By the Caribbean Journal staff

AMResorts has signed a deal to open a Sunscape resort in Puerto Plata.

The deal is the 17th for the company in the last 12 months in Central America and the Caribbean.

“Apple Leisure Group’s extensive Caribbean portfolio is a testament to our years of success in the region, and it’s why owners continue to choose us to expand or rebrand their resort offerings,” said Alex Zozaya, CEO of AMResorts’ parent company Apple Leisure Group. “The Sunscape brand meets the growing demand for affordable, family-friendly options in the Caribbean. This is a great opportunity for owners right now.”

The 585-room, all-inclusive hotel will be located at the former Barcelo Puerto Plata, which closed Nov. 2 to begin an extensive renovation project.

Sunscape Puerto Plata is slated to reopen in early 2016.

“After partnering with Apple Leisure Group to open Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa, the Sandretto family have turned to us to help further diversify their resort portfolio in the Caribbean,” said Javier Coll, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of Apple Leisure Group. “The fact that more than 80 percent of our owners have multiple AMResorts brands within their portfolio speaks volumes about the high levels of satisfaction surrounding our robust resort management, award-winning brands, and ability to maximize demand in the market.”