But the identity of the buyer has still not been revealed. Soneva says only that the resort was sold “to an international and Thai hospitality and leisure group”. It has also kept the sale price a secret.
In a press release issued on Saturday (May 26), Soneva says, “Evason Phuket will cease operations with immediate effect and shall no longer be operated by Six Senses Resorts & Spas. The value of the deal has not been disclosed.”
It quotes Sonu Shivdasani, founder and CEO of Soneva, as saying: “Although it did not fit into The Soneva Group’s strategic plans, Evason Phuket is a wonderful property that will continue to thrive under new ownership.”
Mr Shivdasani made a promise to help laid-off staff. “We are working hard to provide alternative employment to as many [staff] as possible. In addition, we have agreed a package for any Evason Phuket [staff] whom we can’t employ elsewhere.
“The full package includes salary payment according to Thai law, plus one month advance notice, a bonus as per agreement with the labour union, health insurance cover until November 2012 and a job reference.”
The press release stressed that the sale of the Evason was “a deal that is separate from the Pegasus [Capital Advisors] acquisition of the Six Senses and Evason branded resort and spa management contracts.
“The Soneva Group continues to retain a majority stake in Six Senses Hua Hin and Evason Hua Hin and Six Senses Laamu.”