Mastercard Report: Cricket World Cup's Boost to Indian Tourism and Hospitality

Mastercard Report: Cricket World Cup's Boost to Indian Tourism and Hospitality

By Author

Published on December 24, 2023

The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023, despite not clinching a victory for Team India, emerged as a significant catalyst for the Indian economy. Mastercard, a key sponsor of the event, conducted a study revealing the tournament's extensive multiplier effect, particularly on the tourism and hospitality industries. This effect underlines the broader impact of major sporting events on both national and local economies.

According to Mastercard's aggregated and anonymised data, the accommodation and food industries experienced a substantial boost due to the influx of cricket enthusiasts from all over the world. These fans, converging in India to support their teams, contributed significantly to the increased spending in these sectors. The data showed that small businesses, often considered the backbone of the economy, enjoyed a significant upsurge in revenue, especially in cities hosting the matches.

The boost for small businesses was particularly noticeable in quick-service restaurants in the host cities, where there was an average increase of over 300% in cross-border spending by tourists on match days compared to a regular week. This trend was not limited to foreign tourists, as domestic spending on online food delivery also recorded a sharp increase of over 100% on average during the matches held in Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Mumbai.

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Hotels and the broader food industry also reaped the benefits of the cricket tournament. Host cities saw an average growth of approximately 40% in domestic spending on hotels on match days compared to regular weeks. Moreover, there was an incremental spend of around INR ~23 million observed in hotels and restaurants in host cities and metro cities around match days, reflecting a 36% increase compared to non-game days.

The economic impact was particularly pronounced during crucial matches. For instance, during the India vs. Pakistan match, cross-border in-person restaurant spends soared by approximately 400%. The India vs. England witnessed an even more astonishing increase of over 600% in cross-border spends across hotels and dining establishments.

Gautam Aggarwal, Division President, South Asia at Mastercard, emphasized the profound impact of the ICC World Cup on India's economy. He stated that such tournaments can act as a booster shot for robust economies, energizing small businesses that power the local economy. Aggarwal highlighted the remarkable surge of 400% in in-person restaurant spends during key matches featuring Team India, showcasing the tournament's positive influence on the economy.

In conclusion, the ICC Cricket World Cup not only provided thrilling cricket action but also proved to be a significant economic stimulus for small businesses and the hospitality sector across India. This event showcased the potential of sporting and cultural events to drive economic growth and support various industries, contributing to the overall economic health of the country.


IHCL Goa Showcases Smart Hospitality Innovations at Tech Fest 2026

IHCL Goa Showcases Smart Hospitality Innovations at Tech Fest 2026

By Author

Published on July 29, 2026

IHCL Goa hosted Tech Fest 2026 at Taj Cidade de Goa, bringing together engineering leaders, hospitality professionals, and technology partners to explore how smart infrastructure and sustainable innovations are shaping the future of hospitality.

The event highlighted the growing role of technology in enhancing operational efficiency, improving guest experiences, and supporting environmentally responsible hotel operations. As sustainability and digital transformation become increasingly important across the hospitality sector, the showcase focused on solutions designed to create smarter, safer, and more resource-efficient hotels.

Among the technologies on display were smart energy management systems, predictive maintenance solutions, and IoT-enabled monitoring platforms that use real-time data to optimise electricity, water, and fuel consumption while improving asset management.

The exhibition also featured energy-efficient chillers designed to reduce energy usage and carbon emissions, alongside advanced indoor air quality systems implemented at Taj Cidade de Goa that maintain PM2.5 levels below 10. Robotic carpet and floor cleaning systems demonstrated how automation can improve operational efficiency while enabling associates to focus on personalised guest service.

Innovation extended to engineering and sustainability operations through intelligent LPG safety systems, digital metering, renewable energy solutions, and integrated sustainability dashboards that enable hotels to monitor and manage resources more effectively.

Additional technologies included next-generation water bottling plants aimed at reducing single-use plastics, energy-generating fitness equipment, immersive audiovisual solutions for events, and circular economy initiatives such as in-house sludge treatment and biogas generation that convert waste into reusable resources.

Commenting on the occasion, Ranjit Phillipose, Senior Vice President – Operations, IHCL Goa, said, "As we celebrate innovation at this Tech Fest 2026, let us remember that every sensor installed, every kilowatt saved, every litre of water conserved and every kilogram of waste recycled is not just a technological achievement but also it is a commitment to future generations. Let us lead that future with innovation, responsibility and purpose."

Through Tech Fest 2026, IHCL Goa reinforced its commitment to integrating technology, sustainability, and operational excellence while advancing responsible luxury hospitality across its portfolio.


Hyeglo Beauty Debuts as India's First Intelligent Beauty House

Hyeglo Beauty Debuts as India's First Intelligent Beauty House

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 28, 2026

Hyeglo Beauty has officially entered the Indian beauty market as the country's first Intelligent Beauty House, introducing a skincare-first approach to makeup under the philosophy, "Better Makeup, Built for Skin." Founded by Kanupriya Ahluwalia, the premium beauty brand aims to redefine modern makeup by combining thoughtful formulations with skincare benefits.

Designed for today's ingredient-conscious consumers, Hyeglo focuses on creating products that not only enhance appearance but also work in harmony with the skin. The brand's philosophy is centred on purposeful beauty, placing equal importance on performance, skin health and innovation.

Hyeglo Beauty is the vision of Kanupriya Ahluwalia, whose decade-long experience in India's beauty industry includes building several leading beauty brands. With an MBA in premium Brand Management, she has created Hyeglo to reflect the changing expectations of consumers who seek transparency, efficacy and quality in their beauty products.

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Speaking about the launch, Kanupriya Ahluwalia, Founder & CEO, Hyeglo Beauty, said:

"Beauty has evolved. Women understand ingredients, they understand formulations, and they expect more from the products they choose. Hyeglo was created for this generation, one that values intention as much as aesthetics. We don't believe makeup should simply sit on the skin; we believe it should work in harmony with it. That philosophy became Beauty with Brains."

The brand identity is built around two signature colours that reflect its philosophy. Pink represents confidence, individuality and self-expression, while silver symbolises precision, innovation and the science behind every formulation. This approach extends across the brand's product design, packaging and overall consumer experience.

Hyeglo says every product is developed through research-driven formulations, with carefully selected ingredients and a focus on long-term value rather than short-lived beauty trends. The company aims to introduce products that become everyday essentials instead of seasonal launches.

The launch comes at a time when consumers are increasingly looking for ingredient transparency and products that bridge skincare and makeup. Hyeglo's formulations are designed to meet these evolving expectations by combining clinical research, premium quality and high performance.

The brand has already received early recognition, with its Skin Tint winning the Most Innovative Product of the Year award within weeks of its launch. According to the company, strong organic repeat purchases also reflect growing consumer interest in its skincare-first approach.

Looking ahead, Hyeglo Beauty plans to establish itself as an Indian premium beauty house with global appeal, focusing on science-backed innovation, craftsmanship and purpose-led product development.


Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali Marks 10 Years of Hospitality Excellence

Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali Marks 10 Years of Hospitality Excellence

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 28, 2026

Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of hospitality excellence and its contribution to Rwanda's emergence as one of Africa's leading destinations for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE).

Since opening in 2016, the landmark property has welcomed world leaders, international organisations, multinational companies, major sporting events, cultural celebrations and thousands of delegates from across the globe. Over the years, it has grown beyond being a hotel and event venue to become a symbol of Rwanda's progress, innovation and growing presence on the global stage.

The celebrations were held under the theme, "Celebrating a Decade of Excellence, Innovation and Community Impact," recognising the people, partnerships and achievements that have shaped the property's journey while looking ahead to its future.

The anniversary programme centred around three key initiatives. Legacy Week featured a 10-day celebration showcasing the hotel's contribution to Rwanda's development. The Legacy Gala brought together around 350 stakeholders and partners, while the KCC Impact Programme focused on community engagement and sustainability initiatives conducted before and after the anniversary celebrations.

As part of the programme, the hotel organised several initiatives reflecting its commitment to sustainability, employee wellbeing and community development. These included the planting of 100 trees, outreach activities with SOS Children's Villages, a Youth Career Day to encourage future hospitality professionals, employee wellness programmes and long-service recognition for team members.

The celebrations also marked the launch of the "10 Years of Impact" documentary, highlighting the property's journey and its contribution to tourism, employment, business events and Rwanda's economy. A dedicated media programme also showcased the hotel's role in supporting the country's hospitality and tourism growth.

Speaking on the milestone, Sandra Kneubühler, Managing Director, Sub-Saharan Africa, Radisson Hotel Group, said:

"Over the past ten years, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali has played an important role in strengthening Rwanda's position as one of Africa's leading destinations for business tourism and international events. This milestone reflects the dedication of our teams, the confidence of our partners and the strong vision that continues to drive Rwanda's hospitality sector forward. We are proud of what has been achieved and remain committed to supporting the country's tourism ambitions, developing local talent and creating meaningful value for the communities in which we operate."

Nice Uwase, Acting General Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali, added:

"While this milestone allowed us to reflect on everything that has been achieved, our focus remains firmly on the future. We look forward to building on this strong foundation, creating new opportunities for our people and partners, and continuing to deliver memorable experiences for guests and delegates from Rwanda and around the world."

The 10th anniversary further reinforced Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, Kigali's position as a leading hospitality destination, supporting Rwanda's tourism ambitions while continuing to drive the growth of the country's business events and hospitality sectors.

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