Yatu Lau Company Limited is contemplating potential partnerships with international brands for economic benefits, according to Chairman Viliame Leqa. However, he noted that such collaborations could occur in the future rather than immediately.
Addressing inquiries regarding the outsourcing of management for the group’s tourism properties, Mr. Leqa expressed that the internal discussions were new to him. He stated that the company currently has no plans to outsource management of its hotel properties to overseas brands. Nevertheless, he indicated that they may explore opportunities to collaborate with international brands if economically justified.
Mr. Leqa suggested looking into Fijian Holdings Limited and the Fiji National Provident Fund for insights into partnerships with multinational companies regarding brand and management outsourcing, as they could provide a better understanding of global business models. He emphasized that Yatu Lau is still in an exploratory phase, with no definitive plans determined yet.
Reports indicate that Yatu Lau is considering another local tourism management operator after initial discussions with Parkside Hotel Group about managing the resort.
The prospect of outsourcing management to a global brand has raised concerns among local employees at Yatu Lau, many of whom fear they may need to seek employment elsewhere.
An email from Yatu Lau’s Chief Financial Officer Indika Weerasekara revealed that Parkside Hotel Group had submitted a “more profitable” proposal to manage the Lagoon Resort, one of Yatu Lau’s properties.
Parkside Hotel Group claims operations in various countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and several others in Asia and Europe, with Fiji listed among its operational sites.
Records from the Registrar of Companies show that Parkside Hotel Group Fiji was registered last year with directors including Viliame Rodan and a Pramod J Patel. Mr. Rodan, who confirmed his role, stated that he distanced himself from Parkside a few years ago despite still being registered.
According to a draft agreement dated July 1, 2024, Parkside is based at an address in London. However, records indicate that this address changed in 2022, and the company was dissolved in June of the previous year.
Parkside Hotel Group claims various partnerships with major brands like Air France and Disney, managing numerous properties worldwide. The Lagoon Resort is one of three tourism properties owned by Yatu Lau Company, which was established in 1972 for the benefit of Lauans and later expanded to include non-Lauan shareholders.
In correspondence dated July 1, 2024, Mr. Weerasekara noted that comparing financial data suggests that Parkside’s proposal would be beneficial for the Lagoon property. He mentioned maintaining a relationship with Parkside’s VP, PJ Patel, who has actively pursued management of Yatu Lau Holdings Company. Mr. Weerasekara shared that discussions regarding proposals and negotiations for the Lagoon Resort are ongoing.