Tourism officials are congratulating Sir Robert ‘Rob’ Barrett on receiving a
knighthood as part of the celebrations marking Antigua and Barbuda’s 42 nd
anniversary of Independence.
Sir Robert was presented with the National Award, Knight Commander (KCN)
during the Ceremonial Parade at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on Wednesday
night.
“The Ministry of Tourism, along with the Board and the staff of the Antigua and
Barbuda Tourism Authority, extend heartiest congratulations to Antigua and
Barbuda tourism industry veteran Sir Robert ‘Rob’ Allen Barrett, on being
awarded a Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation –
KCN.
Sir Robert is the Chairman of the Elite Island Resorts, an impressive collection of
nine all-inclusive beachfront properties throughout the Caribbean. Elite Island
Resorts is one of the largest hotel chains in Antigua, with five hotels on the island.
The group of hotels employs over 1000 employees in Antigua and is a significant
contributor to the country’s economy.
Sir Robert received the national honour for his distinguished contribution to the
field of economic development, tourism, and community service.
Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez applauds Sir Robert on his commitment to the
industry. “Your unwavering support and dedication have helped to transform and
shape the Antigua and Barbuda tourism product. Your extensive experience and
willingness to offer your expertise have not gone unnoticed. We recognize and
applaud you for your sterling contribution.”
Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism
Authority, Vernon Jeffers Snr. also extends congratulations to the eminent hotelier.
“Sir Robert has been a mentor to many hoteliers, myself included, throughout his
years within the industry, in Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean. Many
people have been positively impacted by his contributions. He is one who leads by
example and is truly a pioneer of Caribbean tourism.”
Also sending a congratulatory message is the CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda
Tourism Authority, Colin C. James. “Sir Robert is one of the savviest tourism
marketers that I have met. He constantly stays updated with industry trends and is
always open to sharing his extensive knowledge. He is readily available and
recognized for his willingness to partner with the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism
Authority on effective marketing programmes.”
Mr. Robert Barrett’s journey in the Caribbean began in the 1960s when he worked
his way up from beach boy to night auditor and general manager. In the 1980s,
Robert focused his attention on the tourism industry in Antigua and Barbuda, and
since then his work spanning over thirty-eight years and his philanthropy has been
a success story.
Through Mr. Barrett’s leadership, Antigua and Barbuda has benefited from
investments and creating employment at hotels: the Pineapple Beach Resort, Royal
Antiguan, St. James’ Club, Galley Bay Resort, Verandah Resort, Grand Pineapple
Resort, and the Jolly Beach Resort.
