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By Author
Published on September 15, 2023
We have carefully curated this newsletter to ensure it becomes your go-to resource for all things hospitality-related. Whether you are an industry professional, an avid traveller, or simply passionate about the art of hospitality, this newsletter will be your gateway to a world of inspiration, knowledge and unforgettable experiences.
India, a land of diverse cultures and rich history, is increasingly becoming a priority market for brands seeking to offer unique experiences. Mastercard is no exception, and they have recently launched their flagship lifestyle program called ‘Priceless India’ in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism’s initiative, Incredible India.
Under the banner of ‘Priceless Cities,’ Mastercard’s program allows both domestic and global travelers to access exclusive travel experiences across India. This platform is already active in over 40 cities, strategically located in key cross-border travel corridors.
Raja Rajamannar, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer of Mastercard, explains, “We curate these experiences that money cannot buy and put it up on sophisticated digital platforms where the discoverability is easy.”
Recognizing India’s significance, Mastercard is increasing its presence in the country through various marketing activations, including cricket, travel, and lifestyle experiences. India’s diversity, from cities to forests, villages to towns, inspired Mastercard to choose ‘Priceless India’ as the program’s name, emphasizing the nation’s multifaceted charm.
The objective behind this lifestyle program is to promote India globally and attract travelers to experience its unique offerings. Mastercard saw an alignment of motives with the Indian government’s ‘Incredible India’ campaign and Invest India, prompting collaboration in various ways.
Mastercard acknowledges that traditional advertising is facing challenges due to increased clutter and shorter attention spans. Experiential marketing, focusing on real-life experiences, is gaining prominence. Raja Rajamannar states, “Experiential marketing will be the prominent way of marketing in the times to come.”
Mastercard's goal is to raise brand awareness across every tier of India. They are expanding their efforts beyond tier-one cities, recognizing the untapped potential in tier two and three cities. Tailored communication strategies, including content in Hindi and English, cater to diverse audiences.
India’s youthful population and enormous growth potential make it a priority market for Mastercard. Rajamannar believes that every brand recognizes India’s tremendous opportunities, and Mastercard is no exception.
“We are going to really be getting into this market via various initiatives, one of which is ‘Priceless India,’” concludes Rajamannar.
Mastercard’s collaboration with Invest India aims to redefine experiential travel through ‘Priceless India,’ enriching India's cultural tapestry for both domestic and international travelers. The future of marketing is experiential, and India is at the forefront of this transformative journey.
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By Nithyakala Neelakandan
Published on August 24, 2024
The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram has been awarded the prestigious "Best Golf Course International" title at the Global Tourism Awards, presented by Travel World Online. This significant achievement highlights the course’s dedication to offering an exceptional golfing experience amidst some of the world’s most stunning landscapes.
Known for its unique design, pristine course conditions, and natural beauty, The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram has consistently been a favorite among golf enthusiasts. This international recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of the entire team, who have continually strived to create an unmatched golfing environment. The course’s commitment to excellence ensures that every round played at The Bluffs is both memorable and extraordinary.
The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram also extends its heartfelt thanks to its guests, whose support and enthusiasm drive the team to maintain such high standards. The resort is excited to continue welcoming golfers from around the globe to experience its award-winning greens and looks forward to many more outstanding rounds of golf in the future.
Located at the Grand Ho Tram in Vietnam, The Bluffs is celebrated not only for its world-class golf course but also for its luxurious amenities and breathtaking scenery. This award solidifies its position as a top destination for golf lovers worldwide.
Published on August 6, 2024
Sterling Holiday Resorts, a leading player in India's leisure hospitality sector, has reported its highest-ever Q1 revenue of ₹126 crore for FY25. This figure marks a 9% year-on-year growth despite various challenges faced during the quarter, such as a nationwide heatwave, election-related travel delays, and fewer wedding dates.
The company’s EBITDA margin stood at a robust 34%, consistent with industry benchmarks, although slightly lower than the previous year due to the opening of five new resorts in Rajasthan, three of which are in Udaipur and still in their ramp-up phase. Sterling has maintained profitability for 16 consecutive quarters.
Sterling’s expansion strategy continues to drive growth, with the company crossing the milestone of 50 resorts, thanks to the addition of two new locations in Dehradun and Udaipur during the quarter. In total, Sterling has opened nine new resorts since Q1 FY24, underscoring its commitment to a balanced portfolio and regional growth.
CEO and MD Vikram Lalvani commented, “Despite numerous headwinds in the first quarter, Sterling delivered its highest ever Q1 revenues and a healthy EBITDA margin, while also ramping up capacity with new resorts. With long term demand trends continuing to be strong, Sterling is poised for sustained growth through asset-right, balanced portfolio growth across regions. Based on our expansion plans of 20 additional resorts and 1,000 keys in the next 12 to 18 months, in phases, we are also investing in building key talent to cater to this growth.”
Sterling’s achievements have been recognized on platforms like TripAdvisor, where 19 of its resorts are ranked No. 1 in their locations, with 65% of its resorts in the Top 5 overall. Additionally, Sterling Puri received the Best Resort for Destination Weddings (East) award at the ET MICE & Wedding Tourism Awards 2024, highlighting the brand’s growing influence in the hospitality industry.
Published on August 1, 2024
Secret Ingredient, a leading consulting firm in the restaurant and hospitality sector, has been selected by Le Meridien New Delhi to re-conceptualize and develop the menu for its rooftop restaurant, Le Belvedere. This collaboration aims to elevate the dining experience at the iconic establishment, known for its panoramic city views and upscale Chinese cuisine.
Le Belvedere will benefit from Secret Ingredient’s expertise in food and beverage (F&B) solutions, including menu innovation and technical management. The consultancy’s role will be to ensure that the restaurant offers high-quality dining experiences that appeal to a wide range of tastes.
Sid Mathur, Founder and Director of Advisory & Strategy at Secret Ingredient, expressed his excitement about the partnership: "We are thrilled to collaborate and work with the talented teams of Le Belvedere to elevate potential F&B offerings. Our aim is to bring innovative and effective solutions that enhance the dining experiences at Le Belvedere."
Tarun Thakral, Executive Director at Le Meridien New Delhi, added, "As a hotel committed to exposing the curious and creative-minded traveller to unexpected and engaging experiences, we are thrilled to partner with Secret Ingredient to elevate our culinary offerings. This collaboration will undoubtedly unlock a new dimension of discovery for our guests, making their experience truly unforgettable."
Kula Naidu, Director of Conceptualization & Branding at Secret Ingredient, emphasized the significance of this partnership in their broader mission to redefine food and beverage concepts in India. "This partnership marks a significant step in our mission to redefine food and beverage concepts in India. We look forward to applying our holistic approach to Le Belvedere and creating outstanding culinary experiences. Our extensive experience and innovative approach will undoubtedly contribute to setting new standards in the industry," Naidu stated.
Secret Ingredient is known for its comprehensive consulting services, including kitchen planning, recipe development, staff training, menu revamping, and brand conceptualization. The firm has worked with several high-profile brands and cloud kitchens across India, contributing to their success with innovative strategies and hands-on expertise.
Some of Secret Ingredient’s notable projects include collaborations with Khyber Hotel Gulmarg, The Grand Dragon Ladakh, Trident’s Kaansa Lyrah, and several other renowned establishments.
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