TORONTO — RIU Hotels & Resorts “believes in the trade and in travel agents” and thanked major retail partners at an industry event hosted by Sunwing Vacations yesterday in Toronto.

“We wouldn’t be here without you,” Sergi Ruiz Pique, Vice-president, Business Development, RIU Hotels & Resorts told agents. “This relationship with you is the core of our business.”

He added that RIU is making communication with agents more of a priority after a few years where “we didn’t realize how important it is to get in touch with you.”

Many of the RIU and Sunwing executives at the event were on their way to Jamaica for the opening of RIU Palace Jamaica, an adults-only property with 238 rooms and suites, making it more intimate than most RIU resorts. Upgraded wine menu lists and romantic dinners on the beach will be available for an extra fee.