Grace Road Group has announced it will suspend all new projects and expansions in Fiji as it evaluates its future strategy. The company made this announcement on its social media platforms, expressing dissatisfaction with recent reports from The Fiji Times, which they claim portray them unfavorably.
The Fiji Times had reported allegations from a woman who left the group’s True Mart Navua store, asserting that she had been separated from her children and that members were subjected to oppressive work conditions. She also alleged that she faced physical assaults from other church members. Grace Road Group did not address these allegations directly when questioned by The Fiji Times.
In its statement, Grace Road defended itself against the claims, suggesting that the report exaggerated a family dispute and unfairly implicated the church in the issues. The organization categorically denied the allegations, calling them unfounded and accusing the media of attempting to leverage the situation for attention. They emphasized their significant investment in Fiji, contributing hundreds of millions of dollars and employing nearly 900 individuals.
The statement criticized the business climate in Fiji, noting that ongoing legal challenges and media scrutiny make it increasingly difficult to proceed with business expansions. They indicated that despite their historical contributions to the local economy, the current environment is not conducive to growth, prompting the decision to halt new projects while they reassess their direction.
This situation highlights the ongoing complexities that foreign investors can face within local business ecosystems, especially when allegations and media coverage may impact operations. While the decision to pause projects may come as a setback, it also presents an opportunity for Grace Road Group to reassess its priorities and strategies, potentially leading to more sustainable practices in the future. Additionally, it underscores the importance of addressing community concerns and fostering transparency in operations to build trust and confidence among stakeholders.
In summary, Grace Road Group is taking a step back in its operations in Fiji to evaluate the impact of allegations and business conditions, hoping to find a path forward that ensures both economic stability for the organization and positive relations with the community.
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