Uncertain future for Mantra resort

The Mantra Resort, Ettalong Beach, is facing an uncertain future with a possible sale of its management company, the Stella Hospitality Group.

This follows a failed demerger proposal and the resignation of the CEO of its parent company MFS Ltd.

A proposal to demerge Stella from its parent group MFS Ltd saw the MFS share price drop from $3.18 to 99 cents on January 18, and MFS variously described in the financial media as "embattled" and "failing".

The board of MFS asked that its securities be voluntarily suspended from trading on the Australian Stock Exchange last Wednesday, January 23.

The negative market reaction appeared to be due to the perception that the proposal to recapitalize the companies via a $550 million renounceable entitlement offer of shares in Stella implied MFS needed the money to finance a funding shortfall.

However, the company has claimed it would have no trouble refinancing $150 million in short-term debt due in March

The week saw the resignation of MFS chief executive officer Mr Michael King "following the market's reaction to the demerger proposal".

"It was considered to be in the company's best interest that Mr King resign as chief executive officer, effective immediately," according to a statement issued by MFS.

Deputy CEO Mr Craig White was appointed as the new CEO.

The company stated that it had recently received unsolicited proposals from a number of parties about its Stella group.

A press release from MFS stated that the proposals varied in nature and "could involve the sale of a majority stake in Stella".

It stated: "MFS is presently in detailed discussions with a preferred party interested in acquiring a substantial interest in Stella.

"MFS is aiming to reach an agreement with either that party or an alternate party within the next two weeks."

MFS stated that the proceeds of any transaction would not only result in full repayment of all short term maturing debt facilities, but strengthen the financial position of MFS.

The Stella section of MFS is currently in a total debt of $905 million which does not need to be repaid for more than five years.

It has been reported that MFS, which is chaired by former Liberal Opposition leader Andrew Peacock, is currently trying to sell Stella to private equity firm CVC Asia Pacific to help it pay $220 million in debt that is due immediately.

MFS also operates HarveyWorld Travel.

Lyle Stone, 25 Jan 2008