F&B Industry Welcomes Budget 2025: Expert Reactions

F&B Industry Welcomes Budget 2025: Expert Reactions

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 4, 2025

The food and beverage industry has welcomed the budget’s emphasis on economic expansion, job creation, and infrastructure development. Industry experts believe these measures will drive growth, create opportunities for MSMEs, and foster innovation.

Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, Founder & MD shared his perspective on how the budget supports the restaurant and hospitality industry.

image

"The Union Budget 2025-26 lays a strong foundation for transformative growth, particularly for the restaurant and hospitality industry and the real estate sector. The government's focus on increasing disposable income through tax relief and job creation is a significant boost for our sector. We anticipate increased consumer spending, leading to higher foot traffic in restaurants, more frequent dining out, and sustained demand for food delivery services. The budget's emphasis on urban redevelopment, including the ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund and enhanced infrastructure spending, creates exciting opportunities for mixed-use developments and real estate projects. Additionally, the allocation of ₹1.5 trillion fiscal support for MSMEs is expected to drive capacity expansion, creating a ripple effect that will further fuel demand for industrial real estate. The support for Tier-2 cities and the focus on urban innovation will not only stimulate real estate growth beyond the metros but also bolster homebuyer confidence and encourage further expansion. From gig worker welfare to the development of smart, sustainable cities, this budget's holistic approach will drive India's next wave of economic progress, creating new avenues for investment, innovation, and growth across our industries." 

Teja Chekuri, Founder of Full Stack Ventures, emphasized the impact of agriculture-focused initiatives on the food industry.

image

"A landmark budget for India’s food future!

The focus on agriculture as the first engine of growth, the Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, and procurement support for pulses signal a bold step toward empowering our farmers and bringing nutrient-rich, traditional grains back to our tables. The creation of Agri districts and the Bihar Makhana Board will help preserve and promote regional food heritage while strengthening rural economies. As consumers demand transparency and healthier choices, this budget sets the stage for a true farm-to-table revolution. The government's commitment to self-sufficiency in pulses and investment in food technology and entrepreneurship will not only nourish our nation but also inspire the next generation to rediscover the grains and recipes of our ancestors."

A win for farmers, a win for food innovation, and a win for India’s health.

Saurabh Wadkar, Founder of Rooted, praised the budget's focus on food security and MSME support while also pointing out areas needing improvement.

image

" The Union Budget 2025-26 reflects a bold step towards shaping India’s future by strengthening agriculture, MSMEs, and entrepreneurship. The Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana and the focus on self-sufficiency in pulses will stabilize supply chains, ensure fair pricing for farmers, and build a more resilient food ecosystem. With consumers becoming more conscious about what they eat, the emphasis on nutrition, value-added agriculture, and food security, signals a forward-thinking approach. Establishing the National Institute of Food Technology is a step in the right direction—it will not only boost food innovation and processing but also cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs and skilled professionals in this space.
 
The government’s push for expanding credit access—especially for MSMEs, first-time entrepreneurs, and women-led businesses—is commendable. However, access to capital is just one part of the equation. The real impact will be seen in how seamlessly and efficiently these funds reach businesses without bureaucratic roadblocks. The introduction of Bharat Trade Net for trade documentation and financing solutions could be a game-changer if executed well, further simplifying the ease of doing business in India.
 
Beyond policy, this budget acknowledges the evolving aspirations of a modern India. The expansion of UDAN, tourism incentives, and infrastructure investment will unlock new opportunities across hospitality, logistics, and regional trade. This will create a ripple effect on consumption patterns, employment, and GDP growth—a shift that visionary entrepreneurs must prepare for.
 
That said, taxation remains an area that requires urgent reform. High GST rates on processed foods and compliance challenges continue to slow down growth. This budget lays the foundation, but the real test lies in execution. India is on the brink of an entrepreneurial revolution—the right policies, if implemented well, can propel businesses into an era of unprecedented growth."

Conclusion

The Union Budget 2025-26 has set the stage for economic transformation by addressing key challenges and unlocking new growth avenues across industries. While leaders across the travel, hospitality, and food and beverage sectors have welcomed the initiatives, they also emphasize the need for continued reforms and strategic implementation to maximize their impact. With a strong focus on infrastructure, ease of doing business, and sector-specific incentives, this budget lays the foundation for a more dynamic and competitive India.


Monday Hotels Reports Strong Q1 Performance, Expands Footprint in 2025

Monday Hotels Reports Strong Q1 Performance, Expands Footprint in 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 15, 2025

Monday Hotels, the emerging hospitality brand catering to the modern-day traveler, has reported a strong first quarter in 2025. With an average occupancy of 75% across its eight operational properties, the brand credits its success to a growing number of direct bookings, repeat guests, and its promise of delivering value-driven stays.

Launched in 2023, Monday Hotels has made a name for itself by blending smart design and full-service amenities with a warm, personalized guest experience. Its brand philosophy, "We Value You," has resonated with both business and leisure travelers seeking quality and comfort at affordable prices in key city locations.

image

“We're extremely pleased with the performance in Q1,” shared Salim Shaikh, Co-Founder of Monday Hotels. “The response from our guests affirms our belief that business travel doesn't have to compromise on comfort or experience. Our team remains focused on driving consistent service, operational efficiency, and guest satisfaction.”

Looking ahead, the brand is preparing to expand its footprint with upcoming properties in Hyderabad and Bengaluru, scheduled for launch in Q2 and Q3 of 2025. With a sharp eye on growth in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, Monday Hotels aims to redefine affordable luxury in markets that are often overlooked.

As the brand continues to scale, it stays rooted in its mission to offer thoughtfully curated experiences that strike the right balance between practicality and premium comfort.


Wendor Secures $2.5M Investment from Elanpro to Drive AI-Powered Vending and Global Expansion

Wendor Secures $2.5M Investment from Elanpro to Drive AI-Powered Vending and Global Expansion

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 4, 2025

Wendor, a leading innovator in smart vending solutions, has raised $2.5 million (INR 21 crore) in a strategic investment from Elanpro, a market leader in commercial refrigeration equipment. The funding, structured as a mix of equity (INR 5 crore) and debt (INR 16 crore), will fuel Wendor’s AI-driven retail automation, operational expansion, and global market entry.

Driving AI-Powered Retail Innovation

The fresh capital will enhance Wendor’s AI vending technology, focusing on:

  • Camera-Based Product & Quantity Detection – Real-time tracking to improve inventory accuracy.
  •  AI-Powered Demand Forecasting – Consumer behavior analysis to optimize product offerings.
  •  Advanced Automation – Creating a seamless, data-driven retail experience.

Speaking on the milestone, Lakshit Anand, Founder & CEO of Wendor, stated:
"This investment marks a turning point in Wendor’s mission to revolutionize automated retail. With Elanpro’s financial backing and operational expertise, we are well-positioned to execute an ambitious expansion strategy across India and internationally. Our focus on AI-driven innovation will redefine vending as a smarter, more efficient, and engaging retail experience."

Operational Boost from Elanpro’s Service Network

The partnership grants Wendor access to Elanpro’s robust service infrastructure, including:

  • Nationwide Warehousing & Dealer Network – Strengthening service capabilities across India.
  • Import-Export Logistics Support – Facilitating entry into global markets.
  • Integrated Hardware, Software & Refrigeration Expertise – Ensuring reliable maintenance and superior customer experience.

image

Sanjay Jain, Director of Elanpro, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration:
"We are excited to support Wendor’s growth journey. Our extensive service network, import-export capabilities, and dealer partnerships will provide Wendor the operational muscle needed to scale efficiently. This partnership strengthens Wendor’s position in India while setting the stage for global expansion."

Scaling Up: Experience Centers & International Expansion

To strengthen its market presence, Wendor plans to launch ten experience centers across key metro and Tier-1 cities in the next two months, showcasing:

  • AI-Based Product Recognition
  • Automated Inventory Tracking
  • Refrigeration-Integrated Vending Technology

Beyond India, Wendor is targeting international expansion, with a focus on the Middle East and Southeast Asia as key growth markets.

Strategic Partnerships & Existing Installations

Wendor has already secured major collaborations, including:

  • Government Partnerships – Installations at Rashtrapati Bhawan, Taj Mahal, and Fatehpur Sikri, in collaboration with NAFED and Uttar Pradesh State Tourism.
  • Brand Tie-Ups – Partnerships with Coca-Cola, Amul, Nivea, Apollo Hospitals, Unilever, and Fortis.

About Wendor

Founded in 2021 by Lakshit Anand, Wendor is a pioneering provider of AI-driven vending and automated retail solutions in India. The company focuses on digital payments, mobile integration, and smart vending technology, shaping the future of retail automation.


Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Reports Strong Growth Across EMEA in 2024

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Reports Strong Growth Across EMEA in 2024

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 12, 2025

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest hotel franchising company, has continued its rapid expansion across Europe, the Middle East, Eurasia, and Africa (EMEA) in 2024. With 83 new contracts signed and over 50 hotels opened, the company has added more than 6,400 rooms to its portfolio, strengthening its presence in high-growth markets such as France, India, Spain, Türkiye, and Portugal.

This growth contributed to Wyndham’s 5% year-over-year increase in its global development pipeline, which now stands at a record 252,000 rooms worldwide. The EMEA region alone achieved 10% RevPAR growth, further demonstrating the strength of Wyndham’s brand portfolio and its commitment to supporting hotel owners through its Owner First™ approach to franchising.

"Wyndham's strong momentum in 2024 underscores the strength of our diverse brand portfolio and growing regional demand. We continue to strengthen our presence in key markets across EMEA while expanding into high-growth segments such as extended stay and branded residences. Our expansion in upscale segments, including Dolce by Wyndham in Europe, India, and the UAE, offers exciting opportunities for our business partners. As we grow, our focus remains on delivering long-term value through our Owner First strategies and providing exceptional experiences for travelers."

— Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Key Growth Highlights Across EMEA

1. Strengthening Presence in Türkiye

Wyndham remains the largest international hotel company in Türkiye, with 120+ hotels across 40+ cities. Key 2024 openings include:

  • Days Inn by Wyndham Alanya – A modern, budget-friendly resort along the Mediterranean coast.
  • Boreas Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham – The first Trademark Collection hotel in Ankara, offering a contemporary stay in the capital.
  • Wyndham Garden Cambasi – A picturesque retreat in the Black Sea highlands of Ordu.

image

2. Expanding Ramada Across the Middle East & South Asia

The Ramada by Wyndham brand continued its strategic expansion with notable 2024 openings, including:

  • Ramada by Wyndham Ahmedabad Narendra Modi Stadium Motera – Ideally located inside Narendra Modi Stadium.
  • Ramada by Wyndham Kathmandu Dhumbarai – A premium hotel near UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Ramada Resort by Wyndham Gilgit – A luxury resort in Gilgit’s growing tourism hub.

3. Meeting Midscale Demand with Ramada Encore

Wyndham expanded its Ramada Encore brand across EMEA to cater to the growing midscale market. New openings in 2024 include:

  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Konya Karatay (Türkiye)
  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Rajbagh Srinagar (India) – A serene riverside getaway.
  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Bhiwadi Phool Bagh Chowk (India) – Strategically located in an industrial hub.
  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Viramgam (India) – A full-service hotel in Ahmedabad’s business district.

4. Expanding Dolce by Wyndham in the Upscale & MICE Segments

Dolce by Wyndham, a leader in luxury and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) hotels, continues to grow with two major openings:

  • Dolce by Wyndham Barcelona Resort – A luxury golf retreat in Spain’s Penedès wine country.
  • Dolce by Wyndham Çeşme Alaçatı – The brand’s first Turkish resort, located on the Aegean coast.

Future Expansion Plans

1. Introducing Microtel by Wyndham in India

Wyndham is bringing its Microtel by Wyndham brand to India in collaboration with NILE Hospitality. The brand will debut in 2025, with plans to open 40 Microtel hotels across Tier-2, 3, and 4 cities by 2031.

2. Strengthening Presence in Portugal

Wyndham is working with The Lakhani Group to launch new hotels, including:

  • Wyndham Garden Alentejo Alcácer do Sal
  • Wyndham Residences Lisbon Loures
  • L Hotels Fátima, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
    (Opening in 2025)

3. Expanding Branded Residences Portfolio

Wyndham is set to launch multiple branded residences, including:

  • Wyndham Grand La Cala Golf Residences (Costa del Sol, Spain – April 2026)
  • Wyndham Residences Piraeus (Greece – December 2025)
  • Ramada Residences by Wyndham Halkidiki (Greece – May 2026)

The Wyndham Advantage: Technology & Rewards

Wyndham’s growth is backed by its $325 million investment in next-gen property management systems and digital innovations. With a global network of 114 million enrolled Wyndham Rewards members, the company continues to drive occupancy and revenue for its franchisees.

As international tourism demand rises in 2025, Wyndham remains focused on strategic expansion, strengthening its presence in key markets, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

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.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.