Adam Stewart outlines Beaches expansion at Skift Global Forum

Adam Stewart, executive chairman of Sandals and Beaches Resorts, spoke at the Skift Global Forum this week, sharing his perspective on the future of all-inclusive hospitality in a conversation moderated by Skift’s President Carolyn Kremins.

During the session, titled “Crafting an Authentic Vision for All-Inclusive Hospitality,” Stewart discussed the evolution of the all-inclusive model and Sandals Resorts International’s role in shaping it. 

He also confirmed plans to build a new Beaches Resort in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

A recurring theme was what Stewart referred to as the “Sandals Effect,” describing the impact of the company’s entry into new markets. 

“It’s clear that all tides rise together,” Stewart said. “Since entering Saint Vincent, we’ve seen visitor arrivals climb and airlift into the destination rise by over 300%. We’re excited to continue that momentum with plans to bring a new 360-room Beaches Resort to this incredible destination.”

Stewart linked the announcement to a broader trend of multi-generational travel. 

He highlighted upcoming developments across the Beaches brand, including the Treasure Beach Village expansion at Beaches Turks and Caicos, which will add 101 suites, and new properties in Exuma, Barbados and Runaway Bay, Jamaica. 

Together, these projects represent a US$1 billion investment.

The conversation also touched on the company’s economic footprint in the region. 

Stewart noted that more than 80% of products are sourced locally in Jamaica and that 97% of its 20,000 employees are Caribbean nationals. 

“What excites us most is training and development – taking people with natural talent and helping them grow within a culture of hospitality that lets them truly shine,” he said, adding that 480 team members in Saint Vincent were hired two years before the resort’s opening to prepare them for long-term success.

Stewart also pointed to the work of the Sandals Foundation, which has directed nearly $115 million into education, environmental and community initiatives, reaching an estimated 1.7 million people across the Caribbean.

The Skift Global Forum is recognized as a key platform for discussion in the travel and hospitality sector. 

Stewart’s remarks placed Sandals Resorts International’s current and future projects in the context of the wider industry conversation.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.