Bota Bota Cofounders Demand $800,000 from Luc Poirier
Co-founders of Bota Bota, a prominent spa located in Montreal, are pursuing a civil lawsuit against Luc Poirier. They accuse him of falsely claiming credit for their family project. The founders, Daniel and Geneviève Emond, are demanding $800,000 for damages to their reputation, integrity, and credibility.
Background of the Dispute
The litigation revolves around statements made by Poirier in the second episode of the series “Luc le milliardaire?”, which airs on Crave. In this episode, he presents himself as the instigator and designer of the now-popular floating spa in Old Montreal. He claims to have approached the Vieux-Port of Montreal and later invited the Emond family to join the project as operators.
Claims and Counterclaims
According to Poirier, he was an equal partner with the Emond family before withdrawing from the project once it became operational. However, the Emonds argue that these claims are not only incorrect but intentionally mislead the public about their actual contributions.
- The Emonds assert they initially approached Poirier in 2008 with their concept for an urban spa.
- Poirier allegedly showcased an old showboat, influencing the idea for the floating spa.
- Daniel Emond reportedly purchased the vessel from its true owner.
- The lawsuit states that Poirier’s role was minimal, limited to an informal meeting with a former Vieux-Port employee.
Legal Action and Reactions
The Emond family claims they structured the project, engaged architects, secured permits, financed, and led construction efforts. They highlight that an agreement granting Poirier a 40% investment never materialized due to differing visions and his involvement in the “Occupation double” TV show.
The lawsuit details that no funds were invested by Poirier, and he was never officially allotted any shares in the business.
Impact on Reputation
Since the show’s airing, the Emonds have received numerous inquiries from family, employees, clients, and business peers regarding their actual role in Bota Bota’s creation. Their legal filing emphasizes that Poirier’s public claims portray them as impostors, severely damaging their personal reputations.
Attempts at Resolution
After the series aired, the Emonds sought to contact Poirier, requesting he retract his misleading statements about the spa’s inception. They hoped for a joint statement to clarify the facts, but Poirier’s refusal led them to seek legal remedies, prompting the demand for $800,000.
As of now, Poirier has not publicly commented on the lawsuit or the claims made against him.
