Princess Resorts unveils housing for nearly 500 employees

WESTERN BUREAU:

Princess Hotels and Resorts in Hanover is revolutionising treatment of hotel employees with the launch of its state-of-the-art staff housing facility, which is now providing housing for nearly 500 staff members, some from as far away as St Thomas and Portland.

According to Joy Chung, Human Resources Director at Princess Resorts Jamaica, the housing initiative, designed to provide a comfortable, secure, and fully integrated living experience, aims to eliminate lengthy commutes and reduce living expenses for staff.

“Our goal is to make sure our team is as comfortable as possible,” said Chung.

“They don’t have to worry about rent, utility bills, or long journeys back and forth. All they need to do is cover their food, everything else is on us.”

The four-storey facility features a mix of two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments, thoughtfully designed to foster a sense of home. In addition to free living arrangements, the housing includes a range of on-site amenities. Recreational facilities such as a gym, dedicated grilling areas, and a multipurpose sports space for basketball have been developed to promote a balanced lifestyle.

Although a football field isn’t available on the property, a strategic partnership with nearby Green Island High School provides easy access to play the sport.

Healthcare support is another key component of the project. With a nurse’s station and dedicated reception area, staff can access on-site medical care quickly if needed.

The property also benefits from 24-hour security, shuttle services, and professional housekeeping, ensuring that employees can focus on their work without the distractions of everyday logistical challenges.

Chung noted that the initiative has already made a significant impact on employee morale and recruitment.

“When potential hires learn that they won’t have to worry about rent or utility bills, it really puts us at an advantage,” she said.

“We’re not just providing housing; we’re creating an environment where our team can thrive both professionally and personally.”

HUGE SENSE OF RELIEF

Staff members are just as excited about the living arrangements.

Guest services supervisor, Cathy-Ann Edwards, who hails from Portland, shared her enthusiasm about the staff quarters.

“I honestly must say these are luxury. The spacing and facilities are convenient. It’s really a breath of fresh air to know that there was a lot of effort being put into providing a comfortable space for each and every one,” she told The Gleaner.

Pastry cook Osheika Scott, who resides in Clarendon, told The Gleaner that when she discovered that Princess was offering staff accommodation, she felt a huge sense of relief.

“Being far from home, having a comfortable place to stay was a top priority for me. Thankfully, Princess exceeded my expectations. I’m truly grateful for this opportunity and appreciate the comfort and support provided,” she said.

For Proven Ricketts, a cook from St Elizabeth, safety was his priority.

“It means a lot because it’s very comfortable and I do not have to worry about being in an unsafe environment and travelling back and forth,” he stated.

Long before the hotel officially opened its doors in November 2024, Princess Resorts had already laid the groundwork for success by recruiting and training future team members well in advance. Staff members were being groomed up to a year before the launch to ensure that they were fully prepared to deliver world-class service.

Notably, Chung herself joined the company two years prior to its official opening, a testament to the organisation’s commitment to nurturing talent and creating a supportive work environment.

By offering free, well-equipped housing, Princess Resorts is setting a new standard for employee care in the hospitality industry, a move that not only enhances the quality of life for staff but also reinforces the company’s commitment to fostering a supportive, family-like work culture.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com