JLL took the opportunity following the reopening of the Mauritian borders to reconnect and share global insights on emerging trends and post-pandemic challenges.
JLL, a leading professional services firm that specializes in real estate, recently hosted a forum at the Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel in Port Louis with key local partners in the hospitality and office sectors. As thought leaders in the field of real estate in Africa with invaluable experience and partnerships across the continent, JLL took the opportunity following the reopening of the Mauritian borders to reconnect and share global insights on emerging trends and post-pandemic challenges.
The event offered a platform for dialogue among key stakeholders to discuss mutually shared goals for the island over the coming years. It was divided into two panels each composed of local experts and hosted by a JLL team leader and specialist. Wayne Godwin, Senior Vice President, Sub-Saharan Africa, JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group, led a conversation on ‘The Mauritian hotel market recovery’ and Simon Ardonceau, Head of Consulting & Business Development, JLL Africa, shared global research before engaging with local perspectives on ‘The rise of a remote and hybrid work environment’.
“As the pandemic has given rise to new trends, we must work closely with our Mauritian partners through these shifts and learn from their experiences,” said Ardonceau. “Over the past 18 months, hybrid working has become the preferred way of working for a majority of employees, and it profoundly transformed workplace strategies for Mauritian companies.”
The value of shared insights is echoed by Godwin, who said: “Reconnecting with our clients in Mauritius is vital. The impact of closing the borders to an island is always going to have a significant impact on the economy at large, including key sectors such as hospitality.”
“The Mauritian hotel sector is looking to emerge from the crisis better than many expected. The financial support of the government has been a big factor. Still, the positive outlook for a recovery in global travel and the better-than-expected demand for travel to Mauritius since the reopening announcement bodes well for this important economic and investment driver.”
Both felt the opportunity to reconnect in person was invaluable.
“It was good to finally be back on the island to unpack our research alongside our partners – we remain optimistic for what is to come, said Godwin”
Mauritius has shown a great deal of resilience throughout the pandemic and is paving the way for more real estate and hospitality sector opportunities to materialise.
“As the Indian Ocean remains one of JLL’s key markets, this successful event reflects our commitment to the future potential of the island economy and the businesses that are making it happen,” concluded Godwin.
This private event complied with the Mauritian government’s social distancing and face-mask regulations.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
