No fall-out expected by loss of Ritz Carlton brand – McNeil

Dr. Wykeham McNeil, Minister of Tourism, said Jamaica will not suffer any fallout from the imminent loss of the Ritz Carlton brand. On Wednesday news emerged that the Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort, in Rose Hall, St James, will no longer operate under the brand forcing 400 persons out of their jobs.

Concern has been raised that the loss of the high-end global brand will impact Jamaica's tourism offering.

But the Tourism Minister said there is no need for worry. He said the Spanish firm, Playa Hotels and Resorts, is eyeing the property which will be upgraded and expanded.

“The Playa has indicated that they are going to be upgrading the property significantly…what they are bringing to the table is actually an upgraded property and this could be a plus to the industry. And so there are being some loose discussions; they have not really put anything hard and fast on the table because they are still finalising the negotiation,” said Dr. McNeil.

Dr. McNeil said it is expected that the displaced Ritz Carlton workers will be given first preference for positions when the hotel reopens.