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04-September-2024
Vita Student, a renowned name in the realm of student accommodation, offers a luxurious and comfortable living experience for students across the UK and beyond. With a commitment to providing exceptional facilities and services, Vita Student has become the preferred choice for discerning students seeking a premium living environment. "International students often share similar needs when studying abroad: they seek safety, a welcoming environment, and opportunities to thrive—whether that’s meeting new people, maximizing their university experience, or getting a head start in their careers. That’s precisely what Vita Student provides," Maitry Upreti, Head of Business Growth, Vita Student, shares. "Vita Student, traditionally marketed through agents in India, recognizes both the opportunities and challenges in this space. The key lies in effectively demonstrating the unique value Vita Student offers to those choosing to study in the UK or Spain, setting it apart from other accommodation options," she says while elaborating on the vision they have implemented for Vita Student’s expansion into India. Vita Student is quickly becoming a top choice for Indian students studying abroad, offering an ideal balance of work and leisure through its impressive range of amenities. Social hub spaces, private dining rooms, and dedicated study areas ensure students can maximize their academic experience while enjoying a vibrant community life. With 24-hour access, manned security, and key card entry, Vita Student prioritizes safety, providing peace of mind for students and their families. "My focus and passion lie in introducing the Vita Student brand to those searching for accommodation, helping them understand that choosing Vita can lead to a better overall experience and outcome compared to other options in the same city," the Head of Business Growth declares. There is more to this conversation with Maitry Upreti, and to get more exclusive scoop, visit the link: September Issue [Catch her interview on Page 32.]
"Airports can be overwhelming, and my goal was to create an oasis of calm where travelers could relax and truly enjoy their transit," Vikas Sharma, CEO, Encalm Hospitality, opens with his pleasant statement. Encalm Hospitality, a renowned name in the hospitality industry, is committed to providing exceptional experiences to its guests. With a strong focus on comfort, luxury, and personalized service, Encalm has established itself as a leading choice for discerning travelers. "We introduced our Meet & Assist service, ‘Atithya,’ at Delhi, Hyderabad, and Manohar International Airports in Goa. This service offers personalized assistance, ensuring that each guest’s transit is both memorable and hassle-free. Additionally, we launched the ‘Encalm Lounge,’ providing travelers with an exclusive space to unwind before their flights," he says. Encalm masterfully blends luxury with practicality, offering a sophisticated travel experience that addresses both indulgent desires and functional needs. "In the ‘Encalm Lounge,’ the focus shifts to creating an environment that radiates comfort and exclusivity. From the carefully selected amenities to the thoughtfully crafted ambiance, every element is designed to offer our guests a tranquil and relaxing retreat," says the CEO while talking about meeting the high standards that Encalm is known for. Since its inception, Encalm has been committed to redefining the travel experience, with some of the most rewarding moments stemming from the heartfelt feedback of travelers. The pinnacle of Encalm's journey so far has been the launch of Encalm Privé, a grand 30,000 sq. ft. lounge with a capacity for over 550 guests. This lounge, which features everything from a gaming zone to a fitness center, premium beverages, and sleeping pods, sets a new standard for luxury in airport hospitality. "As we continue to expand our services to airports in more cities, our commitment remains unwavering," Vikas Sharma says. And we can be rest assured the new expansions will hold the sentiment true to their hearts. Catch the complete interview exclusively on our September Issue, out now. Link: September Magazine [Find his interview on Page 42.]
"I've always believed that the work you do and the environment where you spend a significant portion of your time should be inspiring, a place where you bring energy and passion every day," says Anjali Tolani, Assistant Vice President - Weddings at Tamarind Global. Tamarind Global stands as a premier destination and event management company with a distinguished history of crafting extraordinary experiences. Deeply rooted in India while maintaining a global perspective, the company specializes in delivering bespoke solutions tailored to the unique needs of both individual and corporate clients. Now, decorating the AVP Chair, Anjali Tolani, interestingly, comes with a background of pharmaceutical studies. "...a choice made before I had fully clarified my future ambitions," she says about her education. Starting as a Medical Representative, and exploring areas such as advertising, banking, and eventually becoming a General Manager at a wellness resort, she found her way into the travel industry. She also had her fair share of challenges navigating the industry which now feels like her second home. "The first major challenge arose with the advent of online travel companies, which dramatically transformed how people book travel and accommodations. The second significant challenge occurred during the pandemic, when business slumped and competition intensified—not just from industry peers but also from hotels seeking to establish direct connections with clients," she says. Fast forward, Tamarind has emerged as a stronger brand weathering all these challenges. Find more exclusive scoops about the AVP and Tamarind Global at the exclusive interview here: September Issue [Find the interview at page 28.] Image Credits: Tamarind Global Official Website
03-September-2024
In an exclusive interview with Hospitality News, Rajib Roy Choudhury, the Senior General Manager of Vedic Village Spa Resort, shared valuable insights on a variety of topics. When asked how he ensures high hotel customer service and guest satisfaction, he stated, "At Vedic Village Spa Resort, we offer an unparalleled luxury wellness experience that seamlessly blends authentic traditional Indian therapies with modern sustainable practices. Our serene natural environment, expert practitioners, and personalized approach ensure a holistic journey that rejuvenates the body, mind, and spirit. Rooted in the essence of sewa bhavna and aligned with Vedic traditions, we incorporate modern applications like Digital Pulse Analysis (Nadi Tarangini) and our state-of-the-art Colon Hydrotherapy unit, an extension of our Naturopathy treatments. We take pride in offering tailored programs, including Ayurvedic and Naturopathy treatments, Yoga, and meditation, making us a unique destination for those seeking a truly immersive wellness experience. For us, sound health and robust well-being define today’s luxury." When the conversation shifted to how he stays updated on industry trends and the steps he takes to implement innovative practices in the hotel, Choudhury responded, "We have significantly enhanced the guest experience by introducing new wellness programs, expanding our spa facilities, and launching a sustainable tourism initiative that incorporates eco-friendly practices and community engagement. These advancements have not only elevated the overall guest experience but have also reinforced our commitment to sustainability. Additionally, we've invested in cutting-edge technology to streamline operations and improve communication. The introduction of a state-of-the-art Convention Centre has added a new dimension to our existing conferencing and MICE facilities. Furthermore, our patrons are thrilled with the initiation of adventure sports, including a three-level rope course, reverse bungee, inflatables, paintball, football and cricket turf, as well as multi-dimensional outdoor activities like stargazing, bird watching, butterfly viewing, and baiting, which have left them asking for more." It was a great conversation with Rajib Roy Choudhury, and You can also read more in the upcoming September issue of Hospitality News e-magazine on our website.
In an exclusive interview with us, Abhinav Singh, Managing Director and CEO of Devrana, shared valuable insights into the unique approach that defines Devrana’s success in the hospitality industry. When asked how he ensures high hotel customer service and guest satisfaction, Singh emphasized, “Consistency is key to the Devrana experience, and we have implemented several measures to ensure that every guest, no matter which property they visit, enjoys the same high standard of service. Centralized training is a cornerstone of our approach, where all staff undergo rigorous training at our main location before being deployed to different properties. This ensures that our service philosophy is uniformly understood and applied. We also maintain consistency in our culinary offerings through our central kitchens, which prepare the core elements of our dishes. At the same time, we allow for regional adaptations to cater to local tastes, ensuring that the experience is both consistent and locally resonant. Regular audits and guest feedback are also crucial in maintaining and enhancing our service standards.” When asked about staying updated on industry trends and implementing innovative practices, Singh responded, “The hospitality industry in India is evolving with several notable trends, and Devrana is strategically positioned to take advantage of them. A major trend is the increasing demand for experiential travel, where guests seek authentic and immersive experiences. Our properties, emphasizing local heritage and cultural immersion, are well-equipped to fulfill this desire. Sustainability is another growing trend, with travelers increasingly mindful of their environmental impact. We are incorporating sustainable practices into our operations, from sourcing locally to minimizing waste. Additionally, the surge in domestic tourism presents significant opportunities, and our expansion strategy is designed to capture this growing market. By staying ahead of these trends and continuously innovating, we aim to lead the hospitality industry in India.” It was a great conversation with Abhinav Singh, and you can read the full interview in the December issue of Hospitality News e-magazine, available on our website.
In an exclusive interview with Hospitality News, Chef Daniel Kumar shared his valuable insights on various aspects of his culinary journey and practices at Le Royal Meridien Chennai. When we asked him about how he ensures high hotel customer service and guest satisfaction, he responded, "Over the years, Chennai's culinary scene has seen significant shifts, and we've embraced these changes to stay ahead. We've integrated fusion cuisine, catering to those who enjoy a blend of global flavors with local influences. The rising demand for vegan and health-conscious dining options has also led us to craft menus that prioritize well-being without compromising on taste. Street food has inspired us to incorporate bold, authentic flavors into our offerings, while our sustainability menu reflects a commitment to eco-friendly practices. These adaptations ensure we continue to meet our guests' evolving preferences while upholding the culinary excellence that Le Royal Meridien Chennai is renowned for." When further questioned about staying updated on industry trends and implementing innovative practices in the hotel, Chef Daniel shared, "Recently, we’ve embraced several innovative culinary trends that have significantly influenced our menu at Le Royal Meridien Chennai. One of the most impactful has been the emphasis on seasonal menus, which allows us to highlight the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring that our dishes are not only flavorful but also in harmony with the seasons. This approach keeps our menu dynamic and reflective of the time of year, offering guests a unique dining experience with every visit." It was a great conversation with Chef Daniel, offering a deep dive into his culinary philosophy and the unique approaches he brings to the table. You can check out the complete interview in the september edition of Hospitality News e-magazine, available on our website.
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In an exclusive interview with Hospitality News, Rajesh Tavalla, Associate Vice President of Le Miami Resorts & Spa, shared valuable insights on maintaining high standards in luxury hospitality. When asked about how he ensures exceptional customer service and guest satisfaction at the resort, he emphasized, "At Le Miami Resort & Spa, we prioritize guest satisfaction and service excellence through a comprehensive approach. We embed a strong service culture into our training, ensuring that our staff understands the importance of empathy and viewing situations from the guest’s perspective. We take proactive ownership of every guest interaction, anticipating and addressing their needs effectively. We actively seek feedback and act swiftly on any concerns to continuously improve our services." Further, when discussing how he stays updated on industry trends and implements innovative practices, Rajesh stated, "The luxury hospitality industry is evolving with several key trends. At Le Miami Resort & Spa, we are preparing by focusing on personalized experiences, such as customized itineraries for private tours, local sightseeing, and exclusive cultural events. We utilize guest data to tailor future stays, offering preferred room types, amenities, and services based on past preferences. Social media trends also influence our strategies, allowing us to refine our offerings and enhance our online presence. Technology, particularly AI, plays a crucial role. We continuously update our systems to incorporate AI, improving service efficiency and guest interactions. By staying ahead of these trends, we ensure that our guests receive exceptional and personalized luxury experiences." It was a great conversation with Rajesh Tavalla, and you can check out the complete interview featured in the September issue of Hospitality News e-Magazine, available on our website.
In an exclusive interview with us, Mr. Suraj Kumar Jha, the General Manager of Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad, shared his insights on several critical aspects of hospitality management. When asked how he ensures high hotel customer service and guest satisfaction, he emphasized, “At Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, our commitment to exceeding guest expectations is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that true hospitality is found in the details, and it is this philosophy that drives us to create seamless, memorable experiences for each of our guests... By making thoughtful enhancements to our services and offerings, and by communicating these improvements back to our guests, we demonstrate our dedication to their satisfaction.” On the topic of staying updated on industry trends and implementing innovative practices, Mr. Jha elaborated, “In today’s fast-paced world, technology is redefining the way we experience hospitality, offering unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and personalization. At Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad City Centre, we are proud to be at the forefront of this digital transformation, integrating the latest technological advancements to ensure that every guest enjoys a seamless and memorable stay... These innovations are more than just conveniences; they are a reflection of our unwavering dedication to enhancing the guest experience.” It was a great conversation filled with insights from Mr. Jha. You can check out the complete interview article in the September edition of Hospitality News e-magazine on our website.
02-August-2024
Aman Chainani, the Managing Director of Pacific Hospitality and AIDU, brings over six years of expertise in the hospitality industry. His journey from a college entrepreneur to introducing a major brand to Hyderabad at just 23 is a testament to his dedication and vision. Through AIDU, Aman has celebrated South Indian culinary heritage, and with NOHO, he has demonstrated his innovative approach to dining. At Pacific Hospitality, Aman champions a culture of excellence, collaboration, and diversity, focusing on driving revenue and enhancing customer satisfaction. His extensive background in business analysis, marketing, and ethical leadership makes him a notable role model for aspiring entrepreneurs. Aiming for global expansion of AIDU, Aman’s vision includes major Indian cities and a commitment to sustainable practices that preserve the essence of South Indian cuisine. In this feature, Aman Chainani shares his perspectives on the importance of strategic planning and talent development in shaping the future of hospitality. Aman’s Take In the highly competitive hospitality industry, prioritizing innovation and excellence is essential. Aman emphasizes that strategic planning and talent development are key to achieving these goals. He explains, "Strategic planning involves conducting market research and analysis, setting clear goals and objectives, developing tailored strategies for each department, establishing key performance indicators (KPIs), and regularly reviewing and updating plans." Talent development, according to Aman, is critical for building a skilled and engaged workforce. He advises businesses to provide ongoing training and education, encourage mentorship and coaching, foster a culture of innovation, recognize and reward outstanding performance, and develop leadership programs for future growth. By integrating strategic planning with talent development, hospitality businesses can drive innovation and excellence. Aman’s approach includes establishing a clear vision and mission, conducting a SWOT analysis and market research, developing strategic plans with departmental objectives, identifying talent needs, and creating development programs. He also advocates for implementing innovative practices and technologies while monitoring KPIs and adjusting strategies as needed. Aman believes that fostering a culture of continuous improvement is crucial. This involves encouraging experimentation, learning from failures, and recognizing innovative thinking. By adopting these practices, hospitality businesses can stay ahead in a competitive market. In conclusion, Aman Chainani’s insights highlight that strategic planning and talent development are fundamental to driving innovation and achieving excellence in the hospitality industry. For a deeper dive into Aman’s approach and future plans, check out the full interview in our august issue of HospitalityNews magazine on our website.
In an exclusive interview, Vishal Sharma, General Manager at Taj Lakefront Bhopal, shared his insights on various aspects of his role and the hotel's operations. When asked about maintaining high service quality and guest satisfaction, Sharma emphasized: “At Taj Lakefront Bhopal, we believe that true hospitality goes beyond mere duties; it embodies genuine care and a wholehearted commitment to serving our guests. This philosophy drives our dedication to maintaining consistently high levels of service quality. Our approach is rooted in strategic initiatives and a passionate team focused on guest satisfaction. We invest significantly in training our team members to ensure they not only meet but exceed guest expectations. This includes continuous skill development and a strong emphasis on personalized service delivery. Our meticulously crafted and regularly updated standard operating procedures guarantee consistency in service across all guest touchpoints. Our organizational culture instills a sense of pride and responsibility among our staff. Every team member is dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests, from their arrival to their departure. This unwavering dedication ensures that each visit to Taj Lakefront Bhopal is marked by exceptional service and genuine hospitality.” Regarding how he stays updated on industry trends and implements innovative practices, Sharma noted: “In the fast-paced hospitality industry, staying ahead of trends is crucial for delivering exceptional guest experiences. We employ several strategies to ensure we remain at the forefront of industry developments and innovations. Our approach starts with regular industry research and trend analysis. We leverage industry reports, market studies, and insights from reputable sources to identify emerging trends and shifts in consumer behavior. This knowledge allows us to anticipate guest expectations and adapt our offerings proactively. Attending industry conferences, workshops, and networking events provides valuable opportunities to exchange ideas with industry leaders and peers. These interactions broaden our perspective and inspire new initiatives and best practices that we implement at our hotel. Collaboration within our team is also key. We encourage open dialogue and idea sharing among departments to harness collective creativity. This collaborative spirit helps us innovate across various aspects of guest service, from personalized experiences to operational efficiency. Ultimately, our commitment to integrating industry trends into our daily operations ensures that we continuously enhance our offerings and maintain our competitive edge. By embracing innovation and anticipating guest needs, we uphold our reputation for excellence and exceed expectations at every opportunity.” It was a great conversation with Vishal Sharma, offering a deep dive into his vision and strategies for Taj Lakefront Bhopal. For the full interview, read the detailed feature in the August issue of HospitalityNews magazine on our website.
In an exclusive interview, Manoj Kumar Tiwari, the General Manager at Regency Travel & Tours and MyHolidays, shared valuable insights into how Regency Holidays is setting new standards in the travel industry. When asked about ensuring high hotel customer service and guest satisfaction, Manoj emphasized, "My journey in the hospitality industry began over two decades ago as a customer service representative. Over the years, I've gained extensive experience across various roles and organizations, focusing on understanding the diverse hospitality market, particularly in the luxury sector. My background includes end-to-end travel planning, customer relations, and destination management. My passion for curating unforgettable travel experiences and my commitment to high service standards have led me to my current role at Regency Holidays. Here, I oversee the development and execution of our holiday services portfolio, ensuring each offering meets our travelers' expectations for luxury, safety, and uniqueness." Regarding staying updated on industry trends and implementing innovative practices, he noted, "We are seeing a growing interest from global travellers in exploring unique destinations like Qatar, where they can experience truly immersive and one-of-a-kind adventures. Alongside this, there is an increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly tourism. At Regency Holidays, we are adapting to these trends by expanding our portfolio to feature more immersive experiences that highlight Qatar's rich heritage and natural beauty. We are also integrating sustainable practices into our operations and partnering with eco-friendly organizations to promote responsible tourism. Additionally, we are leveraging digital booking platforms and personalized travel planning tools to deliver seamless and modern services to today’s travellers." It was a fascinating conversation with Manoj Kumar Tiwari, revealing how Regency Holidays is evolving with cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices. Read more about it in the August issue of HospitalityNews magazine on our website.
In this exclusive interview, HospitalityNews had a conversation with Anil Chavan, the General Manager of Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli. With nearly two decades of hospitality experience, Anil has a rich background in operations, sales, and marketing from prominent brands in India and Dubai. At Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli, he will enhance guest experiences, drive revenue growth, and lead the operations team. Anil’s career highlights include key roles at esteemed brands like Marriott, IHG and Oakwood. His expertise in hotel sales and revenue management has earned him accolades, including a HOSI General Manager of the Year nomination and recognition as one of India’s Top Ten Hospitality General Managers. His global experience and market insights make him a valuable addition to the team. 1. How has Novotel Imagicaa leveraged AI and data analytics to enhance personalised guest experiences? Could you share some specific examples of how these technologies have improved guest satisfaction? What are some of the key digital transformation initiatives you have implemented at Novotel Imagicaa? How have these initiatives impacted the overall operations and guest experience? Novotel Imagicaa has effectively utilized AI and data analytics to enhance personalized guest experiences through various innovative strategies and initiatives. Here are some specific examples and key digital transformation initiatives that have improved guest satisfaction and impacted overall operations: 1. Guest Preferences and Memorable Experiences: We use ACDC (Accor Customer Digital Card) to track guests' preferences, validate details, and create personalized experiences for loyalty members, enhancing their first visit with special touches. 2. AI Sentiment Analysis for Guest Feedback: We use Trust You system to gather and analyse guest feedback, helping improve service quality through our Learning and Development team. We're updating to digital door locks via the ACCOR ALL APP, reducing manual keys and simplifying member check-in. We plan to implement the below listed strategies: 1. Operational Efficiency with Automated Check-In: We notify early-arriving guests via text when their room is ready, allowing them to relax while waiting, enhancing their experience during peak times. 2. Sustainability through AI/ BMS with: AI helps optimize energy consumption, reducing environmental impact by analyzing usage patterns and enhancing equipment performance in large banquet and restaurant areas. 3. Food and Beverage & Sustainability ● Personalized Dining Experiences: AI powered kiosks in public areas allow guests to customize their dining, providing data on preferences for future visits and helping them curate their own menu in advance. ● Efficient Staffing and Scheduling: AI software predicts busy times by analysing sales and staffing data, helping schedule staff optimally. V SERVE helps track real-time staff engagement and optimize manpower. ● Dynamic Menu Pricing for Revenue Maximization: AI analysed historical data to adjust menu pricing dynamically, maximizing revenue by focusing on top-selling items, revenue per available seat, and updating the menu. ● WINNOW VISION SYSTEM – Smart way to put a cost to daily food waste. 4. Sales & Marketing: Optimize SEO with AI-driven keyword analysis (Khopoli, adventure, Imagicaa, luxury) and employ tools for demand forecasting and rate adjustments based on historical data. Gather insights on customer sentiment from reviews and search behaviour. Leverage multilingual communication, enabling personalized, cost-effective interactions and digital kiosk offering information on hotel features, local attractions, and activities. What are we doing and intend to do? At Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli, we are actively enhancing our marketing strategies and event offerings to better serve our guests and clients. We’re brainstorming innovative indoor and outdoor marketing ideas and exploring options for hosting events at our banquets and poolside venues. For first-time guests and corporate clients, we’re streamlining the planning process for weddings, high-end corporate events, and social gatherings. We are also ramping up our social media engagement. By creating themed content and integrating QR codes at check-in points and bar counters, we aim to connect guests with our social media platforms seamlessly. Our use of SEO keywords and performance dashboards helps us analyze and improve our content strategy. Tools like Canva and Mid-Journey AI are instrumental in visualizing and refining our creative content before finalizing designs. Data privacy and protection Data privacy and protection are top priorities for us. We adhere to GDPR standards and ensure that our staff is well-trained in safeguarding guest information. Our systems, including AI technologies and PCI DSS-compliant payment solutions, secure payment and credit card details. At Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli, we utilize advanced technologies such as Barracuda Cloud Backup, Air Angel, and Symphony on Cloud to maintain robust data security. Complementing and not replacing the human interface We aim to enhance the guest experience by leveraging digital platforms while ensuring that human interaction remains a core component of our service. Given the diverse traffic at our hotel—including families, children of all ages, corporate guests, and large social groups—it’s essential that every guest feels heard and can easily access information. Our "Ask Me" kiosks are designed to complement human interaction by providing guests with self-service options and ensuring that their needs are addressed efficiently. 2. Sustainability is a growing trend in the hospitality industry. What measures has Novotel Imagicaa taken to incorporate sustainable and eco-friendly practices? Can you provide examples of how these practices have been beneficial for both the environment and business? In recent years, Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli has embraced sustainability with a range of strategic and practical measures, positioning ourselves as an eco-luxe property. We’ve made significant investments and efforts to enhance our environmental stewardship. Our proactive approach to water conservation includes an in-built zero-water discharge unit that treats and reuses wastewater. The installation of a Rainwater Harvesting system optimizes water saving during the heavy monsoon season in Khopoli, and aerators in taps help regulate water flow. We've also eliminated single-use plastic products, replacing them with biodegradable and reusable alternatives. Our F&B Manager and Executive Chef are committed to minimizing food wastage. The team meticulously segregates dry and wet waste, tracks food wastage data, and adjusts kitchen operations accordingly. Educational posters in our restaurant and bar promote mindful food consumption among guests. In terms of reducing plastic use, we’ve transitioned from plastic key cards, which previously cost INR 106 each, to cost-efficient wooden key cards at INR 36. Additionally, an EV Charging station has been introduced to support green energy and meet the needs of guests with electric vehicles. A significant green highlight for 2024 is our installation of an in-house glass water bottle plant, which has reduced costs and environmental impact compared to purchasing bottled water. This initiative has been well-received by guests. We are also in the process of obtaining the Green Key Certification, a prestigious recognition that will reinforce our commitment to a sustainable future. 3. With your extensive experience in managing a large property, what opportunities do you see for expanding Novotel Imagicaa into new markets or segments? What strategies are you considering to drive this growth? Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli has seen impressive growth in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) market, particularly from Mumbai, Pune, and Gujarat. This segment has clocked double-digit growth over the past few years, driven by a thriving multi-billion-dollar market for wedding and event spaces. To meet increasing demand, we recently expanded our facilities by adding a 15,000 sq. ft. lawn. This new space, along with our flexible and functional banquet designs, enhances our ability to cater to diverse events. Our banquet business is crucial, and MICE activities have contributed over 63% to our overall performance year-to-date. As the market leader in Khalapur District, Novotel Imagicaa stands out with its extensive inventory of 287 rooms and 30,000 sq. ft. of MICE space. Our banquets are conveniently located on the ground level with access to garden and lawn areas, offering versatile options for morning and evening events. This layout is particularly advantageous for weddings, social functions, and corporate gatherings. Strategically, our team has been actively engaging with travel partners in multiple cities, conducting familiarization trips (FAMs) to showcase our hotel and park as premier destinations for meetings and social functions. With support from Accor Global and the India team, we’ve successfully implemented various promotional offers on Brand.com, including advance purchase and private sales, while encouraging loyalty program members and partners to take advantage of exclusive benefits. 4. The trend towards unique and localized food and beverage experiences is on the rise. How has Novotel Imagicaa embraced this trend, and what unique offerings do you provide to cater to this demand? At Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli, we are dedicated to supporting local food and beverage movements, which emphasize producing and consuming food within the same geographic region. This approach not only strengthens local economies but also enhances community health, environment, and sustainability. We promote sustainable and organic farming practices through our own herb garden, where we grow vegetables and herbs used in our daily menus. This not only ensures freshness but also reduces our carbon footprint. We regularly host local food and beverage activities that highlight regional food habits and products sourced from local suppliers. Our commitment to health-conscious dining is reflected in our special organic and vegan menu, featuring ingredients grown in our herb garden. This menu caters to various dietary preferences, including vegan and low-fat options, ensuring that we meet the needs of all our guests. We also collaborate with local vendors for essential supplies like milk, vegetables, and meat. This partnership supports the local community, promotes high-quality products, and aligns with our sustainable development goals. By integrating these practices, we aim to offer our guests an authentic and eco-friendly dining experience. 5. How do you gather and utilize guest feedback to continuously improve the services and offerings at Novotel Imagicaa? Can you share an example of a significant change made as a result of guest feedback? At Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli, guest feedback is fundamental to our commitment to continuous improvement. We actively collect feedback through various channels, such as post-stay surveys, online reviews, and direct guest interactions. Each piece of feedback is meticulously analyzed to pinpoint both our strengths and areas for enhancement. A notable example of how we've acted on guest feedback involves our dining services. We received numerous requests for increased vegetarian options in our restaurant menus. In response, our culinary team crafted an expanded menu featuring a diverse range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, all while upholding our high standards of taste and presentation. This adjustment has not only boosted guest satisfaction but also attracted a broader range of diners to our hotel, showcasing our dedication to meeting the needs of all our guests. 6. Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of the hospitality industry, particularly in the context of technology and sustainability? How is Novotel Imagicaa preparing to stay ahead of these trends? The future of hospitality is being shaped by technological advancements and an increasing focus on sustainability, and at Novotel Imagicaa, we are keenly attuned to these trends. Our strategy involves integrating innovative technology and sustainable practices to elevate the guest experience while reducing our environmental impact. On the sustainability front, we’ve made substantial strides. We’ve installed energy-efficient lighting throughout the hotel and implemented water-saving measures, including aerators in every room. Our commitment to reducing plastic waste is evident in our on-site bottling plant, which eliminates the need for single-use plastic bottles. In our culinary operations, we emphasize the use of locally sourced ingredients. This approach not only helps lower our carbon footprint but also supports local communities. We also prioritize educating both guests and staff about sustainable practices, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility throughout our hotel. By proactively addressing these trends, Novotel Imagicaa is poised to exceed guest expectations and provide a hospitality experience that is both technologically advanced and environmentally conscious. We are also working towards achieving Green Key Certification, further underscoring our dedication to sustainability.
In an exclusive interview with us, Sandeep Kalra, the esteemed Director of Culinary at Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, shared his insights on various topics. When asked about how he ensures high hotel customer service and guest satisfaction, he said, "We ensure a unique and exceptional dining experience at Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity by focusing on several key elements. While authenticity in cuisine is paramount, some palates also prefer a blend of traditional Indian flavors with global influences. We source the finest local and seasonal ingredients to guarantee freshness and sustainability. Innovative culinary concepts, such as themed dinners and interactive cooking sessions, keep our offerings fresh and engaging. Exceptional service is a priority, with a dedicated team providing personalized attention. Our dining spaces are designed to create a warm, elegant ambiance that enhances the experience. Continuous improvement, driven by guest feedback and culinary trends, ensures our menus stay current and exciting. Lastly, our commitment to sustainability reflects our dedication to responsible dining. These elements combine to create a dining experience that is both unique and memorable." When asked about how he stays updated on industry trends and what steps he takes to implement innovative practices in the hotel, he responded, "Training under Michelin Star chefs has profoundly shaped my culinary philosophy. I have embraced meticulous techniques and the use of premium, seasonal ingredients, focusing on consistency and excellence. Exposure to global flavors fuels my creativity, allowing me to blend innovative methods with traditional Indian cuisine. This training has also underscored the importance of delivering memorable guest experiences through exceptional hospitality and presentation. At Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, these principles guide our culinary offerings, ensuring a blend of international expertise and local flavors, providing our guests with exceptional dining experiences." It was a great conversation with Sandeep Kalra, providing a deep dive into his culinary innovations and philosophies. You can check out the complete interview in the August issue of HospitalityNews magazine on our website.
By Mr. Dhruva Sanyal, Managing Director India, Barry Callebaut Cocoa & Chocolate Ingredients India Pvt Ltd. Chocolate confectionery in India has previously been associated with gifting, festive and celebration occasions. However, this is now changing with the growing disposable income of consumers in India, who are likely to explore more premium chocolate confectionery. Furthermore, with the rise of dietary preferences and changing lifestyle choices, the category is expected to see an increased demand for specific premium variants of chocolate. We see major players focusing on launching newer variants aimed at creating new positionings and increased consumption occasions, and with changing consumer attitudes the need for Intense Indulgence and Mindful Indulgence chocolate experiences will drive growth in the chocolate confectionery category in India. Intense Indulgence Moments Going Beyond Gifting The most common reason to eat chocolate is for pleasure and with consumers becoming more demanding and experimental, they are constantly seeking products that go further than their expectations and tickle all their senses. Whilst Multi-sensoriality and Seasonal & Gifting are the most established propositions, we see chocolates with an origin story rising and exclusive chocolates with unique flavours or positionings emerging. The Rise of Mindful Indulgence While chocolate in its original decadent self will always have a place in our hearts (and stomachs), there's a growing trend towards ‘mindful indulgence’. Consumers are increasingly adopting a softer, health-conscious approach to life, seeking chocolates that align with their wellness goals. Hence, the ‘mindful indulgence’ segment emerged, where health meets pleasure in a delicious balance. To indulge mindfully is to choose tasty, good for me and good for the planet chocolates. It is, what we call, the Triple Play. Whilst Sugar reduction is now an established proposition here, we see Plant based, vegan and clean label propositions booming. Health & Wellness (H&W) Consumers in India on The Rise Avendus Capital’s study indicates that health-conscious consumers in India will increase from 108 million in CY20 to 176 million in CY26. At the same time, the H&W Food market in India is set to get a booster shot thanks to a 2x increase – from 9% in CY 20 to 18% by CY26 – in health F&B spending per capita by health-conscious consumers by CY26. The Future is Sweet As we look ahead, Barry Callebaut continues leading the charge in driving chocolate innovation through our diverse range of brands, offerings, and renowned Chocolate Academy service brand. The future of chocolate in India promises to be as rich and varied as its flavours, with evolving consumer tastes and our commitment to excellence shaping the path forward. The future is indeed sweet, and Barry Callebaut is proud to be at the forefront of this delicious journey.
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