Yatu Lau Company Limited is contemplating potential collaborations with international brands for economic reasons, according to chairman Viliame Leqa. However, he noted that such developments may occur at a later point.
In response to questions regarding the management of the group’s tourism properties, Mr. Leqa indicated that the notion of outsourcing was new to him. He clarified that the company currently has no plans to outsource the management of any hotel properties to overseas brands but may explore partnerships in the future if the economic conditions justify such a move.
He encouraged looking at the examples of Fijian Holdings Limited and Fiji National Provident Fund, which have engaged with multinational companies for brand and management outsourcing, to understand the structure of global business models. Leqa stated that the company is still in an exploratory phase regarding potential options.
Recent reports suggest that a local tourism management company is being considered following initial inquiries with Parkside Hotel Group about managing the resort. There are growing concerns among staff at Yatu Lau regarding outsourcing to a global brand, leading to fears of job losses.
An internal email from Yatu Lau’s chief financial officer, Indika Weerasekara, to executives, including Mr. Leqa, disclosed that Parkside Hotel Group had submitted a “more profitable” proposal for managing the Lagoon resort. Parkside Hotel Group operates across various countries, including the USA, UK, and several Asian nations.
Documentation from the Registrar of Companies indicates that Parkside Hotel Group Fiji was registered last year with two directors. Local director Viliame Rodan confirmed his association with the company but noted he distanced himself from it two to three years ago, although he remains a registered director. He mentioned that Parkside is owned by Pramod J Patel, who is based in the United States.
According to a draft agreement dated July 1, 2024, Parkside’s registered address has changed over the years, with the UK Companies House indicating that Parkside was dissolved in June of the previous year.
Parkside’s affiliations include well-known brands such as Air France and Disney, as well as managing over two dozen properties. The Lagoon Resort in Deuba is one of three properties owned by Yatu Lau Company, which was established in 1972 as an investment vehicle for Lauans, later allowing non-Lauan members to participate.
In an internal communication dated July 1, 2024, Weerasekara mentioned that Parkside’s profitability could benefit Yatu Lau’s Lagoon property in a management role. He had maintained contact with PJ Patel from Parkside, who had been actively attempting to take over the management of Yatu Lau Holdings Company.
Weerasekara acknowledged that discussions had taken place regarding the Lagoon Resort, suggesting that there would be opportunities to negotiate terms further.