Chalet Hotels Limited announces its results for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2024 ending June 30, 2023.

Chalet Hotels Limited announces its results for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2024 ending June 30, 2023.

Key Highlights for Q1FY24:

 Total Income at INR 3.1 bn, up 21% as compared to Q1FY23

 Adjusted EBITDA at INR 1.3 bn, up 24% as compared to Q1FY23

 Hospitality Segment Performance:

o Revenue at INR 2.8 bn, up by 23% from Q1FY23

o ARR at INR 10,317, up by 38% over Q1FY23

o Occupancy was at 70%

o RevPAR improved by 24% YoY to INR 7,182

o Adjusted EBITDA was at INR 1.2 billion, up by 26% from Q1FY23

Other Highlights:

 ~68% of the total electricity for hotel portfolio sourced from renewable resources in Q1FY24.

 Newly launched The Westin Hyderabad HITEC City is completely sold out from day 1, operated by an all-women team and is run on 100% Green Power.

Development Pipeline Updates:

 CIGNUS POWAI ® Tower I at Westin Complex, Powai is in its final stages of completion.

 At the CIGNUS Whitefield Bangalore ® Tower I, tenants are moving in by August 2023.

 CIGNUS Whitefield Bangalore ® Tower II is in its final stages of completion.

 88 new rooms at Novotel Pune are ready and awaiting OC to commence commercial usage.

 We are adding ~130 guest rooms at Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield, designs are in final stages.

 The residential project, Raheja Vivarea, at Koramangala, Bengaluru is progressing well and sales for the project is expected to commence within the calendar year 2023.

Speaking on the financial results, Mr. Sanjay Sethi, MD & CEO, Chalet Hotels Limited, said,

“ARRs have been holding strong with 38% growth year-on-year, a key business performance indicator for the Company. This quarter also witnessed the launch of our first all-women-run hotel, ‘The Westin Hyderabad HITEC City’, a small contribution towards gender equality and empowerment in the hospitality industry. India's strong economic indicators combined with a robust demand-supply environment and our ongoing capex initiatives, bode well for the future of Chalet Hotels.”

Australia Marketplace India witnesses record participation

The highest attendance at the trade event reiterates demand for Australia amongst Indian travelers 

July 2023, Bengaluru: Tourism Australia has held the 18th edition of its flagship trade initiative, Australia Marketplace India (AMI), in Bengaluru from 23 to 25 July. The return of this key B2B event, for the first time since 2019, aims to assist representatives from the Australian tourism industry to develop and establish business relationships with key qualified travel agencies and tour operators from India. At the three-day event, 86 Australian tourism businesses displayed their products and services to a record 94 Indian travel agents, demonstrating the country's rising appeal as a holiday destination for Indian tourists.

AMI has been a pivotal platform in connecting India’s top travel agents with Australian tourism industry stakeholders and delegates to promote Australian holidays with the country’s latest and diverse offerings and experiences. This year's participating Australian tourism representatives and distributors included a diverse set of businesses, including lodging and tour operators, attractions, experiences, cultural institutions, along with state and local tourism organizations. Compared to AMI 2019, this year’s event saw a 20% increase in seller delegates, who support Tourism Australia’s commitment to growing tourism demand from India to enable a competitive and sustainable tourism industry by exploring destinations through new experiences and products. The Indian travel buyers have been represented by 94 companies from across 8 Indian cities – Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata.

Commenting on the event, Mr. Andrew Hogg, Executive General Manager – Eastern Markets and Aviation, Tourism Australia, said, “India has been Australia’s fastest growing source market and continues to be one of Australia's most valuable and promising tourism markets now and into the future. Australia Marketplace India is our prime platform, bringing together some of Australia’s leading industry experts and tourism delegates to showcase Australia’s world-class appeal to India’s trade stakeholders; to drive future growth in visitation and tourist spend from India. We continue to receive outstanding support from our Indian travel partners, who are some of our biggest advocates in making Australia a preferred holiday destination for India’s High Yield Travellers.”

Mr. Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager – India & Gulf, Tourism Australia, shared, “India has improved its ranks among Australia’s source markets, and reached a milestone of emerging as the first market to recover to pre-Covid levels, with several marketing, public relations, distribution, and partnership initiatives aimed at enhancing Australia’s attractiveness and consideration. Our Key Distribution Partners, Aussie Specialists and Business Event agents have been vital in inviting Indians to Australia. We seek to maintain our current trajectory and unlock India’s potential growth towards the next decade of travel.”

The demand for travel to Australia has been stimulated by Tourism Australia’s direct-to-consumer communication with the launch of the global Come and Say G’day campaign aimed at building consideration amongst High Yield Travellers (HYTs) through integrated media campaigns and a robust Public Relations and Advocacy program as well as through partnerships with Key Distribution Partners (KDPs) and airline partners to drive conversions through tactical co-op campaigns. Demand has also been encouraged by the tripling of direct aviation capacity between India and Australia and the ease of obtaining a visa - which is a completely digitized process, that does not require in-person attendance for lodgements, biometrics, or an interview.

Tourism Australia’s distribution strategy in India includes dedicated trade engagement initiatives and a range of online resources such as the Aussie Specialist Program (ASP), Trade Resource Hub and Australia 365 On Demand. As on date, Tourism Australia has over 4,650 Qualified Aussie Specialists across India, who promote and sell Australian holidays. The ASP agents receive special access to a resourceful online toolkit to sell Australian holidays and a chance to participate in innovative training programs and remain updated on the destination through informative newsletters. Tourism Australia has also introduced a second tier to its Aussie Specialist program in India with the introduction of the Premier Aussie Specialist Program. Up to 40 agents in India have been awarded the Premium Aussie Specialist title and are known to sell bespoke experiences across Australia. In addition, there are opportunities for select frontline staff and product teams to gain a first-hand experience of Australia through global trade events like the Australian Tourism Exchange and G’day Australia.

India ranked as Australia's fourth-largest inbound tourism market for arrivals for the year ended May 2023. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), visitor arrivals data for the year ended (YE) May 2023 confirms Australia welcomed around 375,500 visitors from India, surpassing the pre-Covid levels. Spending by Indian visitors for YE March 2023 was A$ 1.97 Bn (+16% over YE March 2019), exceeding pre-Covid levels.

House of Glenfiddich celebrates the undying spirit of disruptors through ‘Fathers of Innovation’

July 2023, National: Over the years, WG&S has celebrated the forces of nature, who have upheld the spirit of innovation, which resonates with the core ethos of the company. 

Fathers of Innovation is a platform that recognizes the relentless pursuit of innovators, acknowledging their noteworthy contributions in line with our core brand attributes of pushing boundaries, being unconventional and challenging status quo.

Focusing on those who have fueled transformation across distinctive fields of innovation, House of Glenfiddich takes great pride in saluting these heroes.  

In its fourth year, Fathers Of Innovation ushers in a new era of creative alliances, artistic dialogues and exchanges with some of the inspiring figures of our century, who've left an indelible imprint in their respective fields. From technology to the arts, design to entrepreneurship - It honours radical individuals who embody the DNA of House of Glenfiddich.

Commenting on the Fathers of Innovation, Kapila Sethi, Head of Marketing said, “Fathers Of Innovation applauds the innovators who have broken conventions and inspired change. We celebrate their unfazed spirit of innovation and challenging traditions. House of Glenfiddich values these individuals who share their world views and creative canvases." 

About William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons, Ltd. is an independent family-owned distiller headquartered in the United Kingdom and founded by William Grant in 1887. Today, the luxury spirits company is run by the fifth generation of his family and distils some of the world’s leading brands of Scotch whisky, including the world’s favourite single malt Glenfiddich®, The Balvenie® range of handcrafted single malts and the world’s third largest blended Scotch Grant’s® as well as other iconic spirits brands such as Hendrick’s® Gin, Sailor Jerry®, Milagro® Tequila and, most recently, Tullamore D.E.W Irish Whiskey.

About House Of Glenfiddich

Staying true to the company's creative and artistic vision, William Grant and Sons India Private Limited recently launched "House of Glenfiddich": a luxury lifestyle brand aiming to build unique experiences which combine the finest in art, travel and beyond. The brand identifies with the fast-evolving meaning of luxury for the Indian consumer who appreciates quality and offers premium products & experiences ranging from avant-garde exhibits to cutting-edge collaborations within the luxury lifestyle passion points of art, fashion, design, entrepreneurship, travel and beyond. The collections and showcases from the House of Glenfiddich, will not only be inspired by chic global trends, but also offer tailor-made products and immersive experiences as it evolves.

The Savvy Traveller: 47% of Indians ready to revamp itineraries for irresistible deals, reveals Skyscanner report

Travel remains a priority despite increasing cost-consciousness 

Indians are big planners, with 72% of respondents preferring to thoroughly plan their trips 

 India, July 2023 — Skyscanner, the global travel marketplace, today released its Travel in Focus Report, which shares that budget-conscious travellers in India are embracing travel with an open mind to score more affordable getaways. With insights from Skyscanner’s proprietary search and booking data and consumer behaviour study, this report uncovers key travel behaviours in India.  

Data from the report highlights that Indians are savvy travellers (47%) who are flexible to switch their itineraries when presented with better travel deals. When it comes to international holidays, Indians are also willing to pick a destination that is less expensive to travel to (35%) or travel at a different time of year (33%). This is in spite of the fact that Indian travellers are in fact, big planners, with 72% of respondents preferring to thoroughly plan their trips – further cementing how Indian travellers are seeking that sweet spot of travel and value for their holidays. 

Commenting on the findings, Mohit Joshi, Skyscanner Travel Trends and Destination Expert said, “While the way we travel has no doubt changed in the last few years, the desire for a getaway is still very much there. Skyscanner makes it possible for travellers to explore the world within their budget, with its cross-market comparison and transparency of prices on its platform. An easy hack to hit that sweet spot is to use our ‘Everywhere’ search tool, where destinations are recommended based on the traveller’s location, ranked by price. That way you get to explore, without breaking the bank.” 

Other key survey findings:  

Chasing Cricket:  Cricket holds a special place in the heart of Indians. Around 75% say that they are willing to increase their travel budget to experience live cricket matches. With the upcoming 2023 Cricket World Cup held in India, there is already a 46% spike1 in searches from within India to Ahmedabad, one of the host cities, for October this year. Despite strong demand, prices on Skyscanner reveal that flights to Ahmedabad from Mumbai are 36%2 lower for the month of June 2023, compared to June 2022.  

Slow Travelling Gurus: In 2023, Indian travellers are taking it slow, with more travellers (46%) opting for more immersive travel over of fast-paced travel (40%). Rather than visiting as many places as possible, travellers are looking to spend more time in a single destination, taking their time to immerse themselves in the local culture. According to Skyscanner data, over 38% of Indian travellers spend longer than 1 month on a single-destination trip, including domestic and international destinations, based on redirect data for the year 2023, which is significantly more when compared to travellers in Singapore (3%) and South Korea (8%)3. 

Purposeful Voyagers: Travellers today are looking to travel with purpose and centre their travel experiences around specific activities. Over half of Indians (55%) are planning purpose-related travel in India to engage in activities such as scuba diving, golf, yoga, or wellness retreats. One in two Indians are also actively planning a visit to holy places in the next 6 months. 

For all the travel preferences flagged by Indian travellers as important, Mohit recommends the following hacks that can help bag a bargain quickly: 

 The ‘Whole Month’ search tool allows you to see cheap flights immediately and pick the right deal for you. Consider travelling a day before or a day after your original departure dates, flying on less popular days of the week is always cheaper. 

Mix & Match to save ₹₹: Mixing and matching the airlines and airports you choose to fly with to and fro, can seriously cut costs. To save more, flights don’t have to be booked as returns. 

Here are some options between Mumbai and the UAE on 8-15 September 20234. By mixing and matching, the lowest fare is via Route 3 by flying into Dubai and out of Sharjah on different airlines.  

Be Price Smart: When you find a flight you like, with a price you don’t, set up a Skyscanner Price Alert. It will watch the flight you are interested in and send an email or push notification when prices change. This is the best way to find a deal if you have a few weeks or months before you are planning to buy.

Skyscanner’s Travel in Focus 2023 report draws on its research with OnePoll and analyses survey data from 3,000 travellers in Singapore, India, and South Korea to uncover key unique insights into travel behaviour, attitudes, and preferences of travellers in these countries. 

How restaurants such as Panera and Chipotle are dipping into A.I. to streamline food prep and ordering

Restaurant brands are starting to pilot artificial intelligence to streamline food service.

• Analysts say a key benefit is the potential to ease workforce challenges in an ongoing tight hiring market.

• A wave of pilot programs has already begun.

From drive-thru to back-of-house operations to predictive ordering for consumers, restaurant brands are starting to pilot artificial intelligence to streamline food service.

The technology has yet to reach critical mass at major chains but has the potential to automate more tasks and give restaurant workers the opportunity to have a more meaningful experience with guests.

Analysts say a key benefit is the potential to ease workforce challenges in an ongoing tight hiring market. The National Restaurant Association predicts the industry will add 500,000 jobs by the end of 2023, but notes there’s currently just one job seeker for every two open positions.

What’s more, TD Cowen estimates voice-enabled AI can drive sales as much as 15% through suggestive selling as well as speed up service times by 10 seconds.

The industry shift is reminiscent of the emergence of third-party delivery services five years ago, before it was ubiquitous at nearly every major restaurant operator, according to Andrew Charles, managing director of consumer and restaurants at TD Cowen.

“Some were trying it, others we’re contemplating it, most were piloting it,” he said of third-party apps for delivery services. “I think there’s a clear analogue to today where it’s very similar and as we continue to see further adoption of this, you will see a domino effect here.”

But there are still hurdles to broad adoption, according to Charles. Many of these large restaurant chains need to get franchisees on board. Language barriers and menu nuances can add complexity to the ordering process that AI may not be able to navigate.

Meanwhile, the wave of pilot programs has already begun.

Last month, Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s parent company CKE announced it was aiming to launch AI integrations nationwide via partnerships with Presto and OpenCity AI.

Yum! Brands in recent years has been a leader in leveraging AI to enhance operations, including its 2021 acquisition of Dragontail aimed at streamlining food prep and delivery. The tech, which automates kitchen flow, driver dispatch and customer order tracking, is used in 1,000 Pizza Hut locations in the U.S., and nearly 3,000 more globally. The company also relies on AI for its recommended ordering module that informs managers of how much product to order weekly.

McDonald’s, for its part, sold McD Tech Labs to IBM in 2021, entering a strategic partnership to help bring AI technology to drive-thru lanes. McD Tech Labs, which was formerly known as Apprente before McDonald’s acquired it, used AI to understand drive-thru orders. So far, McDonald’s has tested the technology at certain locations.

Del Taco is also using voice-activated AI for orders at its drive-thru, as is Wingstop for orders placed by phone.

Panera Bread has likewise invested in technology in both front- and back-of-house operations. It’s working with OpenCity AI on drive-thru voice ordering and with Miso Robotics to sure up coffee quality and temperature control to boost product consistency.

For Panera, it’s a question of, “How do we redeploy our people to higher value, higher quality guest experiences,” said Chief Digital Officer George Hanson. “Whether they’re spending more time on the food preparation and the quality control, or in person interaction,” Hanson told CNBC in an interview.

“It might be just swinging around into the dining room and asking them how their meal is or if they can bus their table — just having those warm interactions. We view that as a higher value.”

Source

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre Hosts Grand Felicitation Ceremony for Siddhanth Murali Kumar, Bronze Medal Winner at Special Olympics World Summer Games

Hyderabad: July 2023: Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (Novotel Hyderabad) proudly hosted a grand felicitation ceremony to honor Siddhanth Murali Kumar, who recently won a bronze medal for India at the Special Olympics World Games held in Berlin, Germany. The event, curated by the staff and management of Novotel Hyderabad & HICC, showcased the exceptional achievement of Siddhanth and recognized his hard work, determination, perseverance, and unwavering spirit. This remarkable accomplishment not only highlights Siddhanth’s athletic abilities but also serves as an inspiration to individuals worldwide.

Siddhanth Murali Kumar, the first athlete from Telangana to win a medal at the Special Olympics World Games, was felicitated by Mr. Rubin Cherian, General Manager of Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre. In recognition of his outstanding achievement, Siddhanth was presented with a special hamper, symbolizing his appreciation and admiration for his dedication to his sport.

The felicitation ceremony at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre was a truly grand affair, characterized by inspiring speeches, heartwarming tributes, and memorable moments. Attendees were captivated by the stories of Siddhanth’s unwavering determination, resilience, and the obstacles he overcame to reach this significant milestone in his career. Inspired by his conduct, to honor his athletic future, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre heartily awarded him with a cash prize of INR 50,000.

Acknowledging the pivotal role played by Siddhanth’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Murali, in his success, the ceremony also honored Mr. Murali Kumar, Executive Housekeeper & his family. Their tireless efforts in instilling discipline and encouraging Siddhanth’s dedicated focus on preparation for the competition have been instrumental in his accomplishments.

Expressing his pride and appreciation, Mr. Rubin Cherian, General Manager of Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and Hyderabad International Convention Centre, stated, "We are immensely proud of Siddhanth’s exceptional accomplishment and the unwavering support provided by his father, Murali. Novotel Hyderabad & HICC is committed to providing a platform for local talent and fostering an environment that inspires individuals to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Siddhanth’s success serves as an inspiration to us all, and we will continue to support and celebrate the achievements of exceptional individuals like him. 

All the heartists at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre proudly join in extending congratulations to Siddhanth Murali Kumar on his well-deserved bronze medal at the Special Olympics World Summer Games.”

Cleartrip soars to new heights; emerges as fastest growing OTA and gains second-largest market share

The findings are based on a comprehensive travel market study conducted by VIDEC  across FY 22-23

Bengaluru, July 2023: After a phenomenal post-pandemic revival of the travel industry, Cleartrip, a Flipkart company, cements its position as the second-largest OTA player in the country. A recent in-depth OTA benchmarking research study by VIDEC revealed that Cleartrip saw industry-leading growth in FY23 and strengthened its position in the segment.  

While we have seen significant growth in the air category, we have made strategic investments in Hotels, Buses, and B2B businesses, revamping our existing offerings and launching new tools and products. At the beginning of the year, we also launched our own marquee event, the Nation on Vacation event, redefining and bringing forward the booking period for the traditional summer holiday season by partnering with 40+ airlines and 80000+ domestic and  4L+ international hotels in offering lucrative prices and value-added services to our customers. Cleartrip’s B2B topline grew >2x on the back of the launch of new tools providing a seamless booking experience for our partners. Our investments in key business areas not only helped us achieve market share gains but also won recognition and awards from the wider community.

Regarding the latest development, Ayyappan R., CEO, of Cleartrip stated, “This move is a milestone in Cleartrip’s journey and is a testament to our commitment to customer-centricity and sustainable growth. Travel is a massive industry that has witnessed rapid growth and is expected to scale further heights. We believe that we are in the right position to innovate and bring about disruption through technology. This is a new chapter for Cleartrip and by no means the end destination. We will continue to curate value-led constructs, expand our product categories, innovate on behalf of our customers, and make travel an affordable and accessible aspiration for all.” 

VIDEC, a boutique research company with a singular focus on the global travel industry has conducted the current study - Indian OTA Landscape: India Travel Market Sizing, OTA Benchmarking & Consumer Insights. The report encapsulates the market sizing, segmentation, OTA benchmarking, and travel consumer insights for the Indian travel marketplace through executive interviews with suppliers, travel distributors OTAs, and travel technology providers operating in India.

Shedding light on the key research findings, Virendra Jain, Co-Founder and CEO at VIDEC said, “Led by the OTAs, the India travel market has made a resounding recovery to ₹3,892 billion (US$48.7B) in FY23 and is estimated to reach ₹5,787 billion (US$72.4B) in FY26.  Air would continue to be the largest travel category at ₹1,743 billion (US$21.8B) in FY23, the growth henceforth would equally come from the rise in Indian international demand and non-air categories. The ground category will fuel the often talked about the ‘next billion Indian opportunity’.”  

Since the Flipkart acquisition, Cleartrip has continued to invest in customer-centric offerings under ‘Clear Advantage’ that provide unmatched flexibility and affordability. It enabled customers to earn and redeem supercoins and improved the customer experience on multiple fronts such as a 24-hour refund policy that resulted in an industry-leading NPS score. The company recently launched buses in its service portfolio, revamped its hotel UI, and unveiled its marquee summer sale event - NationOnVacation. Cleartrip saw a 60% rise in bookings (which is 2x times over what was achieved during the same period last year) across categories.

Taking a step towards green hospitality, Le Meridien Goa introduces in-house water bottling plant

With the newly installed in-house water bottling plant, the initiatives are truly a leap toward making a greener promise

Recently, Le Meridien Goa also installed a EV Charging station in its premise, as a move towards greener tomorrow

Marriott International is constantly working to reduce its environmental impact, build and operate sustainable hotels and source responsibly. In keeping with the company’s 2025 Sustainability and Social Impact Goals, Le Meridien Goa, Calangute proudly announces a remarkable leap forward in their sustainability efforts as it inaugurates its cutting-edge in-house water bottling plant this month. The hotel has taken a decisive step towards reducing plastic waste by eliminating all single-use plastic bottles and introducing reusable glass water bottles, treated and bottled on-site.

Addressing the critical issue of food waste management, Le Meridien Goa, Calangute has established a collaborative partnership with Welfare for Animals in Goa, wherein all leftover raw fruits and vegetables are diligently donated on a daily basis to support the sanctuary's noble cause. Additionally, the hotel has introduced the innovative "no bin day" initiative, fostering a culture of minimal wastage and further educating its internal stakeholders on the importance of responsible resource utilization.

The hotel has embraced electric mobility by installing a rapid DC 60kW charging station in partnership with ChargeZone, an EV charging Network Company. This initiative enables guests and visitors to conveniently charge their electric vehicles while enjoying the hotel's services. The hotel has also harnessed the power of solar energy as a renewable source for water heating. With a steadfast commitment to sustainability, they aim to expand its solar capacity in the long term. 

Aligning with Marriott International's Serve 360 Initiative to “Doing good in every direction”, which advocates for positive impact, Le Meridien Goa, Calangute encourages its associates and guests to actively participate in its green initiatives. By reducing linen change frequency and replacing plastic bath products with refillable amenity dispensers, guests are already making conscious choices during their stay. 

The preservation of the environment remains a paramount objective and Le Meridien Goa, Calangute believes its action has the potential not only to make an impact but also inspire others in this shared responsibility of reducing one’s carbon footprint.

NOESIS Revolutionizes Hospitality Infrastructure in Mumbai Metropolitan Region with Unprecedented Hotel Tie-ups

NOESIS, the premier hotel investment and consulting firm in India, has achieved remarkable success by facilitating brand tie-ups for 904 hotel keys across 10 hotels in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) area. These strategic partnerships with renowned international and national hotel chains demonstrate NOESIS' unwavering commitment to constructing high-quality and resilient organized hospitality infrastructure.

NOESIS has played a pivotal role in transforming the hotel landscape, with approximately one-third of the hotels being conversions, while the rest were established through collaborations with brands at greenfield or brownfield stages. Leveraging its extensive expertise, NOESIS has provided comprehensive services such as feasibility reports, valuation studies, brand search, and fundraising (debt/equity) to many of these hotels.

The following is a list of hotels that have successfully formed alliances with prominent brands through NOESIS' efforts: 

• Lemon Tree Premier Malad West - 120 rooms

• Bloom Saki Vihar, Andheri East - 120 rooms

• Bloom Suites at Western Express Highway, near the domestic airport - 104 rooms

• Ginger, an IHCL Brand, Goregaon East - 102 rooms

• The Fern Resort, Badlapur - 100 rooms

• The Fern, Palghar - 81 rooms

•  Adiva Beacon (Fern), Grant Road, South Mumbai - 80 rooms

• Beacon (Fern) Navi Mumbai - 69 rooms

• Regenta Juhu - 68 rooms

• Bloom Boutique Bandra West - 60 rooms

The operational hotels, following their brand tie-ups, have exhibited exceptional returns on investment, with some surpassing the yields of commercial office spaces. NOESIS' expertise in the hospitality sector has played a crucial role in driving this success.

Furthermore, NOESIS is currently engaged in 12 ongoing and upcoming hotel projects across the MMR region. The firm provides essential services including fundraising, operator/brand selection, and feasibility studies for these projects. With significant infrastructure developments such as Metro lines, the Coastal Road, the Navi Mumbai Airport, and the Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link Project improving connectivity, investors are increasingly attracted to hotel investments in the suburbs and outskirts, where land costs remain manageable.

Nandivardhan Jain, Founder & CEO of NOESIS, expressed his pride in the firm's accomplishments in transforming the hospitality infrastructure of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. He attributed the phenomenal growth in branded room supply to the expertise and commitment to excellence exhibited by the NOESIS team. Jain envisions a 100% growth in the next five years.

With over 2,100 completed assignments to date, NOESIS operates from offices in Mumbai, Gurugram, and Bangalore, ensuring comprehensive coverage and support for its clients.

Oxford University Press India to launch a new edition of its bestseller ‘Hotel Housekeeping: Operations and Management

Launched during the 5th National Housekeepers convention on 27th May at Taj Bangalore

Bengaluru, 2023: Oxford University Press India (OUPI) is set to launch the fourth edition of its bestseller "Hotel Housekeeping: Operations and Management." The soft launch of the book is scheduled on May 27th at the Taj Bangalore during the 5th National Housekeepers convention and 8th PHA (Professional Housekeepers' Association) anniversary celebration.

Co-authored by G. Raghubalan and Smritee Raghubalan, "Hotel Housekeeping: Operations and Management" has been widely regarded as a key resource for housekeepers in the hospitality industry. Since its first edition in 2005, the book has been a bestseller for Oxford University Press and has sold over 1.7 Lakh copies.  The new edition is thoroughly revised and updated, covering a wide range of contemporary themes related to housekeeping, including the latest standard operating procedures (SOPs), formats, exhibits, and case studies. It also pays special attention to Infection Prevention and Control Protocols for COVID-19. The book explores emerging trends such as nanotechnology, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and software.

The book which covers the NCHMCT syllabus delves into various aspects of housekeeping, such as the role of housekeeping in hospitality operations, caring for and cleaning different surfaces, room layout and guest supplies, area cleaning, routine systems and records, pest and odor control, uniforms, laundry, flower arrangement, interior decoration, indoor plants, lighting, and contract services. The book is designed for students of undergraduate and diploma courses in hotel management, certificate courses in housekeeping, and postgraduate courses in accommodation operations. Its practice-oriented approach makes it useful for housekeeping professionals and students of home science.

About Oxford University Press 

Oxford University Press (OUP) is a department of the University of Oxford. It further affirms the University's objective of excellence in research, scholarship, and education by publishing worldwide. OUP is the world’s largest university press with the widest global presence. It publishes in many countries, in more than 40 languages, and in a variety of formats - print and digital. OUP products cover an extremely broad academic and educational spectrum, and it aims to make content available to users in a format that suits them best. 

Domino’s Will Deliver, Without An Address

• Domino’s Pizza is rolling out a new technology nationwide that allows customers to receive a delivery almost anywhere, ranging from parks and baseball fields to beaches.

• The Pinpoint Delivery rollout will make the feature available for the first time in U.S. markets.

• Domino’s said a soft launch for Pinpoint Delivery received positive feedback from customers and delivery drivers.

“No address? No problem,” said Christopher Thomas-Moore, Domino’s senior vice president and chief digital officer. “Domino’s is proud to be the first quick-service restaurant brand in the U.S. to deliver food to customers with the drop of a pin.”

The company said a soft launch for Pinpoint Delivery last week across all Domino’s stores nationwide received positive feedback from customers and delivery drivers.

“A pop-up window on the app lets customers know they have four minutes to meet their driver and retrieve their order at the designated pickup spot” near where they placed the order, Domino’s spokesperson Danielle Bulger told CNBC.

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Airbnb signs an MoU with the Ministry of Tourism to showcase India’s heritage stays and promote cultural tourism

• Airbnb to partner with the Ministry in its vision to promote inbound tourism as a part of its Visit India 2023 initiative

• Under the MoU, Airbnb will launch a dedicated 'Soul of India' microsite for the global audience showcasing India’s rich culture and built heritage

• Other areas of partnership under the MoU include destination promotion, sharing travel and tourism insights, Host recognition, and capacity building

June 2023: Airbnb today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, to promote India as a most sought-after high-potential tourism destination and shine a spotlight on its rich cultural heritage.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Union Tourism Minister, Government of India, Ms. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Shri Rakesh Kumar Verma, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, and Amanpreet Bajaj, General Manager, Airbnb India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, aims to underscore the cultural significance of India's heritage properties and encourage travelers to embark on immersive journeys through the country's diverse heritage.

At the heart of this partnership lies the launch of the exclusive ‘Soul of India’ microsite that showcases an array of heritage stays across the country. These heritage properties, steeped in history and architectural brilliance, offer an authentic glimpse into India’s rich cultural tapestry. Additionally, Airbnb will also offer support to Hosts in untapped tourist areas, assist them in promoting their homestays, build host capacity, and foster a culture of responsible hosting.

This year-long partnership symbolizes the shared commitment of both Airbnb and the Ministry of Tourism to enhance India's standing in the global tourism market through promotional strategies and campaigns.

Key elements of the MoU include:

• Destination Promotion - The Ministry of Tourism and Airbnb will work together on positioning India as a sought-after destination for cultural and heritage tourism, leveraging targeted domestic and international campaigns that showcase the distinctive heritage stays available throughout the country.

• ‘Soul of India’ Microsite - Airbnb will launch a dedicated ‘Soul of India’ microsite to promote heritage homes across India and share captivating stories behind the heritage properties and the destinations, with a goal to inspire visitors to embark on unique cultural adventures and immerse themselves in the unparalleled essence of India.

• Capacity Building and Insights - Airbnb will endeavor to train hospitality micro-entrepreneurs in emerging destinations that are part of the Ministry's flagship scheme. Airbnb will also share travel and homestay insights with the Ministry of Tourism for informed responsible tourism policies and training requirements.

Highlighting the importance of promoting cultural tourism and preserving heritage sites, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Union Tourism Minister, Government of India, said, “India’s age-old dictum “Atithi Devo Bhava” equates guests to God, and what better way to extend hospitality to guests than by making them stay in homes with local communities? Homestay accommodations offer travelers a personalized, immersive, and rooted-in-culture travel experience. We are delighted to partner with Airbnb, whose global reach will provide enhanced visibility to India’s unique and varied accommodation offerings and enable travelers an opportunity to experience our rich heritage first-hand. This partnership will contribute to the growth of inbound tourism, create economic opportunities for local communities, and position India uniquely on the global tourism map.”

Amanpreet Bajaj, General Manager - India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan at Airbnb, said, “We are proud to partner with the Ministry of Tourism to celebrate the Soul of India. This MoU represents an important collaboration towards unlocking new economic and social opportunities through tourism in India while bolstering the Incredible India brand and bringing the richness of what India has to offer to even more international travellers. Airbnb has consistently placed Hosts and their empowerment at its core and is pleased to see the G20 countries, led by India, sharing the same commitment to equipping communities with the adequate skills and fostering responsible tourism practices.”

With the signing of this MoU, Airbnb and the Ministry of Tourism set the stage for an exciting journey that will not only promote India's cultural heritage but also create transformative experiences for travelers, foster economic growth, and celebrate the vibrant diversity that defines India's soul.

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home and has since grown to over 4 million Hosts who have welcomed 1.4 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

HRAWI Hails Maha Govt.’s New Initiatives To Give Boost To Tourism In The State

HRAWI Hails Maha Govt.’s New Initiatives To Give Boost To Tourism In The State Requests State To Offer Special Subsidies To Encourage Development of More Hotels

Mumbai, June:The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI), in a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Chief Minister (CM) - Shri Eknath Sambhaji Shinde, Hon'ble Deputy Chief Minister - Shri. Devendra G. Fadnavis and Hon’ble Tourism Minister – Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha has hailed the Government for expediting approvals on various projects across the State that are expected to boost the tourism potential in Maharashtra. The State recently announced a collaboration of upcoming 30 plus properties by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), the Water tourism project at Gosekhurd in Bhandara, MICE centre and Chanakya centre for excellence at Karla near Lonavala, among others.

“HRAWI applauds the initiatives taken by the Government and is optimistic about the opportunities the new projects will bring to the tourism and hospitality sector in the State. The Government's forward-thinking and innovative ideas coupled with proactive promotional efforts, are poised to ignite a tourism boom, both domestically and internationally. These soon to be developed destinations will undoubtedly enthral travellers from around the world and as we embark on making Maharashtra a global tourist destination, it is imperative that we also create top-notch infrastructure to support the tourist inflow. To complement the projects in the pipeline, HRAWI requests the Government for introducing special subsidies to encourage the development of more hotels in the State. This will boost tourism by making it viable for more tourists to access the destinations and also lead to generating revenue for the State,” says Mr Pradeep Shetty, President, HRAWI.

HRAWI has acknowledged the valuable suggestions put forth for the development of Ambhora Temple, establishment of a Scuba Diving Centre in Koyna Bamnoli. The beautification projects for Sonegaon Lake in Nagpur and Gajba Devi Temple in Sindhudurg too have received much praise.

“We are excited about the upcoming projects and initiatives aimed at boosting tourism in Maharashtra. This boost to tourism will translate to an increasing number of tourists, and it is crucial to enhance the room capacity to meet the rising demand. Maharashtra has around 3,40,000 rooms and with the number of projects in the pipeline, we will require at least double the capacity of hotel rooms. Subsidy for establishing hotels at specified tourist locations, along with incentives for eco-friendly hotels and electricity subsidies, will provide the necessary impetus for the growth of the hospitality sector. Moreover, the tourism and hospitality sector is a major contributor to employment generation in India. According to the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA), the sector accounted for 79.86 million direct and indirect jobs which is a significant 15.34 per cent share of employment generation in 2019-2020. With these new projects, we anticipate a further surge in employment opportunities, benefiting both the industry and the workforce,” adds Mr Chetan Mehta, Vice President, HRAWI.

The Association has commended the MTDC for their proactive approach in organizing the Maharashtra Tourism Stakeholder Video Conference on May 26, 2023, which focused on the Expression of Interests for the Operations & Maintenance of the newly constructed resorts at Nawegaon Bandh in Gondia and Chandpur in Bhandara.

“The Hon’ble Tourism Minister’s unwavering dedication and visionary approach in harnessing the tourism potential in Maharashtra have been truly commendable. His tireless efforts to give boost to the tourism industry have paved the way for economic growth of the State. The initiatives taken under his leadership have opened the doors to a vibrant future, where tourists from all corners of the globe will be captivated by the enchanting wonders of Maharashtra, making it a must-visit destination and, the hospitality industry is grateful for his contributions,” concludes Mr Shetty.

About Hotel & Restaurant Association Western India (HRAWI)

The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) is a 72 years old Association of Hotels and Restaurants in Western India. Its members include Restaurants and Hotels up to 5-Star Deluxe categories. With membership base spread across Western India, HRAWI covers Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa and Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and is considered to be the voice of the Hotel Industry. The association is part of the national body of Federation of the Hotels & Restaurants Associations of India (FHRAI), located in New Delhi, which was originally founded in Mumbai in 1950 by the late Mr J.R.D. Tata. 

Hilton India ranked No 1 company in “India’s Best companies to work for

Hilton India ranked No 1 company in “India’s Best Companies to work for” and the “Best in Industry: Hotels and Resorts” Category 2023

Recognized by Great Place To Work® India among India's Best Companies To Work For™, Hilton India stood tall on having created and sustained a High-Trust, High-Performance Culture

Mumbai, India – June 16, 2023 – Hilton (NYSE: HLT), Hilton India has been recognized among India's No 1 company to work for by ‘Great Place to Work’, the global research and consulting firm. In 2022, Great Place to Work® surveyed more than 1300 companies, out of which, the top 100 were awarded, representing more than 4.5 lakh employees in India. Its Trust Index© Survey assessed employees' perceptions of leadership, organizational culture, and trust, and is critical to a company being selected for the list of Best Workplaces in the country. Top-scoring questions from Hilton cited team members for their recognition of diversity and equity in the workplace, trust in the leadership team, and pride of the company's value and vision. This is the first time a hospitality brand was accorded this a top honor. The award ceremony was held in Mumbai last night and was attended by the top suite of India’s leading organizations.

Every year, Great Place to Work® identifies India's top 100 ‘Best Companies to Work’ For through an objective and rigorous workplace culture assessment process. In 2022, Hilton was recognized for its exceptional workplace culture and named one of the World’s Best Workplaces by Great Place to Work. Hilton ranked #2 of the top 25 companies and remains the only hospitality company on the list. Since first earning this recognition in 2016, Hilton has continued to build upon its strong workplace culture through an unwavering focus on creating an environment that’s inclusive, offers growth opportunities, is driven by purpose and allows team members to bring their best, most authentic selves to work.  

Navjit Ahluwalia, Country Head, India, Hilton said “We are deeply honored to be recognized as the No 1 company among India's Best Companies to Work for 2023 and the Best in the Hotels & Resorts industry. This prestigious award comes at a timely moment as we mark Hilton’s annual Team Member Appreciation Week, where we celebrate the remarkable contributions of our dedicated team. This award is attributed to them and reflects our unwavering commitment to our industry-leading practices and purpose-led culture.”

Sabu Raghavan, Vice President, Human Resources, India, Hilton said, “We are extremely grateful to our 4,000 Team Members in India for embodying and living the brand values of Hilton. Our Team Members are at the heart of our business and always go above and beyond to deliver the most reliable and friendly stays to our guests, spreading the light and warmth of hospitality everywhere they go. Receiving this accolade is a true testament to the exceptional culture that we have built for our Team Members in Hilton.”

Hilton’s initiatives in India include:

• Thrive@Hilton, Hilton’s employer value proposition that cultivates meaningful opportunities and a workplace culture where all team members can thrive regardless of background, role and location.

• Lead@Hilton, an industry-leading learning platform that offers a suite of learning resources on management and leadership, including a Leadership Unscripted video series where senior leaders share career advice and virtual development programs created in partnership with Harvard.

• Careers@Hilton, which provides guidance and highlights opportunities for young people in the hospitality industry through annual awareness campaigns. Paused during the pandemic, the program will restart in 2023.

• Go Hilton, Hilton’s popular team member travel program which offers discounted travel benefits.

• Care for All, is a new industry-leading caregiving initiative designed to support team members on their caregiving journeys. The Care for All platform is an expansion of Hilton’s mental wellness hub, which it aims to support team members in caring not only for themselves but also for those closest to them. 

• Team Appreciation Week: Hilton’s global initiative is a week-long global recognition event celebrating all of team members around the world and their commitment to Hilton’s purpose to spread the light and warmth of hospitality. The ninth annual Team Member Appreciation Week was held between June 11 – 17, 2023 which coincides with the recognition of Hilton India’s Great Place to Work honor. 

To be certified as a Great Place to Work, companies must meet the minimum quantitative threshold on the Great Place to Work Trust Index™ Employee Survey, which gathers feedback from employees on how credibility, respect, fairness, camaraderie and pride are expressed in the workplace. With the requirements met, companies are certified as a Great Place to Work in the countries for one year. This accolade signifies Hilton India’s unwavering commitment to be the employer of choice for nearly 4,000 team members in India, guided by its purpose-driven culture in creating an inclusive environment where team members are able to bring their most authentic selves to work, realize their potential and enable their growth.

For more information about Hilton, please visit stories.hilton.com.

Fortune Hotels opens a new property in Khajjiar

Fortune Hotels, a member of ITC’s hotel group is delighted to announce the opening of its newest hotel in the scenic town of Khajjiar. Nestled amidst breath-taking landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, this addition to the Fortune Hotels portfolio promises an extraordinary experience for travellers.

Set in the heart of the ‘Mini Switzerland’ of India, Fortune Khajjiar blends warm hospitality and a mystical charm in its pristine surroundings. The property offers guests an enchanting retreat surrounded by towering pine trees, snow-capped mountains, and lush green meadows. The property’s idyllic setting provides a perfect escape from bustling city life, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature’s splendour.

Situated just an hour’s drive from the tourist hot spot Dalhousie, the hotel offers easy access to numerous popular tourist attractions in the region, making it a perfect choice for leisure travellers looking to explore the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh.

The well-appointed rooms and suites with magnificent views are a highlight; along with the all-day diner, a chic bar, a modern banquet hall, a swimming pool, kids play area, and soon to open gymnasium and a restful spa, making the hotel apt for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

Additionally, the town attracts adventure seekers as well, hosting multiple adventure sports like paragliding, horse riding, trekking, and zorbing which are constant attractions here.

Announcing the hotel opening, Samir MC, Managing Director, Fortune Hotels said, “Khajjiar is a mesmerising location, relatively untouched and undiscovered by a majority of travellers. It is sure to appeal to holiday-goers looking to travel to unique locations. As a business, we recognize our strength in running successful hill hotels and our team hopes to recreate the same magic in Khajjiar as well. This is our 5th hotel in Himachal Pradesh and with it, we reiterate Fortune Hotel’s dedication to delivering memorable experiences and impeccable service across our 49th location in India.”

With a spacious and fully- equipped banquet hall and outdoors, Fortune Khajjiar lays special focus on hosting events and intimate celebrations too, making it a perfect venue for small weddings, corporate and social gatherings.

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Sayaji Group Launches Its First Hotel in Udaipur, Unveiling Enrise by Sayaji

Sayaji Hotels, a renowned name in the hospitality industry, is delighted to announce the grand opening of its first hotel in Rajasthan. Enrise by Sayaji offers an unparalleled experience of luxury, comfort, and warm hospitality that will redefine the hospitality landscape of Udaipur.

Located in the close proximity to Sajjangarah Fort at Jadhol Road, 45 minutes from Airport and 24 minutes from Udaipur Junction, Enrise by Sayaji, Udaipur, boasts 50 well-equipped rooms that provide guests with stunning views, an exquisite sunset, and an escape from the bustling city noise. Situated amidst serene surroundings, the hotel offers a tranquil environment where guests can rejuvenate their senses and immerse themselves in a truly unforgettable stay.

Enrise by Sayaji is its expansive sprawling lawns of 25000 sq.ft & 45000 sq.ft, splendid ball-room of 5000 sq.ft. which is perfect for hosting grand events and weddings and the hotel features a multi-cuisine restaurant that promises to delight guests' taste buds with a wide range of delectable dishes. From delicious local Rajasthani delicacies to international culinary masterpieces, the restaurant at Enrise by Sayaji offers an array of flavours to satiate every palate.To further enhance the overall well-being and relaxation of guests, the hotel includes a spa that provides an oasis of tranquillity. Offering a range of rejuvenating treatments and therapies, a refreshing dip or simply wishing to bask in the sun, the hotel boasts a captivating swimming pool, allowing guests to unwind and soak up the essence of relaxation.

For those seeking a sense of adventure and a connection with nature, they can explore an exciting horse riding experience the picturesque surroundings of Udaipur on horseback, immersing themselves in the beauty of the landscape and creating unforgettable memories. Whether it's a leisurely ride through the countryside or a guided tour of local attractions, horse riding at Enrise by Sayaji offers a unique and exhilarating way to discover the wonders of Udaipur.

Raoof Dhanani, Managing Director of Sayaji Hotels, expressed his enthusiasm about the launch, saying, "We extend a warm welcome to all guests to experience an extraordinary staycation away from the city and indulge in our exceptional dining experience. Udaipur is a city known for its rich culture, heritage, and scenic beauty, and we are thrilled to provide a world-class hospitality experience that complements the charm of this magnificent city."

Enrise by Sayaji, Udaipur, upholds this legacy by offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and personalized care, ensuring that each guest's stay is nothing short of extraordinary.

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Actress Bhumi Pednekar dives into hospitality with investment in KAIA, Chrome Asia’s debut boutique hotel

KAIA is an Oceanfront Boutique Stay Located In Ashvem, Goa

Bollywood Star Bhumi Pednekar has joined hands with Mumbai-based Chrome Asia Hospitality to invest in the group’s first boutique hotel in Goa. Founded by Pawan Shahri, Dhaval Udeshi and Nikita Shahri, Chrome Hospitality has established a strong foothold in Mumbai’s all-day casual-dining space. 

The brand scaled exponentially in 2022 and went on to develop 1,00,000 sq ft of hospitality space in India and launched five new restaurants in Mumbai under the Chrome Hospitality umbrella.  With KAIA, Chrome Asia Hospitality will embark on a new journey in the hotel space. Aligned with Bhumi’s ethos of slow living, KAIA by Chrome is specially curated for the traveller who seeks ultimate relaxation and is built on the philosophy of slow living. 

Commenting on the investment, Bhumi Pednekar, said, “As an actor, I have always sought to explore new avenues, even beyond the silver screen. I strongly believe in the power of investments. I place my faith in investing in spaces that create meaningful experiences and KAIA has the power to do just that. Investing in KAIA is a venture that not only aligns with my passion for living life to the fullest, creating unforgettable experiences but also reflects my commitment to responsible hospitality and philosophy of slow living. With this investment, we aspire to curate a haven that combines luxury, comfort, warmth and cultural immersion. This venture represents my belief in the transformative power of responsible hospitality, where every stay becomes an opportunity for personal growth and meaningful connections. ” 

Adding on, Pawan Shahri, Co-founder, Chrome Asia Hospitality, said in a joint statement, “We at Chrome Asia Hospitality are thrilled as we hit two major milestones – one being that of venturing into the boutique hotels space and the second of having Bhumi on board as our investor and supporter for our latest venture- KAIA. This endeavor marks the beginning of an exciting chapter, brimming with opportunities to deliver unparalleled experiences to everyone. With Bhumi’s passion for exceptional experiences and our commitment to deliver novel concepts across formats, we are confident of scaling brand KAIA across destinations. We’re just getting started and we can’t wait to unveil KAIA, Goa in all its glory.” 

Earlier this year, Chrome announced an expansion with a vision to add five new brands across fine dining formats while further strengthening the presence of the existing brands. 

After launching some of the most sought-after dining destinations in Mumbai, Chrome has reported a profitable journey so far, showing valuable growth to 3X.  

VISTARA EXPANDS BILATERAL CODESHARE WITH LUFTHANSA, ENHANCES INTERNATIONAL CONNECTIVITY

Gurugram,June 2023 - Vistara, India's leading full-service carrier and a joint venture of Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, has expanded its codeshare partnership with Lufthansa, one of Europe's premier airlines, enabling enhanced connectivity to Vistara customers while traveling across Europe. As a result of this agreement, the 12 key destinations that get included in Vistara’s network are Amsterdam (AMS), Stockholm (ARN), Berlin (BER), Budapest (BUD), Copenhagen (CPH), Rome (FCO), Hamburg (HAM), Helsinki (HEL), Lisbon (LIS), Munich (MUC), Oslo (OSL), Prague (PRG). The bilateral codeshare agreement between Vistara and Lufthansa enables both airlines to market and sell flights on each other's networks, which will offer convenient travel options to customers.

Vistara and Lufthansa had entered into a unilateral codeshare agreement, back in 2019, enabling Lufthansa to add its designator code (LH) to Vistara flights to 18 destinations in India.

Deepak Rajawat, Chief Commercial Officer, Vistara, said, "We are delighted to further strengthen our partnership with Lufthansa, one of the world’s leading airlines. This is a testament to our continued commitment of offering enhanced connectivity, world-class service, and a wide range of options to our customers. This enables our customers to conveniently book their itineraries and seamlessly travel across various parts of Europe on the joint network of Vistara and Lufthansa.”

Jeffrey James, Head of Communications APAC & Chief Spokesperson, Lufthansa Group, said, "We take pride in our relationships and in India our partnership with Vistara embodies our strong commitment to the country. As the third largest aviation market globally, India remains a key focus for our Group and we are delighted to further strengthen our relationship with Vistara, offering Indian travelers more choice, more options and more connectivity between Europe and the subcontinent.”

Vistara has consistently focused on expanding its international reach and delivering exceptional service to its customers. The expansion of the codeshare partnership with Lufthansa is a strategic move that aligns with Vistara's growth strategy and its goal of connecting India to key global destinations. With this bilateral codeshare agreement, Vistara continues to establish itself as a leading player, in the Indian aviation industry, known for its commitment to service excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

IHG Hotels & Resorts debuts its voco brand in Japan with the opening of voco Osaka Central

 IHG Hotels & Resorts – one of the world’s leading hotel companies with over 6,000 hotels across 18 distinct brands – has debuted its premium voco hotels brand in Japan with the opening of voco Osaka Central. Opened in partnership with UD Hospitality Management, voco Osaka Central offers a refreshingly different accommodation experience in Japan, bringing to life the brand’s charming personality, warm hosted service, bright yellow accents, and step-by-step approach to sustainability.

First launched in 2018, voco hotels is one of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ fastest-growing brands with 46 open hotels and 50 exciting destinations in the pipeline. The brand’s debut in Japan was celebrated with an opening ceremony at voco Osaka Central, attended by guests of honour including NTT Urban Development Corporation, The Zenitaka Corporation and the Osaka Convention and Tourism Bureau. To signify the brand’s commitment to the local community, a spin on the traditional ribbon cutting saw guests simultaneously untie knots in turmeric-dyed furoshiki cloth to emulate the steps voco is taking to help guests tread lightly when they travel.

Abhijay Sandilya, CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group, and Managing Director – Japan & Micronesia said: “The opening of voco Osaka Central marks a bold new era of premium hotel experiences in Japan. We are delighted to work in strong partnership with UD Hospitality Management and NTT to bring the global appeal of voco to life through considered, local touches – from preserving the site’s heritage to delivering on voco’s ethos of providing steps for a more sustainable future. The debut builds on IHG’s continued momentum opening new brands in Japan, including the launch and growth of Hotel Indigo and Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants over the past three years, and the upcoming launch of Regent Hotels & Resorts and Six Senses opening soon.”

Holiday Inn Dandenong opens

IHG Hotels & Resorts – one of the world’s leading hotel companies with over 6,000 hotels across 18 distinct brands and an award-wining loyalty programme, IHG One Rewards – has today opened its latest Australian Holiday Inn property in Melbourne’s southeast. The 124-room Holiday Inn Dandenong is located in the heart of Dandenong’s business and entertainment district at 50-52 McCrae Street.

Hotel owner, Pelligra Group, invested AUD$12m to create this next-generation Holiday Inn hotel featuring the brand’s modern Open Lobby concept, conference rooms and Dandelion Lounge + Eatery.

All rooms have been fully transformed alongside 16 newbuild rooms; configurations range from King Suites to Double Premium and Queen Standard, suitable for corporate and leisure travellers, as well as families. Free Wi-Fi is available for everyone, in addition to a 24-hour fitness centre, secure underground parking and 24/7 in-room dining.

Through the polished concrete looks, exposed ceilings, black metal features and natural oak battens, Holiday Inn Dandenong offers guests a refreshing ambiance with signature Melburnian design touches. From the harmonious blend of vibrant colours and curated feature lighting pieces to delightful décor and greenery, the property’s spaces are delightful, approachable and a little surprising.

Scott Schaefer, General Manager, Holiday Inn Dandenong, said: “Whether you’re spending time away with friends and family, or connecting over business, the hotel provides a warm and welcoming environment at an affordable price point.

“Light-filled spaces in our Open Lobby invite relaxed dining and meaningful conversations, while the rooms themselves provide a soothing space to recharge. We’re providing a fresh, new destination where guests, local workers and residents can come together for a coffee, a business meeting, or to work remotely – something the local business community is hungry for.”