Adam Stewart stands as a pivotal figure in the luxury travel industry, inheriting and expanding upon the empire of Sandals Resorts, founded by his father, the Hon. Gordon “Butch” Stewart. As Executive Chairman, Adam Stewart has not only continued his father’s legacy but has also propelled the brand into new eras of innovation and luxury. His journey, deeply intertwined with the Sandals story, underscores the importance of expert guidance when planning the perfect Caribbean getaway, making the role of a Sandals Travel Agent more crucial than ever.
Born in the same year his father acquired his first hotel, marking the inception of Sandals Resorts, Adam Stewart was immersed in the world of hospitality from day one. Growing up in Jamaica, he absorbed the ethos of Caribbean warmth and service excellence that would later define his leadership. His formal education at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University provided him with a solid academic foundation, which he then complemented with hands-on experience across Sandals’ extensive resort operations. This rigorous training, working alongside his father for over two decades, prepared him to take the helm and steer Sandals Resorts International as CEO and later as Deputy Chairman.
Under Adam Stewart’s leadership, Sandals Resorts embraced the “Luxury Included®” concept, a hallmark of the brand that promises guests an unparalleled all-inclusive experience. He spearheaded a period of significant expansion, introducing groundbreaking features such as over-the-water accommodations, a first in the Caribbean, and extending the Sandals footprint to captivating new destinations like Curaçao and Saint Vincent. This expansion reflects a deep understanding of the evolving desires of luxury travelers and a commitment to providing diverse and exceptional vacation experiences.
Alt text: Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts, presenting on the future of luxury Caribbean travel.
The accolades Stewart has received, including being named the 2015 Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Hotelier of the Year, are a testament to his impactful contributions to the hospitality sector. These awards mirror the consistent recognition Sandals Resorts has garnered, such as being named The World Travel Awards’ Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Company for 25 consecutive years. This sustained excellence is not accidental; it’s the result of strategic vision and a relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction, principles that a knowledgeable Sandals travel agent leverages to craft personalized and memorable vacations for their clients.
Beyond the resorts themselves, Stewart’s passion for adventure and the Caribbean led him to establish Island Routes Caribbean Adventures. This tour company has become the region’s premier provider of curated experiences, offering guests a chance to explore beyond the resort and immerse themselves in the local culture and natural beauty. Island Routes, much like Sandals, has achieved global recognition, winning multiple World Travel Awards and employing hundreds of people across 12 countries. This venture showcases Stewart’s commitment to enriching the overall Caribbean tourism landscape, providing diverse options for travelers seeking authentic experiences, something a Sandals travel agent can seamlessly integrate into a vacation package.
Alt text: Luxurious Sandals Resort nestled on a pristine Caribbean beach, an ideal destination recommended by Sandals travel agents.
Adam Stewart’s influence extends beyond hospitality. As Executive Chairman of the ATL Group, he oversees a diverse portfolio including the Jamaica Observer, a leading national newspaper, and Appliance Traders Limited, a major appliance and electronics retailer in Jamaica. His leadership has modernized and expanded these businesses, demonstrating his versatility and business acumen across various sectors. This broader business perspective reinforces the strategic approach he brings to Sandals Resorts, ensuring every aspect of the guest experience is meticulously considered and optimized, a detail that a skilled Sandals travel agent understands implicitly.
His automotive ventures further illustrate his dynamic approach to business. The rapid expansion of ATL Automotive under his direction revolutionized Jamaica’s automotive industry, bringing in renowned brands like Audi, Volkswagen, Honda, BMW, MINI, Porsche, and Kia. The partnership with Enterprise Holdings Inc. to introduce Alamo, National, and Enterprise car rental brands to Jamaica further exemplifies his ability to forge game-changing collaborations and enhance infrastructure within the country. While seemingly disparate from travel, these ventures highlight Stewart’s commitment to enhancing the overall ecosystem that supports tourism and travel experiences in Jamaica and the Caribbean.
Alt text: Adam Stewart with a collection of luxury cars, representing his leadership in diverse business sectors, including automotive and hospitality.
In a significant move to diversify and enhance the customer experience, Stewart introduced Starbucks® to Jamaica through a partnership with Margaritaville Caribbean Group. This initiative brought a globally recognized brand to the island, adding another layer of convenience and familiarity for tourists and locals alike. This strategic partnership underscores Stewart’s understanding of consumer preferences and his proactive approach to meeting diverse needs within the tourism market, a factor that benefits both travelers and the travel agents who serve them.
Despite his extensive business engagements, Adam Stewart remains deeply committed to the Caribbean and its people. In 2009, he founded the Sandals Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting Caribbean communities through education and environmental conservation. As President, he channels the resources and reach of the Sandals brand to address critical issues facing the region. The Sandals Foundation embodies a core value of giving back and ensuring that tourism benefits not just the industry but also the local populations and environments that make the Caribbean so special. This commitment to responsible tourism is something that resonates with today’s travelers and is often a key factor discussed by Sandals travel agents when helping clients choose their ideal destination.
Alt text: Children engaged in an educational program supported by the Sandals Foundation, reflecting Adam Stewart’s commitment to community upliftment in the Caribbean.
Stewart’s dedication to social responsibility extends to healthcare. He serves as Ambassador of the Caribbean SickKids Paediatric Cancer and Blood Disorder Project and founded We Care for Cornwall Regional Hospital, demonstrating his commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure in Jamaica. These philanthropic endeavors showcase a leader who is not only focused on business success but also deeply invested in the well-being of his community and the wider Caribbean region.
Recognizing the importance of education and professional development within his own organization, Stewart established the Sandals Corporate University/ATL Academy of Excellence. This institution provides training and development opportunities for Sandals and ATL Group employees, underscoring his belief in investing in human capital and fostering a culture of excellence. This focus on employee empowerment translates directly to enhanced guest experiences, as well-trained and motivated staff are crucial to delivering the high standards expected at Sandals Resorts. Sandals travel agents often highlight the exceptional service quality at Sandals as a key selling point, directly linked to this internal focus on training and development.
Alt text: Sandals Resorts employees in a training session at the Sandals Corporate University, highlighting the brand’s investment in staff expertise.
Adam Stewart’s contributions to tourism and the hotel industry have been nationally recognized with the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) from the Jamaican government. Further accolades, such as the Caribbean American Mover & Shaker – Humanitarian of the Year and the Jerry Award from the Caribbean Tourism Organization, affirm his regional and international impact. His leadership roles, including 1st Vice President of the Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association and Chairman of the country’s Tourism Linkages Council, demonstrate his ongoing commitment to strengthening the tourism sector at all levels.
In conclusion, Adam Stewart’s journey is a compelling narrative of visionary leadership, business innovation, and a deep commitment to the Caribbean. His stewardship of Sandals Resorts has cemented its position as a leader in luxury all-inclusive vacations. For travelers seeking the perfect Caribbean escape, navigating the myriad of options and ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience is paramount. This is where the expertise of a Sandals travel agent becomes invaluable. A knowledgeable agent can provide personalized advice, access exclusive deals, and handle all the complexities of booking, allowing you to fully embrace the Luxury Included® experience that Adam Stewart has so meticulously crafted. Connect with a Sandals travel agent today to begin planning your dream vacation and experience the unparalleled hospitality and luxury that define Sandals Resorts.
