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.


CYK Hospitalities Powers Launch of Emotive Ale: Meerut’s New Culinary & Craft Beer Destination

CYK Hospitalities Powers Launch of Emotive Ale: Meerut’s New Culinary & Craft Beer Destination

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 14, 2025

CYK Hospitalities, one of India's top F&B consulting firms, has teamed up with Emotive Ale to unveil Meerut’s newest hotspot in Civil Lines—blending global flavours with a hometown vibe. This launch is yet another successful addition to CYK’s growing portfolio of innovative dining spaces across India.

Founded by Karan Singh and Kishor Kumar, Emotive Ale isn’t just another restro-bar—it’s a bold movement that breaks away from the usual club culture and brings back soul, identity, and a community vibe to the city’s hospitality scene. Designed as a multifunctional space celebrating food, craft, and culture, Emotive Ale marks a fresh start for Meerut’s evolving taste buds.

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Currently operating as a multi-cuisine restaurant and bar, Emotive Ale’s menu spans Indian, Continental, Chinese, Thai, sushi, and dim sum. Hand-rolled wood-fired pizzas made using eco-conscious methods are a highlight. The warm interiors and vibrant energy make it a perfect venue for both intimate catch-ups and grand celebrations.

The second phase of the concept will bring in an in-house microbrewery focused on seasonal craft beers, beer pairing nights, and interactive events—bringing a slice of urban craft beer culture to Meerut in CYK’s signature style.

From concept creation to operations, CYK Hospitalities led the project’s full development journey—handling menu curation, team hiring, SOP documentation, and detailed training. Their involvement was instrumental in shaping Emotive Ale into a destination that reflects both vision and precision.

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"Emotive Ale is not just a restro-bar; it is a vibe," said Karan Singh, Director. Co-founder Kishor Kumar added, "CYK understood our vision from day one—they weren’t just consultants, they became co-dreamers."

Pulkit Arora, Director & Strategic Head at CYK Hospitalities, shared, "Our goal was to co-create a space that merges global palate with local roots. Emotive Ale sets the tone for what’s possible when passion meets process."

As Meerut embraces this stylish new venue, Emotive Ale sets a precedent for future homegrown hospitality ventures in tier-2 cities—proving that big-city quality and creativity can thrive anywhere with the right partnership and vision.


How Fire-Resistant Are Our Hotels? A Closer Look at Safety Standards

How Fire-Resistant Are Our Hotels? A Closer Look at Safety Standards

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 13, 2025

The increasing number of hotel fires across regions has triggered growing concern over how well our hospitality spaces are prepared to handle such emergencies. Fires in hotels can lead to devastating consequences, including loss of life, serious damage to property, and lasting reputational harm. Strengthening fire safety measures is no longer optional—it's a vital necessity.

Effective fire safety begins at the foundation - literally. It starts with proper building design, continues with the careful selection and application of materials, and is enforced through adherence to required permits like building licenses, occupancy certificates, and operational approvals.

Recent cases have pointed to multiple causes behind hotel fires—user negligence, kitchen-related mishaps, outdated or faulty electrical systems, and delays in maintenance work. Many of these risks are made worse by the absence of comprehensive fire safety designs, allowing small incidents to turn into large-scale disasters.

Key Elements for Strengthening Fire Safety in Hotels:

Design Integration:

Incorporating both passive and active fire safety elements into architectural, electrical, and mechanical designs is essential. One of the most important aspects is ensuring well-thought-out evacuation routes to allow for the safe and timely exit of guests and staff.

Material Matters:

One major hazard is the use of combustible or non-certified materials on hotel facades. These can catch fire quickly, enabling flames and smoke to spread vertically through the building and putting occupants at serious risk. Every material used must have test certifications from accredited laboratories to ensure fire compliance. Without such validation, they must not be used, especially on high-rise structures.

Correct Application:

Even certified materials, if poorly installed or used incorrectly, can compromise an entire building’s fire resistance. Following proper application procedures is crucial to preserving the effectiveness of all safety measures.

Routine Inspections:

Improper usage of building spaces, unauthorized storage of flammable items, or renovations that bypass safety norms can reduce a structure’s fire resistance. Regular expert inspections help identify these vulnerabilities and ensure continued compliance with fire safety regulations.

One organization leading the way in this area is Efectis, a global expert in fire science and safety. With more than 70 years of experience and a highly qualified team, Efectis offers customized fire safety strategies for various types of buildings in Türkiye and beyond, ensuring structures meet the highest fire resistance standards.

As the hospitality industry continues to grow, fire safety must evolve as a priority. Through better planning, strict material compliance, and continuous inspections, the industry can ensure safer environments for everyone.


BLR Brewing Unveils Cocktail Day Specials

BLR Brewing Unveils Cocktail Day Specials

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 13, 2025

This World Cocktail Day, May 13, BLR Brewing Co. invites you on a spirited journey through India's rich landscapes—one exceptional cocktail at a time. Crafted by our expert mixologists, these signature summer drinks are not just refreshing—they tell a story of their origin, weaving together regional flavours with world-class spirits.

Whether you're drawn to the bold aroma of freshly brewed espresso from Chikmagalur, the coastal charm of Kollam's coconut-laced air, or the floral tranquility of Chopta’s meadows, there’s a cocktail waiting to take you there.

 Chikmagalur

Bold, Nutty & Uplifting

Inspired by the robust charm of Karnataka’s coffee capital, the Chikmagalur cocktail blends the warmth of Jim Beam Bourbon with the tang of raw orange juice and the deep allure of fresh espresso. A smooth hazelnut finish gives it an indulgent edge, making it perfect for slow summer evenings. The final flourish? A delicate edible rice paper floating on top.

Ingredients:

  • 50 ml Jim Beam Bourbon

  • 45 ml Raw Orange Juice

  • 30 ml Fresh Espresso

  • 30 ml Hazelnut Syrup or Liqueur

  • Garnish: Edible Rice Paper

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Method: Shaken

Recipe:
 Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain into a coupe glass and gently place the edible rice paper on top for a unique finish.

Kollam

Coastal, Light & Refreshing

Capturing the serene spirit of Kerala’s backwaters, the Kollam cocktail brings together the smooth notes of Dewar’s White Label Scotch with the gentle fizz of nariyal paani soda—a coconut-infused sparkle that whispers of palm trees and salt-kissed air.

Ingredients:

  • 50 ml Dewar’s White Label Whisky

  • 100 ml Nariyal Paani Soda (or Coconut Water Soda)

  • Garnish: Edible Rice Paper

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Method: Built up

Recipe:
 Fill a highball glass with ice. Pour in the whisky and top with chilled naariyal paani soda. Stir gently and garnish with a piece of edible rice paper for a coastal twist.

 Chopta

Floral, Crisp & Vibrant

Inspired by the blooming Rhododendron valleys of Uttarakhand, this cocktail is a floral-forward celebration of Chopta's alpine magic. Smirnoff Vodka meets a fragrant rhododendron cordial, crisp clear watermelon juice, and a zesty burst of citric acid, creating a bright and refreshing sip.

Ingredients:

  • 50 ml Smirnoff Vodka

  • 30 ml Rhododendron Cordial or Syrup

  • 60 ml Clear Watermelon Juice (strained)

  • 20 ml Citric Acid Solution (or Lime Juice)

  • Garnish: Edible Rice Paper

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Method: Clarified or Shaken & Fine-Strained

Recipe:
 For advanced prep: mix and clarify all ingredients for a crystal-clear finish. For a quick pour: shake vodka, rhododendron cordial, watermelon juice, and citric acid with ice. Fine strain into a coupe or rocks glass and finish with a rice paper garnish.

This May 13, raise a glass with these expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you love bold, floral, or tropical profiles, there's a unique mixed drinks, waiting for you—with a story to tell and a season to celebrate.

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