Cygnett Hotels & Resorts Unveils Ambitious Expansion Plans at 7th Annual GM Conclave

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts Unveils Ambitious Expansion Plans at 7th Annual GM Conclave

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 24, 2024

India’s fastest-growing hospitality chain, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, recently hosted its 7th annual GM Conclave in Jaipur, under the theme ‘Aggrandize Hospitality: Cygnett Horizons 2024.’ This event was a platform for discussing strategic expansion plans and key insights into the transformational changes within the hospitality industry.

Founder and Managing Director, Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, announced Cygnett’s plan to open 15 new hotels with a total of 1200 keys over the next year. Ten of these hotels are already in the project and pre-opening stages. This expansion is a testament to the company's vision of innovation and cultural transformation. Upcoming properties include Cozzet Deera in Sonipat (41 keys), Cozzet Mahad in the Mahad Maharashtra industrial area (60 keys), and Cygnett Inn Airport in Jaipur (45 keys), all scheduled to open between June and August.

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To support this growth, Cygnett plans to hire over 1,000 hospitality professionals and establish the Cygnett Learning Academy to address the talent shortage and train new aspirants. According to a recent report by HVS, Cygnett Hotel and Resort ranked second in new hotel signings in 2023.

During the conclave, Mr. Sarkar emphasized the importance of cultural transformation and innovation in driving the company’s expansion. He highlighted the rapid growth of domestic tourism and rising average daily rates (ADRs) as positive indicators for the hospitality sector. He also noted that increased government focus on infrastructure development is expected to further bolster the industry.

Sustainability was another major focus of the conclave. Cygnett’s Sustainable Plan 2025 includes initiatives such as energy-efficient technologies, water conservation, waste management, and improved transportation facilities. These efforts are aimed at aligning with global sustainability standards and reflect the company's commitment to environmentally responsible practices.

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Technology also featured prominently in the discussions. Cygnett is investing heavily in digital transformation, particularly in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency. The company announced the upcoming launch of a mobile app for reservations and customer relationship management (CRM) systems to streamline guest management.

Chief Technology Officer, Mr. Shyam Bhethanabotla, explained that AI algorithms will empower staff and improve guest interactions through voice recognition and translation, offering personalized recommendations and experiences. This integration of AI is expected to transform business operations while maintaining a balance between technology and tradition.

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Additionally, Cygnett announced the integration of Learning Management Systems (LMS) and Human Resource Management Systems (HRMS) to enhance employee engagement and skill development. These systems aim to ensure that Cygnett maintains a motivated and skilled workforce, capable of meeting the organization’s needs.

The conclave concluded with an award ceremony recognizing the top-performing hotels, general managers, and corporate teams for their excellence in guest experience, operational innovation, and leadership. The event celebrated the relentless pursuit of excellence across all levels of Cygnett's operations.

The 7th annual GM Conclave provided a comprehensive look at Cygnett’s ambitious plans for growth, innovation, and transformational change in the hospitality industry, setting a confident roadmap for the future.


Planet Hotels & Resorts Accelerates India Expansion with Lifestyle Hospitality Focus

Planet Hotels & Resorts Accelerates India Expansion with Lifestyle Hospitality Focus

By Hariharan U

Published on April 7, 2026

Planet Hotels & Resorts is steadily strengthening its presence across India, with a clear focus on lifestyle-driven hospitality and premium travel experiences. Based out of Mumbai, the brand is building a strategically curated pipeline aimed at high-potential leisure, urban, and spiritual destinations.

Under the leadership of Anand Chatterjee, who has led the hospitality vertical for over a decade, the company is positioning itself as a key player in India’s evolving premium hospitality space.

The group’s journey began with the launch of Planet Hollywood Beach Resort in Goa in 2013, which set the tone for its design-forward and experience-led approach. Since then, the portfolio has expanded across destinations such as Thane, Powai, and Manali.

Flagship urban properties like Planet Hollywood Thane City and The Beatle Hotel reflect the brand’s commitment to design-led stays and immersive guest experiences. Expanding its boutique footprint, the group also marked its entry into the hills with a Manali property under The Beatle brand in 2025, catering to travellers seeking elevated mountain retreats.

In line with its focus on the elite segment, the brand recently introduced Kings Mansion in North Goa. Designed as an ultra-premium destination, the property aims to deliver privacy, bespoke services, and a refined hospitality experience tailored to discerning travellers.

Looking ahead, Planet Hotels & Resorts has outlined an ambitious roadmap with upcoming projects planned across New Delhi, Tirupati, Udaipur, and Hyderabad, while also evaluating additional markets. The expansion strategy is focused on tapping into India’s most sought-after travel destinations, spanning leisure, spiritual, and urban segments.

Speaking on the growth trajectory, Anand Chatterjee highlighted that the brand’s expansion is driven by a deep understanding of emerging lifestyle destinations and evolving consumer expectations. He emphasised that the focus remains on creating design-forward environments, intuitive service, and immersive experiences that go beyond traditional hospitality.

With a growing portfolio that blends aesthetics, personalisation, and experience-led offerings, Planet Hotels & Resorts is positioning itself to play a significant role in shaping India’s next phase of premium hospitality growth.


Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

By Hariharan U

Published on April 2, 2026

In a significant recognition for luxury wellness hospitality, Banyan Tree Samui has been named the “Best Spa Resort – Thailand” at the Global Spa Awards 2026, presented by The Luxury Spa Edit.

The award reflects a combination of expert panel evaluations, insights from global travel journalists and sustainability specialists, and over 85,000 public votes, reinforcing the resort’s strong positioning in the global wellness space.

At the heart of this recognition is the resort’s integrated approach to holistic wellbeing. The spa experience at Banyan Tree Samui goes beyond traditional treatments, offering a thoughtfully curated journey rooted in its “8 Pillars of Wellbeing” philosophy, focusing on rest, nourishment, mindfulness, movement, and personal growth.

A standout feature is its signature hydrotherapy facility, The Rainforest, which takes guests through a multi-sensory circuit of water jets, saunas, steam rooms, ice fountains, and vitality pools. This immersive experience has become a defining element of the resort’s wellness offering.

Speaking on the achievement, Naphasawan Badklang, Spa & Gallery Manager, credited the team’s rigorous training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy and their commitment to delivering personalised guest experiences. Each treatment begins with a detailed consultation, followed by customised herbal oils and signature rituals that include sound healing, breathwork, and traditional techniques.

The award also coincides with the rollout of Banyan Tree Spa 2.0, an evolved concept that blends ancient Asian healing practices with modern wellness techniques. From personalised therapies to curated closing rituals featuring herbal foot cleansing and tea ceremonies, the experience is designed to create a deeper sense of relaxation and renewal.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Koh Samui’s Lamai Bay, the resort’s 88 private pool villas further enhance the sense of seclusion and calm. Complemented by curated dining experiences, wellness programmes, and nature-integrated design, the property continues to offer a sanctuary for travellers seeking both luxury and restoration.

With this recognition, Banyan Tree Samui strengthens its reputation as one of Asia’s leading wellness destinations, setting new benchmarks for immersive and experience-driven hospitality.


The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

By Hariharan U

Published on April 1, 2026

The Leela Gandhinagar marked Earth Hour 2026 with a focused set of sustainability-driven initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to responsible hospitality and environmental stewardship.

As part of the global movement, the hotel switched off non-essential lighting and reduced power consumption across key areas for 60 minutes, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The symbolic gesture reflected a collective effort towards climate awareness while maintaining the refined standards associated with luxury hospitality.

Beyond the hour, the initiative underscored the hotel’s broader sustainability philosophy. From energy-efficient systems to responsible resource management, environmentally conscious practices are integrated into its day-to-day operations, aligning with the evolving expectations of modern travellers.

Speaking on the occasion, Vikas Sood said, “Earth Hour reminds us that meaningful change begins with small yet consistent actions. At The Leela Gandhinagar, sustainability remains integral to how we operate and deliver thoughtful luxury experiences.”

Through its participation, the hotel continues to build on its commitment to sustainable hospitality, contributing to a more responsible and environmentally aware future.

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