KEM Advisory Services Solutions Ltd. Hosts 2nd Annual Hospitality and Customer Service Excellence Awards
Villa du Roi, Saint-Louis, Tobago; January 12, 2025: Hospitality and Tourism stakeholders in Tobago recently witnessed an evening of celebration, pride, and inspiration at the 2nd Annual KEM Advisory Services Solutions Limited (KEMASSL) Hospitality and Service Excellence Awards, held at the breathtaking Villa du Roi Saint-Louis in Buccoo, Tobago.
The ceremony was chaired by Mr. Javanne Williams and Ms. Salisha McDougall, Director extended warm welcome to all in attendance.
In his feature address, Mr. Kieron McDougall, Executive Chairman, expressed immense pride and gratitude while reflecting on the growth and achievements of Tobago’s hospitality and tourism sector. Acknowledging the significance of this event, he emphasised that these awards symbolize KEMASSL’s unwavering commitment to raising the bar in service excellence, promoting collaboration, and celebrating the outstanding contributions of industry stakeholders.
“It is an honour to stand here, a year after our inaugural awards, and witness how far we’ve come in celebrating the spirit of excellence that defines Tobago’s hospitality and service industries,” said Mr. McDougall.
Key highlights shared during the event included impressive year-over-year growth:
• Property Partnerships increased by 79%.
• Room Bookings rose by 54%, with inquiries up by 50%.
• Visitor numbers surged to 1,872 in 2024, a 32% increase from 2023.
Despite these achievements, challenges remain, including a 20% decline in international bookings. The domestic market accounted for 95% of bookings, underscoring its critical role in sustaining Tobago’s tourism industry.
The address also highlighted exciting developments, particularly the highly anticipated opening of the new Arthur N. R. Robinson International Airport terminal. This state-of-the-art facility is expected to bolster Tobago’s global connectivity, attract international visitors, and provide a platform for sustainable growth.
“This new terminal represents a transformative step forward for our island, promising greater accessibility, modern amenities, and increased opportunities for local businesses,” he noted.
Mr. McDougall called for continued collaboration among stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in driving innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.
“Tourism is not a one-person job. It’s a collective effort—a web of relationships working together to create memorable experiences for our visitors. Let’s continue to build alliances, foster innovation, and protect the environment we so proudly showcase,” he said.
The evening culminated in the recognition of individuals and teams who have gone above and beyond to deliver exceptional service. The awardees were celebrated as champions of hospitality, embodying the passion, creativity, and dedication that fuel Tobago’s tourism success.
Mr. McDougall expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Tobago, event sponsors, and partners, whose contributions have shaped the industry’s achievements.
“Excellence is a journey, not a destination. Together, we will continue to elevate Tobago as a world-class destination, creating lasting impressions for visitors and opportunities for future generations.”
Outstanding Awardees
Villa Du Roi Saint-Louis – Top Revenue
Blossom Oasis – Most Bookings, Outstanding Service Excellence, Most Outstanding (Large Property)
B’s Guest House – Most Outstanding (Small Property)
Imperial Suites – Spirit of Hospitality
Radica Car Rental and Taxi Service (Tours)
Frankie Tours (Tours)
Travo Flight Solutions Limited – Travel Agency
Terrell Murphy – Employee of the Year
Nataleah Ramkhelawan – Top Destination Sales Agent
Contact Information:
736-5710, www.kemassl.com @kemadvisoryservices, Kem Advisory Services Solutions Limited
About KEM Advisory Services Solutions Limited:
KEMASSL is dedicated to driving service excellence and fostering collaboration within Tobago’s hospitality and tourism sectors. Through initiatives like the Hospitality and Service Excellence Awards, KEMASSL celebrates the achievements of industry professionals while promoting the island as a premier global destination.
