Unlocking India's Richness: Mastercard’s Priceless India Program

Unlocking India's Richness: Mastercard’s Priceless India Program

By Author

Published on September 15, 2023

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.


India’s Hospitality Scene Evolves with the Emergence of Exclusive Business Clubs

India’s Hospitality Scene Evolves with the Emergence of Exclusive Business Clubs

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 8, 2024

There's a rising demand for exclusive business clubs. Entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and creative minds now seek sophisticated spaces where they can connect, collaborate, and unwind.

While traditional establishments like Gymkhanas and Golf courses have long been the domain of the elite, gaining membership can be a lengthy process. To meet the evolving needs of professionals, a new wave of members-only private clubs is emerging in business hubs and city centers.

image

According to recent research by Axon Developers in collaboration with SKYE, the current market size of these exclusive clubs stands at INR 576 crores. By 2027, this figure is projected to soar to INR 941 crores, reflecting a robust growth rate of 17.8%.

These modern sanctuaries offer more than just meeting spaces. With swanky lounges, gourmet restaurants, fitness facilities, and luxury amenities like spas and art galleries, they provide a holistic lifestyle experience. Standalone clubs such as Quorum, BLVD, and Soho House, alongside established hospitality brands like Chambers and Privie, cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

Beyond business dealings, these clubs host a myriad of events, from art exhibitions to book readings, creating vibrant social hubs for India's upwardly mobile professionals.

image

The Western region of India, particularly Mumbai, leads the way in club membership, contributing over half of the revenue and membership volume. Mumbai boasts a rich array of clubs, including SOHO House, Taj Chamber, and Modernist, attracting discerning individuals with a penchant for luxury and innovation.

Membership in these clubs is highly selective, often based on referrals and invitation. Alongside financial status, criteria such as professional achievements and future vision play a pivotal role in admission, instilling a sense of pride among members.


Introducing Saif Ali Khan & Kareena Kapoor Khan as TREVOC Brand Ambassadors

Introducing Saif Ali Khan & Kareena Kapoor Khan as TREVOC Brand Ambassadors

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on April 10, 2024

TREVOC, a prominent name in Gurugram's luxury real estate scene, has achieved a significant milestone by announcing Bollywood icons Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan as their brand ambassadors. This strategic move solidifies TREVOC's reputation for blending heritage with opulence.

The collaboration with Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan, renowned for their association with legacy and luxury, aims to reinforce TREVOC's position as the ultimate choice for those seeking sophistication and comfort in their homes. By aligning with these esteemed personalities, TREVOC underscores its commitment to offering innovative designs, cutting-edge amenities, and sustainable living solutions, reshaping the landscape of luxury real estate.

Gurpal Singh Chawla, Managing Director at TREVOC, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan to the TREVOC family. Their iconic status and shared values resonate deeply with our brand ethos of blending legacy with luxury. With their association, we aim to elevate the living experience and continue our legacy of excellence in the real estate domain."

Sehaj Chawla, Managing Director at TREVOC, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the brand's commitment to crafting unique projects that epitomize luxury and comfort. He stated, "Collaborating with celebrities has not only reinforced our vision but also broadened our reach to a wider audience seeking luxury developments. Both Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan exemplify luxury and align perfectly with our Group's vision."

TREVOC, guided by the principles of 'Imagine, Innovate, and Inspire,' stands at the forefront of redefining high-end residential infrastructure. With a legacy spanning over 75 years, the brand remains dedicated to integrating upscale amenities into its luxury projects, enhancing residents' lifestyles. Focused on prime locations such as Golf Course Road, Southern Peripheral Road, and Dwarka Expressway, TREVOC continues to set new standards in the sector, offering unparalleled quality and sophistication.


India ITME Society Launches Multicultural Facility Center in Mumbai

India ITME Society Launches Multicultural Facility Center in Mumbai

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 10, 2024

India International Textile Machinery Exhibitions Society (India ITME Society), a non-profit organisation, has announced the launch of its Multicultural Facility Center in Mumbai. This facility centre represents a significant milestone in ITME's commitment to creating inclusive spaces where people from all backgrounds can come together to share their traditions, stories, and experiences.

The Multicultural Center, inaugurated by eminent Bollywood actress Ms. Smita Jayakar, accompanied by Mr. Darasing Khurana (Mr. India International 2017) and stand-up comedian Mr. Rohan Gujral, is envisioned as a hub for cultural appreciation and understanding. It will serve as a vibrant venue for a wide range of activities and initiatives aimed at promoting multiculturalism.

image

Ms. Seema Srivastava, Executive Director of ITME, expressed her excitement about opening the doors of the centre to the community, welcoming individuals and organisations to utilise the premises for their cultural and professional endeavours. She emphasised that by providing a dynamic space for both cultural and professional gatherings, ITME aims to contribute to the enrichment of the local community and foster meaningful connections among diverse groups of people.

Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and customizable layouts, the ITME premises offer a seamless experience for event organisers and attendees alike. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or a large-scale event, organisers can leverage ITME's resources to bring their vision to life.

image

Ms. Smita Jayakar, a veteran actress, expressed her enthusiasm for the ITME centre, stating that it would bring an extra sparkle to South Mumbai. She highlighted the centre's potential to create a more supportive ambiance for art, culture, theatrical showcases, workshops, book launches, and other cultural events in this dynamic part of Mumbai.

During the launch event, notable authors including Mr. Gopinath Chandra Das, Dr. Shefali Batra, and Ms. Mukta Wankhede showcased their books, further enriching the cultural atmosphere of the occasion.

Established in 1980, India ITME Society is a non-profit apex industry body dedicated to supporting and serving the Textile Engineering Industry through exhibitions, events, trade promotion services, education scholarships, student placements, consultancy, and more. The society plays a pivotal role in strengthening both the domestic and international Textile Industry by facilitating the exchange of knowledge, technology transfer, and encouraging foreign direct investments and joint ventures.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.