Accor and IIHM Join Forces to Revolutionize Hospitality Education in India

By Author

Published on October 3, 2023

In a groundbreaking move to advance hospitality education in India, Accor and the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) have inked a momentous Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the prestigious IIHM Global Campus in Salt Lake, Kolkata. This historic agreement establishes a long-term collaboration aimed at enriching hospitality education and empowering students with extensive employment prospects across India.

The MoU was formally signed by Puneet Dhawan, Senior Vice President, Operations, Accor India & South Asia, and Dr. Suborno Bose, Founder and CEO of IIHM. This partnership unites one of the world's largest hospitality corporations with the globally renowned IIHM to foster a mutually beneficial relationship.

Puneet Dhawan, Senior Vice President, Operations, Accor India & South Asia, expressed the significance of this transformative alliance, stating, "Our partnership with IIHM represents a significant stride in nurturing future talents within the hospitality sector. We are committed to equipping young minds with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the dynamic world of hospitality."

Dr. Suborno Bose, Founder and CEO of IIHM, emphasized the importance of this historic collaboration, saying, "Becoming a top professional in the hospitality industry is a journey that demands dedication, education, and hands-on experience. The partnership with Accor India underscores our dedication to offering students the finest education and industry exposure. Together, we are shaping the future of hospitality, where education meets excellence."

IIHM will offer a 1-Year Certificate/Diploma course, inclusive of industrial training and exams, aligned with the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) and Government of India requirements. These courses will be available in Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Bangalore, Pune, Goa, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Hyderabad.

Accor will contribute valuable insights to IIHM to aid in the creation of industry-relevant curricula. Accor will offer industrial training opportunities, deliver guest lectures, facilitate faculty development programs, provide internships and placements in Accor-managed hotels, and offer operational exposure across its properties in India.

This collaboration between IIHM and Accor holds immense promise for the future of the Indian hospitality industry. It focuses on education, skill development, industry engagement, and, most importantly, provides emerging talent with real-world exposure to the dynamic hospitality sector.

About Accor

Accor is a globally leading hospitality group operating in over 110 countries with 5,500 properties, 10,000 food & beverage venues, wellness facilities, and flexible workspaces. The group boasts a diverse hospitality ecosystem encompassing more than 40 hotel brands, ranging from luxury to economy, including Lifestyle with Ennismore. Accor is dedicated to positive action in areas such as business ethics, responsible tourism, sustainable development, community outreach, and diversity & inclusion. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on Euronext Paris (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information, visit www.group.accor.com or follow Accor on social media.

About IIHM

The International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) is a renowned hospitality education institution in India, committed to nurturing the talents and skills of future leaders in the hospitality industry. IIHM offers a range of hospitality and culinary programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in the global hospitality sector.

Marriott International Hosts 10th 'Road to Give 2024' to Empower Communities Across South Asia

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 30, 2024

Marriott International celebrates the 10th edition of its flagship charity run, Road to Give 2024, designed to champion community empowerment and well-being across South Asia. This annual event, widely anticipated by Marriott associates and guests alike, encourages participants from 156 Marriott hotels and resorts in the region to come together in the spirit of giving. Set to take place on October 20, 2024, at locations like The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat, Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata, and JW Marriott Kolkata, this year’s event reflects Marriott's deep commitment to social responsibility.

Aligned with the launch of Marriott’s new people-focused initiative, BE, Road to Give 2024 emphasizes personal empowerment and community support, aiming to cultivate a people-first environment for associates and guests. This year’s run raises funds for Rising Star Outreach of India, a non-profit dedicated to improving lives affected by leprosy through education, medical care, and community development.

“We are excited to engage our associates, partners, and guests in such a meaningful cause,” shared a Marriott spokesperson. “The BE initiative and this event align perfectly with our vision to prioritize community care and support the holistic well-being of our people.”

Open to Marriott associates, families, friends, and guests, Road to Give 2024 offers an inspiring opportunity to reflect, care for both mind and body, and contribute to a cause that aims to build a more cohesive and compassionate society. Marriott invites everyone to join on October 20, 2024, in this journey to make a difference and empower lives across South Asia.

Celebrating Eight Glorious Years in the Heart of Jaisalmer

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 30, 2024

Nestled in the heart of Jaisalmer, the Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa is celebrating eight illustrious years of setting new standards in luxury and hospitality. Known for its lavish accommodations, gourmet dining, and personalized service, this resort has become the very cornerstone of hospitality in Jaisalmer, attracting guests from around the world and elevating the region’s reputation as a sought-after travel destination.

Blending contemporary comfort with timeless architecture, the resort offers a truly immersive cultural experience that begins the moment you step in. Evenings are celebrated with a touch of Rajasthan’s rich heritage, featuring local snacks paired with a traditional puppet show in the central courtyard. Talented artists perform live, and the music fills the air, weaving a nostalgic journey into Jaisalmer’s storied past.

The resort’s prime location provides easy access to iconic palaces and forts, making it the perfect base for travelers eager to explore the Golden City’s heritage. Its culinary offerings, particularly at Wyra, the rooftop venue, have attracted dignitaries and state guests alike, drawn to its regional specialties served against the backdrop of Jaisalmer Fort’s majestic silhouette.

Since opening, Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa has not only provided luxurious accommodations but also played a crucial role in hosting destination weddings and high-profile events, helping to firmly establish Jaisalmer as a premier choice for these memorable occasions. “As the resort celebrates eight years, we take immense pride in how it has gracefully evolved,” said Shiv Bose, General Manager. “Our focus remains on honoring the rich brand legacy, and our team is committed to delivering unparalleled hospitality as we step into a new dawn.”

As Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa looks to the future, it continues to offer the best of Rajasthani hospitality, ensuring each guest experience is a blend of cultural richness and modern luxury.

For further details, please visit the official website.

Hyatt Hotels Sets Ambitious Goal of 100 Properties in India Within 5-6 Years

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 29, 2024

Hyatt Hotels Corporation is setting its sights on nearly doubling its footprint in India, planning to reach 100 properties within the next 5-6 years. With India's hospitality market growing at an unprecedented rate, this ambitious target reflects Hyatt's dedication to catering to the surging demand for high-quality travel experiences across the country.

Currently, Hyatt operates 52 hotels in Southwest Asia (50 in India and two in Nepal) under nine distinct brands, having already crossed the 10,000-key milestone. “With our strong pipeline and strategic growth initiatives, we are confident that we will achieve the milestone of 100 hotels within the next 5-6 years,” stated Sunjae Sharma, Managing Director for India & Southwest Asia at Hyatt Hotels Corporation. This growth is part of Hyatt’s focused strategy, aiming to tap into India's expanding travel and hospitality market by delivering personalized, luxury, and lifestyle-focused experiences.

The expansion will see Hyatt introduce more global brands to India while reinforcing its core brands, such as Hyatt Regency, Hyatt Place, and Hyatt Centric. The company also recently introduced the ‘Grand Showroom’ at Grand Hyatt Mumbai, an innovative venture designed to enhance hyper-personalized guest experiences and showcase Hyatt’s diverse hospitality offerings.

In line with its expansion goals, Hyatt has slated Hyatt Regency properties in Kasauli and Ghaziabad and Hyatt Place hotels in Aurangabad and Haridwar. Expanding into new countries, Hyatt Place Dhaka Uttara will soon open in Bangladesh, and India will welcome The Unbound Collection in Bhopal in 2025, reflecting the brand’s increasing regional diversity.

Hyatt's growth strategy in India aligns with what the company calls the “LLLLW” approach: loyalty, luxury, leisure, lifestyle, and wellness. "India is among Hyatt Hotels' top global growth markets, and we see tremendous potential for continued expansion in this region," said Sharma. This approach allows Hyatt to meet evolving guest preferences, solidifying India’s position as a key growth market for Hyatt globally.

The company's expansion goals are further supported by the ongoing growth in both domestic and international tourism in India. With a robust demand for luxury and wellness experiences, Hyatt remains optimistic about India's rising position in their global market rankings, with continued development and innovation on the horizon.

Event Details:

Dates: Expansion over 5-6 years
Location: Multiple key destinations across India

For more information, contact Hyatt Hotels Corporation at +91-XXXXXXXXXX.

Welcome to post your talent

A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.