Jack and Sandy Freshour, of Little Rock, Ark., were surprised to find themselves a part of the opening day festivities. We're going to find it very hard to leave the Ritz-Carlton and St. Thomas. The Ritz-Carlton was the first stop on their tour of the Caribbean and they were scheduled to board the cruise ship Wind Spirit the next morning. Ritz-Carlton Management Co. The balance of the stock is privately held by W.B. Johnson of Atlanta. Ritz-Carlton has more than 30 hotels worldwide and employs 14,000 people.
Plans are for major expansion in Europe, Australia, Asia and Latin America.
When Hurricane Marilyn swept through the islands last year, the property suffered severe damage. Marriott purchased the property in June. As reconstruction began, Hurricane Bertha hit the island. Ritz-Carlton and Marriott International personnel from around the country were a part of the training team for the St. Thomas employees. Horst Schulze, president of the chain, also took part, conducting leadership seminars for all employees from general manager to housekeeper.