospital in Cancun with ICU beds, pediatric ICU with incubators and operating rooms and services of high medical specialization including a Catheterization Lab, Magnetic Resonance and CAT Scan. These services are complemented by the latest addition to the network, the 20-bed Hospiten Riviera Maya, which offers 5 emergency room cubicles, a birthing room and CAT Scan, making it fully equipped to cover the demand for health services in the area.
Currently expanding to consolidate its position as one of the leading international companies in the sphere of hospital services, Hospiten’s presence brings yet another key element to the islands’ service offer. Concludes Salazar, “All of our centres are equipped with the latest technological innovations in the medical and management fields, and are staffed by a team of recognised professionals providing the top-level healthcare services that characterize the Hospiten Group. The professionals that make up our staff combined with the quality of our first-rate facilities allow us to provide first rate service.”
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