John and Karina Stewart, founders of Kamalaya in Koh Samui, Thailand, have exited the business citing 'incompatibility' with owner, Christopher Harborne.

The Stewarts began to divest the business in 2021, firstly going into partnership with Harborne and then selling out completely and working as advisors during an earn-out period.

"It's with a heavy heart that we have said goodbye to Kamalaya," John Stewart told Spa Business.

"After three years – during which time we've honoured our duties and responsibilities under the new ownership, we've come to the conclusion that our business and wellness philosophies vis a vis those of the controlling shareholders are simply divergent and incompatible," he explained.

"Although we will no longer be part of Kamalaya, we hope that what we created will live on," he said.

The Stewarts founded Kamalaya nearly 25 years ago on the south coast of Koh Samui, Thailand and have grown its reputation, winning 70 international awards.

Harborne, a former management consultant at McKinsey is CEO of Sherriff Global Group and an investor in blockchain and aviation fuel operations in Asia. He goes by the name of Chakrit Sakunkrit in Thailand.

In November 2022, Harborne is on record has having donated £1 million to the office of Boris Johnson Ltd, the former Conservative prime minister of the UK. He was also a supporter of Brexit.