Himachal Chief Minister Encourages Investment in the State at Hospitality Expo in Greater Noida

Himachal Chief Minister Encourages Investment in the State at Hospitality Expo in Greater Noida

By Author

Published on August 6, 2023

According to a report by HT, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister SS Sukhu inaugurated the sixth edition of the India International Hospitality Expo 2023 at the India Expo Mart in Greater Noida on Wednesday. The expo has chosen Himachal Pradesh as the focus state this year, aiming to boost and advance the hospitality industry in the hilly region.

Rakesh Kumar, Chairman of India Exposition Mart Limited (IEML), announced that over 250 exhibitors from across the country are participating in the four-day B2B expo. These exhibitors, all hospitality professionals, are showcasing the latest trends and innovations in the industry, covering everything from crockery items to architectural designs, horticulture to sanitization.

The expo provides a platform for these exhibitors to showcase their products to more than 20,000 registered buyers attending the event. Himachal Pradesh has recently gained international attention and has seen a surge in tourism, welcoming 1.6 crore visitors as of June 2023.

Addressing the gathering, the chief minister expressed the state government’s commitment to enhancing tourism in Himachal Pradesh. He emphasized the importance of robust infrastructure development, particularly in the Kangra district, to attract tourists and boost the state’s economy.

The chief minister clarified the land laws in Himachal Pradesh, stating that non-residents are generally not allowed to purchase land in the state. However, there is a provision for government approval, enabling investors, especially in the hotel and hospitality sector, to acquire land and property. This presents a significant opportunity for investment in Himachal.

The event witnessed the presence of prominent Himachal Pradesh officials, including Raghubeer Singh Bali, Chairman of the HP Tourism Development Corporation Limited, and Pramod Saxena, Chief Secretary of the Himachal government.

The four-day India International Hospitality Expo 2023 concludes on August 5.


Alaska Air Reports Strong Q3 2025 Earnings, Expands Seattle Routes

Alaska Air Reports Strong Q3 2025 Earnings, Expands Seattle Routes

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 26, 2025

Alaska Air Group reported strong financial results for the third quarter of 2025, posting a GAAP net income of $73 million and adjusted earnings per share of $1.05. The airline’s growth is being fueled by new nonstop routes from Seattle to London and Reykjavik, set to launch in May 2026, and the introduction of the Atmos Rewards loyalty program, which exceeded premium credit card sign-up expectations.

In a major technological upgrade, Alaska Air is installing Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi across its fleet, offering complimentary access to Atmos Rewards members. The company is also progressing with the integration of Hawaiian Airlines and advancing its Alaska Accelerate strategy, aiming for significant growth and profitability by 2027.

Analysts have assigned a Hold rating on ALK stock with a $49.00 price target, citing strong financial recovery but noting bearish technical indicators and increased leverage as potential risks. The airline continues to focus on expanding its global reach and enhancing customer loyalty through strategic partnerships and its Atmos Rewards program.


Royal Caribbean Group raises dividend by 33% to $1 per share

Royal Caribbean Group raises dividend by 33% to $1 per share

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 14, 2025

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has announced a significant increase in its shareholder returns, declaring a 33% hike in its quarterly dividend. The company’s Board of Directors approved a dividend of $1.00 per common share, payable on October 13, 2025, to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 25, 2025.

Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said the move underscores the company’s confidence in its performance and long-term growth strategy. “Today’s dividend increase reflects both the strength of our performance and our commitment to return capital to shareholders. This increase in dividend, along with our ongoing share repurchase program, highlights our balanced approach to capital allocation, returning value to shareholders while funding future growth,” Liberty stated.

Royal Caribbean Group is a global leader in the vacation industry, operating a fleet of 68 ships across five brands that serve millions of guests annually. Its portfolio includes Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea, as well as land-based experiences such as Perfect Day at CocoCay and the Royal Beach Club collection. The company also holds a 50% joint venture in TUI Cruises, which manages brands like Mein Schiff and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

With a reputation for innovation and guest-focused experiences, Royal Caribbean Group continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining its commitment to responsible and sustainable growth.


Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Reports Rs 13 Crore Net Profit in Q1 FY26

Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Reports Rs 13 Crore Net Profit in Q1 FY26

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 18, 2025

Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited (ASPHL) announced its financial results for Q1 FY26, recording a net profit of Rs 13 crore. Revenue from operations stood at Rs 154 crore, a 14% increase year-on-year, while operating EBITDA grew 16% YoY to Rs 45 crore. The company maintained an industry-leading occupancy of 92%, reaffirming its leadership in the hospitality sector.

ASPHL’s growth is fueled by expansion into Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets. The company recently signed an MoU to acquire and manage four leisure properties in Goa, Manali, Shimla, and Dharamshala, adding 138 rooms under its brand. These steps align with ASPHL’s strategy to broaden its presence in high-potential tourism destinations and double its key count to 5,750 over the next five years.

Flurys, ASPHL’s iconic bakery and confectionery brand, now operates 102 outlets nationwide, reflecting the company’s focus on expanding its market presence while integrating modern amenities with rich cultural heritage.

Commenting on the performance, Vijay Dewan, Managing Director, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels, said,

"We have delivered an extraordinary and best-ever Q1, setting a strong momentum for the year ahead. With topline growth of 14% and EBITDA growth of 16%, we recorded India’s highest occupancy of 92% and maintained leadership in RevPAR in the upper-upscale segment. ARR improved by 13% and RevPAR increased by 12%. With nearly 600 new rooms added, including a 41% rise in our asset-light model, and nationwide Flurys rollout, we are poised to scale faster, enhance margins, and deliver exceptional shareholder value."

ASPHL’s strong performance in Q1 FY26 underscores its strategic focus on market expansion, operational excellence, and premium guest experiences.

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